What should I do?

I have been working inpatient for the past 6 years and LOVE IT but I'm getting burnt out. My management is constantly disrespecting social workers and has downsized us so much that I have multiple units and am never able to get to even half of my patients a day. Then I'm yelled at for LOS. I love my MDs I love my coworkers and I freaking love working at a level 1 trauma center not knowing what my next day will hold.

I got so frustrated at work one day that I applied for a job at an outpatient chronic pain clinic. I put a ridiculous salary ($10/hr more than I make now) on the application and after the interview they offered me the job anyways. This makes so much more sense I mean the money alone as a mom of two but I can't get over that it's not going to be fast paced and quick on my feet. The outpatient job is screening patients that have already been screened by a psychatrist and ruled competent to be in the program. I would only meet with them once a year unless I think they need more. I will be the first social worker and get to basically build my role. The owner is really big into CBT and mentioned it multiple times in the interview. The commute is also 25 mins more.

What do I do!?! Will I be bored out of my mind? Has anyone had a role like this outpatient? Can you tell me how you made it fun?

I love advocating for "my people" unhoused, disadvantaged, dealing with addicition or mentally ill or all of the above. These are my favorite humans. I will have none of that in this fancy part of the town private insurance only outpatient job. But money and children and career advancement make me think it's irresponsible to turn down.

Thanks for listening to my rant and I'd love to hear opinions and thoughts

Posted Feb 15, 2026, 3:12 AM UTC

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