ASW California

Hi everyone,

I currently have my ASW license. When I went into social work, my long-term goal was to eventually start a private practice. However, I've realized that clinical (micro) work has been more challenging for me than I expected.

I graduated in 2024 and started working in community mental health (CMH). I burned out after about six months. I had a high-acuity caseload, mostly involving substance use and personality disorders, and very little support or supervision - which I'm sure many of you can relate to.

Since then, I transitioned into a macro/mezzo role. I currently make $79K, which is decent, but it doesn't feel like enough for the level of responsibility I have. There also isn't much room for growth at my organization beyond a 3% annual raise.

I'm currently interviewing for a position that pays $87K, although it's in a higher cost-of-living area. I also work part-time as a W-2 therapist at a private practice, but my caseload is very small right now - I only have two clients.

My question is: Is it worth continuing to pursue my LCSW? Is the income increase significant enough to justify making the switch back into clinical work?

Right now, I'm debating between two options:

• Take the $87K macro/mezzo position, continue down that path, and let go of pursuing licensure.
• Pivot back to a clinical role, potentially take a pay cut, complete my supervised hours, and earn my LCSW. If I go that route, I'd have about 1.5 years left before I could become licensed.

What I enjoy about macro work is the systems-level impact, collaboration, and working as part of a team. What I don't enjoy is all the bureaucracy and red tape.

As for clinical work, I wonder if my perspective would be different now. My previous experience was in a poorly supported environment. I'm more experienced now, I have my own therapist, and I feel much better equipped to advocate for myself and seek out quality supervision.

Obviously, I know my situation best, but I'd really appreciate hearing your thoughts—especially from those of you in California, since the licensure process and career opportunities can be quite different here compared to other states.

Thanks!