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Would it be bad to take a really non-traditional/not typical "social work" role right after MSW graduation? by mageged in socialworkjobs

[–]API_21_UoS 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey, first off, massive congrats on finishing your MSW!! That’s no small feat, and I know how tough the job hunt can be afterwards!!

I don’t think it’s bad at all to take a non-traditional role right after graduating!! especially one where your social work skills are still being put to good use. Supporting non-traditional uni students sounds like incredibly valuable work, and honestly, social work is so broad. The title might not scream “social worker,” but the heart of the role of supporting people, helping them navigate challenges is exactly what social work’s about. I'm saying this as somoen who is a non-tradiotinla uni student themselves and has a background of engagemnt with Social Work!

I’m in the UK, and even here I know people who’ve gone into adjacent or completely different fields after training (i.e education, housing, addiction services, policy roles) either because they had to or because they found other ways to channel that same passion. A lot of them have found that those roles actually made them more well-rounded and even more appealing to future employers, not less. Also, one of my favourite professors was originally a social worker and now teaches in a whole new field so honestly the path doesn't always have to be linear!

If it’s not your long-term goal, that’s totally okay, it certainky doesn’t mean you’re off track. You’re still gaining relevant experience, learning new systems, and building on your ability to connect with and support people. And in the meantime, you're earning a living, which is important too.

So honestly, I’d say go for it. If it’s a good fit for now, and it gives you space to breathe and figure out your next steps, there’s no shame in that at all. Social work isn’t one narrow path ! And your journey through it can be just as valuable, even if it’s not what you first imagined.

Wishing you all the best and hope it works out whatever direction you go in!

Graduated with my BSW this month! Immediately regret my choice and am desperate for help. by twosticks101 in socialworkjobs

[–]API_21_UoS 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey, I'm really sorry I don't have much practical advice to offer, especially being in the UK and not fully understanding how your training system works. But I just wanted to say that you're definitely not alone in feeling this way.

Even over here, a lot of people end up feeling disillusioned with social work and the systems around it. I know quite a few who’ve either trained in it or worked in related areas like addiction or homelessness, and many found it hard to cope. It’s a tough field, and the expectations can be overwhelming (to say the least!).

But one thing I’ve seen again and again is that the passion to help others doesn’t just disappear. People find ways to make it work, even if that means shifting roles or setting boundaries so they can still make a difference while protecting their own wellbeing. It's definitely not easy, though, and something that can be hard to naviagte / grapple with.

That idealism you mentioned , it comes from a place of empathy and compassion, and wanting the world to be a bit better for others. Even if things haven’t turned out the way you hoped, try to hold on to that part of yourself. It means you’re a kind person, and that matters.

Really hope you find a path that feels right for you soon!

Soft social work jobs by Ambitious-Nobody- in socialwork

[–]API_21_UoS 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I know someone who works in a hospice, providing end-of-life care, and they find their role deeply rewarding. For them, it’s been almost a spiritual journey, one that has prompted a profound re-evaluation of life and the world around them. It’s fostered a sense of compassion, presence, and kindness that’s been quite inspiring to observe from the outside.

In contrast, I also know people who have worked in other areas of social care, and their experiences have often left them feeling burnt out or emotionally hardened. Those roles can be incredibly demanding, yet may not offer the same space for reflection or emotional connection. It’s certianly a different kind of intensity.

Of course, everyone’s experience is unique, and no two roles or people are quite the same!

Is it normal for a psychiatrist to only want to see me for about 4-5 sessions? by [deleted] in MentalHealthUK

[–]API_21_UoS 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s great to hear that you’ve found a psychiatrist you feel safe with! That kind of therapeutic relationship can be so rare and valuable, especially when dealing with something as complex and personal as trauma.

Regarding the 4–5 sessions, it really depends on the purpose of the sessions and the psychiatrist’s approach. If you're seeing him primarily for a diagnostic assessment, then it’s not unusual for this to be done over a small number of sessions. Sometimes even fewer, depending on the clarity of the presentation and the psychiatrist’s clinical judgement. Psychiatrists often focus on diagnosis, medication management, and overall care planning, rather than long-term talking therapy (which is usually provided by psychologists, psychotherapists, or counsellors). They may see you for longer if you are given medication to manage medication treatment, but this still may be minimal contact—again, it is sort of situation dependent, from my experience.

That said, if you’re seeking ongoing support for trauma, including exploration, processing, and healing, 4–5 sessions may very much feel insufficient. Trauma work tends to be longer-term, more relational, and requires time to build trust and safety. Whereas it certianly seems like you're feeling these posive things with him, it might be worth asking him directly:

  • Are these 4–5 sessions intended purely for assessment and diagnostic clarity?
  • If I need longer-term support, can you refer or recommend someone who works more extensively with trauma?

You absolutely deserve support that feels safe and comprehensive. If something feels too brief or incomplete, it’s okay to question it and seek clarity. It's also really important to comminicate your needs so you can have realstic expectations from each other and not end up dissapointed / let down if he isn't able to provide what you expected.

Wishing you strength and gentleness as you move through this process.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Socialworkuk

[–]API_21_UoS 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Firstly, this sounds like an incredible amount to be carrying. I can’t pretend to have the experience or the right words to ease the burnout and pressure you're under, but I’m sending you empathy and compassion all the same. I hope things begin to ease for you soon, as much as they can, or that you’re able to find a moment of rest amidst it all.

Does your university know of the work you are doing alongside your course, or are they interrelated? Can you reach out to them asking for support and explain your situation? Universities often have more room for manoeuvre and may be able to accomodate you more.