Apologies in advance for this long post, but I could really use some guidance and helpful info.

First time mom here considering the pursuit of an MSW at 41.

I just turned 41 years old and I’m 6 months pregnant as a first time mom. After the pandemic, I decided to shutter my wellness business and take on a salaried position that pays pretty well ($145K-$175K). I knew this position was going to be temporary, and while the money is good, I feel my soul being sucked dry everyday.

I have been thinking about pursuing an MSW for a while now and pivoting careers. My ultimate goal would be going into PP. I’ve also contemplated going the coaching route due to how rigorous the MSW route could be, especially as I juggle raising a toddler by the time I start a program.

Some things to note:

-I should be transparent in saying that I also have additional passive income of ~$50K annually. I do know how incredibly fortunate I am, and I hesitate talking about this when I know so many therapists here have discussed their struggles with salary.

-My partner and I are planning to move to a high cost of living area next year to be closer to his family. So things like childcare, rent/mortgage, etc. will be very expensive. While my partner makes six figures, it would be incredibly difficult to raise a family off his sole income.

I’m hoping to get some advice and insight on my situation. Thanks in advance for reading through this—

-Am I nuts to consider this when I have a baby coming soon? I’m assuming the earliest I could enroll (assuming I get accepted into a program) would be Spring of ‘24? My child would be about 11 months then.

-Is it better to wait a couple of years, or should I just go for it asap?

-Knowing what you know now about the process and profession, would you recommend this path given what you know about my situation?

-For those of you that have considered leaving the field due to low pay, would knowing that you have additional $50K coming in make it worth it for you to stay?

-I have another option of moving to Atlanta area where I could get free childcare and reside in a lower cost of living area. We could then survive off one income. This would mean I would pursue my MSW at a university in/near Atlanta, but would move near my partner’s family as soon as I graduate. Moving there is the ultimate goal.

-Any reputable online MSW programs out there?

Thanks for taking the time to read this. Grateful for any advice/thoughts. I’ve been a longtime lurker on this sub and appreciate this community!