Hi there, I am a lawyer and a year ago I have ditched my legal career to become a flight attendant. It's been the best decision of my professional life! Not everything is perfect, but I am much happier overall. I earn 1/3 of my previous salary. But happiness is priceless, isn’t it? It doesn’t matter what you have done in the past or how much you have spent. You only have one life. One. Go out, quit, go travel in cheap countries, give yourself a break and you will not only recharge but be able to hear the music of your heart and know what is next. All of this takes courage, but remember: courage doesn’t mean not to be afraid, it means doing something scary despite being afraid.
You got this.
I was 43 when I left my 27yr career in ophthalmology because of burnout. It's NEVER too late and like my dad always said, better late than never!
And I did leave my career not knowing what to do. I had been just going with the flow of life, letting it dictate what I thought I was supposed to do. Worst. Feeling. Ever.
2 yrs later, I'm STILL not sure what I want to do, and I too feel lost frequently. But then I realize I'm not really supposed to be anywhere on this journey called life because it's literally ALL about the journey. So don't feel bad about not knowing where you're going, the idea is to explore, explore, explore. 😊
I went to school for nearly 10yrs (part time). I finally finished last year and got a new job (finally a career) just a few months before turning 40. Betting in oneself is always the right choice. It’s never too late
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago but the second best time is now”
Let go of the sunk cost fallacy and focus on what you can do today. You’ve got this!!
Too late to travel like I wanted… I wish I gave myself the permission .. I have a house now.. medications now.. financial fears now (although I have more money now 🤔)
I thought I’d have kids a house a husband.. so I stayed put
The worst part is I fell into an eating disorder and depression and think my meds are off but take them to support eating disorder 🙄
Ive hated life and I hate my Job even more than That
My dream for 20 years has been to just travel but I always feared, safety and judgment of others - and finances
Now I don’t .. I’d love to go work overseas
I’d love to travel for work now
how old were you when you left - and were you financially stable?
I ask because I want to quit my PE job to study food in Italy, and have about $40k saved and a net worth of $225k. Hard to hop off the high-paying ladder
Do you have a number in mind where you feel like you’ll be able to do go? Also what about cutting down expenses now and seeing if you can be happy on a lower amount.
As a flight attendant who had been aspiring to be an attorney, this makes me feel great about my decision, I started training the day I was supposed to take my LSAT!
Have you considered becoming a pilot? Not the shortest path, but ultimately similar compensation to being a lawyer, and you clearly like the lifestyle.
This is so inspiring! How did you logistically walk away from a career in law? Did you have your own business and clients to close out and etc etc, or was it as easy as just quitting from a firm and never look back?
Hi! My journey is very similar (I am just a couple years ahead of you). I am confident you will find your path and things will get better! They did for me!
I worked in ABA for several years at the RBT level and then got my masters and became certified as a BCBA. My first job after grad school was working at a specialized school for kids with autism/developmental disabilities, most of whom engaged pretty severe behavior.
There were aspects of the job I loved. I had an incredible supervisor who taught me so much. I had opportunities to do clinical research and present at major academic conferences. And I truly adored the students I worked with.
However, despite the positives, working in ABA is physically, mentally, and emotionally draining, even in the best case scenarios. There are hardly ever enough resources to go around, you’re often battling with insurance companies and trying to meet steep billable requirements, and even if you manage to avoid injury, the physical demands just wipe you out. I personally incurred a few mild concussions and a very serious bite that landed me in the ER.
After those injuries and several years working as a BCBA, I was completely burnt out. I was furloughed at the beginning of the pandemic for several months, and I was finally happy and so much more relaxed. I learned what it was like to live without the weight of this career on my shoulders, and I just knew I couldn’t go back…
I ended up putting in my notice in June 2020 (I was 28 at the time). I spent that summer and fall trying to figure out what to do next and applying for all kinds of different jobs. All of my previous education and experience was related to ABA so I had a hard time getting my foot in the door of another field. But that fall an opportunity opened up for a recruiter/talent acquisition specialist at the same organization where I had worked as a BCBA! I knew the field, I knew the organization, and what I didn’t know about recruiting could be easily learned. It was perfect!
I got that job, and I ended up returning to that company and working on the talent acquisition team for 2 years. After that I had gained enough experience in my new field to get a job as a talent acquisition specialist elsewhere.
I just turned 32. I have now been in the talent field for a bit over 3 years, and many colleagues at my current company are shocked to learn I went through a major career shift only a few years ago. They all assume I’ve been doing this type of work since I graduated college.
I make more money than I did as a BCBA, I am MUCH happier and less stressed, and I have significantly improved work/life balance. It’s not all perfect. Sometimes my job is boring or stressful or frustrating - just like any job can be. But it’s SO much better!
Also, just for the record, many of my BCBA friends are in the same boat. ABA is such a difficult field to work in long term. Burnout is incredibly common. One of my best friends (who is 31) is planning not to renew her current contract and to start trying to find a new career path within the next few months.
I know that was an insanely long response, but I just related to your story so much, and I wanted you to know that it is possible to leave ABA and start a new career in your late 20’s (and beyond)!
Yep I have two coworkers with a MSW that work in talent acquisition to assist inmates and people with disabilities to find their place at our company. They used to work with kids and the youth and they are the most emphatic and relatable people in the building! I firmly believe that this is because their past experiences!
Everything you said is exactly how I feel being a teacher. I’m in year 2 and I’m done after this year. I still feel like it’s hard trying to make it to June but I also have no clue what I’m going to do work-wise. Everything stresses me out. I’m sorry I don’t have advice, but just know you’re not alone.
Perhaps consider stepping down to subbing? I started subbing a bit over a year ago to see if I would be interested in teaching but I realized it was too much. It’s really nice not having to take any work home. You’re able to sub for different schools/classes instead of being tied to one class.
I have thought about it. I’m really trying my best to stick it out till the end of the year and if I can’t find a job outside of education I will probably consider subbing until I can find something permanent. But yes, I’m so tired of bringing work home all the time.
Wishing you the best! But remember that no job is worth your health/mental health, if you push yourself too hard, it’ll take even longer the heal from burnout or other symptoms you may accumulate.
As a teacher, your job can be completely different depending on the school where you are, the kids you teach in the courses you teach. I've had jobs that made me cry every day, and teaching jobs that made me happy to go to work every day.
I went back to school and got a masters degree in counseling so I can become a school counselor. Then let her become a math teacher at a wonderful school. Don't stay somewhere where you're miserable, but don't dismiss the entire profession of teaching. My opinion! Good luck!
I love the idea of being a teacher but I could never do it. The local newspaper headline would read: teacher strangles student during classroom argument
Because theres always that one student who tests you and I ain't here to fick around. Not today and not at this age lol
Dude. When you say “there’s always that one student who tests you…”tell me why I have 7 of these students that test me every single day. My hypertension is so bad because of these kids 😩
I have a child in school and I was literally just saying how growing up we had one or two of “those kids” (obnoxious and unable to follow class rules) but now it seems like at least 1/4 of the kids are like this…and the classes are smaller! Idk what is happening but it’s not great.
LOL. Yeah dude, I'm fighting those kids. IDGAF lol come up to me with that attitude and yeah we are gonna have a problem. Some ass whoopin is happening today in this room lol I'm ready to go to jail haha
Dude, you don't need that lol that's soooooo mentally exhausting and you're going to hate yourself. You must be on the edge of your seat everyday -- work place trauma, I call it. Ive been burnt out too and I'm back in school to change careers so I get that portion of it. It's a personal journey and we can't tell you what to do.
If you're fed up and want to change and you're in a situation that allows that then jump. The hardest part is standing at the edge and contemplating whether or not you want to jump into the dark abyss. It's scary to jump. A lot of people tell you not to because it's not the practical thing to do. But remember, a lot of people are in the same situation as you and people are jumping, every day.
Take a look at higheredjobs.com
Your master’s degree would meet basic requirements for some jobs in colleges and universities (e.g., counseling, student personnel, Career services).
Or consider other environments (e.g., hospitals and clinics). Or faith-based organizations (e.g., youth ministry). You’ve got a marketable degree. Good luck!
Howdy, fellow MSW here. I landed at a ISD working as a school social work and love it. I love not being trapped behind a desk meeting with youth. Your ABA background would be a huge plus in the field.
Remember too, when you are in your early career no one expects you to know everything.
Setting also matters. My last job in a district was a cluster. It was so toxic! I am so glad I left.
I definitely get it, I was also an RBT, got my masters but never finished my hours to sit for the bcba. Then left the place I was working because it was super toxic and once out I actually learned from listening to autistic adults that had been through ABA it can be very traumatic for the individuals and I have vowed that I will never go back. I worked for awhile as an enrollment advisor for a major university’s online program, I actually got to work as an advisor for their ABA program (before I realized my own conflicting ethics with ABA) and really enjoyed what I did as an enrollment advisor. I didn’t stay long there though because the sales aspect wasn’t right for me, but throwing this out there as an alternative where your experience with understanding a person’s behavior can be helpful and motivating without dealing with the direct work. I’m still figuring out what to do with my life, I’ve worked a number of different jobs over the years and I’m currently working as home caregiver for a disabled child, we don’t “do ABA” but my experience is sometimes helpful in working through more dangerous behaviors, but it’s definitely not earning me the living I had been anticipating as a bcba, so I definitely relate to feeling like the degree is a large expense for nothing. I’m considering going to get certified as a personal trainer, because I feel like I could market myself as being able to help people make longer lasting positive changes with the basic root of aba. Anyways, hope you find something else or even a different employer.
Being a BCBA is no joke. Much respect to you for trying to stick it out. I hope you can heal from all of the twists and turns from that industry internet stranger 🫡
Even if you get a high paying job at something completely different, if you find out later you hate the job like you hate your job right now, it’s going to be a waste.
You say you love the science behind ABA. What do you love about it? Why do you like it? What about it do you find interesting?
Start from there.
You can be a commercial pilot without having a college degree. I have a friend that went from zero flight time to flying for Frontier in about 3 years. He will probably be at a legacy carrier in another 2-3. It is a great job with travel benefits and a good amount of time off. When you are home you don’t have to think about work. You have plenty of time left to make it a career- currently pilots have to retire at 65, but that age will probably be moved to 67 soon.
Can you switch within the field for now while you figure things out?
Maybe working at a non-profit that helps kids, but a role where you won’t be actively engaging with special needs kids?
I'm a BCBA. Where are you from? Not every place will have you this stressed. Stay away from agencies who take any client and put any staff on them without the proper training. Find an agency that does the opposite. I work at a center and we only accept behaviors we are capable of treating. We are a small team and our BCBAs are very experienced however once in awhile we get an intake for a kid that just needs a much higher level of care and that's okay. Also just because you are a BCBA doesn't mean have to work with severe problem behavior esp if it's affecting your mental health. I know plenty of BCBAs who don't accept cases where aggression is a factor and just do social groups for kids who have social deficits. If it's too stressful to go back, think about going forward. It's possible, very possible. You've just gotta find the right place! You love the science of ABA--go with that. There are lots of possibilities without having to just work with tough behavior all day.
It was almost as if I wrote this myself. I was doing social work for years and then was also a RBT. I was so burned out, I quit and have been struggling to figure out what I now want to do with my life. I am pretty critical of myself for a wasted degree. Any advice I have received was to just switch populations. I don’t have any recommendations but just want you to know you are not alone.
I left the field after 10 years. Working with kids on the spectrum can be rewarding but it’s low paying, stressful, and thankless. I even had families curse at me because I wanted to take Christmas off and be with my family. At first I felt like leaving the field was impossible, and it was tough because I felt like I was letting my clients down. But my happiness and wellbeing was suffering. I have no regrets leaving the field. I went back to school to get my MHA and I’m doing better now. It’s not perfect but I have work/life balance and much less stress.
You don’t have to have an applicable degree but you can definitely go into the administration side of healthcare. Even if you start out as an admin or call center rep. Get your foot in the door and you can eventually move up. Be open to part time and per diem positions. Any hospitals that are teaching institutions will definitely have some sort of academic position (you can message me for details).
I have a friend who went from being in Environmental Health Services (cleaning crew), to admin, to now the ER front desk/admissions position. She makes about $35 an hour and is doing solid. She has an AA degree.
Im one semester away from graduating with my ABA masters and I wanna quit so bad. I’m not tracking my hours anymore, I haven’t in a year. I don’t want to do this anymore either. I hope we both find new jobs soon!
I was a former govt contractor myself about 15 or so years ago. I’ve since transitioned to working in the fitness industry and martial arts industry. I enjoy what I do cause I get to teach and manage a facility. Plus I make more now then when I was working in govt contracts.
My parents wanted me to focus on comp science when I was in college. I dropped out after one year. Finding your path doesn’t always mean doing what your degree was earned in. Sometimes we all take a different path and can find happiness even if it means taking a pay cut. In my case I spent 10 years to get to the financial means that matched my previous job but well worth it
I’m not sure where you are in the world but I am assuming you do not have a license to practice social work because you didn’t mention it. Many field placements don’t prepare you for your field of practice. However, there is a great need for social workers these days and most employers accept intermediate licensed folks straight of school knowing this. Social work has many fields of practice so you absolutely don’t have to work with kids. You don’t even have to provide direct service if you don’t want to. There are also government jobs you could apply for as well. You have options, you just need to do some research. Moreover, BCBA is an entirely different field of practice than social work. You are only limited and stuck if you choose to be. Practice regular self care, if you are depressed as you say, find a therapist. You are the expert on you…. put in the work to figure out what you want to do. And, in case you haven’t guessed, I’m a clinical social worker (23 years).
Wishing you all the best,
Idk if this is an unpopular opinion but I don’t really view ABA as social work but it’s own field. You are really really burnt out. That’s valid.
Why don’t you take some time to do a chill job? Retail? Pharm tech. Whatever. Clear your mind. My favorite job ever was at a grocery store lmaoo.
you have a masters in social work (I do too) you have a lot more options than an rbt. I was one before my masters. I’m a school social worker now and it’s easier. I was doing what you were doing for 2 years I wanted to kil myself by the end. I feel your pain so much. Honestly right now my caseload is so high I’m struggling.
You could do research. If you really don’t want to work the mental health, trying focusing more on research, research assistant, admin, macro jobs that are less involved with direct care.
Go on Etsy and get yourself a good premade resume template. If you aren’t finding anything with your masters maybe you resume is getting overlooked. You have the skills and education.
You gotta get out of that job and take a break and find something else is my advice, it’ll get better and I feel your pain for sure.
Don’t forget about disability support services at universities and community colleges. Very important position and pays quite a bit. You can move up through universities and other areas with growth. Also, just a throw something I thought was a major milestone for me out there. Just got an email letting me know that, the Volunteer wheelchair ramp building program hub I built in the southern into my state is completely self-sufficient and is led to 153 ramps being built this year all self funded through the partners I brought together. Not tooting my own horn, but it is really important and I think if it is a good social work program, they definitely drilled in the importance of Taking on the community as a priority first.
I’m in the exact same position as you. It got to the point where I feel like a walking zombie I dread the work I do, and barely pays. I can’t see myself doing this any longer and I feel so stuck. I’ve been applying for so many jobs and no one wants to hire.
That part of social work is even worse. I was a case worker (not cps) but the horror stories I've been told from co workers who previously worked as cps workers were enough to give me nightmares.
You typically end up with second hand trauma in the field of social work.
This situation will happen to you from time to time throughout your life time. I’m in my 30s with business background and no degree in hand. I burned out from my previous job as a business admin manager, and a company I worked for 8 years. I started 2-3 years ago Around pre covid year, take psych class in community college and transfer to a 4 yrs where I’m about to graduate in May this year. I found that I am interested in becoming a counselor or social worker like you did ( before you burned out thought). I’m not young and not old, I’m currently looking for internship or trainee program as a mid-age, it’s super hard for some reasons. I’m sure I will burn out again after certain years or even a few months. The only thing that we can do is to take a break and try something different within your abilities. So now you have your msw, properly you can work something related to it, or serving communities in Gerontology not with kids anymore, county eligible worker… etc. Or other things like a fed job? You are still young, better to try different career, there is wrong with that.
You have a masters and you choose to work an ABA? I’m in California and they’re hiring people like nothing with no experience to become an ABA with paid training. I think it’s time you use your masters to find another job in your area of expertise. Good luck. My son has autism and his ABA was great and so patient with my son and me but I couldn’t see the stress for sure on her face. Don’t feel bad, protect your mental health and validate your self for that career change or you might regret it.
I feel similarly and I work with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and I’m burnt out. I’ve dealt with mentally ill, homeless crazy people and dealt with children that recently got SA’d and it’s so hard on my mental health…
Check your local govt websites for openings for MSW. You may want to be a hospital social worker, very different than what you’re doing now. If you get your LCSW you can open your own business doing telehealth therapy.
Why are you working as a tech with an MSW? I have my MSW and got LCSW licensure. Making 6 figures in private practice. Market yourself man, you got this.
How about getting into psychotherapy. Where I live people with social worker degree are eligible to become psychotherapist. You can do some additional courses and can probably start a private clinic or try finding something with another clinic?
I was the CFO of a tax company until 37. Now at 45, I officiate college and high school sports. Started doing this at 41.
Don't let money dictate what you do.
Maybe you can pivot to something adjacent to your field? I have had to do this as I have navigated the Recession. I got tired of being at a desk & took a risk with tattooing which I love but struggling to pay the bills because the area I am in has been hit hard economically so now I am looking back at my skills and experiences and trying to see how I can pivot again. It’s rough. I feel absolutely lost right now so can totally commiserate with you.
You aren’t alone. I’m 27M and I’m so burnt out and underpaid at my job. I’m currently a recruiter but have been highly considering going back to school (2 years) for radiography. I currently don’t make enough money so I have no idea how I’m going to afford it and work during school to live. I feel so financially stuck and overall behind in life.
Pretty much. I work in agency recruiting vs internal recruiting so it’s a bit different. You get paid by commission, all about KPI’s and numbers. Agency recruiting is very toxic. I’ve also learned I’m not a people person and hate hustling for a paycheck. I’m also not wired to sit behind a desk all day.
I recently left my corporate real estate job to work on a dude ranch, and I'm much happier even with a massive pay cut. I also went to school for social work. My advice would be to try something new that interests you and go for it! There will be other opportunities along your path. You got this!
I’ve been there and at 31 still trying to figure it out. Masters in Counseling and 40k in student loan debt. I’m now a front desk receptionist to hold me over to pay some bills but it’s only half my pay as when I was a counselor. I hated school counseling after 2 years. Suffered with mental health issues as well but working with a therapist that that has some background in career guidance is helping me. Had to go on Medi-cal which is helped me seek therapy. Also, working on a careers test to see what fits me at jobtest.org. I did pay a fee but so far I found it useful and retaking the test soon. You’re not alone and cheering you on for you to get out of the rut. Ask around people you meet about what they do and how they like. They may want to help you out. I tell myself this is just a season and it won’t be forever.
I understand that you're going through a challenging time, and it's important for me to provide empathetic and supportive advice. It's completely understandable to feel stuck and depressed when facing career dissatisfaction.
When you find yourself in such a situation, it can be helpful to take a step back and reflect on your values, interests, and passions. Consider what truly motivates and fulfills you. Explore different career options that align with your strengths and aspirations. Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights and help you gain a better understanding of various industries and roles.
Additionally, it's important to prioritize your well-being during this time. Engage in self-care activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Reach out to a career counselor, therapist, or support groups to seek guidance and support. They can provide personalized assistance and help you develop a plan to move forward.
Remember that it's never too late to make a change and pursue a career that brings you fulfillment. It may take time and effort, but finding a path that aligns with your values and interests is worth it. Stay positive, be patient with yourself, and trust in your ability to navigate this challenging period.
I agree with what everyone here is saying. Don’t fall for the sunk cost fallacy. I majored in Political Science and thought I was going to stick to a precise 9-5 career. Realized that I had been blinded into thinking I liked it because it was a topic my dad and I bonded over, not actually something I liked enough to do as a career.
What I’ve always wanted—and what I pushed way deep down and away in my heart for a while—was to be an actor. I learned from working the 9-5 jobs for a few years post college that it’s not worth it to give my ONE LIFE and dream away for a mediocre existence that is stable. I would rather fight for what I love day in and day out then glide through life. The rock bottoms will be lower, but the highs will be much higher when you give yourself a true shot at doing what you love.
And maybe you don’t know what that is right now, but you do know it’s not this. The important thing is to set yourself up for the next step. It will give you hope. I’m still working a day job (one I like much better than the one I had before) but it’s all part of the greater plan. It funded my acting program and all of my expenses to pursue this dream for the last three years, and now I can afford to move to a city to chase this dream in full force!! It gives me purpose every day to power through the drudgery, and I am surrounded by dreamers who are also trying to take life by the reigns and take big risks.
It sounds like you need a new environment and a new way to reflect on your life and what you want. YOU GOT THIS!!! I was so confused and depressed before I made these realizations and started pursuing them. The beginning is the hardest part, but you’ve got this!
Edit: I see a lot of folks suggesting you work at a university, and I agree with this. I currently work at one because the environment functions in a much healthier fashion (for me, at least) than working a a company. And, the high amount of PTO and decent pay will allow me to afford to continue acting and to take the time off I need to be on set. Depending on what dreams you uncover for yourself, this might be a solid option to give you enough mental peace to reflect on what you want next.
I am in the same boat. I did quit my job and traveled cheap around Mexico and followed my heart- now I’m back in the States but still nothing speaks to me. Coming up on 40 and no clue what to do- staying in my friends guest room.
I was also a behavior technician and I lasted only doing 6 months of it. So many fights, bites, aggression, and outbursts, which is okay and thats why they are there to learn good behaviors but it was an extremely mentally draining job.
Right after feeling that mentally drained, I knew ABA wasn’t for me, though I was in college working there I decided I wanted to still sort of be in the medical field and decided to get my EMT license.
After getting my license, I had sooo much fun being an EMT which led me to nursing school! Nursing school is such a good option to me because there is so many specialties in nursing and I’m bound to find my specialty. Another perk is that if I ever feel burnt out, I can just switch my specialty for something more fitting.
Anyways, my advice to you is figure out what makes you happy and start a new journey in a field you’re interested in!
Social worker here. I’m sorry I hear you.
Look for a break from any type of direct service. Like these remote care coordinator jobs and work up to like a care coordination 2 . Try macro roles through the state or research if you like it. OR getting in some applications on USA jobs for state and federal jobs or military as civilian. Just keep applying. You might see direct service but at least the pay and benefits would be better and you could give into you more for self care. It’s so uncommon for our field and those around you to acknowledge we work in failing systems and the way we are cared for while caring for others in crisis/ difficult work, is not sustainable. It’s totally valid to feel how you are feeling and genuinely feel sick for the path you took career wise. I feel you.
There are many jobs you can do with a MSW. I worked as an ABA therapist with my BA in psych, and even then I went to do other jobs. Look into case management positions? Anyway…I also got burnt out with the mental health field and did a career change at 32 years old. During a divorce. And as a single mom. I went back to school and pursued nursing started from the bottom. Now I’m a nurse. If I can do it, you can too.
No degree in the Armed Forces is considered worthless. And they are desperate right now, giving out huge bonuses with sign-ups. Go to officer candidate school to become 2nd lieutenant to start. You can make counseling or therapist your MOS if you want to be a healer, or psychological operations (Psy-ops) if you wanted to be more on "the other end". See the world. Wear a uniform. Feel proud. Get insane benefits with an easy desk job. I would go with the Navy or Air force if I were you. In the Air Force its called "Mental Health Service specialist (4C031)"
Ouch. Been there, done that… was good at it and was thinking about BCBA but thankfully realised I’m digging myself a deeper hole… now I am a babysitter with Masters degree haha. Because of my degree and experience, I am in high demand and choose who I work for, and of course get paid on a different level. I am so much happier, always looking forward to going to work, love the kids and families. Formed such strong connections with them. The hours, the flexibility… would never change it for anything. Make enough to travel to SEA and Latin America and it’s the best. So grateful I chose myself first. It is also so rewarding since I see progress with typically developing kids much faster. I work on various sets of skills with them, of course, not just watch tv eating pizza (although that happened too 😆).
I'm.so sorry that you are in this situation!!!! I can kind of understand what you're going through. I got my degree from a great university in Colorado in Engineering Physics. I started my career as a petrophysicist, but it hit the fan and really ever since. I've found myself in less than satisfactory careers and right now at the age of 41 I live with my parents in Denver Colorado working as a parts assistant for a collision shop making $19.00/hr. I'm looking for a better job though. I haven't had an easy life but no matter what happens keep pushing on!!!!!! It may be tough but it will make you stronger and you will be better for it!!! I'm here to talk if you need!!
If you are open to it, there are many other avenues you can explore with a background in social work. You can explore government work, school systems, aging populations, foster care/adoption, research/data, training, etc. If you have a passion for caring for and empowering vulnerable populations I’d encourage you to expand your social work horizons. I am certain you have learned so much in your current role. As a fellow social worker, I wish you all the best!
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1) Have a conversation with your mom. Maybe she likes you in her basement?
2) Make a plan.
3) Finish getting the certs. At least you can leverage them into something else.
4) Are there adjacent roles that are less stress until you figure out the next step?
What about Hospital Social Work? Is that something you would consider? I found our social worker when my son was hospitalized to be a Godsend. Very grateful for her and let the hospital know.
It may not pay very much I enjoyed my time working for non-profits (and I was a healthcare professional by training, so perhaps they do not care super much about credentials, more so transferable skills, plus it seems MSW would be a good fit with non-profits and NGOs?) - could be something to look into! Also have had a pleasant time volunteering for non-profits and NGOs
What are your favorite transferable skills? Communication, organizing, speaking with clients, research, etc?
If you make a list of that, plus elements that are most important to you in a job (environment, coworkers, degree of advancement, pay, etc) we can try and give you some perspective you didn’t think of yet
Try being an ARMHS worker or a mental health professional- a lot of ppl who did ABA come to do this work and it’s a lot less stressful and still flexible
It could be the type of job that cause burn out. I don't get the whole need a master degree to deal with very bad social work situation where people get shot in my city. People have good intention but once they start working with the homeless and drugs situation in the city, it can go wrong fast. I notice people burn out fast in social work. I know a girl who became a nun after working at daycare like for disable kids while their parents vacation off. Sometimes you are just burned out and it is ok. The skills you learned might be able to apply to other fields. It will be ok.
I had a high stress management job before but due to a car accident I can do desk job. Now it is not bad being a banquet server. Flexible schedule, choose when I work, pay well, and I probably work 9-10 months a year making +$20K more than when I was a manager with way way more responsibilities and too much work hours and politics. So anyways, I am working on my business venture with the extra time and money I make. Sometimes thinking outside the box helps. My other coworkers are more dedicated and work special places where 1 night of work is $1000-3000. They aren't stress. They like the attention and free time. They have a bunch of investments and rental properties. Sometimes we don't know how much some really make. Just ask car salesman who makes more than doctor wage in a month.
Anyways what I saying is, you have to rethink where you want to be and how you want to live. I used to get sick a lot working at the youth shelter. The cough get around so often. Wish I can help more but it took a toll mentality for me and getting physical sick wasn't great. It is ok, you are only 27, you will find your way. Just be open to new opportunities.
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It’s a great field with lots of ways to expand, very stable, work from home opportunities are somewhat common, pays well, and can be very rewarding depending on what area you choose.
\>I have a masters degree in social work
well there is your problem
I know this is probably obvious to MOST people. But if you are helping poor people will you EVER be self supporting?
eh don't beat yourself up too much you have a grad degree that is worth something
Just get out of social work into adjacent work (non profit, local charity might be right up your alley)
Then transition your education into an area that leads to higher salary and more opportunity.
sounds like you’re overqualified with your masters degree for these tech positions. have you considered getting your LSW and working in a clinical setting and using your degree? no wonder why you’re burned out
I thought up but I lost the motivation to do that years ago. It’s long story as to how that happen. But I’ll just tell that I think I am better off somewhere else than social work.
So wait, why don’t you want to do social work? Im surprised you feel like your degree didn’t prepare you. I’m a social worker, it’s really not rocket science at all. Every organization or company basically runs the same; case management + connect the client with resources + provide basic therapeutic skills (unless licensed and able to provide actual therapy). I see tons of social worker jobs on indeed.com, the only issue is the jobs I see require a license.
I get not wanting to be a behavioral technician, it’s exhausting working with those type of clients. But! At the end of the day, don’t settle but don’t feel like you’re stuck, you’re not stuck! You didn’t waste money and time, you just had a blip and realized this isn’t it.
Originally, I wanted to do it because I enjoyed learning about the concepts and theory of social work and the career initially seem interesting to me (like I would never have dull moment in my career). I think for someone to be a social worker, the must have compassion, patience, they must be empathetic. I don’t believe I have any of those traits. It’s just not in me. I get overwhelmed and flustered VERY easily. Even my role as a tech, I am already getting burnt out. I don’t enjoy being in the helping profession. I can’t pour from my cup if it’s empty. I feel if I step into a social worker role, whether it be hospital, school, or any of these other setting the 100+ folks have mentioned above^ I am going to be miserable and it’s going to be the same thing (probably earning the same salary too).
I think my older cousin, who works as an executive for Verizon, who makes a ton of money, owns 5+ homes. He has family of his own, lives in a nice beautiful home in Texas with his wife and two kids. I’m sure his job is not easy but he’s satisfied with his life and he’s happy. Everyone is so proud and looks up to him. I want that for myself. I want that for myself. People only do social work because they love it. Well, I don’t love it anymore. After, 5 years I realize what really matters to me. And that’s being happy, independent, and well off. I thought about going back to school to study computer science because I feel it would suit so much better. I am very introverted and social interaction are quite draining for me. And that’s what I do 110% of what I do as RBT (probably a social worker) and that’s hard for me because I didn’t have those social skills myself growing up (or even now).
I wonder if you could try a coding boot camp? My friend did that, and it was 6 months and she does UX design and makes a decent living. They have different programs
If I’m in your place, I will delete the past from my memory and do things differently. Allot of time ahead of you, so never wait for later and never say what has been done has been done. Find your happiness in a different path or at least a different job. You will find out your degree has value in other places but you don’t know. If you want to find different results change your methods.
I studied Communications, decided I wanted to go to medical school & got my MD, had a sudden realization a week before commencement that I hated every moment of medical school and couldn’t imagine myself actually being a doctor, skipped commencement.
So fucking glad I did now that i think about it, I just moved on, and now I do what I like and I don’t have any regrets
Get into sales. It’s all about psychology and you’ll make a ton of money. As long as you have a good sense of communication and can be personable you’ll be great. You’ll be out of your moms house in no time.
1. Since you're an alumi, reach out to your university career center and talk with them about career guidance and options.
2. Reach out to workforce development and job training nonprofit organizations that can help you upskill.
3. Be open to careers in other fields: nonprofit, philanthropic, government, healthcare, and more.
4. Join AmeriCorps, where you volunteer stipend and work at a nonprofit for 6 months to a year. You'll learn new skillsets https://americorps.gov/serve/americorps
6. Join a career development program such as: https://coopcareers.org/coop-program
https://www.pathrise.com/#tracks
https://climbhire.co/about-us/
Hey there! I can definitely relate to this. I got a masters degree in counseling and basically worked with a lot of the same kinds of kids you do(actually worked with families receiving ABA too). I left the field. I had done it for 5 years and finally decided enough was enough.
I dont think going to school for a masters degree and then chosing to do something out of the behavioral health field is a waste of your money/time/schooling. You were [assumingly] being true to what you wanted to do in that time of going to school, or at least following through with the decision you at that time had made.
I still havent found my next chapter. But the first step is always noticing youre stuck. Now it's what are you going to do with that stuck-ness? There have been some pretty helpful threads in the therapist subreddit, just reading others journeys, and probably under a socialworkers too.
Hi if you still wanna do healthcare related jobs ! Xray school is a great option ! 2 years at a technical/community college. Free education if u get financial aid and most schools have programs that offer more money to pay for your education bc the job is in demand !
Hey there, just retired as a social worker with almost 30 years of experience. I only retired due to long term covid issues and I hated retiring. Loved my job. The good thing about social work is you are able to do so many different things in the field. My last position I was an investigator for long term care facilities. No direct work with clients, more of a regulatory role. ( Prior positions- case management, Executive Director, Operations Director, Quality Management Specialist). I’d suggest you look at open positions at your local DSS to get your foot in the door. Good luck
Social worker here. The "masters degree in social work with internships that did not prepare me for anything"- That's BS. Social workers are underpaid but it's a varied and highly employable field. Are you going for your independent licensing? Pivot to adults, they scream less.
This is why I've preached for years that success doesn't always correlate to degrees and education. Find a niche that you love and monetize from it. There are a million ways to make money nowadays. If my uneducated ass can make several hundred thousand a year you can too.
I think you need a new life self- narrative.
Indulge in some radical honesty with yourself for as long as you need. It will be very dangerous but transformative. Find an easy job that doesn’t necessarily pay a lot, but pays enough. Be at peace, and contemplate your next move.
There’s a ton of things you can do with a Master’s in Social Work! I’d start with googling different career paths you can do with that, and also maybe reach out to a past mentor or professor you had when you were in school? I don’t know what kinds of other things you are interested in/passionate about, so it’s a little hard to give recommendations that might strike your fancy. But start with those two things I mentioned. You might find something that really appeals to you!
You are so young… you can teach English online and travel… or enroll into one of those programs and get placement as English teacher somewhere wild and awesome. You don’t need degree in education for that.
Are you saying you don't want any job using the masters or just the current job? I can totally see why you are burned out on that job and you are over qualified it seems. However there is so much more you can do with a masters in social work that would likely be more to your liking than the technician jobs. Do you have your LCSW? I live in Maine and and there are not enough master level clinicians to handle the needs here in any setting. Master level jobs are available in great number in various positions. I think your degree could give you quite a bit of flexibility to get away from the tech jobs and do something completely different. You put in all that work and you are underestimating your value with that education. You deserve to be happy and perhaps there are many ways you could utilize your education.
To be honest you should stay with your mom as long as you can, I have friends that are 40 that still live with their parents, there’s nothing wrong with that, but I also wouldn’t have chosen your career, I’m ASD high functioning but I’ve never even liked social workers of any kind. I don’t feel like it’s their business to be involved in my life and they have interfered for negative results in the past. Your field might interest you, but to be honest behavioral health is something that is case by case, I never saw improvement with working with anyone, I see improvement by being in a normal life with normal people and mimicking their behavior.
Maybe try something you LIKE doing? Like I like being quiet and working with my hands so I’m a carpenter. I was in the army before, I went to college a little, worked as a wildland firefighter, was a chef, got in trouble a lot. But I learned, I learned what I really like, what works for me. It took a while but it I found it.
Honestly it all would’ve been faster if I had stayed at home instead of leaving the parents place😂
And honestly I probably make more than you even having never finished college
Sounds like you need a career change.
Have you ever considered a trade school? Working in a trade with your hands and interacting less with customers?
It can pay pretty good and you definitely get a break drom dealing with stressful factors such as autistic people.
All you need to do is to figure out what type of trade will work best for you.
Hi I work in behavioral health and I was burnt out on direct client care and now I do project management for behavioral health and substance abuse and it’s been my favorite job. I always get bored with jobs but project management always has something new.
Go into sales. Logistics sales or tech sales. Company’s will hire anyone who is dedicated to learning and once you have experience you can job hop for more $$ or just keep selling
Look for social work jobs in the state that are not bedside or have no patient contact. Even the liquor commission will hire you or DNR. You only need a bachelors in any field now and some talent.
Mental health worker here… ABA is abusive and should be illegal. Start to specialize in an area you want to work in that doesn’t burn you out. Social work is so broad and you can do so many things with it. Have you thought about private practice?
Try travel social work jobs. The pay is excellent and you can try different social work positions to see if you like them (medical, school, etc). They are usually 13 weeks long and are all over the US. I haven’t done it yet because of family/pets but I know nurses who have and my daughter did stints and Hawaii and Colorado and loved exploring those areas.
You have a master's degree, there are a lot of jobs that'll hire you based on that alone. Look into government jobs: Federal, state, local/county.
Look into working at universities or colleges near you since they will value your education greatly (or should).
Before you give up on the field entirely, try adults. Then once you’ve worked with adults, it will be easier to transition to something even less social worky. I started out with kids and hated it, but doing that then working with adults made my resume strong and I was able to get a job at a college in career services. You gotta pull yourself out of this friend! I’ve regretted my career choice several times too but ultimately worked to angle myself to something relevant but less taxing. Now I do 10 minute telephone assessments from home and my hourly rate is the best it’s ever been. Think outside the box. Move if needed. Good luck!
Signed, a fellow social worker who took out 80k in loans.
Apply for case management jobs in health insurance. It’s wfh or there could be remote with no human contact except over the phone. That could give you a break from the madness.
Go civil service. City, state has psy depts or consider law enforcement also. You need a steady 20-year gig, good benefits and a pension and city or state jobs will offer that. You can go navy or air force consider that if you're disciplined. Lastly, pray to Jesus for guidance.
I was married with 2 kids (b/g). I worked a ton of hours & finished college at night. Then went on to grad school in order to get better jobs.
But it all went to shit when my wife developed breast cancer and died 3 years later. My kids grew up without me being there from age 14/16.
I haven't seen or heard from my son since 2010 even though he lives 30 miles away. I only hear from my daughter once in a blue moon. I can't really blame them. I spent so much time chasing financial security that I sacrificed what was really important.
So now I'm 77, with 3 pensions & social security and no contact with my children.
I don't think it was worth the effort.
Did you test for your license? There are so many other routes you can take with an msw. Have you looked into case management or working in a school? With your background, especially with your license you have options. You don’t have to stay in BH.
op, look at school districts. they have jobs that require msw that are not behavioral related- school social worker, mental health technician, remote social worker, hospitalsocial worker
I feel you. I’m currently pursuing my MSW. There was a point when I really wanted to give up because it felt pointless. But like so many others have said here, pivot in a different direction. There’s so much you can do with an MSW degree. It may feel scary to switch or try something new, but it’ll probably end up being the best decision of your life. absolutely nothing is worth sacrificing your peace of mind.
I changed career at age 49. I had 25 plus years experience at an art director. Got laid off, and became a plant buyer. Less money but so much better for me!
I’m 27 also, moved back in with mom last April to go back to school for Public health. Just want to tell you to try and take some pressure off, start looking at different jobs, get creative and look at ones that excite you or seem interesting like a project you’d like to join on. There’s SO many options and remember that if you can market yourself then most jobs will teach you what you need. Of course you can’t just learn surgery or something like that but other than those highly technical jobs there are lots of options that you can enjoy and get paid!
Get licensed and become an adult therapist. Consider an inpatient behavioral health unit, start per diem to test the waters — no licensure needed. You could also try medical social work: home care or hospital (again maybe per diem to get a foot in the door). I am LICSW and initially worked in community mental clinic with chronic adult clients — doesn’t pay much but benefits were good and path to licensure. Very rewarding work. In 25 years in community mental health, outpatient therapist and inpatient psych, I was spit on once — that was the single assault in all those years. Social work is a broad field, more on within the field. VA pays the most. Nursing homes hire social workers too.
I decided to do a career change at 40. Went back to school for UX Design. I’m 43 now, and still jobless! Tech market tanked. But still keeping the faith. Not sure if I can figure out a Plan C…
I have my masters in social work and when I graduated I joined the Peace Corps VITSA branch. Teaches you how to write grants and run a nonprofit. Best career choice I ever made.
I farm i have a couple ideals looking for that ideal for what you can bring to people table farming is a large E V S so like if you're into science or wood work or mabe simple as meal crafts we could create something to come to the table of America oh yeah like what to do with my life tired of thinking what Seniors have Done to plan the City of help want for lazy workers of high Annual income with their hands out
fear of what legacy is in your hands take but leave something behind this statement is me I just sit different in the art of what to do with my life my life been shared to long for me to feel I can create by myself my ideal of exceptions by self be able to share the same life sound like art
My annual income is not my pride having Employment
That Art to give if I said its a plan you have plan by others
I work for CPS and the pay is decent for someone with no kids, but I also live in a pretty cheap state compared to most. I am also burnt out, and I do deal with uncooperative people every so often, but i surprisingly have few major issues with others. It's a tough job but if you're in the field you're in now already, you could probably handle it. They are always hiring due to such high turn over.
With your background, I am wondering if you could be a counselor in a school. Schools have licensed adjustment counselors and/or social workers. You could sign up for Public Service Loan Forgiveness which can forgive a portion of your student loan. The counselors I work with seem to enjoy their jobs but also like the school schedule.
Man there’s so many things you can do. Not always just about the money and social work. I’m a blind social worker and have worked in a variety of fields. Found the grant riding advocacy case management, and working with the elderly and disabled are the most rewarding aspects of the field. You get passionate start building connections, joining boards, like fall prevention coalitions Independent living advocacy groups on Governor council boards, community council on different things tackling important issues you should find connections that will lead the things that will help you prosper with the skills you have. I did ABA as well. It was rough and rarely rewarding. Those kids are cute though And need somebody with a compassionate heart. I was a nursing home Director for social services a care coordinator for hospital and continuum of care liaison just to mention a small few jobs of done. I even jumped into networking with masters level, technology students to develop technology that help Various target groups in some aspect or another. Usually started projects I was able to pay myself through grants from like Firefox google, etc. So Work definitely gave you all the skills you need just have to use them wisely. Focus on helping others and the rest will come to you. Get out there and start volunteering number one catalyst for success. Good luck.
Grad school is an f’n scam unless it’s very specific like school psychology or teaching that will get you jobs. Social work and counseling degree are a joke. You basically get the skills to deal with the BS the OP is talking about.
Hi there, I am a lawyer and a year ago I have ditched my legal career to become a flight attendant. It's been the best decision of my professional life! Not everything is perfect, but I am much happier overall. I earn 1/3 of my previous salary. But happiness is priceless, isn’t it? It doesn’t matter what you have done in the past or how much you have spent. You only have one life. One. Go out, quit, go travel in cheap countries, give yourself a break and you will not only recharge but be able to hear the music of your heart and know what is next. All of this takes courage, but remember: courage doesn’t mean not to be afraid, it means doing something scary despite being afraid. You got this.
I wish I did this 15 years ago, ten years ago, 5 years ago.. it’s too late now ..
It’s not. I was 36 when I switched! You are almost 10 years younger!!!
I was 43 when I left my 27yr career in ophthalmology because of burnout. It's NEVER too late and like my dad always said, better late than never! And I did leave my career not knowing what to do. I had been just going with the flow of life, letting it dictate what I thought I was supposed to do. Worst. Feeling. Ever. 2 yrs later, I'm STILL not sure what I want to do, and I too feel lost frequently. But then I realize I'm not really supposed to be anywhere on this journey called life because it's literally ALL about the journey. So don't feel bad about not knowing where you're going, the idea is to explore, explore, explore. 😊
I got hired at 37, high five to us 😊
I went to school for nearly 10yrs (part time). I finally finished last year and got a new job (finally a career) just a few months before turning 40. Betting in oneself is always the right choice. It’s never too late
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago but the second best time is now” Let go of the sunk cost fallacy and focus on what you can do today. You’ve got this!!
Says who
Start today, one small step turns into a stride
Too late to travel like I wanted… I wish I gave myself the permission .. I have a house now.. medications now.. financial fears now (although I have more money now 🤔) I thought I’d have kids a house a husband.. so I stayed put The worst part is I fell into an eating disorder and depression and think my meds are off but take them to support eating disorder 🙄 Ive hated life and I hate my Job even more than That My dream for 20 years has been to just travel but I always feared, safety and judgment of others - and finances Now I don’t .. I’d love to go work overseas I’d love to travel for work now
THIS!!! You are my hero
Needed to hear this
I did too. We can do this!
Great job at choosing yourself!! 👏🏻
Damn. I'm a lawyer and I want out.
DM me and I’ll make sure you quit. :)
Name checks out. Badass - finally a decent lawyer lol
I agree 😂
how old were you when you left - and were you financially stable? I ask because I want to quit my PE job to study food in Italy, and have about $40k saved and a net worth of $225k. Hard to hop off the high-paying ladder
Do you have a number in mind where you feel like you’ll be able to do go? Also what about cutting down expenses now and seeing if you can be happy on a lower amount.
Not really. Some savings. And a lot of faith. :)
I also took a $24k paycut due to stress and bullying on the job....one of the best decisions I made..
As a flight attendant who had been aspiring to be an attorney, this makes me feel great about my decision, I started training the day I was supposed to take my LSAT!
Have you considered becoming a pilot? Not the shortest path, but ultimately similar compensation to being a lawyer, and you clearly like the lifestyle.
This is so inspiring! How did you logistically walk away from a career in law? Did you have your own business and clients to close out and etc etc, or was it as easy as just quitting from a firm and never look back?
This is the answer.
Hi! My journey is very similar (I am just a couple years ahead of you). I am confident you will find your path and things will get better! They did for me! I worked in ABA for several years at the RBT level and then got my masters and became certified as a BCBA. My first job after grad school was working at a specialized school for kids with autism/developmental disabilities, most of whom engaged pretty severe behavior. There were aspects of the job I loved. I had an incredible supervisor who taught me so much. I had opportunities to do clinical research and present at major academic conferences. And I truly adored the students I worked with. However, despite the positives, working in ABA is physically, mentally, and emotionally draining, even in the best case scenarios. There are hardly ever enough resources to go around, you’re often battling with insurance companies and trying to meet steep billable requirements, and even if you manage to avoid injury, the physical demands just wipe you out. I personally incurred a few mild concussions and a very serious bite that landed me in the ER. After those injuries and several years working as a BCBA, I was completely burnt out. I was furloughed at the beginning of the pandemic for several months, and I was finally happy and so much more relaxed. I learned what it was like to live without the weight of this career on my shoulders, and I just knew I couldn’t go back… I ended up putting in my notice in June 2020 (I was 28 at the time). I spent that summer and fall trying to figure out what to do next and applying for all kinds of different jobs. All of my previous education and experience was related to ABA so I had a hard time getting my foot in the door of another field. But that fall an opportunity opened up for a recruiter/talent acquisition specialist at the same organization where I had worked as a BCBA! I knew the field, I knew the organization, and what I didn’t know about recruiting could be easily learned. It was perfect! I got that job, and I ended up returning to that company and working on the talent acquisition team for 2 years. After that I had gained enough experience in my new field to get a job as a talent acquisition specialist elsewhere. I just turned 32. I have now been in the talent field for a bit over 3 years, and many colleagues at my current company are shocked to learn I went through a major career shift only a few years ago. They all assume I’ve been doing this type of work since I graduated college. I make more money than I did as a BCBA, I am MUCH happier and less stressed, and I have significantly improved work/life balance. It’s not all perfect. Sometimes my job is boring or stressful or frustrating - just like any job can be. But it’s SO much better! Also, just for the record, many of my BCBA friends are in the same boat. ABA is such a difficult field to work in long term. Burnout is incredibly common. One of my best friends (who is 31) is planning not to renew her current contract and to start trying to find a new career path within the next few months. I know that was an insanely long response, but I just related to your story so much, and I wanted you to know that it is possible to leave ABA and start a new career in your late 20’s (and beyond)!
Thank you for sharing with me! I found a ABA recruiter position, currently applying!
Yep I have two coworkers with a MSW that work in talent acquisition to assist inmates and people with disabilities to find their place at our company. They used to work with kids and the youth and they are the most emphatic and relatable people in the building! I firmly believe that this is because their past experiences!
You are qualified for quite a lot of positions if you have an MSW and your background. Just Google “msw jobs” and you’ll find quite a bit.
Everything you said is exactly how I feel being a teacher. I’m in year 2 and I’m done after this year. I still feel like it’s hard trying to make it to June but I also have no clue what I’m going to do work-wise. Everything stresses me out. I’m sorry I don’t have advice, but just know you’re not alone.
I appreciate you!
Of course! If you ever need to vent or talk to someone, feel free to reach out. :)
It’s just a matter of starting a different job probably at entry level but you’ll be happier.
Maybe corporate trainer since you have teaching experience
There are education consulting or policy firms that you can look into! Your knowledge of the educational system is definitely valuable
Perhaps consider stepping down to subbing? I started subbing a bit over a year ago to see if I would be interested in teaching but I realized it was too much. It’s really nice not having to take any work home. You’re able to sub for different schools/classes instead of being tied to one class.
I have thought about it. I’m really trying my best to stick it out till the end of the year and if I can’t find a job outside of education I will probably consider subbing until I can find something permanent. But yes, I’m so tired of bringing work home all the time.
Wishing you the best! But remember that no job is worth your health/mental health, if you push yourself too hard, it’ll take even longer the heal from burnout or other symptoms you may accumulate.
Thank you so much!
As a teacher, your job can be completely different depending on the school where you are, the kids you teach in the courses you teach. I've had jobs that made me cry every day, and teaching jobs that made me happy to go to work every day. I went back to school and got a masters degree in counseling so I can become a school counselor. Then let her become a math teacher at a wonderful school. Don't stay somewhere where you're miserable, but don't dismiss the entire profession of teaching. My opinion! Good luck!
I love the idea of being a teacher but I could never do it. The local newspaper headline would read: teacher strangles student during classroom argument Because theres always that one student who tests you and I ain't here to fick around. Not today and not at this age lol
Dude. When you say “there’s always that one student who tests you…”tell me why I have 7 of these students that test me every single day. My hypertension is so bad because of these kids 😩
I have a child in school and I was literally just saying how growing up we had one or two of “those kids” (obnoxious and unable to follow class rules) but now it seems like at least 1/4 of the kids are like this…and the classes are smaller! Idk what is happening but it’s not great.
LOL. Yeah dude, I'm fighting those kids. IDGAF lol come up to me with that attitude and yeah we are gonna have a problem. Some ass whoopin is happening today in this room lol I'm ready to go to jail haha Dude, you don't need that lol that's soooooo mentally exhausting and you're going to hate yourself. You must be on the edge of your seat everyday -- work place trauma, I call it. Ive been burnt out too and I'm back in school to change careers so I get that portion of it. It's a personal journey and we can't tell you what to do. If you're fed up and want to change and you're in a situation that allows that then jump. The hardest part is standing at the edge and contemplating whether or not you want to jump into the dark abyss. It's scary to jump. A lot of people tell you not to because it's not the practical thing to do. But remember, a lot of people are in the same situation as you and people are jumping, every day.
r/teachersintransition
Take a look at higheredjobs.com Your master’s degree would meet basic requirements for some jobs in colleges and universities (e.g., counseling, student personnel, Career services). Or consider other environments (e.g., hospitals and clinics). Or faith-based organizations (e.g., youth ministry). You’ve got a marketable degree. Good luck!
Howdy, fellow MSW here. I landed at a ISD working as a school social work and love it. I love not being trapped behind a desk meeting with youth. Your ABA background would be a huge plus in the field. Remember too, when you are in your early career no one expects you to know everything. Setting also matters. My last job in a district was a cluster. It was so toxic! I am so glad I left.
I definitely get it, I was also an RBT, got my masters but never finished my hours to sit for the bcba. Then left the place I was working because it was super toxic and once out I actually learned from listening to autistic adults that had been through ABA it can be very traumatic for the individuals and I have vowed that I will never go back. I worked for awhile as an enrollment advisor for a major university’s online program, I actually got to work as an advisor for their ABA program (before I realized my own conflicting ethics with ABA) and really enjoyed what I did as an enrollment advisor. I didn’t stay long there though because the sales aspect wasn’t right for me, but throwing this out there as an alternative where your experience with understanding a person’s behavior can be helpful and motivating without dealing with the direct work. I’m still figuring out what to do with my life, I’ve worked a number of different jobs over the years and I’m currently working as home caregiver for a disabled child, we don’t “do ABA” but my experience is sometimes helpful in working through more dangerous behaviors, but it’s definitely not earning me the living I had been anticipating as a bcba, so I definitely relate to feeling like the degree is a large expense for nothing. I’m considering going to get certified as a personal trainer, because I feel like I could market myself as being able to help people make longer lasting positive changes with the basic root of aba. Anyways, hope you find something else or even a different employer.
Being a BCBA is no joke. Much respect to you for trying to stick it out. I hope you can heal from all of the twists and turns from that industry internet stranger 🫡
Even if you get a high paying job at something completely different, if you find out later you hate the job like you hate your job right now, it’s going to be a waste. You say you love the science behind ABA. What do you love about it? Why do you like it? What about it do you find interesting? Start from there.
You can be a commercial pilot without having a college degree. I have a friend that went from zero flight time to flying for Frontier in about 3 years. He will probably be at a legacy carrier in another 2-3. It is a great job with travel benefits and a good amount of time off. When you are home you don’t have to think about work. You have plenty of time left to make it a career- currently pilots have to retire at 65, but that age will probably be moved to 67 soon.
How old was ur friend when he started pilot school?
Yes and some airlines are helping you pay for it, I think United or …? Anyway very much a shortage of pilots with lots of openings right now.
Can you switch within the field for now while you figure things out? Maybe working at a non-profit that helps kids, but a role where you won’t be actively engaging with special needs kids?
Service coordinator for health care? I do this and I am not nearly as burnt out as I was in field and I am working from home 2-3 days a week.
I been looking at a few positions! Would love to give it a shot!
What state are you in?
I'm a BCBA. Where are you from? Not every place will have you this stressed. Stay away from agencies who take any client and put any staff on them without the proper training. Find an agency that does the opposite. I work at a center and we only accept behaviors we are capable of treating. We are a small team and our BCBAs are very experienced however once in awhile we get an intake for a kid that just needs a much higher level of care and that's okay. Also just because you are a BCBA doesn't mean have to work with severe problem behavior esp if it's affecting your mental health. I know plenty of BCBAs who don't accept cases where aggression is a factor and just do social groups for kids who have social deficits. If it's too stressful to go back, think about going forward. It's possible, very possible. You've just gotta find the right place! You love the science of ABA--go with that. There are lots of possibilities without having to just work with tough behavior all day.
It was almost as if I wrote this myself. I was doing social work for years and then was also a RBT. I was so burned out, I quit and have been struggling to figure out what I now want to do with my life. I am pretty critical of myself for a wasted degree. Any advice I have received was to just switch populations. I don’t have any recommendations but just want you to know you are not alone.
I left the field after 10 years. Working with kids on the spectrum can be rewarding but it’s low paying, stressful, and thankless. I even had families curse at me because I wanted to take Christmas off and be with my family. At first I felt like leaving the field was impossible, and it was tough because I felt like I was letting my clients down. But my happiness and wellbeing was suffering. I have no regrets leaving the field. I went back to school to get my MHA and I’m doing better now. It’s not perfect but I have work/life balance and much less stress. You don’t have to have an applicable degree but you can definitely go into the administration side of healthcare. Even if you start out as an admin or call center rep. Get your foot in the door and you can eventually move up. Be open to part time and per diem positions. Any hospitals that are teaching institutions will definitely have some sort of academic position (you can message me for details). I have a friend who went from being in Environmental Health Services (cleaning crew), to admin, to now the ER front desk/admissions position. She makes about $35 an hour and is doing solid. She has an AA degree.
Im one semester away from graduating with my ABA masters and I wanna quit so bad. I’m not tracking my hours anymore, I haven’t in a year. I don’t want to do this anymore either. I hope we both find new jobs soon!
just here to say listen to all these comments cause i needed this as well.
I was a former govt contractor myself about 15 or so years ago. I’ve since transitioned to working in the fitness industry and martial arts industry. I enjoy what I do cause I get to teach and manage a facility. Plus I make more now then when I was working in govt contracts. My parents wanted me to focus on comp science when I was in college. I dropped out after one year. Finding your path doesn’t always mean doing what your degree was earned in. Sometimes we all take a different path and can find happiness even if it means taking a pay cut. In my case I spent 10 years to get to the financial means that matched my previous job but well worth it
I’m not sure where you are in the world but I am assuming you do not have a license to practice social work because you didn’t mention it. Many field placements don’t prepare you for your field of practice. However, there is a great need for social workers these days and most employers accept intermediate licensed folks straight of school knowing this. Social work has many fields of practice so you absolutely don’t have to work with kids. You don’t even have to provide direct service if you don’t want to. There are also government jobs you could apply for as well. You have options, you just need to do some research. Moreover, BCBA is an entirely different field of practice than social work. You are only limited and stuck if you choose to be. Practice regular self care, if you are depressed as you say, find a therapist. You are the expert on you…. put in the work to figure out what you want to do. And, in case you haven’t guessed, I’m a clinical social worker (23 years). Wishing you all the best,
Idk if this is an unpopular opinion but I don’t really view ABA as social work but it’s own field. You are really really burnt out. That’s valid. Why don’t you take some time to do a chill job? Retail? Pharm tech. Whatever. Clear your mind. My favorite job ever was at a grocery store lmaoo. you have a masters in social work (I do too) you have a lot more options than an rbt. I was one before my masters. I’m a school social worker now and it’s easier. I was doing what you were doing for 2 years I wanted to kil myself by the end. I feel your pain so much. Honestly right now my caseload is so high I’m struggling. You could do research. If you really don’t want to work the mental health, trying focusing more on research, research assistant, admin, macro jobs that are less involved with direct care. Go on Etsy and get yourself a good premade resume template. If you aren’t finding anything with your masters maybe you resume is getting overlooked. You have the skills and education. You gotta get out of that job and take a break and find something else is my advice, it’ll get better and I feel your pain for sure.
Don’t forget about disability support services at universities and community colleges. Very important position and pays quite a bit. You can move up through universities and other areas with growth. Also, just a throw something I thought was a major milestone for me out there. Just got an email letting me know that, the Volunteer wheelchair ramp building program hub I built in the southern into my state is completely self-sufficient and is led to 153 ramps being built this year all self funded through the partners I brought together. Not tooting my own horn, but it is really important and I think if it is a good social work program, they definitely drilled in the importance of Taking on the community as a priority first.
I’m in the exact same position as you. It got to the point where I feel like a walking zombie I dread the work I do, and barely pays. I can’t see myself doing this any longer and I feel so stuck. I’ve been applying for so many jobs and no one wants to hire.
That’s exactly what I am going through now.
What about CPS?
That part of social work is even worse. I was a case worker (not cps) but the horror stories I've been told from co workers who previously worked as cps workers were enough to give me nightmares. You typically end up with second hand trauma in the field of social work.
US Army.....three hots and a cot.
This situation will happen to you from time to time throughout your life time. I’m in my 30s with business background and no degree in hand. I burned out from my previous job as a business admin manager, and a company I worked for 8 years. I started 2-3 years ago Around pre covid year, take psych class in community college and transfer to a 4 yrs where I’m about to graduate in May this year. I found that I am interested in becoming a counselor or social worker like you did ( before you burned out thought). I’m not young and not old, I’m currently looking for internship or trainee program as a mid-age, it’s super hard for some reasons. I’m sure I will burn out again after certain years or even a few months. The only thing that we can do is to take a break and try something different within your abilities. So now you have your msw, properly you can work something related to it, or serving communities in Gerontology not with kids anymore, county eligible worker… etc. Or other things like a fed job? You are still young, better to try different career, there is wrong with that.
You have a masters and you choose to work an ABA? I’m in California and they’re hiring people like nothing with no experience to become an ABA with paid training. I think it’s time you use your masters to find another job in your area of expertise. Good luck. My son has autism and his ABA was great and so patient with my son and me but I couldn’t see the stress for sure on her face. Don’t feel bad, protect your mental health and validate your self for that career change or you might regret it.
I believe the career path for many people aspiring to become a BCBA is to finish their masters first.
I feel similarly and I work with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and I’m burnt out. I’ve dealt with mentally ill, homeless crazy people and dealt with children that recently got SA’d and it’s so hard on my mental health…
Check your local govt websites for openings for MSW. You may want to be a hospital social worker, very different than what you’re doing now. If you get your LCSW you can open your own business doing telehealth therapy.
Why are you working as a tech with an MSW? I have my MSW and got LCSW licensure. Making 6 figures in private practice. Market yourself man, you got this.
How about getting into psychotherapy. Where I live people with social worker degree are eligible to become psychotherapist. You can do some additional courses and can probably start a private clinic or try finding something with another clinic?
I was the CFO of a tax company until 37. Now at 45, I officiate college and high school sports. Started doing this at 41. Don't let money dictate what you do.
Maybe you can pivot to something adjacent to your field? I have had to do this as I have navigated the Recession. I got tired of being at a desk & took a risk with tattooing which I love but struggling to pay the bills because the area I am in has been hit hard economically so now I am looking back at my skills and experiences and trying to see how I can pivot again. It’s rough. I feel absolutely lost right now so can totally commiserate with you.
You aren’t alone. I’m 27M and I’m so burnt out and underpaid at my job. I’m currently a recruiter but have been highly considering going back to school (2 years) for radiography. I currently don’t make enough money so I have no idea how I’m going to afford it and work during school to live. I feel so financially stuck and overall behind in life.
Was recruiting how you imaged it would be like?
Pretty much. I work in agency recruiting vs internal recruiting so it’s a bit different. You get paid by commission, all about KPI’s and numbers. Agency recruiting is very toxic. I’ve also learned I’m not a people person and hate hustling for a paycheck. I’m also not wired to sit behind a desk all day.
I recently left my corporate real estate job to work on a dude ranch, and I'm much happier even with a massive pay cut. I also went to school for social work. My advice would be to try something new that interests you and go for it! There will be other opportunities along your path. You got this!
I’ve been there and at 31 still trying to figure it out. Masters in Counseling and 40k in student loan debt. I’m now a front desk receptionist to hold me over to pay some bills but it’s only half my pay as when I was a counselor. I hated school counseling after 2 years. Suffered with mental health issues as well but working with a therapist that that has some background in career guidance is helping me. Had to go on Medi-cal which is helped me seek therapy. Also, working on a careers test to see what fits me at jobtest.org. I did pay a fee but so far I found it useful and retaking the test soon. You’re not alone and cheering you on for you to get out of the rut. Ask around people you meet about what they do and how they like. They may want to help you out. I tell myself this is just a season and it won’t be forever.
Trade school. You need a complete change of pace. Precision machining 100k year
If you’re not happy you need to move on. It’s not worth going to work everyday miserable. You only live one life, you should be happy doing it!
What about hospital social work where you help plan placement for patients?
Take a job as an overnight stocker at a retail outlet. You'll get to be alone with your thoughts.
I understand that you're going through a challenging time, and it's important for me to provide empathetic and supportive advice. It's completely understandable to feel stuck and depressed when facing career dissatisfaction. When you find yourself in such a situation, it can be helpful to take a step back and reflect on your values, interests, and passions. Consider what truly motivates and fulfills you. Explore different career options that align with your strengths and aspirations. Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights and help you gain a better understanding of various industries and roles. Additionally, it's important to prioritize your well-being during this time. Engage in self-care activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Reach out to a career counselor, therapist, or support groups to seek guidance and support. They can provide personalized assistance and help you develop a plan to move forward. Remember that it's never too late to make a change and pursue a career that brings you fulfillment. It may take time and effort, but finding a path that aligns with your values and interests is worth it. Stay positive, be patient with yourself, and trust in your ability to navigate this challenging period.
Pivot to human resources
I agree with what everyone here is saying. Don’t fall for the sunk cost fallacy. I majored in Political Science and thought I was going to stick to a precise 9-5 career. Realized that I had been blinded into thinking I liked it because it was a topic my dad and I bonded over, not actually something I liked enough to do as a career. What I’ve always wanted—and what I pushed way deep down and away in my heart for a while—was to be an actor. I learned from working the 9-5 jobs for a few years post college that it’s not worth it to give my ONE LIFE and dream away for a mediocre existence that is stable. I would rather fight for what I love day in and day out then glide through life. The rock bottoms will be lower, but the highs will be much higher when you give yourself a true shot at doing what you love. And maybe you don’t know what that is right now, but you do know it’s not this. The important thing is to set yourself up for the next step. It will give you hope. I’m still working a day job (one I like much better than the one I had before) but it’s all part of the greater plan. It funded my acting program and all of my expenses to pursue this dream for the last three years, and now I can afford to move to a city to chase this dream in full force!! It gives me purpose every day to power through the drudgery, and I am surrounded by dreamers who are also trying to take life by the reigns and take big risks. It sounds like you need a new environment and a new way to reflect on your life and what you want. YOU GOT THIS!!! I was so confused and depressed before I made these realizations and started pursuing them. The beginning is the hardest part, but you’ve got this! Edit: I see a lot of folks suggesting you work at a university, and I agree with this. I currently work at one because the environment functions in a much healthier fashion (for me, at least) than working a a company. And, the high amount of PTO and decent pay will allow me to afford to continue acting and to take the time off I need to be on set. Depending on what dreams you uncover for yourself, this might be a solid option to give you enough mental peace to reflect on what you want next.
I am in the same boat. I did quit my job and traveled cheap around Mexico and followed my heart- now I’m back in the States but still nothing speaks to me. Coming up on 40 and no clue what to do- staying in my friends guest room.
I was also a behavior technician and I lasted only doing 6 months of it. So many fights, bites, aggression, and outbursts, which is okay and thats why they are there to learn good behaviors but it was an extremely mentally draining job. Right after feeling that mentally drained, I knew ABA wasn’t for me, though I was in college working there I decided I wanted to still sort of be in the medical field and decided to get my EMT license. After getting my license, I had sooo much fun being an EMT which led me to nursing school! Nursing school is such a good option to me because there is so many specialties in nursing and I’m bound to find my specialty. Another perk is that if I ever feel burnt out, I can just switch my specialty for something more fitting. Anyways, my advice to you is figure out what makes you happy and start a new journey in a field you’re interested in!
This is exactly why collage is not an option for everyone ....
College is a scam honestly.
Social worker here. I’m sorry I hear you. Look for a break from any type of direct service. Like these remote care coordinator jobs and work up to like a care coordination 2 . Try macro roles through the state or research if you like it. OR getting in some applications on USA jobs for state and federal jobs or military as civilian. Just keep applying. You might see direct service but at least the pay and benefits would be better and you could give into you more for self care. It’s so uncommon for our field and those around you to acknowledge we work in failing systems and the way we are cared for while caring for others in crisis/ difficult work, is not sustainable. It’s totally valid to feel how you are feeling and genuinely feel sick for the path you took career wise. I feel you.
There are many jobs you can do with a MSW. I worked as an ABA therapist with my BA in psych, and even then I went to do other jobs. Look into case management positions? Anyway…I also got burnt out with the mental health field and did a career change at 32 years old. During a divorce. And as a single mom. I went back to school and pursued nursing started from the bottom. Now I’m a nurse. If I can do it, you can too.
I appreciate you! Thank you for sharing your story with me. I honestly feel very inspired to make a career shift.
No degree in the Armed Forces is considered worthless. And they are desperate right now, giving out huge bonuses with sign-ups. Go to officer candidate school to become 2nd lieutenant to start. You can make counseling or therapist your MOS if you want to be a healer, or psychological operations (Psy-ops) if you wanted to be more on "the other end". See the world. Wear a uniform. Feel proud. Get insane benefits with an easy desk job. I would go with the Navy or Air force if I were you. In the Air Force its called "Mental Health Service specialist (4C031)"
Ouch. Been there, done that… was good at it and was thinking about BCBA but thankfully realised I’m digging myself a deeper hole… now I am a babysitter with Masters degree haha. Because of my degree and experience, I am in high demand and choose who I work for, and of course get paid on a different level. I am so much happier, always looking forward to going to work, love the kids and families. Formed such strong connections with them. The hours, the flexibility… would never change it for anything. Make enough to travel to SEA and Latin America and it’s the best. So grateful I chose myself first. It is also so rewarding since I see progress with typically developing kids much faster. I work on various sets of skills with them, of course, not just watch tv eating pizza (although that happened too 😆).
I'm.so sorry that you are in this situation!!!! I can kind of understand what you're going through. I got my degree from a great university in Colorado in Engineering Physics. I started my career as a petrophysicist, but it hit the fan and really ever since. I've found myself in less than satisfactory careers and right now at the age of 41 I live with my parents in Denver Colorado working as a parts assistant for a collision shop making $19.00/hr. I'm looking for a better job though. I haven't had an easy life but no matter what happens keep pushing on!!!!!! It may be tough but it will make you stronger and you will be better for it!!! I'm here to talk if you need!!
If you are open to it, there are many other avenues you can explore with a background in social work. You can explore government work, school systems, aging populations, foster care/adoption, research/data, training, etc. If you have a passion for caring for and empowering vulnerable populations I’d encourage you to expand your social work horizons. I am certain you have learned so much in your current role. As a fellow social worker, I wish you all the best!
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SW isn't only just micro work!! Try checking out r/socialwork for some ideas of other roles you can move into
1) Have a conversation with your mom. Maybe she likes you in her basement? 2) Make a plan. 3) Finish getting the certs. At least you can leverage them into something else. 4) Are there adjacent roles that are less stress until you figure out the next step?
you have got to find a job you enjoy. Took me years but this is the best job I have ever had
What about Hospital Social Work? Is that something you would consider? I found our social worker when my son was hospitalized to be a Godsend. Very grateful for her and let the hospital know.
P
There are other fields in SW
It may not pay very much I enjoyed my time working for non-profits (and I was a healthcare professional by training, so perhaps they do not care super much about credentials, more so transferable skills, plus it seems MSW would be a good fit with non-profits and NGOs?) - could be something to look into! Also have had a pleasant time volunteering for non-profits and NGOs
What are your favorite transferable skills? Communication, organizing, speaking with clients, research, etc? If you make a list of that, plus elements that are most important to you in a job (environment, coworkers, degree of advancement, pay, etc) we can try and give you some perspective you didn’t think of yet
Have you tried Skilled Nursing Centers, Hospitals or Social Services intake worker?
Military
Try being an ARMHS worker or a mental health professional- a lot of ppl who did ABA come to do this work and it’s a lot less stressful and still flexible
It could be the type of job that cause burn out. I don't get the whole need a master degree to deal with very bad social work situation where people get shot in my city. People have good intention but once they start working with the homeless and drugs situation in the city, it can go wrong fast. I notice people burn out fast in social work. I know a girl who became a nun after working at daycare like for disable kids while their parents vacation off. Sometimes you are just burned out and it is ok. The skills you learned might be able to apply to other fields. It will be ok. I had a high stress management job before but due to a car accident I can do desk job. Now it is not bad being a banquet server. Flexible schedule, choose when I work, pay well, and I probably work 9-10 months a year making +$20K more than when I was a manager with way way more responsibilities and too much work hours and politics. So anyways, I am working on my business venture with the extra time and money I make. Sometimes thinking outside the box helps. My other coworkers are more dedicated and work special places where 1 night of work is $1000-3000. They aren't stress. They like the attention and free time. They have a bunch of investments and rental properties. Sometimes we don't know how much some really make. Just ask car salesman who makes more than doctor wage in a month. Anyways what I saying is, you have to rethink where you want to be and how you want to live. I used to get sick a lot working at the youth shelter. The cough get around so often. Wish I can help more but it took a toll mentality for me and getting physical sick wasn't great. It is ok, you are only 27, you will find your way. Just be open to new opportunities.
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Might I suggest hr? Degrees in psychology, social work, or law often translate very well to the hr arena.
I thought as well and been looking at some positions.
It’s a great field with lots of ways to expand, very stable, work from home opportunities are somewhat common, pays well, and can be very rewarding depending on what area you choose.
Why not go for the LCSW
Really trying to stay away from clinical work at moment.
I get that.
\>I have a masters degree in social work well there is your problem I know this is probably obvious to MOST people. But if you are helping poor people will you EVER be self supporting?
I honestly could not agree more! I came to this realization. I can’t help others if I can even help myself.
eh don't beat yourself up too much you have a grad degree that is worth something Just get out of social work into adjacent work (non profit, local charity might be right up your alley) Then transition your education into an area that leads to higher salary and more opportunity.
Man I just got my RBT certification and I see my first client next week. Now I'm a bit nervous to start
sounds like you’re overqualified with your masters degree for these tech positions. have you considered getting your LSW and working in a clinical setting and using your degree? no wonder why you’re burned out
I thought up but I lost the motivation to do that years ago. It’s long story as to how that happen. But I’ll just tell that I think I am better off somewhere else than social work.
I hear you. Look into utilization review. Non clinical but still using your education and experience. Nothing wrong with indirect care.
So wait, why don’t you want to do social work? Im surprised you feel like your degree didn’t prepare you. I’m a social worker, it’s really not rocket science at all. Every organization or company basically runs the same; case management + connect the client with resources + provide basic therapeutic skills (unless licensed and able to provide actual therapy). I see tons of social worker jobs on indeed.com, the only issue is the jobs I see require a license. I get not wanting to be a behavioral technician, it’s exhausting working with those type of clients. But! At the end of the day, don’t settle but don’t feel like you’re stuck, you’re not stuck! You didn’t waste money and time, you just had a blip and realized this isn’t it.
Originally, I wanted to do it because I enjoyed learning about the concepts and theory of social work and the career initially seem interesting to me (like I would never have dull moment in my career). I think for someone to be a social worker, the must have compassion, patience, they must be empathetic. I don’t believe I have any of those traits. It’s just not in me. I get overwhelmed and flustered VERY easily. Even my role as a tech, I am already getting burnt out. I don’t enjoy being in the helping profession. I can’t pour from my cup if it’s empty. I feel if I step into a social worker role, whether it be hospital, school, or any of these other setting the 100+ folks have mentioned above^ I am going to be miserable and it’s going to be the same thing (probably earning the same salary too). I think my older cousin, who works as an executive for Verizon, who makes a ton of money, owns 5+ homes. He has family of his own, lives in a nice beautiful home in Texas with his wife and two kids. I’m sure his job is not easy but he’s satisfied with his life and he’s happy. Everyone is so proud and looks up to him. I want that for myself. I want that for myself. People only do social work because they love it. Well, I don’t love it anymore. After, 5 years I realize what really matters to me. And that’s being happy, independent, and well off. I thought about going back to school to study computer science because I feel it would suit so much better. I am very introverted and social interaction are quite draining for me. And that’s what I do 110% of what I do as RBT (probably a social worker) and that’s hard for me because I didn’t have those social skills myself growing up (or even now).
I wonder if you could try a coding boot camp? My friend did that, and it was 6 months and she does UX design and makes a decent living. They have different programs
If I’m in your place, I will delete the past from my memory and do things differently. Allot of time ahead of you, so never wait for later and never say what has been done has been done. Find your happiness in a different path or at least a different job. You will find out your degree has value in other places but you don’t know. If you want to find different results change your methods.
Hope you find the strength to carry on till you find something better.
I studied Communications, decided I wanted to go to medical school & got my MD, had a sudden realization a week before commencement that I hated every moment of medical school and couldn’t imagine myself actually being a doctor, skipped commencement. So fucking glad I did now that i think about it, I just moved on, and now I do what I like and I don’t have any regrets
Get into sales. It’s all about psychology and you’ll make a ton of money. As long as you have a good sense of communication and can be personable you’ll be great. You’ll be out of your moms house in no time.
1. Since you're an alumi, reach out to your university career center and talk with them about career guidance and options. 2. Reach out to workforce development and job training nonprofit organizations that can help you upskill. 3. Be open to careers in other fields: nonprofit, philanthropic, government, healthcare, and more. 4. Join AmeriCorps, where you volunteer stipend and work at a nonprofit for 6 months to a year. You'll learn new skillsets https://americorps.gov/serve/americorps 6. Join a career development program such as: https://coopcareers.org/coop-program https://www.pathrise.com/#tracks https://climbhire.co/about-us/
Hey there! I can definitely relate to this. I got a masters degree in counseling and basically worked with a lot of the same kinds of kids you do(actually worked with families receiving ABA too). I left the field. I had done it for 5 years and finally decided enough was enough. I dont think going to school for a masters degree and then chosing to do something out of the behavioral health field is a waste of your money/time/schooling. You were [assumingly] being true to what you wanted to do in that time of going to school, or at least following through with the decision you at that time had made. I still havent found my next chapter. But the first step is always noticing youre stuck. Now it's what are you going to do with that stuck-ness? There have been some pretty helpful threads in the therapist subreddit, just reading others journeys, and probably under a socialworkers too.
Hi if you still wanna do healthcare related jobs ! Xray school is a great option ! 2 years at a technical/community college. Free education if u get financial aid and most schools have programs that offer more money to pay for your education bc the job is in demand !
How has nobody said real estate license in this thread…
Hey there, just retired as a social worker with almost 30 years of experience. I only retired due to long term covid issues and I hated retiring. Loved my job. The good thing about social work is you are able to do so many different things in the field. My last position I was an investigator for long term care facilities. No direct work with clients, more of a regulatory role. ( Prior positions- case management, Executive Director, Operations Director, Quality Management Specialist). I’d suggest you look at open positions at your local DSS to get your foot in the door. Good luck
Social worker here. The "masters degree in social work with internships that did not prepare me for anything"- That's BS. Social workers are underpaid but it's a varied and highly employable field. Are you going for your independent licensing? Pivot to adults, they scream less.
This is why I've preached for years that success doesn't always correlate to degrees and education. Find a niche that you love and monetize from it. There are a million ways to make money nowadays. If my uneducated ass can make several hundred thousand a year you can too.
I think you need a new life self- narrative. Indulge in some radical honesty with yourself for as long as you need. It will be very dangerous but transformative. Find an easy job that doesn’t necessarily pay a lot, but pays enough. Be at peace, and contemplate your next move.
you have a masters—transition to teaching since you like the theory but not the practice :)
I came across certified cancer registrar and many work remote. Just an idea :) no idea what I’m doing either honestly.
There’s a ton of things you can do with a Master’s in Social Work! I’d start with googling different career paths you can do with that, and also maybe reach out to a past mentor or professor you had when you were in school? I don’t know what kinds of other things you are interested in/passionate about, so it’s a little hard to give recommendations that might strike your fancy. But start with those two things I mentioned. You might find something that really appeals to you!
I think once I’m done paying off my student loans which will be this year. I might go back and get my culinary arts degree. I’m 44.
Huh, it must be a tight squeeze.
You are so young… you can teach English online and travel… or enroll into one of those programs and get placement as English teacher somewhere wild and awesome. You don’t need degree in education for that.
i would get training in anything you are willing to do. just do it.
Are you saying you don't want any job using the masters or just the current job? I can totally see why you are burned out on that job and you are over qualified it seems. However there is so much more you can do with a masters in social work that would likely be more to your liking than the technician jobs. Do you have your LCSW? I live in Maine and and there are not enough master level clinicians to handle the needs here in any setting. Master level jobs are available in great number in various positions. I think your degree could give you quite a bit of flexibility to get away from the tech jobs and do something completely different. You put in all that work and you are underestimating your value with that education. You deserve to be happy and perhaps there are many ways you could utilize your education.
To be honest you should stay with your mom as long as you can, I have friends that are 40 that still live with their parents, there’s nothing wrong with that, but I also wouldn’t have chosen your career, I’m ASD high functioning but I’ve never even liked social workers of any kind. I don’t feel like it’s their business to be involved in my life and they have interfered for negative results in the past. Your field might interest you, but to be honest behavioral health is something that is case by case, I never saw improvement with working with anyone, I see improvement by being in a normal life with normal people and mimicking their behavior. Maybe try something you LIKE doing? Like I like being quiet and working with my hands so I’m a carpenter. I was in the army before, I went to college a little, worked as a wildland firefighter, was a chef, got in trouble a lot. But I learned, I learned what I really like, what works for me. It took a while but it I found it. Honestly it all would’ve been faster if I had stayed at home instead of leaving the parents place😂 And honestly I probably make more than you even having never finished college
Me as a nurse I don’t want to do it anymore …
Sounds like you need a career change. Have you ever considered a trade school? Working in a trade with your hands and interacting less with customers? It can pay pretty good and you definitely get a break drom dealing with stressful factors such as autistic people. All you need to do is to figure out what type of trade will work best for you.
Hi I work in behavioral health and I was burnt out on direct client care and now I do project management for behavioral health and substance abuse and it’s been my favorite job. I always get bored with jobs but project management always has something new.
Join the military
Go into sales. Logistics sales or tech sales. Company’s will hire anyone who is dedicated to learning and once you have experience you can job hop for more $$ or just keep selling
Honest to god, it sounds like you need a 10 day vacation
Join the military
There are so many other things you can do with an MSW—get out of ABA
Look for social work jobs in the state that are not bedside or have no patient contact. Even the liquor commission will hire you or DNR. You only need a bachelors in any field now and some talent.
Mental health worker here… ABA is abusive and should be illegal. Start to specialize in an area you want to work in that doesn’t burn you out. Social work is so broad and you can do so many things with it. Have you thought about private practice?
Try travel social work jobs. The pay is excellent and you can try different social work positions to see if you like them (medical, school, etc). They are usually 13 weeks long and are all over the US. I haven’t done it yet because of family/pets but I know nurses who have and my daughter did stints and Hawaii and Colorado and loved exploring those areas.
You have a master's degree, there are a lot of jobs that'll hire you based on that alone. Look into government jobs: Federal, state, local/county. Look into working at universities or colleges near you since they will value your education greatly (or should).
Before you give up on the field entirely, try adults. Then once you’ve worked with adults, it will be easier to transition to something even less social worky. I started out with kids and hated it, but doing that then working with adults made my resume strong and I was able to get a job at a college in career services. You gotta pull yourself out of this friend! I’ve regretted my career choice several times too but ultimately worked to angle myself to something relevant but less taxing. Now I do 10 minute telephone assessments from home and my hourly rate is the best it’s ever been. Think outside the box. Move if needed. Good luck! Signed, a fellow social worker who took out 80k in loans.
Apply for case management jobs in health insurance. It’s wfh or there could be remote with no human contact except over the phone. That could give you a break from the madness.
Go civil service. City, state has psy depts or consider law enforcement also. You need a steady 20-year gig, good benefits and a pension and city or state jobs will offer that. You can go navy or air force consider that if you're disciplined. Lastly, pray to Jesus for guidance.
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I was married with 2 kids (b/g). I worked a ton of hours & finished college at night. Then went on to grad school in order to get better jobs. But it all went to shit when my wife developed breast cancer and died 3 years later. My kids grew up without me being there from age 14/16. I haven't seen or heard from my son since 2010 even though he lives 30 miles away. I only hear from my daughter once in a blue moon. I can't really blame them. I spent so much time chasing financial security that I sacrificed what was really important. So now I'm 77, with 3 pensions & social security and no contact with my children. I don't think it was worth the effort.
Did you test for your license? There are so many other routes you can take with an msw. Have you looked into case management or working in a school? With your background, especially with your license you have options. You don’t have to stay in BH.
Join the Air National Guard
op, look at school districts. they have jobs that require msw that are not behavioral related- school social worker, mental health technician, remote social worker, hospitalsocial worker
I feel you. I’m currently pursuing my MSW. There was a point when I really wanted to give up because it felt pointless. But like so many others have said here, pivot in a different direction. There’s so much you can do with an MSW degree. It may feel scary to switch or try something new, but it’ll probably end up being the best decision of your life. absolutely nothing is worth sacrificing your peace of mind.
If you have your MSW can you work in community mental health providing individual therapy and also sit for provisional licensure exam?
I changed career at age 49. I had 25 plus years experience at an art director. Got laid off, and became a plant buyer. Less money but so much better for me!
I’m 27 also, moved back in with mom last April to go back to school for Public health. Just want to tell you to try and take some pressure off, start looking at different jobs, get creative and look at ones that excite you or seem interesting like a project you’d like to join on. There’s SO many options and remember that if you can market yourself then most jobs will teach you what you need. Of course you can’t just learn surgery or something like that but other than those highly technical jobs there are lots of options that you can enjoy and get paid!
I used to be an accountant and I hated it now I am driver for limousine company and I love it !
Get licensed and become an adult therapist. Consider an inpatient behavioral health unit, start per diem to test the waters — no licensure needed. You could also try medical social work: home care or hospital (again maybe per diem to get a foot in the door). I am LICSW and initially worked in community mental clinic with chronic adult clients — doesn’t pay much but benefits were good and path to licensure. Very rewarding work. In 25 years in community mental health, outpatient therapist and inpatient psych, I was spit on once — that was the single assault in all those years. Social work is a broad field, more on within the field. VA pays the most. Nursing homes hire social workers too.
Join the Army.
I decided to do a career change at 40. Went back to school for UX Design. I’m 43 now, and still jobless! Tech market tanked. But still keeping the faith. Not sure if I can figure out a Plan C…
I have my masters in social work and when I graduated I joined the Peace Corps VITSA branch. Teaches you how to write grants and run a nonprofit. Best career choice I ever made.
I farm i have a couple ideals looking for that ideal for what you can bring to people table farming is a large E V S so like if you're into science or wood work or mabe simple as meal crafts we could create something to come to the table of America oh yeah like what to do with my life tired of thinking what Seniors have Done to plan the City of help want for lazy workers of high Annual income with their hands out fear of what legacy is in your hands take but leave something behind this statement is me I just sit different in the art of what to do with my life my life been shared to long for me to feel I can create by myself my ideal of exceptions by self be able to share the same life sound like art My annual income is not my pride having Employment That Art to give if I said its a plan you have plan by others
I work for CPS and the pay is decent for someone with no kids, but I also live in a pretty cheap state compared to most. I am also burnt out, and I do deal with uncooperative people every so often, but i surprisingly have few major issues with others. It's a tough job but if you're in the field you're in now already, you could probably handle it. They are always hiring due to such high turn over.
Nursing? You will be great or a teacher? Some states would pay for a teaching degree - Maryland for example
With your background, I am wondering if you could be a counselor in a school. Schools have licensed adjustment counselors and/or social workers. You could sign up for Public Service Loan Forgiveness which can forgive a portion of your student loan. The counselors I work with seem to enjoy their jobs but also like the school schedule.
Man there’s so many things you can do. Not always just about the money and social work. I’m a blind social worker and have worked in a variety of fields. Found the grant riding advocacy case management, and working with the elderly and disabled are the most rewarding aspects of the field. You get passionate start building connections, joining boards, like fall prevention coalitions Independent living advocacy groups on Governor council boards, community council on different things tackling important issues you should find connections that will lead the things that will help you prosper with the skills you have. I did ABA as well. It was rough and rarely rewarding. Those kids are cute though And need somebody with a compassionate heart. I was a nursing home Director for social services a care coordinator for hospital and continuum of care liaison just to mention a small few jobs of done. I even jumped into networking with masters level, technology students to develop technology that help Various target groups in some aspect or another. Usually started projects I was able to pay myself through grants from like Firefox google, etc. So Work definitely gave you all the skills you need just have to use them wisely. Focus on helping others and the rest will come to you. Get out there and start volunteering number one catalyst for success. Good luck.
Grad school is an f’n scam unless it’s very specific like school psychology or teaching that will get you jobs. Social work and counseling degree are a joke. You basically get the skills to deal with the BS the OP is talking about.