Can I become a psychologist with a social work degree?

A social worker can earn an MSW and use it to address the mental, behavioral, or emotional health issues of clients. Psychologists, on the other hand, study human behavior and can diagnose and treat mental illness. If you already have an MSW, then a clinical psychology program is the next step to career advancement.

Unlike social workers, psychologists work with those experiencing difficulties in their lives but typically work one-on-one with individuals rather than with families or other community groups. They can also perform psychological testing or provide counseling to determine the nature of a patient's symptoms and how best to adapt to them.

In the field of psychology, most clinical and counseling roles require a doctoral degree. Students can choose to complete a Ph.D. in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology degree (Psy.D).

A Ph.D. in psychology is generally research-based and requires a comprehensive exam and dissertation. Coursework is based on statistics and experimental procedures. A Psy.D is a clinical degree based on practical work and examinations.

While a social work degree can provide a solid foundation for pursuing a career in psychology, it's important to understand that the two fields, while interrelated, have different educational requirements and professional responsibilities. A social work degree can certainly be beneficial and can make you an attractive candidate for graduate programs in psychology, but additional education and licensing are necessary to become a psychologist.