Difference Between MSW, MS in Counseling & MS in Psychology | Research.com (2023)

Every day, social workers and psychologists play a vital role in assisting clients in overcoming challenges and striving for stability in their lives. In fact, their expertise is needed now more than ever, considering 20.78% of adults in the United States say they have experienced or encountered a mental health condition (Mental Health America, 2023). What is more alarming is that even children are not immune to this problem, with suicide being among the leading causes of death among 10 to 14-year-olds (CDC, 2020).

Thejobs you can do with a social work degree, counseling, or psychology are increasing due to the demand for mental health care. As mental health diagnosis affects an individual’s daily functioning and has far-reaching impacts on families and communities, pursuing a degree in these fields becomes instrumental for effective mental health treatment. Through therapy, medication, and self-care practices, vulnerable individuals can experience improved chances of recovery. However, you might be wondering which career path you should take as you enter this field. After all, choosing between the social worker vs therapist vs psychologist career path is not easy.

To help you out, our team of researchers outlines the distinctions between MSW, MS in counseling, and MS in psychology in this guide. If you are considering advancing your education in these fields, it is crucial to understand the educational prerequisites, career outlooks, employment prospects, and salaries to expect.

Difference Between MSW, MS in Counseling & MS in Psychology Table of Contents

• Key Differences Between Social Worker vs Therapist vs Psychologist

Defining MSW, MS in Counseling & MS in Psychology

In response to the mental health professional shortage in federally designated areas where 163 million people reside (HRSA, 2023), exploring career paths that can contribute to addressing this need is crucial.

When considering graduate programs specializing in mental health and counseling, such as social worker vs therapist and ms in psychology, it is important to understand their differences. One common question is, “What is the difference between counseling and social work?” To help answer this, our team has prepared an overview of these degree programs’ completion durations and expected courses below.

MSW

MSW stands for master of social work, a graduate-level degree program focused on preparing individuals for professional social work practice. Social workers play an essential role in identifying and addressing clients’ problems while also researching and connecting them with community resources that can assist. The program length for an MSW typically ranges from one and a half to two years of full-time study.

An MSW program’s core focus revolves around studying human behavior and development, social welfare policies, and the historical context of the profession. Many programs also place a strong emphasis on fostering cultural sensitivity. Given that social workers often serve vulnerable and high-risk populations, it is common for MSW programs to incorporate advocacy components or offer specialty tracks, allowing students to choose their preferred area of specialization within the field.

MS in Counseling

An MS in psychology or a master’s in psychology is a graduate-level degree program focusing on advanced psychology studies.It provides in-depth training in counseling theories, techniques, and ethical practices to equip students with the necessary skills to work with individuals, couples, families, or groups facing various mental health and emotional challenges.

The duration and course offerings of an MS in counseling can differ among institutions and areas of specialization. Generally, completing the degree requires two to three years of full-time study. The curriculum comprises several core courses that provide a comprehensive understanding of counseling. These include counseling theories and techniques, ethics and professional issues, and assessment and diagnosis. It also covers multicultural, group, and career counseling.

MS in Psychology

An MS in psychology or a master’s in psychology is a graduate-level degree program focusing on advanced psychology studies. This degree provides students with a deeper understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications of psychology. A master’s program in psychology typically takes two to three years to complete. However, the specific timeline may vary depending on your chosen program and whether you opt for full-time or part-time enrollment.

The curriculum of an MS in psychology program typically covers cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and psychological assessment.Students may specialize in specific areas of psychology like clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or research psychology.

Key Differences Between Social Worker vs Therapist vs Psychologist

Areas of Focus

Social Workers

Social workers address social and environmental factors impacting individuals, families, and communities. They aim to enhance social functioning and well-being by providing counseling, advocacy, and support services. Social workers often work with vulnerable populations and help individuals navigate social systems, access resources, and develop coping skills.

Therapists

The term social worker vs therapist is different primarily because the latter has broader coverage. The term can refer to professionals from various disciplines who provide therapeutic interventions to individuals, couples, families, or groups. Therapists include licensed professionals such as counselors, marriage and family therapists, and clinical counselors. Their primary focus is diagnosing and treating mental health issues using evidence-based therapeutic techniques.

Psychologists

Psychologists are mental health professionals studying human behavior and the mind. They assess, diagnose, and treat various psychological and emotional disorders. Psychologists use psychological testing, assessments, and evidence-based therapies to help individuals improve their mental well-being.

Technical Skills

Social Workers

• Social Work Theories and Frameworks.Social workers must understand systems theory, strengths-based approach, and ecological perspective to assess and address individual, family, and community issues.
• Case Management.Social workers should develop skills in client assessment, treatment planning, and coordination of services to meet the needs of individuals and communities. The importance of this skill is discussed in a study published in BMJ Open Quality titled “Defining Case Management Success: A Qualitative Study of Case Manager Perspectives from a Large-Scale Health and Social Needs Support Program.” Knox et al. (2022) found that “… study themes provide waypoints of how to conceptualise programme design, new staff training and potential measurement development for complex case management programmes like CommunityConnect. Despite the broad swath of social needs addressed, case managers coalesced on establishing a trusting relationship as a necessary foundation to appropriately identify needs and facilitate connections. Second, fostering patients’ own ideas, including a change their mindset or initiative, was important to fully make use of programme resources.”
• Community Engagement and Intervention.Social workers should implement community-based interventions, organize resources, and collaborate with stakeholders to address social issues.

Therapists

• Counseling Theories and Techniques.Therapists should be familiar with various counseling approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and person-centered therapy, and be able to apply them in clinical practice.
• Assessment and Diagnosis.These professionals need the skill to conduct assessments, diagnose mental health disorders, and formulate treatment plans based on client needs.
• Counseling Ethics and Professional Standards.Therapists should adhere to ethical guidelines, maintain confidentiality, and uphold professional boundaries in therapeutic relationships.

Psychologists

• Research and Statistics. Psychologists must be proficient in research design, data analysis, and statistical techniques used in psychological research.
• Psychological Assessment.These professionals should be able to administer and interpret psychological tests and assessments to evaluate cognitive abilities, personality traits, and mental health conditions.
• Psychological Theories and Models.Psychologists must be familiar with major theories and models in psychology like behaviorism, psychoanalysis, humanistic psychology, and cognitive psychology.

Work Environment

Social Workers

Social workers typically work in hospitals, healthcare facilities, schools and educational institutions, community organizations and nonprofits, government agencies, and mental health and substance abuse treatment centers. They may also be assigned to child welfare agencies, aging and geriatric services, homeless shelters and housing programs, correctional facilities, and military and veterans services.

Therapists

A social worker vs counselor differs in work environments. Therapists usually work in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals and medical centers, schools and educational institutions, rehabilitation centers, and substance abuse treatment centers. They can also be seen in community mental health centers, employee assistance programs (EAP), teletherapy and online counseling platforms, and government agencies and organizations.

Psychologists

Psychologists can be found working in private practice, hospitals and mental health facilities, research institutions and universities, government agencies and organizations, schools and educational institutions, and forensic settings such as courts and correctional facilities. They may also be present in corporate or organizational consultation, neuropsychological assessment centers, sports and performance psychology, and military and veterans services.

Licensing

Social Workers

To obtain a social work license, one must complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). After that, prospective applicants must fulfill the supervised work experience requirement, which typically involves gaining a certain number of hours in a social work setting under the guidance of a licensed social worker. Next, they should pass the required licensing examination, often administered by theAssociation of Social Work Boards(ASWB).

Getting a social work license also entails submitting an application for licensure to the relevant licensing board in your state, including documentation of education, supervised work experience, and examination results. One must comply with additional state-specific requirements, such as background checks or jurisprudence exams, before receiving approval and being granted a social work license.

Therapists

To obtain a therapist license, individuals must complete a relevant degree program, such as psychology, counseling, and marriage and family therapy. They may also take up a traditional oronline bs in social work. A master’s degree is often required, along with supervised clinical experience. Most jurisdictions mandate specific supervised hours obtained through internships, practicums, or supervised employment.

Passing a licensure examination specific to the chosen field is also crucial, such as the NCE orExamination in Marital and Family. Additional requirements may include specific coursework, workshops, background checks, or ethics examinations. Individuals must also apply for licensure, providing documentation of qualifications, supervised experience, examination results, other required materials, and application fees.

Psychologists

To be licensed as a psychologist, you must complete apsychology doctorate degreesuch as a Ph.D. or Psy.D. This advanced degree provides the necessary knowledge and skills in the field. You must also accumulate a certain number of supervised hours, typically obtained through clinical experiences, such as internships or practicums.

After fulfilling the supervised experience requirement, you must pass the examination forProfessional Practice in Psychology(EPPP), a standardized exam administered by the ASPPB. In addition, some states may require you to pass a jurisprudence exam focusing on legal and ethical aspects of psychology practice.

To finalize the process, you must obtain approval from a state licensing board. This board reviews your application, including educational credentials, supervised experience, exam results, and other required documentation. Their approval confirms that you have met the necessary requirements for licensure as a psychologist.

Continuing Education

Social Workers

The continuing education requirement for MSW professionals in the United States differs across states. For instance, in New York, licensed master social workers (LMSW) and licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) must fulfill 36 hours of approved continuing education every three years (New York State Education Department, n.d.). On the other hand, in Connecticut, all social workers are mandated to complete a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education within each registration period (CT.gov, n.d.).

Therapists

Similarities of counseling and social work include the varying specific continuing education requirements being dependent on their state and profession. In Wisconsin, professional counselors must complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) during their initial two-year period after obtaining their license (Wisconsin.gov, n.d.). On the other hand, school counselors in certain states must fulfill 200 hours of continuing professional education every five years (American School Counselor Association, n.d.).

Psychologists

The continuing education mandate for psychologists in the United States differs from state to state, similar to social worker vs therapist. For example, in New York, licensed psychologists must fulfill 36 hours of continuing education starting from January 1, 2021 (New York State Education Department, n.d.). Moreover, psychologists in California must complete at least 4 hours of continuing education, specifically covering laws and ethics related to the practice of psychology (CA.gov, n.d.).

MSW, MS in Counseling & MS in Psychology Career Outlook

Completing a master’s degree in social worker vs therapist vs psychology opens up a wide range of high-demand career opportunities in the healthcare field. These professions are essential in addressing the issues affecting the critical aspects of overall healthcare.

Career Options

MSW

• School Social Workers.If you strongly desire to assist young individuals in addressing the challenges they face during their academic journey, pursuing a career as a school social worker might be suitable for you. This role involves placing social workers within educational institutions to offer support and guidance in academic and social matters.
• Mental Health Social Workers.Mental health social workers support and assist individuals experiencing mental health challenges. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, and offer counseling and therapy to help improve their mental well-being.
• Medical Social Workers.These professionals provide emotional support, counseling, and assistance to individuals and families dealing with medical conditions and healthcare challenges. They help patients navigate the healthcare system, connect them with resources and support services, and address the social and emotional factors that can impact their overall well-being during medical treatment.

MS in Counseling

• Substance Abuse Counselors.Substance abuse counselors work with individuals with alcohol or drug dependence. They offer assistance and guidance throughout rehabilitation and recovery, aiding crisis management and equipping patients with diverse coping strategies.
• School Counselors.School counselors assist students within an educational environment. They also guide students toward their academic objectives and provide guidance in their future.
• Career Counselors.Career counselors assist individuals in making well-informed choices regarding their professional paths. They aid students in discovering their interests and abilities by utilizing diverse approaches like career aptitude assessments.

MS in Psychology

• Private Practice Psychologists.Private practice psychologists work independently, providing therapy, counseling, and psychological services to clients one-on-one. They may specialize in various areas and offer personalized treatment plans to address clients’ mental health and well-being.
• Child Psychologists.Child psychologists work with children and adolescents. They support those experiencing mental health difficulties, trauma, PTSD, or other obstacles. They frequently employ innovative counseling techniques and interventions tailored to the unique needs of young clients.
• Family Counselors.Similar to child psychologists, family counselors frequently collaborate with children, but their role extends to providing counseling and guidance to entire families or parents in need. Family counselors assess challenges that affect the family unit and provide counseling, coping strategies, and a supportive environment for the family to reunite.

Employment Outlook

The field of social worker vs therapist vs psychologist is poised for significant growth in the coming decade. Positive employment outlooks highlight the increasing demand for professionals in these fields and the significance of their contributions to society.

With that, the employment outlook for social workers is expected to see a 9% growth from 2021 to 2031. Similarly, school and career counselors and advisors are projected to experience a 10% growth. Meanwhile, psychologists are expected to have a 6% growth rate (US BLS, 2022).

Salary Outlook

Besides the positive job prospects, the median annual psychologist vs MSW vs LPC salary indicates the potential benefits of pursuing careers in these fields. According to May 2021 data, social workers, school and career counselors/advisors, and psychologists earned a median annual wage of $50,390, $60,510, and $81,040, respectively (US BLS, 2022).

Choosing Between MSW, MS in Counseling & MS in Psychology

Mental disorders are significant conditions that impact individuals across all age groups. However, not everyone in these populations receives the necessary treatment they need. In 2021, only 47.2% of adults in the United States with mental illness and 65.4% of adults with severe mental illness received treatment (SAMHSA, 2022). Furthermore, only 13.6% of children aged five to seven with a mental health disorder received appropriate care (CDC, 2020).

Choosing between social worker vs therapist vs psychology careers can contribute to the ongoing efforts of professionals dedicated to serving this community. When deciding between counseling, social work vs psychology, it is crucial to consider key factors that will guide your choice.

Consider Your Educational Background

When choosing between a social worker vs therapist, and a master’s in psychology, considering your educational background matters. MSW programs typically welcome applicants with diverse educational backgrounds, including social sciences,human services major, and related fields. It emphasizes integrating social work theory and practice, making it suitable for those with broader educational foundations. On the other hand, a master’s in counseling often requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, as it delves deeper into counseling theories and techniques.

Meanwhile, a master’s in psychology typically requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related discipline. An undergraduate degree in psychology provides a solid foundation for this program. Ultimately, understanding your educational background and how it aligns with the prerequisites and curriculum of each program will aid in making an informed decision about which path to pursue.

Determine Your Long-Term Career Plans

How you want to see yourself in the future can help decide your discipline. You must consider the specific career paths and professional opportunities that align with each degree. An MSW is ideal if you aspire to work as a social worker, engaging in community practice, advocacy, and addressing social issues. On the contrary, a master’s in counseling is well-suited to those interested in becoming licensed therapists or counselors, providing direct mental health services in clinical settings.

Moreover, a master’s in psychology offers a broader understanding of psychological theories and research, which can be valuable if you are considering roles in research, academia, or pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology. It is critical to align your long-term career goals with the specialization and skill set each degree offers to guide your decision.

Define the Duration of Your Commitment to Schooling

A master’s for psychologist vs social worker, and a master’s in counseling each have varying time commitments for educational requirements. As mentioned, an MSW program typically takes around two years to complete, providing a relatively shorter study duration to those seeking a professional degree in social work. On the other hand, a master’s in counseling usually requires two to three years of study, depending on the program and specialization. These two degrees are ideal if you want to enter the workforce faster.

Meanwhile, a master’s in psychology often takes two to three years, but additional years might be required for research or clinical training. In addition, you may need to pursue a doctorate degree before you get licensed as a psychologist. Considering your time availability and willingness to invest in an extended academic program will help you make a decision that aligns with your personal circumstances and goals.

Assess Your Financial Capacity

Tuition costs for social worker vs therapist vs psychiatrists vary significantly. Evaluating your financial resources and determining how much you can afford to invest in your education is essential. Obtaining a master’s degree, on average, can cost approximately $62,650. Pursuing a psychology doctorate degree, typically obtained through medical school, would require additional expenses totaling around $57,574 (Education Data Initiative, 2022).

You may also want to consider whether you have access to scholarships, grants, or financial aid opportunities that can help alleviate the financial burden. Besides that, you also need to factor in the potential return on investment by researching the average salaries and job prospects in your chosen field. Balancing your financial capacity with each program’s potential benefits and career opportunities will allow you to make a well-informed decision.

Social Worker vs Therapist vs Psychologist — Which role is right for you?

Is being a therapist good? Or is social work or psychology better? When deciding between a career as a social worker vs therapist vs psychologist, there are various factors to consider. Irrespective of the chosen path, these professionals will engage with individuals and communities facing psychological, emotional, and social issues. Depending on the selected path, one can address mental health and well-being concerns throughcounseling degree jobs, intervention, or research.

Choosing from these professions ultimately depends on personal interests, educational background, and long-term career goals. It is crucial to conduct thorough research into each field, consider the necessary education and licensing requirements, and explore job prospects and opportunities for growth.

References

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• CA.gov. (n.d.). Continuing Professional Development Information.https://www.psychology.ca.gov/licensees/ce_faqs.shtml
• CDC. (2020). WISQARS 10 Leading Causes of Death, United States.https://wisqars.cdc.gov/data/lcd/home
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• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). School and Career Counselors and Advisors.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Social Workers.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
• Wisconsin.gov. (n.d.). Professional Counselor Continuing Education.https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/LPC/CE.aspx