Psychologist or Social Worker?

[Northcoast]

I've finally decided I need to get professional help for my stress management, social anxiety and recurring mild depression.  I'm just not sure if I should see a psychologist or a social worker.  I found a psychologist that was highly recommeded but she's not accepting new patients.  Her receptionist recommended another psychologist or his wife who is a social worker.  Both are on my insurance.  Yay!  So, just wondering what the difference is between a psychologist and a social worker.  Looking for the best fit for my situation.  Any advice would be appreciated.  

[RubyWitch]

If both the psychologist AND the social worker were recommended by the office of the psychologist you originally wanted to see, I would feel comfortable seeing either. Like any therapy, feeling comfortable and confident with the person is of paramount importance, not necessarily the degree they have hanging on the wall. Many people have a misconception of what "social workers" do. Their scope of practice has changed tremendously over the years, their training is no longer just in grief counseling and hand holding. We use social workers at the hospital the same way we would psychologists. The issues you need to address are well within the scope of a social worker and you must trust and believe that if he/she thought they could not help you, they would be the first to refer you to someone else.
And you always have the option to leave if you feel they are not helping you. People leave their psychologists and psychiatrists for exactly the same reason!
The "best fit" is the person who is helping you. And only you can determine that!
I wish you the very best and the peace of mind your seeking.
Warmly
Greenlydia      

[mammo]

After seeing psychologists, and psychiatrists, it was s social worker that gave me the advice that turned my life around.  It may depend on your specific needs.

[Princessdaniella]

I am not sure but to my understanding a psychologist is more specialised in dealing with mental health and knowing and understanding a disease and a social worker is more specialised in general counselling grief, working around loss of a loved one and more sensitive topics with children etc. I think personally a psychologist is more experienced where as a social worker may be more understanding

[Northcoast]

Thanks for your input.  I'm really disappointed that I couldn't get into the original psychologist since she works for a prestigious institution and is highly rated.  But no new patients and even if she was accepting patients she only works from 9:00 - 2:30.  No evening hours.  I don't think I can swing taking off work every time.  Plus some sessions could be emotional so I don't want to have to worry about going in to work afterwards.  I believe the social worker I'm considering specializes in anxiety and women's issues and I've been told has evening hours.  I'll have to call and see what info I can get from her office prior to making an appointment.  I'm also considering seeing a naturopath for other issues. So a lot of research going into these decisions.  Thanks for your help.  

[cj29]

I am glad that you are deciding to confront your anxiety. For me, the most important decision I made in dealing with it was to get help through talk therapy. For me, finding the right fit is the most important factor in who I decide to see. I have seen both a psychologist and a social worker and I actually liked/made progress with both. Does the social worker or psychologist specialize in anxiety?