u/PalpitationSecure928

I’ve been working as a case manager for about 18 months and I’m still building confidence in practice.

One thing I’ve noticed is that I often go a bit blank during home visits or client meetings when my team leader or another experienced coworker is present. When I’m alone, I’m usually fine, but when I’m being observed I second-guess myself, lose my flow, or rely on the other person to lead the conversation.

Afterwards I tend to overthink everything I didn’t ask or say.

I’m wondering if this is common early on, and if anyone has strategies for staying grounded and confident when you’re being shadowed or observed?

Thanks :)

I’m a social worker and I’ve been working as a case manager for about 18 months.

I still feel anxious almost every day. Some days are definitely better than others, but I often feel like I have no idea what I’m doing.

Home visits, difficult phone calls, challenging conversations with families, I still have to psych myself up beforehand, and sometimes I feel physically sick with anxiety.

What makes it harder is that my coworkers are incredible. They always seem to know exactly what to say, ask the right questions, and handle situations so naturally. I find myself wondering if I’ll ever get to that point or if everyone else is just more confident than me.

I genuinely love social work and I care deeply about the people I work with. It’s not the work itself that I dislike, it’s constantly feeling uncertain and anxious while doing it.

For those who’ve been in the field longer, did it get better? When did you start feeling more confident? Any advice for someone who’s still feeling this way 18 months in?

Hiii

I really want to become a school counsellor, specifically at a primary school.

Ive done a bachelor of Social Work and am currently working in case management.

Whats the best next step? Do i need to study? What exactly?

Im struggling to find information on how to get there.

Thanks!