Having to see a Social Worker versus Psych evaluation

I am a little confused I have an appt this week with the clinics social worker. To see how ready I am to have surgery. But I thought I would see a psychologist not sure if I spelled it right. Please any comments are welcomed.

I found this definition on MedTerms.com:

Licensed clinical social worker: A social worker trained in psychotherapy who helps individuals deal with a variety of mental health and daily living problems to improve overall functioning. A social worker usually has a master's degree in social work and has studied sociology, growth and development, mental health theory and practice, human behavior/social environment, psychology, research methods. Abbreviated L.C.S.W.

So, seeing a clinical social worker is basically exactly the same thing as seeing a psychologist (PhD).

Best wishes to you ... I hope it goes well!

You can see anyone who your surgeon accepts.

I was told it was more normal for a psychiatrist to do anything involving testing, but I've seen psychologists and counselors do them too.

Psychologists usually do testing and therapy and Psychiatrists prescribe medications.  Psychiatrists can do testing if they are trained in psychometrics.

I'm biased because of my years working at a counseling agency, but I think you are in better hands with the social worker!  I think most mental health services these days are provided by LCSWs and MFTs, whereas psychologists seem to focus on testing.  I was so surprised when I met with the psychologist my insurance company sent me to, because he did such a rudimentary evaluation.  Had me take a survey, and ran it through his computer, and only asked me two or three questions about how I felt about the surgery or the impact it would have on my life.  Actually, the only one I remember is him asking about why I wanted the surgery.  I thought I had this really good answer, about my decision to start focusing on me, and about dealing with my own food addiction when my brother died from substance abuse addiction, etc.  I'll never forget him saying "So I'm going to write down, "health issues"." LOL!

I'm sure it will be fine!  And before you know it you will be approved!  Yay!

Everyone has given you a perfect description of what an LCSW does.  And as a LCSW, my opinion will be bias and one sided.  LOL! 

You will be in good hands!

Good luck!

I wish I could add to the responses, but everyone gave great answers....I do want to say good luck and and and...love your avatar!

Thank you all I wish I dont get nervous.




Belen H