All right, I'm having such a hard time deciding that I'm going to post about it in hopes of a stranger giving me direction.
I just finished my master's in psychology and am now getting certified as a yoga instructor. I was accepted to an APA accredited PsyD program outside of Chicago. They have great match rates, had a great interview, loved the professors I talked with, a cohort of about 22. I was also accepted to USC's MSW program, which is near me and I LOVE southern california. I'm having a hard time thinking about leaving the area that I once thought I'd be excited to leave. However, this program is obviously pricey and I believe I'd be paying more for the MSW than the PsyD after the programs would be finished.
Having a master's already that was really to set me up for a doctorate, I know I should take that. But with my yoga certification, I find myself worrying I'll be too busy as a psychologist to use it later. I know social workers have their plates full, but I would be done with the program sooner by two years and be able to stay in SoCal. I'm also considering taking another year to apply to more PsyD programs around SoCal again but that may be a waste if I get waitlisted again.
I am very fortunate in that it is financially viable for me to attend either program. My end goal is to run a small private practice and yoga studio.
Separately, I'm wondering if I can use my masters credits toward the MSW program and be done even before two years. If you can't tell I'm a little antsy to be done with school ?
Thank you for any advice, factual or anecdotal