LCSW vs PhD

[addictionz04]

Hi everyone, I'm wondering if I should pursue a Counseling PhD or LCSW in Texas. I only want to do therapy and have no desire for teaching, although I don't mind conducting research. I just know that academia is really competitive and I'd much rather have my own private practice. Anyways, my question pertains to employment and salary opportunities for PhD's vs LCSW's. I know that the salary difference is probably $10-$15k. I was wondering which degree would give me a better return on investment, especially if I went to a fully-funded PhD program. Isn't it much easier to find a job with an LCSW? I guess which degree is better worth my time and money, especially given the saturated job market nowadays?

[CleverUsername15]

Depending on where you are in Texas, there are some social work master's programs that have "assistantships" available that could potentially fund your studies.