In this powerful episode of the Journey To Licensure Podcast, we sit down with Gary T. Taylor, LCSW—also known as Trey—a therapist, professor, doctoral researcher, and racial equity consultant who brings heart, depth, and lived experience to every space he enters.

From the rural roots of Caroline County, Virginia, to the classrooms of Virginia State and the research halls at the University of Kentucky, Gary shares his journey of faith, healing, and fierce advocacy for Black men’s mental health and suicide prevention.

We explore:

• How faith and identity shaped his clinical path

• Culturally rooted strategies for engaging Black clients

• What racial equity really requires in professional spaces

• His journey through licensure—and what he’d tell his younger self

This is a conversation about meeting people where they are, reclaiming narrative power, and choosing purpose over performance.

• Why sneakers, cars, and coffee are more than hobbies—they’re healing

Whether you’re studying for your exam, showing up in the field, or searching for your voice—you’ll want to press play on this one.

If you feel stuck in your social work career or dream of moving into clinical, leadership, or travel social work, this empowering episode of Journey To Licensure® is for you. Shara Ruffin, LCSW, shares how countless social workers have transformed their futures by conquering the licensure exam and stepping boldly into new career possibilities. You’ll learn why your dream role is closer than you think, how to break through feeling stagnant, and the first steps you can take today.

Ready to rise above self-doubt and achieve true social work success? Listen now—and don’t forget to follow for more exam prep tips, or book a consultation to start your journey!

In this powerful episode of Journey to Licensure, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, reveals why a structured study plan is the key to conquering test anxiety and social work exam overwhelm. Discover how prioritizing your weak areas, tracking your progress, and following a personalized study roadmap can save you time and set you up for LCSW or LMSW success. Shara shares her proven framework that takes the guesswork out of exam prep—no more wasting energy or feeling lost.

Feeling left behind by study groups or struggling to stay motivated on your licensure journey? In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure®, we unravel why traditional study groups often fall short—and how real, ongoing accountability can be your game-changer. Georgia James shares honest insights into the power of guidance, connection, and tailored support systems for LCSW and LMSW candidates battling test anxiety and isolation.

Ready to stop starting over? Discover empowering, actionable strategies and follow for more social work exam prep tips—or book a consult to get the accountability and guidance you deserve.

In this empowering episode of Journey to Licensure®, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, breaks down how anxiety impacts your brain during high-stakes social work exams like the LCSW and LMSW. Discover what really causes your mind to go blank under pressure—and learn science-backed strategies to overcome test anxiety and reclaim your confidence. With uplifting insights and practical tips for grounding and focus, this episode is your roadmap to exam-day success.

Follow for more social work exam prep tips and book a consult to get personalized support on your licensure journey!

In this empowering episode of Journey to Licensure, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, tackles the root of exam stress—lack of structure. If you're overwhelmed by endless study guides and second-guessing your every move, Shara shares how a step-by-step study system takes the guesswork out of LCSW or LMSW exam prep. Discover why a personalized or group approach designed just for first-time test takers can replace anxiety with confidence and clarity.

Ever feel lost in a sea of study programs and still not seeing results? You’re not alone. In this empowering episode of Journey To Licensure®, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, unpacks why juggling multiple ASWB exam resources can actually sabotage your learning—and shares her proven, personalized approach to focused exam prep success. Discover how simplifying your study plan can boost your confidence, close knowledge gaps, and finally get you across the finish line.

In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, shares Ashley’s courageous story of grit and growth after ten unsuccessful social work exam attempts. Discover how personalized exam prep, CBT techniques, and a strategic study plan helped Ashley silence self-doubt and see success on her eleventh try. If you’re struggling with test anxiety or feeling discouraged, Ashley’s journey proves your setbacks don’t define you.

In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure®, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, unpacks the true meaning of resilience for social work exam takers. Discover actionable strategies to turn setbacks, test anxiety, and study struggles into powerful growth opportunities on your LCSW or LMSW journey. Shara shares three proven steps to help you reframe challenges, take control, and practice self-compassion as you prepare for success.

Are you stuck on the self-study struggle bus while prepping for your LCSW or LMSW exams? In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure®, Charles uncovers why so many social workers feel lost or overwhelmed with exam prep—and shares empowering strategies to build structure, clarity, and genuine accountability into your study plan. Discover how swapping guesswork for a proven, personalized process can transform your confidence and results.