In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure®, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, tackles the hard truths behind long-term procrastination and the endless waiting game so many social workers face on the road to LCSW or LMSW success. Shara shares empowering insights on why waiting for the “perfect time” to take your license exam keeps you stuck, and how a structured, step-by-step plan can break the cycle of doubt and delay.

Discover actionable strategies to overcome test anxiety, break free from self-sabotage, and finally move your social work career forward. If you’re ready to stop watching opportunities pass you by, this episode is your call to action.

Are you struggling to retain information with traditional study methods? In this episode of Journey to Licensure, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, breaks down why embracing your unique learning style—especially as an auditory learner—can be your key to exam prep success. Discover the power of audio-based practice, live explanations, and speaking concepts out loud to maximize your social work exam performance.

In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure, Ashley Thompkins reveals proven strategies to break free from test anxiety and shine on exam day. Learn simple, actionable tips—like using sticky notes to block out distractions and practicing calming techniques—that help social workers stay focused and confident under pressure. Ashley explains why mindset is your secret weapon, sharing real-life wins from clients who transformed anxiety into exam triumphs.

In this uplifting episode of Journey to Licensure, we tackle one of the biggest barriers facing aspiring social workers: test anxiety. Charles—former therapist turned exam coach—shares empowering strategies to help you move past exam-day nerves, regulate your emotions, and apply your LCSW or LMSW knowledge when it matters most. Learn how to prepare for the real exam environment, think critically under pressure, and walk into your next test with the confidence you deserve.

Big changes are coming to the ASWB exam in 2026, and now is the time to take control of your licensure journey! In this uplifting episode of Journey To Licensure®, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, breaks down the new content areas, emphasizes why passing the exam before the overhaul matters, and shares actionable tips to help you confidently prepare. Learn how to avoid relearning study material and navigate updated question formats, all while staying ahead in your social work career.

Ever feel like your hard-earned study hours vanish overnight? In this episode of Journey to Licensure®, host Shara Ruffin, LCSW, breaks down why knowledge slips away and reveals powerful, science-backed strategies like spaced retention and active recall to help social workers conquer exam prep and actually remember what matters. Discover why personalized study plans are the secret to LCSW and LMSW exam success and how your unique learning style can make all the difference.

In this empowering episode of Journey to Licensure, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, dives deep into the confidence-crushing habit of comparing yourself to others—especially during exam prep for the LCSW and LMSW. Learn why focusing on someone else’s journey fuels test anxiety and kills motivation, and discover proven strategies to break free from the comparison cycle. Shara shares real, uplifting advice to help you celebrate your unique progress, refocus your energy, and reclaim your confidence as you work toward social work licensure.

Follow for more social work exam prep tips and book a consultation to stay supported on your journey!

In this empowering episode of the Journey to Licensure® Podcast, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, shares real-world tips for setting boundaries, beating distractions, and reclaiming your focus while preparing for your social work licensure exam. Learn how to communicate your needs, create a distraction-free study zone, and prioritize your goals without guilt—essential skills for LCSW and LMSW exam success. Shara’s uplifting advice will help you protect your study time, boost your confidence, and move closer to that passing score. Follow for more social work exam prep strategies or book a consult to get personalized support on your licensure journey!

In this empowering episode of the Journey to Licensure® Podcast, Shara Ruffin, LCSW, tackles the all-too-common fear of failing the social work licensure exam. Shara breaks down how test anxiety can sabotage your efforts—and shares practical strategies to shift from fear to preparation with a structured exam prep plan. Discover how to replace worry with confidence, master proven study techniques, and walk into your LCSW or LMSW exam ready to succeed.

Ready to take the next step toward exam success? Follow for more expert social work exam tips or book a consult with Shara today!

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.