Feeling like your exam prep is moving at a snail’s pace? You’re not alone. In this episode, Shara Ruffin dives into the challenges of slow progress and why every small step matters. Learn how to celebrate the tiny victories, set achievable goals, and shift your mindset to see progress for what it truly is—movement toward success. Whether it’s mastering one section or finally grasping a tough concept, Shara reminds you that progress, no matter how slow, is still progress. Tune in for inspiration and actionable strategies to keep climbing toward your goal.

Failed your exam and feel like giving up? You’re not alone. In this episode, Shara Ruffin shares her own journey of missing her exams by just a few points and how she turned setbacks into opportunities for growth. Learn how to shift your mindset, use failure as feedback, and refine your study approach with actionable strategies. Whether it’s targeting weak areas, breaking your plan into smaller steps, or building confidence through practice, every setback is a step toward success. Tune in for encouragement, tips, and the reminder that you’re closer to passing than you think!

Is exam prep taking a toll on your mental health? You’re not alone. In this episode, Shara Ruffin shares her personal journey of managing anxiety, ADHD, and learning challenges while preparing for her clinical license. Discover how to create a study routine that prioritizes your mental well-being, from choosing mental health-friendly resources to building breaks into your schedule. Learn why it’s not about how much you study, but how you study in a way that supports your unique needs. Tune in for practical tips and encouragement to balance exam prep and self-care. Your mental health matters, and you can succeed without sacrificing it!

Do you feel like everyone else is moving ahead while you’re stuck? You’re not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Shara Ruffin shares her own journey—taking 10 years to earn her clinical license after graduating—and how she overcame the trap of comparison. Learn why your journey is unique, how to set your own pace, and why social media only tells half the story. Discover how to stop comparing, start celebrating your progress, and embrace the path that’s meant for you. Tune in for encouragement, perspective, and actionable tips to thrive on your own terms. Your time is coming!

Do you feel stuck while watching others succeed? It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your progress to someone else’s. In this episode, Shara Ruffin opens up about her own journey, taking 10 years to earn her clinical license after graduating from Howard University. She shares powerful insights on breaking free from comparison, embracing your unique path, and finding strength in your own progress. Tune in for practical tips on setting your own pace, celebrating your wins, and shifting your mindset to become your best ally. Your journey is yours—trust it, own it, and know your time is coming!

Are you constantly switching study methods, searching for the “perfect” one? It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying every new strategy and feeling stuck when progress seems slow. In this episode, Shara Ruffin dives into the importance of consistency in your exam prep. Learn how to choose a study method that aligns with your learning style, stick with it, and make small tweaks instead of starting over. Discover how staying the course builds confidence, mastery, and steady progress toward your goals. Tune in to transform your study habits and trust the process!

Are your practice exam scores a rollercoaster ride? One week you’re confident, the next week you’re questioning everything. In this episode, Shara Ruffin unpacks why scores fluctuate and how to turn frustration into progress. Learn how to analyze your mistakes, identify patterns, and adjust your study plan to build consistency and confidence. Discover how to use your scores as a guide, not a setback, and take control of your preparation journey. Tune in for practical tips to steady your progress and conquer your exam day fears!

Are your practice exam scores all over the place? One week you’re on top of the world, the next you’re questioning everything. In this episode, Shara Ruffin dives into why fluctuating scores happen and how they’re not a measure of failure but an opportunity to adjust your approach. Learn how to analyze your mistakes, identify patterns, and fine-tune your study plan for steady improvement. Don’t let inconsistent scores derail your confidence—use them as stepping stones to success. Tune in and discover how to transform frustration into focus on your path to licensure!

Dive into real-time study sessions with Shara Ruffin, acclaimed social work exam coach and founder of Journey to Licensure. This interactive podcast connects social work colleagues and aspiring licensees in a supportive group setting, tackling ASWB exam questions for BSW, MSW, and LCSW exams. Shara guides you through key concepts, breaking down complex theories and applications to help you excel.

In this episode, we explore:

• Freud’s Id, Ego, and Superego: Understanding personality components and impulsivity.

• Pavlov’s Classical Conditioning: How associations shape behavior.

• Ethical dilemmas from the NASW Code of Ethics: Navigating truthfulness in court testimonies.

• Identifying Ego Defense Mechanisms, like conversion, in clinical scenarios.

• Prioritizing elements of a Mental Status Examination (MSE) to assess mood and affect.

In this episode of The Social Work Success Podcast, we dive into the incredible journey of Ashley Thompkins, a doctoral student, mother, and social work professional who overcame severe ADHD, test anxiety, and life’s many challenges to achieve her LCSW licensure.

Join host Shara Ruffin as she explores how Ashley juggled homeschooling her son, running a private practice, and completing her dissertation—all while preparing for one of the most challenging exams of her career. Learn about the tailored coaching strategies, study plans, and mindset shifts that helped Ashley transform her weaknesses into strengths and ultimately pass her licensure exam.

This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights for social workers navigating their own licensure journeys, especially those with neurodivergent challenges or overwhelming life responsibilities. Tune in to hear how resilience, personalized support, and the right mindset can lead to success.

Perfect for: Social workers, neurodivergent professionals, and anyone balancing personal and professional growth while pursuing a life-changing goal.