Test taking is not something that comes easy for me. In fact, I down right dread it. When I see multiple choice questions, instantly I panic. So yes, you guessed it, the ASWB Licensing Exam was no different for me. Upon learning about the licensing exam, and all that it entailed, fear and anxiety over took me. I asked myself, “How am I suppose to take a test to show the ASWB that I am a competent Social Worker? What would happen if I fail this test? How will I ever get ahead, if I don’t have the credential to show that I have the Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to perform the duties of a competent Social Worker.” These questions and many more, bombarded my mind. So, in order for me to make peace with it all, I had to research and explore for myself, how best to approach this exam, so that I could achieve my goal and earn the license that says, I have Mastered the core competency Skills needed to be a competent Social Worker.
Before I took my ASWB exam, I thought nothing of it. I had no fears or anxiety in regards to taking the exam. I honestly believed that I was capable of passing my exam, simply because, “I’ve been practicing as a social worker for many years.” Well, to my surprise the ASWB Licensing Exam was not that simple. I quickly learned that the ASWB was not interested in how well I practiced as a social worker, rather they were interested in knowing if I had the knowledge and Competency Skills, that are at the foundation of who we are as social workers. Being in practice for many years, some things got away from me. What the ASWB Licensing Exam did for me, was challenged me to a level of remembering why we practice as we do, and it re-enforced and strengthened my critical thinking skills. Once I changed my mindset and approach to taking the ASWB Licensing Exam, taking the test became something other than just trying to pass it. It became a way for me to solidify who I am as a social worker and to establish myself as professionally, competent in the field. Simply put, in my opinion, changing my mindset towards taking the exam is what helped me achieve my goal. Im sharing this with the intent of helping you develop a new way of approaching the Licensing Exam. Too many people fail the exam because of the pressure to pass it, that we place upon ourselves. Yes, you are preparing to earn a license that will show that you have master the (KSAs) Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to perform the functions of a competent (Clinical) Social Worker, but it does not define who you are as a professional. So as you prepare to study for and take your exam, remember, YOU ARE COMPETENT and you’re a great Social Worker. You practice these skills daily and many people lives are changed as a result of the work you do daily. Learn test taking strategies, and apply it with the skills and knowledge that you have. Remember the Social work process to help you navigate through questions. Find a reputable study program to assist in your learning process and you are good to go. There was a time when I thought that I would never be able to pass this exam, but after changing my mindset, my will and ability to achieve my goals change to. Good luck and happy studying. Now Go Get What Yours!!!!.
10 Comments
3/19/2018 08:44:42 am
Thank you for sharing such an informative blog, Dr. Chandler. I am also the same with you, I believe that true fitness comes with both fitness when it comes to physical and emotional development. I was a human resource employee in a company before and I do interview a lot of people and see whether if they fit the job. I can really see people who are transparent when it comes to their problems. You can really see in their eyes that they have something hard and deep feelings. Imbalanced emotion can lead to stress eating that is why most people have nutritional imbalances too.
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Antoinette Wilder
4/2/2018 08:16:57 pm
I am empowered by your words of encouragement. I too have years of experience that will work against you at test taking time. Once again I am energized and fired up, god knows you sent me what I needed to hear!
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Bridgette
4/2/2018 10:03:19 pm
I’m so glad to hear that. I am hopeful that this is just the beginning for you and your about to write a new chapter to your story! #GoGetWhatsYours
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Nora
5/9/2018 07:48:52 am
I enjoyed reading your blog! I was thinking about giving up because I have failed over five times! You have inspired me not to give up!
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Bridgette
5/9/2018 09:30:44 pm
I’m glad to hear this! Don’t give up...!!
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Denise
5/9/2018 12:04:33 pm
Thank you. It’s the same for me!
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Keana
3/8/2020 12:32:57 pm
Thanks so kindly!! I recently failed in January and have been hesitant about digging back in to study for something I thought I was prepared for! Last week I purchased some new content and have saved all your YouTube videos to help me dissect the questions. My reasoning for being so hard I now my job is dependent on me passing! TODAY I said I WILL PASS! I also chanted, this test does NOT define me and what's for me is just that!! I got this!!
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You got this. You are more than able and know that you can. Stay focused on you why Implement the knowledge and skill that you have and walk in victory. Remember this is not a multiple choice exam but a standardized exam testing you analytical and reasoning abilities... #MakeItHappenToday!
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Felissa Johnson
3/9/2020 12:07:09 pm
Thank you for sharing your experience. I have similar issues and I recently took charge of who I am and like you said don’t let the ASWB define you. I will be taking my test for the 3rd time in June 2020. I have let fear keep me from it! Now, fear can’t keep me from accomplishing what I’ve worked so hard to achieve. “Fear Not” I have a a new perspective and a changed mindset. Thank you for your positive feedback and wonderful encouragement!
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AuthorI'm a licensed Clinical Social worker, license to work in the State of Pennsylvania. I have over 19 years experience working in the Mental Health Field as a Child Welfare Worker, Administrator, Consultant, Educator and Clinician. I'm dedicated and committed to the work I do which includes impacting and changing lives. In my spare time I like to write poetry, watch movies, and share my thoughts through blogging. Archives
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