Applying for jobs while employed vs Quitting and applying

Hi all,

I have been working as a social worker (MSW) as my first job after graduation. Been here for 1 year and 10 months. I feel like a change, and its difficult applying for jobs while also work due to how demanding it is. I also want to find a job that is only therapy.

I am considering quitting my job, taking 1 month off or so, and then applying for jobs again. I'm curious though, how much harder will it be to get hired without having a job at the time of applying?

One pro to this would be I could use my supervisors as a reference (it would be awkward to use them while still employed here).

Many thanks!

Author: ummmheheheh