What to expect if I become a social worker?

I was studying to be a psychologist but I didn't feel that would bring me into contact with the public quick enough. That is what I want to do, work with the public, with families that have life skills issues or drug and alcohol addictions. I want to advocate for families to stay together as long as the parents are willing to do the footwork. What parts of social work will I be able to have the most impact after I get my Masters? I really don't want to push food-stamp paperwork and lose my spark for humanity the way I have seen others go. Are their specific roles I can train for that will have me doing more than riding a desk and getting depressed and burned out?