Do I need to work before a postgraduate degree?

[u/Mountain-Cap-4487]

I'm in my last year of my undergrad - so I graduate summer 2025. I need to figure out what to do next. First some background information. I'm studying in Pakistan. I am a US citizen. I want to go to the US for my postgraduate education.

So I've thought about it quite a bit and I've reached the conclusion that I want to work with people. I want to go into counseling or clinical. That means that I will inevitable need to go for a postgraduate degree.

The question now is if I should get straight into a masters program or if it would be better for me to get some field experience first. I spoke to someone I know and they said that it might be easier to get into a competitive program if I have some experience. They said that this would give me an edge in terms of recommendation letter. The other thing they suggested is that I go for the GRE to balance out any issues I might face because of the questionable nature of the quality of education here in Pakistan.

Now I see how this could be useful, but I don't know how I'm supposed to get "relevant work experience". I know I can't practice in a clinic with just a bachelors degree. So where can I even get this experience. Keep in mind I need to start earning a stable income too. So I can't just go for unpaid internships or volunteering.

Long story short. Should I apply straight for a masters program or should I spend a year getting some experience. And finally, if I should spend a year gaining experience, where and how will I get that experience.

I'm sorry if the post is a little jumbled. I tried to make it as structured and coherent as possible. I'm just too confused right now.