Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Jobs & Career Guide 2024

The time it takes to become an LCSW can vary depending on the individual’s education and work experience. A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) typically takes four years to complete, while a master’s degree in social work (MSW) can take one to two years.

After completing the necessary education and supervised clinical experience, candidates must pass the required licensing exam. Overall, it can take anywhere from six to eight years to become an LCSW.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step toward becoming an LCSW is obtaining a bachelor’s degree. While it’s not mandatory for this degree to be in social work, many prospective LCSWs choose to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) because it provides a foundational understanding of the field and may include internships that are beneficial later on.

2. Complete a Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree

An MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is required to become an LCSW. MSW programs generally take two years to complete full-time, though part-time programs are also available. These programs include both coursework and supervised clinical practice, covering advanced topics in social work such as clinical assessment, mental health counseling, and intervention strategies.

3. Fulfill Postgraduate Supervised Clinical Experience

After earning an MSW, candidates must complete a period of supervised clinical experience. The specific requirements vary by state but typically involve 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, completed over a minimum of two years. This experience provides hands-on training in diagnosing and treating mental health issues, managing cases, and performing administrative roles in a clinical setting.

4. Pass the Clinical Level Examination

Once the supervised hours are completed, prospective LCSWs must pass a clinical-level licensing examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). The exam tests knowledge of assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning, therapeutic interventions, and ethical and professional standards.

5. Apply for LCSW Licensure

With the degree, required hours, and passing exam scores in hand, candidates can apply for LCSW licensure through their state’s social work or professional regulation board. This process includes submitting proof of education and supervised experience, examination scores, and sometimes additional documentation like background checks.

6. Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education

LCSWs must complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain their licensure. The number of required CE hours and the specific content areas can vary by state but generally involve updates on social work practices, ethics, and sometimes specialized training in areas like child abuse or domestic violence.

For LCSWs, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Standards for Continuing Professional Education serve as a guide for matching their continuing education activities with professional expectations. Most states require social workers to complete specific continuing education hours to maintain their licensure. NASW chapters have established programs recognizing social workers’ commitment to continuing education.

The content areas for continuing education cover diverse topics such as educational levels and intervention methods, administration, management, supervision, research, social problems, cultural diversity, ethics, and specialized services and treatment.

LCSWs are required to complete 48 hours of continuing professional education every two years. These can be formally organized learning events, professional meetings, and individual professional activities. LCSWs with expertise in specific areas can also provide direct continuing education to their peers.

To ensure continuing education quality, LCSWs must contribute to developing continuing professional education activities within their community or state. They can participate in an NASW or accredited program committee, make recommendations to education providers, communicate with providers on meeting educational needs, submit evaluations after activities, and provide education in their areas of expertise.

Furthermore, aspiring LCSWs have access to various resources that can provide support and guidance on the path to licensure. Professional organizations and associations, such as NASW, offer members access to information about licensing requirements, job postings, and networking events.

Online courses and training programs provide convenient ways to complete required coursework and offer valuable study materials for the ASWB exam. These resources can be invaluable for those seeking to become an LCSW, providing access to critical information, support, and opportunities for professional growth.

Social Workers earn an average of $47,000 per year, however this salary varies widely by location, degree, experience, and position.

The national average salary for a licensed clinical social worker is $58,000.

Historically, licensed clinical social workers are paid the most in California, the District of Columbia, and Connecticut. See our LCSW salary guide for more insights.