How to Go From MSW to LICSW
LICSW is the acronym given to a licensed independent clinical social worker. The license varies slightly from a LCSW, or licensed clinical social worker. To gain certification to practice with an LICSW license, you must complete several specific educational and supervision requirements, including having an MSW, or master's of social work, degree. Once licensed, an LICSW is involved in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, advocacy, consultation and evaluation for people who need assistance due to mental disease, disability, problems at school or dysfunction within a family. An LICSW helps clients gain access to resources that help them overcome their struggles or live with them in a socially acceptable way. The requirements for being an LICSW vary by state.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Check to be sure your master's of social work degree is from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. An LCSW license doesn't always require this, making it more difficult and prestigious to get an LICSW license, which typically does.
-
2
Complete graduate course work. This is often done in conjunction with other MSW coursework, but can be taken in addition to your other classes, if needed. Check your state's specific requirements regarding the fields of study that must be completed.
-
-
3
Perform post-graduate supervised clinical work. In most cases, a clinical licensed social worker must supervise these hours, and the number needed varies by state. Some states require that certain hours be completed in group settings and some in individual settings.
-
4
Take the required test to receive your license. In most cases, the test is administered by the Association of Social Work Boards. Check your state's requirements regarding what constitutes a passing score and how many times the exam can be taken. Once you pass the test, the score is considered national, meaning you are eligible to work anywhere in the country once you complete your state's requirements.
-
5
Check with your state for any additional steps. Some states won't require anything beyond a passed test score, while others may want you to take a state-specific exam or finish additional class work or supervised hours.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
The Association of Social Work Boards website offers tips on successful test taking, practice exams and study sheets. Use these tools to prepare for your licensing exam.
Before deciding to become an LICSW, research the demand for the position in your area. You may find that there isn't a need for an advanced license such as an LICSW, which will save you time and money.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
