and restated again and again and again before that by everyone else.
Hey since you are bent on restoring balance to the force could you tell me what exactly qualifies a LCSW to conduct therapy sessions? I've wondered about that one for a while and haven't been able to get much in the way of answers.
Here in NY, the requirements to be an LCSW are as follows:
The practice of licensed clinical social work and the use of the title "Licensed Clinical Social Worker" and the designation of "LCSW" or derivatives thereof in New York State requires licensure as a licensed clinical social worker, unless otherwise exempt under the law.
To be licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in New York State you must:
be of good moral character;
be at least 21 years of age;
have an education that includes a masters degree in social work (M.S.W.) with at least 12 semester hours of clinical coursework;
have at least 3 years of post M.S.W. supervised experience in clinical social work;
meet examination requirements; and
complete coursework or training in the identification and reporting of child abuse offered by a New York State approved provider.
You must file an application for licensure and the other forms indicated, along with the appropriate fee, to the Office of the Professions at the address specified on each form. It is your responsibility to follow up with anyone you have asked to send us material.
The specific requirements for licensure are contained in Title 8, Article 154, Section 7704 of New York State Education Law and Part 74 and Section 52.30 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education. Copies of the relevant sections of NYS Education Law and the Commissioner's Regulations are also available from
opforms@mail.nysed.gov or 518-474-3817 ext. 320.
An LCSW is basically an MSW with beefed up clinical training and experience. They are fully qualified to provide therapy.
I am a (former-no longer practicing) LCSW with a BA in Psychology and an MSW with tons of clinical continuing education and experience.
Many facilities will hire an LCSW over an MA (Psy) because an LCSW is considered a 'terminal degree' and the holder of such is able to receive third-party reimbursement for services (get paid by insurance), while an MA can provide therapy under the guidance of a licensed provider, but cannot bill a third party.
I cannot speak intelligently on regulations from other states, but NY is typically among the strongest in requirements for licensing. Other states will have different regulations.
