Licensed Clinical Social Worker Career Guide

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Overview

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is a specialized mental health professional who provides therapeutic support and interventions to individuals, families and groups facing emotional, psychological and behavioral challenges. LCSWs play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being and improving the quality of life for their clients.

Essential Job Functions:

Licensed Clinical Social Workers offer psychotherapy, counseling and support to

Education

To become an LCSW, individuals typically need to complete a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution. The MSW program includes coursework in social work practice, human behavior, ethics and research methods.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

After completing their education, aspiring LCSWs must fulfill supervised clinical hours, typically around 3,000 hours, under the guidance of a licensed clinical supervisor. Following the completion of clinical hours, candidates need to pass the LCSW licensing exam administered by their state's social work licensing board.

Skills

Staff and Travel Licensed Clinical Social Workers require a strong foundation in psychotherapy techniques and mental health assessment. They need exceptional communication, empathy and active listening skills to build therapeutic relationships with clients. LCSWs should also be skilled in crisis intervention, case management and ethical decision-making.

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Responsibilities

LCSWs conduct comprehensive assessments of clients' mental health needs, develop treatment plans and provide evidence-based interventions. They offer individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and may collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care. LCSWs also engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
$1,915-2,762/week

The average salary for a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is $2,331.47 per week.

Last updated on December 17, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offers a rewarding career dedicated to improving individuals' mental health and well-being. LCSWs have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their clients' lives, fostering resilience and personal growth. The field offers diverse settings, from private practice to hospitals and community organizations.

However, challenges include dealing with emotionally demanding situations and managing the emotional

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Licensed Clinical Social Worker Jobs


View job details for Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Travel Contract

Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • Stockton, CA
  • Nightingale's List
  • 5x8 hrs

$3,600/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Travel Contract

Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • Soledad, CA
  • Nightingale's List
  • 5x8 hrs

$3,600/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Travel Contract

Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • Vacaville, CA
  • Nightingale's List
  • 5x8 hrs

$3,600/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Travel Contract

Social Work - Correctional Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • Corcoran, CA
  • Nightingale's List
  • 5x8 hrs

$3,600/week

Estimated pay package

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