Connecticut Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Connecticut Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Licensure Process

Now that you have gone through the general policies, it is time to get the ball rolling with your application. The LCSW allows you to practice clinical social work independently. That can include counseling, mental health consultation, psychotherapy, and behavior modification, among others.

Education Requirements

The first thing to discuss is the educational requirements. You will need to have a master’s or doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education or CSWE.

There are many accredited master’s programs in the country. You will find this program offered in eight sites in the state of Connecticut. These include the University of Connecticut, Quinnipiac University, Eastern Connecticut State University, and Sacred Heart University. Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in Connecticut.

Experience Requirements

To be eligible for LCSW licensing, you need to complete at least 3,000 hours of post-master social work experience. Your experience should include no less than 100 hours of work experience while being supervised professionally by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker.

Examination Requirements

For examination, you need to complete the Clinical Level Examination as provided by the Association of Social Work Boards. The ASWB is a non-profit organization made of social work regulatory boards and colleges across the country. Its mission is to support the regulatory community to ensure and advance safe, competent, and ethical practices.

You need to register with the ASWB to take the exam. The fee is $260 for the clinical level exam. Once you are registered, you will receive an Authorization to Test email. You will then schedule a testing appointment.

Before taking the test, make sure to download the Candidate Handbook. It has information about the exam, the steps to take it, the testing day, and what to do after completing the test. The handbook provides invaluable information about your application and the overall process.

Take the time to prepare for the test to prevent delays and other problems. Familiarize yourself with the exam site. You can even take a photo tour of the center. That way, you will not get lost on testing day.

You can check the essential resources for candidates for more information.

Documentation Requirements

Applicants need to submit documents directly to the office of the DPH from the source. Prepare the following:

• Official transcript to verify your degree from an accredited social work program
• Employment form that documents and verifies completion of 3,000 hours of post-master work
• Supervision form documenting and verifies the completion of 100 hours of work experience with a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker
• Report of successful completion of the Clinical Level Examination from the ASWB
• A completed application online
• Proof of payment of the application fee of $315

Renewal of LCSW

You have to renew your clinical social worker license every year. The requirements for renewal include completing 15 continuing education contact hours. The first license period is exempt. You also need to pay the $195 renewal fee.

In case you forget to renew, you will have to apply for a reinstatement of a lapsed license with the DPH.