What is a LCSW

Licensed Clinical social workers provide mental health services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders in individuals, families, and groups. Their goal is to enhance and maintain their patients' physical, psychological, and social function

Clinical social workers must have a master's or doctorate degree in social work, with an emphasis on clinical experience. They must undergo a supervised clinical field internship and have at least 2 years of postgraduate supervised clinical social work employment.

Clinical social workers are approved providers in most insurance and managed care plans, and practice in the following settings:

Private practice
Medical facilities (e.g., hospitals)
Mental health clinics
Child welfare agencies
Schools
Community organizations
Places of employment

Clinical social workers may be licensed by the state in which they practice. Requirements are prescribed by state law and include education, supervision, experience, and a written examination.