The New York State Education Department (“SED”) Office of the Professions (“OP”) is alerting everyone to a vishing scam that has been brought to our attention. Phishing—or “vishing”—scams impersonate SED employees or websites attempting to collect licensure and personal information from the licensee. If you receive an inquiry which you believe to be suspicious do not provide any information. To verify if the inquiry was from OP, contact us directly. You may report any suspicious communication received to the Federal Trade Commission.
  • NYSED Homepage
  • Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • NYSED Employment
  • Board Members Only

Licensed Social Worker

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Social Worker

Click Here for Print Profile

Social workers help individuals and groups with mental disorders, family difficulties, addictions, community issues, and more. New York licenses two types of social workers: Licensed master social workers (LMSWs) and Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). The LMSW is the initial master’s level degree for the profession and is required to provide clinical social work services under supervision. LCSWs can perform the functions of a LMSW, diagnose patients, and perform other clinical services without supervision. Examples of activities:

  • assess clients, develop treatment plans, and evaluate progress
  • identify resources and advocate for clients
  • provide direct services such as counseling and case management
  • engage in research, analysis and community organization

 

Salary and Projected Growth

Median Salary: $78,043

Salary range: $52,303 - $97,988

Projected growth: faster than average growth

Where Could I Work?

Social assistance agencies and charitable organizations

Health settings: hospitals, mental health and residential facilities, homes

Health program administration

Education, research, and government

Your Interests and Abilities

Human development/behavior

Cultural competency

Knowledge of mental health issues and treatments

Case management

Professional Skills

Concern for others

Critical thinking

Adaptability

Communication

Education
Education Requirements

LMSW- master’s degree in social work, acceptable to the Department.

LCSW- MSW degree, acceptable to the Department with at least 12 credits of clinical coursework. Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.

Experience
Man having counseling

LMSW- no post-MSW experience required.

LCSW- 36 months and 2,000 client contact hours of supervised experience in post-LMSW diagnosis, psychotherapy, and assessment-based treatment planning.

Examination
Adult learning for student university study in class, hand note lecture in notebook for exam

LMSW- “Masters” examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).

LCSW- ASWB "Clinical" examination.

What Interests You?

Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip

Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a licensed social worker about what they do and how they got started!

OP