As you get ready for a career in social work, you may wonder about the difference between an LMSW vs. LCSW. Both of these titles refer to social work professionals who have earned a master’s degree in this field.
These two types of licensure are not interchangeable, though, because an LCSW must go through additional training. The extra time prepares an LCSW to take on different responsibilities from those of an LMSW.
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Read on to explore the differences between these two professionals.
What’s the Difference Between an LMSW vs. LCSW?
Both an LMSW and an LCSW have a master’s degree in social work. To earn a Master of Social Work (MSW), students study advanced topics related to human behavior, cultural diversity, social policies, and mental health. They also learn to conduct research and offer therapeutic services.
There are key differences between these two types of licensure, though. An LMSW is an advanced social worker, but the focus isn’t on providing therapy and counseling. Rather, an LMSW often serves as a coordinator. An LCSW, on the other hand, is qualified to work as an independently practicing mental health therapist.
What Is an LMSW?
A licensed master social worker (LMSW) is someone who has earned an MSW and received state licensure. Not all states, though, use this exact title for licensure at this level. Because an LMSW has earned a graduate degree in the field, this professional is prepared to lead social services.
An LMSW may work as a service coordinator, a case manager, or the director of a program. Some LMSWs advocate for changes in public policy. In some cases, an LMSW might provide limited therapy services. LMSWs aren’t licensed to be independent therapists, so they can only do so under another professional’s supervision.
What Is an LCSW?
A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is also a licensed professional with an MSW. There is a good deal of overlap in the training for becoming an LMSW and an LCSW. One key difference, though, is that an LCSW must accrue a large number of hours in supervised therapy practice.
LCSWs often work as mental health therapists. Because of their extensive training and preparation, LCSWs are qualified to work independently. They can perform assessments, come up with diagnoses, and develop treatment plans. Some LCSWs hold other responsibilities as well. For example, they may coordinate programs or supervise other social workers.
LCSW vs. LMSW: Similarities and Differences
LMSWs and LCSWs complete similar educational programs and work in similar settings. There are often key differences in the jobs that these types of professionals do, though. As a result, the licensure process is different, and there can be a difference in pay, too.
LMSW vs. LCSW: Education
Both types of licensure are for professionals with a graduate education in social work, typically a Master of Social Work (MSW). It often takes around 2 years to complete that degree. Graduate schools’ MSW programs may include specialization options.
For an LMSW, you could select a general program or a specialization like leadership or public policy. If your goal is to get your LCSW, then you may want to choose a clinical track. It will likely include more classes in mental health and therapy, and there may be related practicums built into the program.
LMSW vs. LCSW: Licensing and Certification Requirements
What does LMSW stand for? It’s a licensed master social worker. What does LCSW stand for? It’s a licensed clinical social worker. These are two different types of social work licenses for people with a master’s degree in social work, but the exact titles and licensure options can vary by state.
According to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), the licensure requirements usually include earning a degree and passing an exam. Clinical social work licenses require supervised work hours, too, but your state may not require it for non-clinical licenses. Licensed social workers also stay current with continuing education.
LCSW vs. LMSW: Career Opportunities and Roles
Someone with LMSW licensure may focus on connecting clients to services. The job responsibilities might include handling the intake process, maintaining records, and making referrals as needed.
A professional who is licensed as an LCSW may focus more on providing clinical mental health therapy. Sometimes, in addition to helping patients change their thoughts and behavior, an LCSW can also refer them to other healthcare providers or support services in the community.
Some LCSWs work in private therapy practices. Both LCSWs and LMSWs often work in social service agencies, healthcare facilities, the criminal justice system, and schools.
LCSW vs. LMSW: Salary and Advancement
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a social worker is $55,350. Most social workers earn between $36,600 and $87,300.
In general, LCSWs command a higher salary because they’ve completed more training than LMSWs. Wages vary by job setting and responsibilities, though. The median salary for mental health and substance abuse social workers is $51,240 per year, and hospital social workers make a median of $66,300.
Either type of social work license might eventually lead to a job as a community and social service manager. That role pays a median of $74,240 per year.
Can an LCSW Diagnose?
Yes, an LCSW can diagnose mental health conditions in their patients. The training for becoming a clinical social worker involves learning about various mental health conditions. Students also learn how to perform tests and evaluations that can help them arrive at a diagnosis.
Many other mental health professionals provide diagnoses as well. One distinction is in the approach that LCSWs often use. When evaluating a patient, an LCSW often tries to understand the patient as a whole. That includes learning not only about the individual but also about any social and environmental factors that are involved.
Can an LCSW Prescribe Medication?
No, an LCSW cannot prescribe medication. In most states, that responsibility is reserved solely for medical providers, such as psychiatrists.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), some states allow psychologists with specialized training to write select prescriptions as well. Even though no states allow LCSWs to prescribe medication, an LCSW can work with patients who take mental health medication. The LCSW serves as one member of the person’s comprehensive care team.
When needed, an LCSW can communicate with other medical providers to help a patient access medication. Social workers specialize in connecting people to the resources they need.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker?
In 4 years of full-time study, you can typically earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Some students take accelerated online courses to finish more quickly. A number of universities now offer accelerated online social work degree programs, providing more flexibility to accommodate working professionals and those with busy schedules.
The next step in advancing your social work career is to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW). Some schools offer a combined program in which you can earn both a BSW and an MSW in about 5 years. Standalone MSW programs take about 2 years.
To become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), you’ll also earn supervised work experience. The requirements vary by state, but this generally takes 2 to 3 years.
LMSW or LCSW – Which Is Right for You?
Now that you know the difference between LMSW and LCSW, and have a glimpse into the roles of a social worker vs. therapist, you may feel more prepared to choose the licensure track that’s right for you.
LCSW licensure is often the best choice for those who want to provide therapy, but an LMSW can be useful for coordinating programs or addressing public policy needs. Your state may offer licensure in phases. You could start by earning your LMSW license and then apply for LCSW status after completing your clinical hours.
Either way, understanding how to become a social worker is essential, and it starts with an education. You can take a look at in-person and online MSW programs from accredited universities to find the one that’s right for you.
