What's better to get a LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) or a MSW (Master's of Social Work)

What's better to get a LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) or a MSW (Master's of Social Work)?
I want to attend patients do a one on one in an office like a psychologist. Which one is better to get a LCSW or a MSW? What schools are those offered in North California East Bay (that don't require a GRE)? I know MSW is 2 to 3 years long, how long is the LCSW? PS I already did my bachelors in Psychology
Higher Education (University +) - 3 Answers

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1
you get your MSW and then you apply for your LCSW......Sorry you have to take the GRE no matter what to get into grad school


2
Hi, First of all, you can't get an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) designation till after you complete the MSW (Masters in Social Work) degree. Here's how it works in NY: You get the MSW and sit for the state licensing exam to be an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker.) You can counsel at that point, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist or LCSW. After three years of experience, you may sit for the LCSW exam, and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. And by the way, in the NY state universities, you do NOT need a GRE to apply to a masters program, only a doctoral program. Regarding social work licensing and admission requirements, each state has their own requirements and some do it a little differently. Feel free to email me. Kate BS Psychology Currently in grad school earning an MSW Graduate Assistant, conduct the information sessions for prospective MSW students at my university


3
Other people have basically answered the LMSW question properly. The important thing here is that a license is different from a degree. A license is designed for a state to verify you have the skills/experience/training to do the job you want to do. A degree welcomes you into a profession. You can be a social worker without a license, but you can not get a license without a degree. Now as for where to get your MSW. North California East Bay has a new (they are in candidacy) MSW program with a community mental health option. This would work for licensure. In CA after you finish your MSW you apply for ASW status then it is 3200 hours, 2000 clinical 750 of which must be psychotherapy and 1200 can be either clinical or other contexts. Here is all the info you need here: http://www.bbs.ca.gov/ DA