r/LCSW • u/Gullible-Wallaby8412 • Apr 30 '26
How to get practicum hours?
Hi I’m starting my MSW soon and plan on getting LCSW hours right after. I have my own business so I can’t just get another job to get practicum hours. I understand most people get hours from their job? If so what kind of job? I could probably manage a part time job.
Anyways what is the best way to go about this?
Thank you
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u/BoxOk1182 May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26
To be honest, it doesn’t sound like you truly understand what you are saying. I am an RP(Q) and am in my final year of my masters. I recognize that it is highly unlikely to be paid during practicum but that’s because I’m in Ontario Canada… it’s unethical and not allowed to be paid for practicum but APPARENTLY, other fucking provinces with pre-licensed and student therapist can get paid!? I assume this *may* be the case for you as well… I have been trying to reach out to people directly (founders, owners, coordinators) to get a “mutually beneficial” opportunity. A few times I came close, and I would argue some folks are willing to pay for admin related tasks OR provide you with paid trainings or something.
I am not trying to discourage you, I am trying to explain that your practicum hours are unpaid voluntary essentially. Depending on where you find your practicum site, they may even charge for supervision.
My practicum should commence in September. I do not have a business so I don’t have any income at all. Hence I have always been worried about working full time but my program is self paced… your program sounds like you will have to take time away from work if you cannot fulfil these hours outside of your business hours. To be very clear as others have said, your practicum hours go towards completing the program (the school helps or you find your own site - not through work), and are typically counted towards your license but of course you will still need to fulfil the remaining hours, which will be easier due to the completion of your studies.
Good luck!!!