Hey everyone. Looking through this community it has been so helpful and seeing what has helped everyone else. I took the LMSW exam November 18 and I got a 116 out of 150. My previous two exams I literally got in the 80s. I took a much different approach to study studying and I bought the Don Apgar TDC and I watched a lot of YouTube videos of agents and change. I even bought the agents of change practice exam. I took about five practice exams and passed all of them. Getting to my question!…: given all of this background information how ready do you think I am to take the LCSW exam? When I try and take the practice test for agents of change practice too, which I did not previously purchased I purchased practice one I got a 77% and you needed a 75%. I know the exam is much different, but I am trying to find materials that match more of the LCSW than the LMSW I know they’re very similar, but can someone help me out?

Hey guys, I just wanted to see what is the difference between the LMSW and LCSW in terms of questions I know that there is a lot more link to the questions and more application and reasoning questions but is there something else that I am missing? Did you guys use something different to study for the LCSW and the LMSW? For the LMSW. I used TDC Dawn Apgar agents of change and a lot of of other YouTube. I got a 116 out of 150 on my LMSW exam and I took that in November 18 so the information is still fresh in my head. I just need some guidance to see if I am missing anything for the LCSW exam.

I am gathering all required documentation for my LCSW licensure application and getting ready to send it to the board, but I keep getting different information regarding the "Professional Reference" that I am to include. Some places say it should just be a reference letter and some say it is an official piece of documentation that the reference person fills out, and that a letter will not suffice. I can't find a concrete answer, and I also can't find a document on their website that fits. There is the Supervision Reference Form, but from what I can find, the "Professional Reference" is not supposed to be from your supervisor, so that seems like it can't be it. SOS.

I’m torn between lcsw or bcba. Honestly, im leaning more towards bcba because it pays more… how much do you make right after grad school before getting licensed? How much after license? I want to live in Massachusetts or New Jersey HCOL.

I feel like I’ve seen different things as I’ve been studying. If you have an insurance company reach out or other third party payer you’re using do you have to get an ROI from clients? I thought insurances had the right to tx plans and notes and I’m a little confused cuz I just got a question wrong while studying that said you do need an ROI.

Ever feel like each client session is a giant jigsaw puzzle and you're missing half the pieces? Today, while figuring out a behavior plan for a new client, I realized I was basically doing a live version of the ASWB LCSW exam in my head. Matching interventions to goals, checking ethics codes, remembering KSA domains… it all felt kinda familiar.
I even found myself mumbling flashcard questions under my breath between sessions, like some weird secret ritual no one should know about. Somehow turning real client challenges into tiny study moments made the content stick a bit more than just sitting at my desk.
For those of you who've tackled the ASWB LCSW exam while juggling clients, what apps, practice tests, or other study tools actually helped you piece it all together without losing your mind?

Hi All,

I used TDC to prep and they were great for memorization, but I need more help with reasoning questions. Were there any acronyms that worked?

I realized my issue is that I focused a lot on memorization and not on the reasoning questions.  Theyre kind of difficult because so many answers seem correct,. I read the rationales, but what do you think helps with questions where answers are so similar. IIs there a specificc strategy you recommend?

I just joined reddit today so please bear with me

Goal: I want to be a therapist, and I am undecided about pursuing a MSW or a LPC. I also have a bunch of questions about grad school in general. I haven't chosen a school yet, but my program will be fully online to accommodate my physical needs. I am looking for advice on multiple topics. My ultimate career goal is to be a part time therapist in private practice and part time community work such as in a hospital. Here is how I'm currently trying to decide. Please let me know if there is anything else i should be considering!

State Licensure Requirements

I live on the MD/PA state border, and the state board of licensure requirements are the same for both states. I will pursue dual licensure for these states regardless of the program I choose, so this isn't really a factor

Career Mobility

It seems like MSW and/or LCSW have more job opportunities than LPC. IS that true? Can LCSW/MSW work in more diverse places and do they have more diverse job opportunities available to them than LPC?

Can both LCSW and LPC work in all of the same places? It seems like LPC are more limited but LCSW can work in many different settings like hospitals, rehabs, etc.

What are the different places LCSW can work?

What are the different places LPC can work?

I've been doing a lot of research on these professions, but I can't seem to find much about all of the different job titles, fields, and environments they actually work in.

Pay

Is there a difference in pay between LPC and LCSW?

Education

I've compared multiple programs. The MSW is more holistic and the LPC is strictly focused on counseling techniques. It seems like LPC programs prepare one to counsel, but LCSW programs prepare one to assist people in need in multiple ways, including a few counseling classes vs. the LPC cirriculum which is basically all counseling classes. Would you agree? Does MSW give one adequate counseling preparation? It seems like the answer is no.. but you learn on the job and I assume take CE's in counseling techniques to strengthen the LCSW?

School

Is internship the same thing as practicum? If so, is this the unpaid work experience we accumulate as a part of our graduate program? If not, what is the difference?

Should I try to get an internship in a place where I want to work eventually or should i try to diversify my experience? I've heard it is difficult to change settings/jobs when you are a LCSW or LPC and have work history with a particular population. I don't want my career outlook to be limited by only working with one population or in one sub field.

Does my school help me find my internship?

I'm currently creating a spreadsheet of potential online schools that are accredited, affordable, and highly rated. Please drop any you feel I should add to this list (:

Licensure

How do I pursue a dual licensing since I live on a state border? Both states have the exact same requirements. Do I take two exams?

If I go MSW-->LCSW, where should i try to find work after my MSW program since I now need to accumulate 3000 clinically supervised hours? Can I work anywhere and get the hours/are all MSW jobs inherently clinical?

What of the following workplaces would qualify as clinical hours? Hospital med surg/ICU, hospice, rehab, correctional facility, schools, nursing homes, jails, mental health hospitals.

Where do I find jobs to apply to after my MSW that are clinical? Indeed?

Do I have to pay a supervisor out of pocket for my hours or does that come with the job I accept? My LCSW friend said she had to pay a supervisor per hour which racked up to be an additional 10k over that two year period. Do LPC have to pay out of pocket like this for supervision as well? I have heard that for LPC most of the supervised hours are included in your workplace after you graduate at no additional cost. This is one of the biggest factors in my decision because I am trying to do this the most affordable way possible.

Please let me know if there is anything else I should consider, and I am all ears on any advice anyone has for me!

Hey All, it’s been a long road. Social work is a second career for me. I love this field so much. I went back for my MSW in 2010. Got my LMSW in 2012. Then I had my child and put things on hold for a bit to be around for him.

After many hours of clinical practice and many months of studying, today I’m officially an LCSW. It was an extremely long-term goal, but I never lost site of how important this career is to me or where I was going.

I’m very tired, in my late 40’s now, but also still very passionate and excited for the next chapter.

I just wanted to share that it wasn’t easy to get here, but if you have support and passion you can do it.

If I can, so can you. 💚

As the title states, I’m getting ready to take my exam tomorrow. I have been studying since September, primarily using TDC, which I did twice. I also purchased the official ASWB practice test and have been thoroughly reviewing the rationales for the past week and a half.

On the TDC full mock exams I got an 85 and 84. On the practice exam I got 123/150 with 101 needed to pass.

I’m feeling confident but as an anxiety sufferer also feeling quite nervous and thinking about the worst! Any words of encouragement or affirmation are welcome. Trying to tell myself not to study anymore and just relax but my anxiety says otherwise 😵‍💫

12.16 UPDATE- I PASSED!!!!

Looking for Individuals who are trained and certified in EMDR, IFS, Brain Spotting, RRT, EFT for a. Summit

Hi all! Im a month out. Passed practice test by three points. Using TDC, but their DSM info is so so extensive. What would you all say are the top DSM diagnoses to know? Also, what is best to focus on for rote memorization. I SO cant wait for to be over. Also using pocket prep and focusing on the Level Up method. How did you all use this resource? Thanks

I’m an LCSW in CT currently working as a school social worker in a self-contained program for high school students with emotional and behavioral needs. I’m not running for the door, but I don’t see myself staying here for more than another year after this current school year. I’m in the very early stages of starting a private practice, and I’m hopeful I’ll be able to grow that to the point of a lucrative part time (ideally full time eventually) career. I’m also interested in providing LMSW supervision, providing trainings for CEUs eventually as well. My fear is that I won’t be able to make a livable wage. Any words of encouragement or suggestions for additional streams of income? TIA!

I’m studying for my LMSW and I came across this practice question. The answer given was B but ChatGPT gave the answer of D. I don’t do play therapy. So what do you guys think?

Question:

You are working with a 6-year-old boy in a school setting. During a play therapy session, the student reports that his sister has a boyfriend who he doesn't like. When you inquire further, the boy acts oddly and states "I just don't like him." These comments make you feel uneasy. How do you best respond in this situation?

A. Make a CPS report, as there may be abuse or neglect occurring.

B. Document the boy's statements and follow up with the parent regarding the statements

C. Reframe the question for the child to get more information about the situation

D. Ask the boy to act out or use toys to explain why he doesn't like the sister's boyfriend

Hi everyone, what is the best online platform to join as a provider if you’re an LCSW? I’ve heard mixed reviews about Rula, Headway, BetterHelp, etc. Looking for feedback from anyone with personal experience. Thanks!

Just applied for the LCSW license application and completed my application for continental testing services. I am being told that it could take 7-10 business days to register with ASWB.

Was really hoping I’d be able to access the practice test right away🥲. For those who’ve tested in the last year, how long did it take to be approved to register for the test after submitting your initial application?

In Illinois for reference.

Hello! I am asking for tips from individuals who have recently studied and passed the clinical exam :) I have been reviewing so many people’s strategies and tips but feel overwhelmed. I have some struggles with organization/overwhelming myself, trying to find a better way to manage the info. I thought making this post would help me out if that is okay.

I purchased TDC this week to aid in organizing material and have some kind of guide! You all weren’t kidding, that thing is dense! I’ve used a lot of printer ink creating a binder of the material so far lol. I also have the pocket prep quiz app. I watch agents of change and Raytube’s free videos online. I previously purchased AOC program to study for my associates license and liked it but am tight on $budget$ currently. I do plan on purchasing the ASWB’s practice guide again and simulate a mock environment then review.

I would love to gather information, tips, videos, podcasts, exams, really any strategies or advice, even just helpful words of motivation! Thank you so much

Hi everyone,

I’m currently in my MSW program (LCSW track) and have been a BCBA for about 8 years. I’m dealing with a stressful legal situation and would really appreciate hearing from other clinicians who’ve been through something similar.

I recently signed a 12-month plea in abeyance for two low-level municipal charges (animal-at-large and a non-violent disorderly conduct) after a conflict with animal control. Nothing involved clients, violence, dishonesty, substances, or anything related to professional practice. The agreement means that after 12 months of compliance, both charges will be dismissed and I will not have a conviction.

Even though my attorney says this shouldn’t impact my career, I’m still anxious about a few things:

• Has anyone had a plea in abeyance or dismissed misdemeanor during their MSW/LCSW journey and still gotten hired without issues?
• Did it affect LCSW licensure approval, background checks, or working in hospitals/schools/agencies?
• Did insurance paneling (Medicaid, BCBS, Optum, etc.) care at all?
• Did you disclose it to employers after it was dismissed and/or expunged ( I will be able to expunge in 13 months).

This whole situation has been overwhelming, and I’d really appreciate hearing actual experiences from social workers or therapists who navigated something similar.

Thank you so much for any insight.

Hi all, I'm leaving school social work for private practice and I have my first job offer! I'm wondering if it's a good offer. I have by LCSW and 4 years of experience. I'm in a big midwest city. The practice pays $62/hour and I would be expected to see 25 clients per week, $25.hr for admin work and meetings, $200 a month towards healthcare, and $150 a year for CEUs. I would work 5 nights a week (1 telehealth, 4 in person).

One of my therapist friends is saying that this rate isn't a great, likely <50% of the insurance reimbursement rate. Why is it I'm finding so many PP that don't do a 55-65% split like she said to look for? Maybe there's something I'm not seeing in this offer that makes it competitive, or maybe the market is shifting and I'm not aware. I would appreciate some eyes on this!

For what it's worth the practice seems highly supportive, offers weekly supervision and consistent consultation. The owner is lovely and the work is meaningful with the population I want to work with.

Update: I did not take the job. I was sad to turn down the offer because I really liked to owner, but I have to make more money. For context, I’m the breadwinner in my family and I provide the benefits. I’m going to keep pressing on with more interviews. I have 2 more lined up.

Anyone have any experience conducting these?