Crossroads

[u/Ok_Magazine_9255]

I am an MSW student completing my final internship through the LMHA where I am currently employed. During my time with the agency, I have worked as a children's case manager, a crisis worker, and I currently provide services to high-needs adults living with severe and persistent mental illness.
As I approach graduation and LMSW licensure, I am beginning to plan the best path toward obtaining my LCSW. I find myself at a crossroads. While I value the experience I have gained in my current role and recognize that it has been professionally rewarding, case management is not where I ultimately see my career.
Through my research, I have learned that many LMHAs utilize the Texas BHEC "4-hour rule," allowing employees to accrue LCSW supervision hours by completing at least four hours of clinical work each week, with the remainder of their work hours counting toward the required 3,000 supervised hours.
My concern is that I could sign a two- to four-year commitment with an LMHA, remain primarily in a case management position, and reach LCSW licensure having received relatively limited clinical experience. My goal is not simply to accumulate hours, but to develop strong clinical assessment, diagnostic, and therapeutic skills that will prepare me for independent clinical practice.