University of Nebraska Medical Center
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Clinical Social Worker

An icon image of a clinical social workerClinical social work is a specialty practice area of social work that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness and emotional and other behavioral disturbances.

Individual, group and family therapy are common treatment modalities.

Clinical social workers are required to have a master’s degree in social work and state licensure.

 

Typically a bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s in a social work program that includes a practicum to gain experience working with people. Expect about six years of coursework post-high school.
Hospitals; senior centers and long-term care facilities; mental health clinics; private practices; state and local governments; schools, colleges and universities; substance use disorder clinics; military bases and hospitals; correctional facilities; child welfare agencies; employee assistance programs.

Projected Growth: 12 percent (higher than average).

Salary Range: $52,660 - $88,680

Specializations:

  • Micro - individuals, families, children, couples, group, etc.
  • Macro - policy, administration

Programs:

Required License/Certificate:

  • Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP)
  • Optional: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
  • Optional: Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)
  • Optional: Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor