How to Become a Social Worker in Connecticut

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Connecticut offers a rewarding career path for aspiring social workers who want to make a direct impact on individuals, families, and communities facing mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, and complex social problems. The state provides two distinct pathways for licensed social work practice: the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential for those beginning their clinical careers under supervision, and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for independent clinical practice.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a social worker in Connecticut, including education requirements, both LMSW and LCSW pathways, supervised clinical experience, examination details, salary expectations, and career opportunities throughout the state.

Connecticut Social Work Licensing Overview

The Connecticut Department of Public Health, through its Board of Examiners for Social Workers, regulates social work practice in the state and issues two types of professional licenses: the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

While Connecticut doesn't require licensure for non-clinical social work roles (as long as you hold at least a bachelor's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program), anyone providing clinical social work services must obtain one of these state licenses.

LMSW vs. LCSW: Understanding the Difference

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): This entry-level master's credential allows you to practice clinical social work under the supervision of an LCSW or other qualified licensed practitioner (such as a psychologist or physician). The LMSW serves as a transitional license while you accumulate the supervised hours needed for the LCSW.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): This advanced credential authorizes independent clinical practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. LCSWs can provide psychotherapy, crisis intervention, case management, and consultation services without supervision across settings such as hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, private practices, and community organizations.

Connecticut's licensing requirements differ from neighboring states in the region. Compare Northeast region social work licensing requirements across all nine states to understand how CT stacks up.

Education Requirements for Social Work in Connecticut

Connecticut requires a graduate degree in social work for both the LMSW and LCSW licenses. Here's what you need to know about the educational pathway:

Master of Social Work (MSW) - Required for Licensure

Both Connecticut licenses require a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The CSWE maintains the Directory of Accredited Programs, where you can verify your school's accreditation status before enrolling.

MSW programs typically require two years of full-time study and include both coursework and supervised field placements (typically 900-1,000 hours of practicum). Key coursework areas include human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy, research methods, clinical practice with individuals and families, group work, and community organization.

Important: The supervised practicum hours completed during your MSW program do NOT count toward the 3,000 post-master's hours required for LCSW licensure. The 3,000 hours must be accumulated after you've completed your MSW degree.

Advanced Standing MSW Programs for BSW Graduates

If you've already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, you may be eligible for an advanced standing MSW program. These accelerated programs recognize your foundational BSW education and allow you to complete your master's degree in one year rather than two, saving time and tuition costs. Connecticut residents can access CSWE-accredited MSW programs with advanced-standing tracks at several Connecticut universities.

Connecticut residents and prospective students can choose from several excellent CSWE-accredited MSW programs, including:

• University of Connecticut (Hartford and West Hartford campuses)
• Southern Connecticut State University
• University of Saint Joseph
• Fordham University's Connecticut campus locations

Many programs now offer flexible online or hybrid formats that allow working professionals to earn their degree while maintaining employment.

Doctoral Degrees (DSW or PhD) - Optional but Accepted

Connecticut also accepts doctoral degrees in social work, including the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or PhD in Social Work, as meeting the educational requirement for both LMSW and LCSW licensure. While not required for clinical practice, doctoral degrees can open doors to advanced clinical positions, university teaching, research, and leadership roles in social service organizations.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) - Non-Clinical Practice Only

While a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) provides excellent foundational knowledge and can lead to entry-level positions in non-clinical social services, it doesn't qualify you for licensure in Connecticut. BSW holders can work in various social service settings, but cannot provide clinical services such as diagnosis or psychotherapy without pursuing an MSW and obtaining licensure.

Connecticut LMSW Requirements

The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) is Connecticut's entry-level master's license that allows you to practice clinical social work under supervision while accumulating hours toward your LCSW.

Steps to Become an LMSW in Connecticut

1. Complete Your MSW Degree: Earn your Master of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program. Make sure to verify accreditation status with the school's admissions office before enrolling.

2. Create an Online Account: Establish an account with the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) through their online portal.

3. Submit Your Application: Complete the online LMSW application and pay the $220 application fee. You'll need to provide a photo and have your official transcripts sent directly from your school to the DPH.

4. Examination Requirement: Note that the ASWB Master's Level Examination is currently suspended until January 1, 2026. Connecticut applicants don't need to take this exam during the suspension period, though requirements may change when the exam resumes.

5. Receive Your License: Once approved, the DPH will issue your LMSW license, allowing you to practice clinical social work under supervision.

Scope of Practice for LMSWs

As an LMSW, you can provide clinical social work services, including counseling, assessment, and intervention, but you must work under the supervision of an LCSW, psychologist, physician, or other qualified licensed practitioner. This supervised experience allows you to develop your clinical skills while accumulating the 3,000 hours required for LCSW licensure.

Connecticut LCSW Requirements: Step-by-Step Process

Earning your LCSW in Connecticut requires completing four main components after obtaining your MSW degree:

1. Complete Your Graduate Degree

As outlined above, you must first earn your MSW or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. Confirm accreditation status before enrolling, as coursework from non-accredited programs won't meet Connecticut's licensing requirements.

2. Obtain Your LMSW License (If Working in Connecticut)

If you plan to accumulate your supervised clinical hours in Connecticut, you must first obtain your LMSW license. This allows you to begin working in clinical positions and accruing hours toward your LCSW while practicing under supervision.

3. Accumulate 3,000 Post-Master's Clinical Hours

Connecticut requires 3,000 hours of post-master's clinical social work experience. These hours must be gained after you've completed your graduate degree. The supervised practicum hours from your MSW program don't count toward this requirement.

Clinical practice includes assessment, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. The 3,000 hours typically take 2-3 years to accumulate, depending on whether you're working full-time or part-time. Working full-time (40 hours per week) in a clinical social work position allows you to complete this requirement in approximately 18-24 months. Part-time work will extend the timeline proportionally.

4. Complete Required Face-to-Face Supervision

Connecticut requires a minimum of 100 hours of face-to-face, one-on-one supervision during your post-master's clinical experience period. This supervision must be provided by an LCSW who meets the state's qualifications to serve as a supervisor.

Understanding Connecticut's Supervision Requirements

Supervision is a critical component of your professional development as a clinical social worker. Connecticut's specific supervision requirements include:

Qualified Supervisors

Your supervisor must hold an active LCSW license in Connecticut (or be a Certified Independent Social Worker, CISW) and have at least 2 years of post-licensure clinical experience. The supervisor cannot be a relative, and they must provide direct oversight of your clinical work. Other licensed mental health professionals (such as psychologists or physicians) may also provide supervision in some settings, but at least 100 hours must be completed with an LCSW supervisor for LCSW licensure.

Face-to-Face Supervision Structure

The 100 hours of required supervision must be conducted face-to-face and one-on-one with your supervisor. Connecticut requires individual supervision rather than group supervision for these hours. Most supervisors meet with supervisees weekly or biweekly for one to two hours per session, providing opportunities to discuss clinical cases, receive feedback on therapeutic approaches, address ethical dilemmas, and develop professional identity.

Documentation Requirements

You must maintain detailed records of all supervision hours using the Connecticut Department of Public Health's official Verification of Supervision form. This form must include dates, duration, content discussed, and your supervisor's signature. The DPH requires this documentation as part of your LCSW application, so keep thorough records throughout your supervised experience period.

Employment Verification

In addition to supervision documentation, you must also complete the Verification of Employment form, which confirms your 3,000 hours of clinical experience. Both forms must be sent directly from your supervisor and employer to the Department of Public Health.

The ASWB Examinations

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) develops and administers the standardized licensing examinations used by all U.S. states and Canadian provinces. Connecticut requires different exam levels depending on the license you're pursuing.

ASWB Masters Exam (LMSW)

Important Update: The ASWB Master's Level Examination is currently suspended until January 1, 2026. During this suspension period, Connecticut LMSW applicants don't need to take this exam. Check with the Connecticut Department of Public Health for current requirements, as this may change when the exam resumes in 2026.

ASWB Clinical Exam (LCSW)

The ASWB Clinical exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored and 20 unscored pretest questions. You'll have four hours to complete the examination. Content areas include:

• Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment (27%)
• Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning (29%)
• Psychotherapy, Clinical Interventions, and Case Management (24%)
• Professional Values and Ethics (20%)

Registration and Scheduling

Once Connecticut approves your LCSW application to sit for the exam, you'll receive authorization to schedule your test through the ASWB website. Exams are administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Connecticut and neighboring states. The exam fee is approximately $260 (subject to change).

Passing Score and Results

The passing score for the Clinical exam is 75 on a 0-100 scale. You'll receive your results immediately upon completing the exam. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period. Nationally, the pass rate for the ASWB Clinical exam typically ranges from 75% to 80% for first-time test-takers.

Exam Preparation

Most candidates benefit from structured study and preparation. The ASWB offers practice exams and study materials through its website. Many social workers also use commercial study guides, join study groups with colleagues, or enroll in exam prep courses. Dedicating 6-8 weeks of focused study typically provides adequate preparation for the Clinical exam.

Timeline to Social Work Licensure in Connecticut

Understanding the complete timeline helps you plan your educational and career path. Here's a typical progression from bachelor's degree through LCSW licensure:

Key Timeline Takeaways:

• From completing your MSW to obtaining your LCSW: 2.5-3 years
• Total journey from starting college to LCSW: 8-9 years
• Advanced standing MSW programs can reduce the timeline by one year
• Full-time clinical work shortens the experience phase compared to part-time work

Connecticut Social Work Salary & Career Outlook

Connecticut offers competitive compensation for social workers, with salaries varying by specialization, experience level, licensure status, and geographic location within the state. The state's higher cost of living, particularly in Fairfield County and the greater Hartford area, is typically reflected in higher salary ranges compared to the national average.

Connecticut Social Work Salaries by Specialization

According to May 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Connecticut social workers earn the following annual wages by specialization area. These figures represent actual employment data for licensed social workers practicing in Connecticut:

LMSW vs. LCSW Salary Differences

LCSWs typically earn 15-25% more than LMSWs due to their advanced credentials and ability to practice independently. Entry-level LMSWs generally start in the $50,000-$60,000 range, while experienced LCSWs in clinical settings can earn $90,000-$110,000 or more. Private practice LCSWs who build established client bases may earn significantly more, particularly in Connecticut's higher-income areas.

Geographic Salary Variations Within Connecticut

Within Connecticut, salaries vary significantly by metropolitan area and county. Fairfield County (including cities like Greenwich, Stamford, and Norwalk) and the Greater Hartford metropolitan area typically offer the highest salaries, though the cost of living in these areas is correspondingly higher. Eastern Connecticut and rural areas may offer slightly lower salaries but often provide lower living costs, smaller caseloads, and strong community connections.

Career Growth and Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for social work positions nationally through 2032, with mental health and substance abuse social workers experiencing particularly strong demand. Connecticut's aging population, increased recognition of mental health needs, expanded substance abuse treatment programs, and integration of behavioral health services in primary care all contribute to positive job prospects for licensed clinical social workers.

Experienced LCSWs in Connecticut can advance to supervisory positions, clinical director roles, program management, or private practice ownership, with earnings potential increasing significantly in these advanced positions. Many LCSWs also supplement their income through part-time private practice while maintaining agency employment.

Career Paths & Specializations for Connecticut Social Workers

Connecticut's diverse communities and robust healthcare infrastructure offer numerous career opportunities for both LMSWs and LCSWs. Here are common specializations and settings:

Mental Health Clinics & Community Mental Health Centers

Connecticut has an extensive network of community mental health centers providing outpatient therapy, crisis intervention, case management, and psychiatric rehabilitation services. Social workers in these settings work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. LMSWs work under clinical supervision while LCSWs provide independent therapy and may supervise other clinicians.

Hospitals & Healthcare Settings

Major hospital systems throughout Connecticut employ social workers to assist patients and families navigating medical crises, chronic illness, end-of-life care, and discharge planning. Healthcare social workers coordinate services, provide counseling, connect patients with community resources, and serve as crucial members of interdisciplinary medical teams.

Substance Abuse Treatment Programs

Connecticut has prioritized expanding access to substance abuse treatment, creating growing opportunities for social workers specializing in addiction counseling and recovery support. Social workers work in residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, medication-assisted treatment programs, and harm reduction programs addressing the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders.

Schools & Educational Settings

School social workers support students' academic success by addressing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. They provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, consultation with teachers and parents, development of individualized education plans (IEPs), and connections to community resources. Connecticut school districts employ social workers at all grade levels from elementary through high school.

Private Practice

LCSWs in Connecticut can establish private practices offering psychotherapy and counseling services. Private practice allows for greater autonomy, flexible scheduling, and the ability to specialize in specific populations (such as trauma survivors, LGBTQ+ individuals, or specific age groups) or treatment modalities (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, or family systems therapy). Most private practice social workers accept health insurance plans and offer sliding-scale fees to ensure accessibility.

Child Welfare & Family Services

The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) employs social workers to protect children from abuse and neglect, provide family preservation services, oversee foster care placements, and facilitate adoptions. This challenging but rewarding work directly impacts the safety and well-being of Connecticut's most vulnerable children and families.

Gerontology & Aging Services

With Connecticut's aging population, social workers specializing in gerontology help older adults and their families navigate healthcare decisions, long-term care options, dementia care, Medicare/Medicaid benefits, guardianship issues, and end-of-life planning. Settings include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult day programs, and home health agencies.

Military & Veterans Services

Social workers in Connecticut work with active military members, veterans, and their families to address issues such as PTSD, combat-related trauma, reintegration challenges, benefits navigation, and family support. The VA Connecticut Healthcare System and various nonprofit organizations employ social workers specializing in military and veteran populations.

Continuing Education & License Renewal

Both LMSW and LCSW licenses in Connecticut require annual renewal with continuing education requirements to ensure social workers maintain current knowledge and skills.

Renewal Schedule & Fees

Connecticut social work licenses must be renewed annually by the last day of your birth month. Renewal fees are:

• LMSW: $125 per year
• LCSW: $200 per year

Continuing Education Requirements

Connecticut requires 15 hours of continuing education annually for both LMSW and LCSW license holders. These hours must meet the following criteria:

Special Topic Requirements

Connecticut mandates specific continuing education topics that must be completed:

First Renewal After Licensure:

• 2 hours on mental health issues affecting veterans and their families

Ongoing Requirement:

• The 2-hour veterans' mental health training must be repeated at least once every six years
• Training should cover: identifying veterans and family members, screening for PTSD, depression, grief, and suicide risk, and suicide prevention strategies

Additional Recommended Topics:

• Cultural competency and diversity
• Ethics and professional boundaries
• Evidence-based treatment modalities
• Technology and telehealth in social work practice

Documentation

Connecticut doesn't require you to submit CE certificates with your renewal, but you must maintain documentation of all completed courses for at least five years. The Department of Public Health may audit licensees and request proof of CE completion, so keep certificates, transcripts, and attendance records organized and accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Social Worker in Connecticut

What social work licenses are available in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers two social work licenses: the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) for supervised clinical practice and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for independent clinical practice. The LMSW serves as an entry-level master's credential, while the LCSW requires additional supervised experience and allows independent practice without supervision.

How long does it take to become an LCSW in Connecticut?

From the time you complete your MSW degree, it typically takes 2.5 to 3 years to accumulate the required 3,000 post-master's clinical hours and 100 hours of face-to-face supervision before you can take the ASWB Clinical exam and receive your LCSW. Working full-time in a clinical position allows you to complete the hours in approximately 18-24 months. The total journey from starting your bachelor's degree through LCSW licensure takes approximately 8-9 years.

Do my MSW practicum hours count toward the 3,000 LCSW hours?

No. Connecticut requires 3,000 hours of post-master's degree clinical experience. The supervised field practicum hours completed during your MSW program (typically 900-1,000 hours) don't count toward this requirement. The 3,000 hours must be accumulated after you've completed and received your MSW degree.

Can I work as a social worker in Connecticut without a license?

Yes, but with limitations. If you hold at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, you can work in non-clinical social work positions without a license. However, to provide any clinical services such as diagnosis, assessment, or psychotherapy, you must obtain either an LMSW or LCSW license from the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Can I get licensed in Connecticut with an out-of-state degree?

Yes. Connecticut accepts MSW degrees from CSWE-accredited programs nationwide. Whether you earned your degree in Connecticut or elsewhere, as long as the program is CSWE-accredited, it will meet Connecticut's educational requirements for licensure. You can verify accreditation status through the CSWE Directory of Accredited Programs.

Does Connecticut have reciprocity with other states?

Connecticut participates in interstate licensing mobility through the ASWB, which can facilitate licensure for social workers moving from other states. However, requirements vary depending on your current license type and the state where you're licensed. Some social workers may need to complete additional requirements or provide documentation of supervised experience. Contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health for specific guidance on transferring your license from another state.

Do I need malpractice insurance as a social worker in Connecticut?

While Connecticut doesn't legally require malpractice insurance, carrying professional liability coverage is strongly recommended and often required by employers. If you plan to work in private practice, malpractice insurance is essential to protect yourself from potential legal claims. Professional organizations like NASW offer affordable malpractice insurance for members, typically ranging from $100 to $300 annually, depending on the coverage level.

How much does social work licensure cost in Connecticut?

Initial licensure costs include: LMSW application fee ($220), LCSW application fee ($315), ASWB Clinical exam fee (approximately $260), exam preparation materials ($50-200), and potential supervision costs if not provided by your employer. Budget approximately $800-1,200 total for the initial LCSW licensing process, not including supervision costs. Annual renewal fees are $125 for LMSW and $200 for LCSW, plus continuing education expenses.

What is the supervision requirement for Connecticut LCSWs?

Connecticut requires 100 hours of face-to-face, one-on-one supervision with a licensed LCSW during your 3,000 hours of post-master's clinical experience. This supervision must be individual (not group) and conducted in person or via telehealth. Most supervisees meet with their supervisor weekly or biweekly for 1-2 hours per session throughout the 2-3-year supervised experience.

Additional Connecticut Social Work Resources

As you pursue your social work license in Connecticut, these organizations and resources can provide valuable support, networking opportunities, and continuing education:

Professional Organizations

The National Association of Social Workers - Connecticut Chapter (NASW-CT) offers a close-knit professional community with extensive networking opportunities, continuing education programs that meet Connecticut's CE requirements, job boards specifically for Connecticut social work positions, legislative advocacy at the state level, and member benefits including affordable liability insurance. NASW-CT's website features an employment center for Connecticut social workers to find clinical positions and connect with potential LCSW supervisors.

Connecticut Department of Public Health

The Connecticut Department of Public Health oversees social work licensure and provides official information about application procedures, renewal requirements, continuing education guidelines, and regulations. Check their website for the most current licensure applications, fee schedules, required forms (Verification of Employment and Verification of Supervision), and contact information for the Board of Examiners for Social Workers.

CSWE Directory & Accreditation

The Council on Social Work Education maintains a searchable directory of accredited social work programs where you can verify that your chosen MSW program meets Connecticut's accreditation requirements. This verification is essential before enrolling, as non-accredited programs won't qualify you for licensure.

ASWB Resources

The Association of Social Work Boards provides information about licensing exams, practice tests, study materials, and exam preparation resources. Their website offers detailed content outlines for the Clinical exam and allows you to register for the exam once Connecticut approves your application.

Connecticut's two-tier licensing system provides flexibility for social workers at different stages of their careers while maintaining high standards for clinical practice. By understanding the requirements for both the LMSW and LCSW credentials and planning your educational and professional journey strategically, you can join the thousands of licensed social workers making meaningful differences in Connecticut communities every day.

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.

Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW

Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW, is a clinical neuropsychologist with over 18 years of experience in mental health and career counseling. A University of Oregon graduate, he specializes in psychology and therapy careers, contributing to Pacific Behavioral Insights and speaking at the Northwest Clinical Forum.

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