Social Work Licensing by State: Complete Requirements Guide

Quick Answer:

Social work licensing varies by state but typically includes three levels: LSW, LMSW, and LCSW. Most states require 2,000-4,000 supervised clinical hours, passing the ASWB exam at the appropriate level, and 20-40 CE hours per renewal period. Use our comparison tables below to find exact requirements for your state.

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Becoming a licensed social worker involves navigating a complex landscape of state-specific requirements that can vary dramatically from one jurisdiction to another. While all states rely on the same national ASWB exams, the path to licensure differs significantly in terms of supervised hours, education credentials, and continuing education mandates.

Whether you're a recent MSW graduate planning your first license application, a social worker considering relocation to a new state, or a student researching your future career path, understanding these state-by-state differences is essential. The requirements you'll need to meet depend entirely on where you plan to practice.

This comprehensive guide breaks down social work licensing requirements across all 50 states. You'll find detailed information on the three primary license levels (LSW, LMSW, and LCSW), supervised clinical hour requirements ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 hours, and renewal requirements that span from annual to triennial cycles.

We've organized this information both by individual state and by U.S. Census regions to help you quickly compare requirements in your area. You'll also learn about the Social Work Licensure Compact, which is being enacted in multiple states to allow licensed social workers to practice across state lines, and discover which states offer the most streamlined paths to licensure through reciprocity agreements.

Whether you need a quick comparison of requirements or detailed state-specific guidance, this resource provides everything you need to plan your social work licensing journey.

Understanding Social Work License Levels

Most states offer multiple levels of social work licensure, each with distinct education requirements, supervision mandates, and scope of practice. Understanding these levels helps you plan your career path and determine which license aligns with your professional goals.

License titles vary significantly by state. Many states use LBSW or LSW designations for bachelor-level licenses, though some states (like Illinois) use LSW for master's-level non-clinical licenses. Always verify your state's specific terminology and requirements.

Bachelor-Level Licenses (LBSW, BSW, or LSW in some states) typically require a bachelor's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. Bachelor-level licensees work under supervision and cannot independently diagnose mental health conditions or provide clinical psychotherapy. This license is ideal for those working in case management, community outreach, or agency settings with supervision readily available.

LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) requires a master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. LMSW holders have completed graduate-level training but haven't yet accumulated the clinical hours needed for independent practice. The scope of practice varies by state, with some allowing limited independent work while others require ongoing supervision. This license typically requires 0-2,000 supervised hours beyond the Master's degree.

LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) represents the highest level of independent clinical practice. LCSWs can diagnose mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy, open private practices, and bill insurance independently. Most states require 3,000-4,000 hours of post-master's supervised clinical experience, with at least 100 hours of direct supervision from a qualified LCSW. This license opens the most career opportunities and commands higher salaries.

License Level Comparison

Some states use different terminology or offer additional license levels. For example, Massachusetts has LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker), Virginia offers both LSW and LMSW as separate licenses, and Illinois uses LSW for master's-level non-clinical practice. Always verify your specific state's requirements before beginning your licensure journey.

National Licensing Exams (ASWB)

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) develops and administers standardized licensing exams used by all U.S. states and territories. These computer-based exams ensure consistent professional standards across jurisdictions and make license portability possible. Understanding which exam level you need is critical to your licensing timeline.

ASWB offers four exam categories, each aligned with different education and experience levels. The Bachelors exam tests knowledge appropriate for entry-level BSW graduates. The Master's exam assesses competency for MSW holders entering the profession. The Advanced Generalist exam evaluates broader social work practice skills beyond clinical focus. The Clinical exam represents the highest level, testing advanced clinical knowledge in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.

Most states require the Clinical exam for LCSW licensure. Some states accept either the Clinical or Advanced Generalist exam, while Kentucky uses ASWB exams in conjunction with state requirements. Check your state board's requirements before registering.

Each exam contains 170 questions (150 scored, 20 unscored pilot questions) and allows four hours for completion. Questions use a multiple-choice format and test across four content areas: human development and behavior, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect practice, and professional relationships and ethics. ASWB does not use a fixed passing score; pass points vary by exam form, typically requiring approximately 90-107 correct answers out of 150 scored questions.

Exam fees: Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's exams cost $230 each. Advanced Generalist and Clinical exams cost $260 each. You'll register through your state board, which will issue an authorization to test once your application is approved. Most candidates receive preliminary results immediately upon completion, with official results and score transfers processed within 7-10 business days.

ASWB scores remain valid and transfer between states that use the same exam level. If you fail, ASWB requires a 90-day waiting period between attempts. Some state boards may set additional limits or offer waivers under specific circumstances. Check with your state board for jurisdiction-specific retake policies.

Preparation resources include ASWB's official practice tests ($85 each), study guides from major publishers like SWTP and Exam Prep, and online courses through platforms like TDC or Social Work Test Prep. Most successful candidates report studying 40-60 hours over 4-8 weeks before taking the exam.

Social Work Licensing Requirements: 50-State Comparison

Use this summary table to compare basic requirements across all 50 states. For complete details, including licensing board contacts, application fees, and specific supervision requirements, visit the regional guide for your state.

Social Work Salary by State

Social worker salaries vary significantly by state, specialty, and license level. LCSWs typically earn 20-40% more than LMSWs due to their ability to practice independently and bill insurance directly. Geographic location plays a significant role, with coastal states and metropolitan areas generally offering higher compensation.

According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data, national median annual wages for social workers are: Healthcare Social Workers (21-1022): $62,350; Child, Family, and School Social Workers (21-1021): $53,940; Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers (21-1023): $55,860. State-level salaries vary considerably, with some states paying 40-50% above national medians while others pay 20-30% below. Metropolitan areas within states often show significant wage premiums compared to rural areas.

For complete salary data by state and specialty, including 10th and 90th percentile earnings, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics database or your regional licensing guide below.

Regional Licensing Guides

We've organized detailed state-by-state licensing information into four regional guides based on U.S. Census regions. Each guide includes complete requirements, licensing board contacts, application fees, supervision details, and salary data for every state in that region.

West Region Social Work Licensing

States Covered: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming (13 states)

The West region shows considerable diversity in licensing requirements. California uses a unique two-tier system with Associate Social Worker (ASW) licensure before LCSW, while Montana only offers LCSW without bachelor's or master's-level licenses. Clinical hour requirements range from 2,000 in Nevada to 3,600 in New Mexico.

Regional Highlights:

• California requires both an ASWB Clinical exam AND a separate California Law and Ethics exam, with 3,000 hours (changed from previous 3,200)
• Oregon mandates a state-specific Rules and Laws exam in addition to the ASWB
• Alaska has unique continuing education requirements for Alaska Native cultural competency and teletherapy
• Nevada requires annual renewal with specific CE topics, including suicide prevention and diversity/equity/inclusion
• Four West region states (Colorado, Oregon, Utah, Washington) are among the 15 highest-traffic standalone license pages

Standalone State Guides in the West Region:

• Colorado Social Work Licensing
• Oregon Social Work Licensing
• Utah Social Work Licensing
• Washington Social Work Licensing

View Complete West Region Licensing Guide →

Midwest Region Social Work Licensing

States Covered: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin (12 states)

Midwest states generally require higher supervision hours than other regions, with Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, and Oklahoma all mandating 4,000 hours. Minnesota requires 4,000 hours with specific supervision categories. The region shows more uniformity in renewal cycles, with most states using two-year renewal periods.

Regional Highlights:

• Illinois no longer requires the ASWB exam for LSW licenses (changed in 2021); Illinois uses LSW for master's-level non-clinical practice
• Minnesota operates a four-tier system (LSW, LGSW, LISW, LICSW) with detailed supervision requirements
• Ohio changed its policy in 2016 to require the ASWB exam only for LISW, not LSW
• Michigan requires a Limited License first, then allows adding a Clinical or Macro designation after additional supervised hours
• Indiana offers the most detailed fee structure with clear costs at each licensure level

Standalone State Guides in the Midwest Region:

• Indiana Social Work Licensing
• Minnesota Social Work Licensing

View Complete Midwest Region Licensing Guide →

South Region Social Work Licensing

States Covered: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia (17 states - largest region)

The South region shows the most variation in licensing approaches. Kentucky uses ASWB exams for licensure. Louisiana requires annual renewal instead of biennial. Delaware offers LBSW, LMSW, and LCSW licenses. Florida offers LCSW, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern), and CMSW (Certified Master Social Worker). Mississippi requires 3,000 hours for LCSW.

Regional Highlights:

• Kentucky uses ASWB exams in conjunction with state requirements; 3-year renewal cycle
• Louisiana requires annual renewal (20 CE hours per year), while most states require renewal every 2 years
• Arkansas recently reduced CE requirements from 48 to 30 hours per renewal period (2024 change)
• Florida requires specific coursework in HIV/AIDS and domestic violence within 6 months of licensure
• Tennessee uses the CE Broker tracking system for continuing education
• Six South region states (Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia) are among the 15 highest-traffic standalone license pages

Standalone State Guides in the South Region:

• Arkansas Social Work Licensing
• Georgia Social Work Licensing
• Louisiana Social Work Licensing
• Maryland Social Work Licensing
• South Carolina Social Work Licensing
• Virginia Social Work Licensing

View Complete South Region Licensing Guide →

Northeast Region Social Work Licensing

States Covered: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont (9 states)

Northeast states generally have well-established licensing systems with clear pathways. Massachusetts offers the most detailed four-tier system (LSWA, LSW, LCSW, LICSW) with specific requirements at each level. The region includes some of the highest-paying states for social workers, with Massachusetts and Rhode Island leading salary ranges.

Regional Highlights:

• Massachusetts currently waives application fees due to grant funding (usually $173)
• Massachusetts offers a unique LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) designation beyond LCSW
• Rhode Island requires a Lan CSW before applying for an LICSW, creating a two-stage clinical licensure process
• New Jersey requires 3,000 total hours, including 1,920 face-to-face client contact hours
• Vermont only offers LCSW without a bachelor's or masters's-levellicense
• Three Northeast states (Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire) are among the 15 highest-traffic standalone license pages

Standalone State Guides in the Northeast Region:

• Connecticut Social Work Licensing
• Maine Social Work Licensing
• New Hampshire Social Work Licensing

View Complete Northeast Region Licensing Guide →

Social Work Licensure Compact

The Social Work Licensure Compact represents one of the most significant developments in social work mobility in decades. Multiple states are enacting this interstate agreement to allow licensed social workers to practice across state lines without obtaining multiple licenses, expanding career opportunities, and improving access to mental health services in underserved areas.

Several states have enacted the Social Work Licensure Compact legislation; however, multistate privileges are not yet being issued as the compact requires a minimum number of states to enact before implementation begins. For current information on which states have enacted compact legislation and the implementation timeline, see the official Social Work Licensure Compact website and its interactive status map.

The compact creates a "privilege to practice" system where social workers licensed in their home state can provide services in other compact states without going through full licensure processes in each location. Your home state license must be active and in good standing, and you'll pay a small fee to activate compact privileges in additional states once the compact becomes operational.

How the Compact Works: You maintain your primary license (called your "home state license") in the state where you live or work. Once you're licensed in a compact state and the compact is fully implemented, you'll be able to apply for "privilege to practice" in any other compact state. This isn't a separate license but rather an authorization that your home state license is recognized. You must follow the practice laws and regulations of the state where you're providing services, not your home state.

Anticipated Benefits:

• Practice across state lines for telehealth services without additional licenses.
• Maintain flexibility if you move to another compact state
• Provide services in disaster relief emergencies in other states
• Accept clients who temporarily relocate (military families, snowbirds, college students)
• Expand your practice to multiple states without prohibitive licensing costs

Important Notes: Each state sets its own requirements for initial licensure. The compact doesn't lower the bar for getting your first license - you still need to meet all education, supervision, and examination requirements. The compact will only facilitate interstate practice after you're already licensed. Check the official compact website for the most current list of participating states and implementation status.

License Reciprocity & Portability

Beyond the compact, most states offer some form of reciprocity or endorsement for licensed social workers relocating from other jurisdictions. Understanding these processes helps you plan career moves and avoid lengthy re-licensing procedures.

Endorsement vs. Reciprocity: These terms are often used interchangeably, but can have subtle differences. Endorsement means applying for a license in a new state based on your existing license from another state. The new state reviews your credentials and may waive specific requirements, such as retaking exams, if you meet its standards. Reciprocity typically refers to formal agreements between specific states to automatically recognize each other's licenses with minimal additional requirements.

ASWB Exam Score Portability: One significant advantage of the standardized ASWB exam system is score portability. If you passed the ASWB Clinical exam in one state, that passing score transfers to any other state that uses the same exam. You don't need to retake the exam when moving to a new state. However, some states set time limits on how old your exam score can be (typically 3-5 years), and a few require their own state-specific jurisprudence exams in addition to the ASWB exam. Score transfers through ASWB usually process within 7-10 business days.

Standard Requirements for Endorsement: When applying for licensure by endorsement in a new state, you'll typically need to demonstrate:

• Active, unrestricted license in your current state
• Passing the ASWB exam at the appropriate level
• Verification of your current permit sent directly from your state board
• Clean disciplinary history (no sanctions or restrictions)
• Completion of any state-specific requirements (jurisprudence exam, background check, specific coursework)
• Payment of application and license fees

States with Reciprocity Agreements: Many states have informal reciprocity arrangements, particularly for LCSWs. States with similar requirements (same ASWB exam, comparable supervision hours, equivalent education standards) typically process endorsement applications quickly. However, a few states have more restrictive policies. New Jersey, for example, requires all applicants to meet NJ-specific requirements regardless of where they were previously licensed, making the transfer process more complex.

Timeline Expectations: Endorsement applications typically process in 4-8 weeks, though timelines vary significantly by state. Some states offer expedited processing for military spouses or active-duty service members. Plan to begin your endorsement application 2-3 months before you need to practice in the new state. You may be able to secure a temporary permit in some states while your full license is pending.

Supervision Hours Transfer: If you're in the middle of accumulating supervised hours for LCSW when you move states, the transferability of these hours varies. Some states accept out-of-state supervision if it meets their standards and the supervisor holds appropriate credentials. Others require all supervision to occur in-state. Contact both your current state board and your intended destination state board early in the process to understand how your accumulated hours will transfer.

Cost Considerations: Endorsement applications generally cost more than renewal fees but less than initial licensure applications. Budget $150-$300 for the application itself, plus any additional costs for background checks ($25-$75), verification letters from your current state ($25-$50), and the actual license fee once approved. California and New York tend to have higher fee structures than most states.

Continuing Education Requirements

Continuing education (CE) ensures social workers maintain current knowledge and skills throughout their careers. Requirements vary significantly by state in terms of hours required, renewal periods, specific topics mandated, and approved provider criteria.

Why CE Matters: Beyond maintaining your license, continuing education keeps you current on evidence-based practices, ethical guidelines, and emerging treatment modalities. The social work field evolves continuously with new research on trauma-informed care, cultural competency, teletherapy protocols, and specialized intervention strategies. CE also provides networking opportunities and can open doors to new specializations.

Typical Requirements: Most states require 20-40 CE hours per two-year renewal period, though this varies considerably. Louisiana requires 20 hours annually (one of the highest when calculated biannually). Massachusetts requires CE only for LICSWs, not other license levels. Some states, like Kansas, mandate 50 hours every two years. Many states have specific CE requirements detailed on their board websites.

Ethics Requirements: Nearly every state mandates specific ethics continuing education, typically 2-6 hours per renewal cycle. These courses cover the NASW Code of Ethics, boundary issues, dual relationships, confidentiality in the digital age, and ethical decision-making frameworks. Many states require that ethics hours come from board-approved providers or include specific content areas.

Other Mandated Topics: States increasingly require CE in specific high-priority areas:

• Cultural Competency/Diversity: Required in many states (typically 2-4 hours)
• Suicide Prevention: Mandated in several states (1-3 hours), often after high-profile suicide awareness campaigns
• Teletherapy/Telehealth: Emerging requirement in states like Alaska
• Trauma-Informed Care: Increasingly requested, though not always mandated
• Substance Abuse: Required in states heavily impacted by the opioid crisis
• State Laws and Regulations: Some states require updates on jurisdiction-specific practice rules

Approved Providers: States vary in how strictly they regulate CE providers. Some maintain approved provider lists (requiring pre-approval of courses and instructors), while others accept any CE from NASW-approved providers or ASWB-approved continuing education. Most states accept online CE courses, though some cap the number of online hours you can count toward your requirement. Live webinars typically count differently from entirely self-paced online courses.

Documentation and Audits: You're responsible for maintaining documentation of completed CE courses for a specified period (typically 4-6 years). Keep certificates of completion with the provider name, course title, credit hours, date completed, and instructor credentials. Many states use audit systems, randomly selecting a percentage of licensees to verify CE compliance at renewal. If audited and unable to produce documentation, you face penalties ranging from fines to license suspension.

Pro Bono and Volunteer Credit: Some states (like Virginia) allow a small number of CE hours to be earned through providing pro bono services to underserved populations. This recognizes that clinical work with vulnerable populations provides ongoing learning opportunities while addressing workforce shortages.

Planning Your CE: Start accumulating hours early in your renewal cycle rather than scrambling in the final months. Front-loading CE protects you if unexpected life events make it challenging to complete hours near your renewal deadline. Take advantage of free CE opportunities through NASW chapter meetings, university guest lectures, and agency in-service trainings. However, always verify these hours are board-approved before assuming they'll count.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between LCSW and LMSW?

LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) requires an MSW degree but limited post-graduate supervised hours. In contrast, an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) requires an MSW, 3,000-4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing the ASWB Clinical exam. LCSWs can diagnose mental health conditions, provide independent psychotherapy, bill insurance directly, and open private practices. LMSWs typically work under supervision and have a more limited scope of clinical practice, though specific restrictions vary by state.

Can I practice in multiple states with one license?

Once the Social Work Licensure Compact is fully implemented, licensed social workers in participating states will be able to practice in other compact states by activating "privilege to practice." For non-compact states or until implementation, you'll need to obtain separate licenses through endorsement or reciprocity processes. Telehealth adds complexity - you typically need licensure in the state where your client is physically located during sessions, not just where you're located.

How long does it take to become an LCSW?

The timeline typically spans 4-6 years after high school: 4 years for a BSW (optional), 2 years for an MSW, and 2-3 years accumulating supervised clinical hours post-MSW. If you begin with a bachelor's degree in another field, add time for foundation courses or an additional year in your MSW program. Working part-time or accumulating hours slowly can extend the post-MSW period to 4-5 years. Most social workers hold an LCSW 6-8 years after completing their undergraduate degree.

Do I need to retake the ASWB exam if I move to another state?

No. ASWB exam scores transfer between all states that use the ASWB examination system. However, some states set time limits on how old your passing score can be (typically 3-5 years), and a few require additional state-specific jurisprudence exams. California needs both the ASWB Clinical exam and a separate California Law and Ethics exam. Oregon requires an Oregon Rules and Laws exam in addition to the ASWB exam.

Can I get licensed with an MSW in a field other than social work?

No. All states require your master's degree to be specifically in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program. A master's degree in counseling, psychology, or another helping profession doesn't qualify for social work licensure, even if coursework overlaps significantly. However, some states accept MSW degrees from programs in CSWE candidacy status (working toward but not yet holding full accreditation).

What is clinical supervision, and where do I find a supervisor?

Clinical supervision involves regular meetings (typically weekly or biweekly) with a licensed LCSW who reviews your client cases, treatment planning, interventions, and professional development. Supervisors must meet state-specific qualifications (often 2-5 years post-LCSW experience and sometimes specific supervision training). Many agencies provide supervision as part of employment. For private practice supervision, expect to pay $50-$150 per session. Your state board often maintains supervisor lists, or you can check with your MSW program alumni network and local NASW chapter.

How much does social work licensing cost?

Total costs vary by state but typically range from $500 to $1,200 for initial LCSW licensure. This includes application fees ($75-$300), ASWB exam registration ($230 for Associate/Bachelors/Masters exams, $260 for Advanced Generalist/Clinical exams), license fees ($50-$200), criminal background checks ($25-$75), and required coursework in some states. California has one of the highest cost structures with ASW and LCSW as separate applications. Don't forget ongoing costs for supervision (often $2,000-$6,000 total if paying privately), CE courses ($200-$500 per renewal cycle), and biennial renewal fees.

Can I start accumulating supervised hours before graduation?

Requirements vary significantly by state. Some states allow practicum or internship hours completed during your MSW program to count toward post-degree supervision requirements, while others require all hours to occur after degree conferral. Most states require supervision to begin after you graduate and receive your MSW, not before. A few states allow hours to accumulate once you're registered or hold a provisional license. Check your specific state board's policies before assuming any pre-graduation hours will count.

What happens if I let my license expire?

Most states offer a grace period (30-90 days past expiration) where you can renew with a late fee. Beyond that, you enter "expired" status and cannot practice. Some states allow reinstatement within 1-2 years if you pay back fees and complete missed CE hours. After longer lapses (typically 3-5 years), you may need to reapply as a new applicant, potentially retaking exams. California notably offers no grace period - an expired license immediately becomes invalid, requiring a new application. Never practice on an expired license, as this constitutes unlicensed practice and can result in criminal charges.

Do all states require the same ASWB exam?

Almost all states use ASWB exams (Bachelor's, Master's, Advanced Generalist, or Clinical levels). Most states require the Clinical exam for LCSW, though some accept either the Clinical or the Advanced General exam. Illinois no longer requires any ASWB exam for LSW (changed in 2021), only for LCSW. A few states, like California and Oregon, require additional state-specific law and ethics exams beyond the ASWB exams. Even when states use the same ASWB exam, they may set different passing score requirements or limit how old your passing score can be.

Can I be licensed in multiple states simultaneously?

Yes. You can hold active licenses in multiple states at the same time. This is common for border-area practitioners or those who provide telehealth across state lines. However, maintaining various licenses means paying multiple renewal fees, completing CE requirements for each state (which may differ), and ensuring you're current on each state's specific practice regulations. Once fully implemented, the Social Work Licensure Compact will simplify this for participating states by allowing the privilege to practice rather than requiring full licenses in each state.

What's the fastest path to LCSW licensure?

The fastest pathway involves: (1) BSW from a CSWE-accredited program (4 years), (2) Advanced Standing MSW program (1 year instead of 2), (3) Full-time agency job supervising clinical experience included (2 years minimum to accumulate hours), (4) Taking the ASWB Clinical exam immediately upon meeting eligibility. This compresses the timeline to about 7 years post-high school. Without a BSW, expect a minimum of 8-9 years. Part-time work, difficulty finding qualified supervision, or failing the exam extends the timeline. Some accelerated MSW programs offer compressed scheduling, but you still need post-degree supervised hours.

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Featured Program: Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months with top-10 ranked Northwestern University's online master's in counseling program; no GRE required.

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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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