Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) in Texas are highly trained mental health professionals who provide services such as psychotherapy, mental health assessments, and clinical diagnoses. As demand for mental health services continues to grow across the state, the LCSW designation offers MSW graduates a clear path to clinical practice and professional advancement.
This article explains how to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas—from earning your LMSW to completing supervision and passing the ASWB Clinical Exam. It also highlights graduate programs that align with Texas licensure standards, helping you plan your path toward clinical social work practice with confidence.
If you’re just beginning your journey in the field, consider starting with a social work bachelor’s degree or an online BSW, both of which lay the foundation for graduate-level clinical training.
What Is an LCSW in Texas?
The Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is the highest level of licensure for social workers in Texas who wish to provide mental health services independently. LCSWs are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat emotional and behavioral disorders using evidence-based clinical methods such as psychotherapy and counseling. They may work in private practice, hospitals, community agencies, or telehealth settings.
Key Differences Between LMSW and LCSW
In Texas, the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) is the initial licensure level granted after completing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passing the ASWB Master’s exam. LMSWs can provide services under supervision but are not authorized to diagnose mental health conditions or practice independently.
In contrast, an LCSW has completed extensive post-graduate clinical training and passed the ASWB Clinical exam, allowing them to:
- Practice independently without supervision
- Conduct psychosocial assessments and provide clinical diagnoses
- Offer psychotherapy and counseling
- Supervise LMSWs and clinical social work interns (after meeting supervision training requirements)
Clinical Authority of LCSWs in Texas
Under Texas law, LCSWs are considered licensed mental health professionals with the legal authority to:
- Diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders
- Provide psychotherapy, including individual, group, couples, and family counseling
- Bill insurance companies for covered clinical services
- Operate a private practice or lead clinical teams within agencies
For MSW graduates and current LMSWs in Texas, achieving LCSW status opens the door to more autonomy, broader job opportunities, and the potential for a higher LCSW salary.
LCSW Requirements in Texas
To become an LCSW in Texas, you must follow a structured process overseen by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) and the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners. Below is a step-by-step overview of the LCSW licensure process, aligned with the state’s current requirements as of 2025.
1. Hold an LMSW License
Before pursuing clinical licensure, you must obtain the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential by:
- Earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- Passing the ASWB Master’s Examination
- Completing the Texas Jurisprudence Exam (available online through BHEC)
Once these steps are completed, you can apply for LMSW licensure through the BHEC Online Licensing System.
2. Gain Supervised Clinical Experience
After becoming an LMSW, you must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience under the guidance of a board-approved LCSW. Requirements include:
- A minimum of 100 hours of direct supervision
- The supervision must occur over a period of at least 24 consecutive months
- Supervision must be provided by an LCSW who has completed the required supervisor training
- All hours must be documented using the Clinical Supervision Verification Form provided by BHEC
You may begin accruing hours only after becoming an LMSW and securing an approved supervisor.
3. Apply for the ASWB Clinical Exam
Once you are nearing completion of your supervision hours, you may apply directly to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) to take the Clinical Exam.
- No pre-approval from BHEC is required at this stage
- After passing the exam, ASWB will send your score to BHEC automatically
4. Complete the Jurisprudence Exam
The Texas Jurisprudence Exam must be completed within six months prior to submitting your LCSW application.
- The exam covers state laws, rules, and ethics relevant to clinical social work
- After passing, you’ll receive a certificate of completion to upload with your license application
5. Apply for the LCSW License via BHEC
You must submit your complete application through the BHEC Online Licensing System. Required materials include:
- Jurisprudence Exam certificate
- Clinical Supervision Verification Form
- NPDB self-query report (National Practitioner Data Bank)
- Fingerprints for background check (initiated after submitting your online application)
- Official graduate transcripts (sent directly from your MSW program to BHEC)
Once approved, you will receive your LCSW license, authorizing you to practice independently as a clinical social worker in Texas.
Educational Programs to Prepare for LCSW Licensure
Choosing a graduate program is a key first step toward becoming an LCSW in Texas. To qualify for LMSW and LCSW licensure, you must earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
Many Texas universities offer MSW programs with clinical or advanced practice tracks that include fieldwork and coursework in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment—core components for clinical licensure. The list also includes CSWE-accredited online MSW programs.
The programs listed below are CSWE-accredited as of 2025 and meet Texas’s educational requirements for LCSW licensure.
1. Abilene Christian University
2. Angelo State University
3. Baylor University
4. East Texas A&M University
5. Our Lady of the Lake University
6. Prairie View A&M University
7. Stephen F. Austin State University
8. Tarleton State University
9. Texas A&M University-Kingsville
10. Texas A&M University-Texarkana
11. Texas Christian University
12. Texas State University
13. Texas Tech University
14. Texas Woman’s University
15. University of Houston
16. University of North Texas
17. University of Texas at Arlington
18. University of Texas at Austin
19. University of Texas at El Paso
20. University of Texas at San Antonio
21. University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
22. West Texas A&M University
With a wide range of CSWE-accredited MSW programs across the state, Texas offers strong academic pathways for those pursuing clinical social work licensure. Choosing a program that aligns with your goals and meets LCSW requirements can set the foundation for a successful and impactful career in mental health care.
Maintaining Your LCSW License in Texas
Once you’ve earned your LCSW credential in Texas, staying in good standing requires meeting ongoing professional responsibilities. These include continuing education, timely renewals, and optional training if you wish to supervise future clinical social workers.
Continuing Education Requirements
To renew your LCSW license, you must complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This total must include:
- 6 hours in ethics or ethical practice
- CE hours must be earned through approved providers or activities listed in BHEC’s continuing education rules
License Renewal Process
- Licenses are renewed every two years through the BHEC Online Licensing System
- You’ll need to attest to your completed CE hours during the renewal process
- Keep documentation of CE activities for at least three years in case of audit
Supervision Training for LCSWs
If you wish to supervise LMSWs working toward clinical licensure:
- You must complete a BHEC-approved 40-hour supervision training course
- Your LCSW license must be in good standing for at least two years
- Once approved, you’ll be eligible to provide the required 3,000 hours of clinical supervision to LMSWs
Maintaining your license not only ensures compliance with state law—it also supports your continued growth as a clinical social worker and allows you to contribute to the development of future professionals in the field.
FAQ: LCSW Requirements in Texas
Can I apply for the ASWB Clinical Exam before finishing my 3,000 hours?
Yes. In Texas, you may apply directly to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) to take the Clinical Exam once you are nearing the completion of your supervised hours. Pre-approval from BHEC is not required, but you must still pass the exam before submitting your LCSW application.
What happens if I switch supervisors during my supervision period?
Switching supervisors is allowed, but you must ensure that:
- Each supervisor is board-approved to provide clinical supervision
- You use a separate Clinical Supervision Verification Form for each supervisor
- All supervision hours are properly documented and signed
How long does the LCSW application process usually take?
Processing times can vary, but applicants should generally expect:
- Several weeks for BHEC to review the application once all materials are submitted
- Delays if documentation (such as transcripts or the NPDB report) is missing or incomplete
Starting early and double-checking your materials can help reduce delays.
Can out-of-state supervision hours be transferred for Texas licensure?
Yes, Texas may accept out-of-state clinical hours, but they must meet the same requirements applied to Texas-based supervision:
- Supervision must be completed after earning your MSW
- Supervisors must hold appropriate clinical licensure in the state where supervision occurred
- You must provide complete documentation that aligns with Texas standards
It’s recommended to contact BHEC in advance if your supervision took place outside of Texas to ensure compatibility.
Planning Your Path to LCSW Licensure
For MSW graduates and LMSWs in Texas, becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is a major professional milestone. Careful planning and proactive organization can help you avoid delays and meet all requirements smoothly. Here are key strategies to stay on track:
Start Supervision Tracking Early
As soon as you begin accruing post-MSW clinical hours, start logging your time and supervision sessions using the Clinical Supervision Verification Form provided by BHEC. Keeping records up to date will simplify your application process later.
Communicate Regularly with Your Supervisor
Check in frequently with your board-approved LCSW supervisor to ensure your clinical experience aligns with state requirements. Make sure your supervision includes regular discussions of clinical skills, ethics, and assessment practices.
Use BHEC’s Online Tools and Licensing Portal
The BHEC Online Licensing System is your central hub for license applications, renewals, and documentation uploads. Take advantage of BHEC’s checklists, forms, and guidance documents to avoid common mistakes.
Bookmark Key Resources
Staying organized means having the right tools at your fingertips. Be sure to bookmark:
- ASWB – Clinical Exam Registration and Info
- BHEC – Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
- Texas Jurisprudence Exam Portal
- NPDB Self-Query
- CSWE Accredited Program Directory
By understanding the full process and leveraging available resources, you’ll be well-positioned to earn your LCSW license and advance your career in clinical social work across Texas.