Social Workers – Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Many licensed clinical social workers work in private practice, either solo or in a group with other social workers or mental health professionals. Those working in private practice often handle their own recordkeeping and billing. Licensed clinical social workers also work in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers, school districts, and nursing and residential care facilities.  They may visit clients in their homes or in other locations to provide treatment.

Licensed clinical social worker salaries vary greatly depending on setting and specialty. Self-employed counselors typically earn higher salaries than employed ones, but they must cover their own practice insurance, health insurance, and retirement.

Median annual salary: $78,255

Entry-level annual salary: $52,750

Health care social workers are expected to grow statewide by 27% between 2022 and 2032, with more 1,750 average annual openings.

Social workers typically have a degree in social work from an educational program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is the most common minimum requirement to qualify for a job as a social worker; however, majors in psychology, sociology, and related fields may qualify for some entry-level jobs, especially in small community-based organizations. A master’s degree in clinical social work required for treating patients and is required for New York State licensure. Master’s degrees generally take 2 years to complete. All social work programs require students to complete supervised fieldwork or internships.

In New York State, there are 2 professional licenses for social workers, with different qualifications. Social work professionals licensed by New York may legally use the title Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). The LCSW may provide all social work services, including clinical services such as the diagnosis of mental, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and addictive disorders, the development of treatment plans, and the provision of psychotherapy. To be licensed in New York State, LCSWs and LMSWs must receive a master’s degree from a graduate school of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and pass a national licensing exam. LCSWs must complete their master’s degrees that includes clinical courses, have 3 years of post-degree supervised experience in clinical social work, and also pass a clinical licensing examination.

Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.