Supervision
Getting Started with LCSW Supervision
What to Expect
As a licensed LMSW seeking supervision, you’ll meet with your supervisor for 4 hours per month. In my program, all sessions are held online via Zoom, allowing you to participate from anywhere in Texas. I offer two group supervision schedules to fit your needs:
• Once a week for one hour
• Twice a month for two hours
You’ll need to complete 100 hours of supervision over at least 24 months. While there’s no longer a maximum time limit for completing supervision, you must meet specific employment criteria:
• Full-time employment (30+ hours/week): Eligible to complete supervision in about 24 months.
• Part-time employment (15–29 hours/week): Eligible to complete supervision in up to 48 months. Part-time employees must complete one hour of supervision for every 40 hours worked (usually 2–3 hours/month).
To qualify for the LCSW exam, you’ll need 3,000 total work hours, which include your supervision period.
When I began my own LCSW supervision, I participated in group sessions, and an occasional individual session when needed. I found group supervision particularly helpful because it included diverse perspectives from peers working in various fields.
Does My Job Qualify as Clinical Social Work?
This is a common question. According to the board, you qualify for LCSW supervision if you regularly assess, diagnose, and treat mental health or substance use issues using DSM-5 criteria for at least four hours per week. Even if formal diagnoses are made by other licensed professionals (e.g., physicians or psychiatrists), utilizing diagnostic tools and clinical skills in your role often fulfills this requirement.
Social workers seeking supervision are employed in diverse settings, including behavioral health facilities, hospitals, hospice, schools, private practices, CPS, non-profits, military bases, insurance companies, and correctional facilities. If your job involves client interaction and clinical skills, it’s likely you meet the criteria.
What Is a Typical Group Like?
In group supervision, members present cases or ethical dilemmas from their work. Feedback is provided by both myself and other group members. Topics often include:
• Understanding DSM-5 criteria
• Exploring therapeutic modalities and formulating treatment plans
• Preparing for the LCSW exam
• Navigating macro and mezzo issues that impact clinical practice
I aim to help my supervisees not only grow as clinicians but also confidently pass their licensing exam.
Program Costs
Group Supervision:
Individual Supervision:
Many employers offer reimbursement for supervision costs—be sure to ask!
Step 1: Intro to Supervision Session
We host free introductory sessions several times a year to help you understand the supervision process and determine if we’re a good fit.
Step 2: Sign Up and Paperwork
Once you decide to move forward, we’ll complete the necessary supervision agreement and clinical supervision plan.
Step 3: Begin Your Journey
Join group or individual sessions, and gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to pass your LCSW exam and excel in your career.
