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What Is an LCSW?

What the letters mean, and how it compares with other kinds of therapists.

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The Letters

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

An LCSW holds a master's degree in social work, has completed thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience, and has passed a licensing exam. In California, LCSWs are licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences and can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions.

Tatiana earned her master's in Clinical Social Work at Boston University and is licensed in California.

Who Does What

Topic	Degree	Prescribes?	Often Known For
LCSW	Master's in social work	No	Therapy with attention to a person's environment and resources
Psychologist	Doctorate	No in California	Therapy and psychological testing
Psychiatrist	Medical degree	Yes	Medication and diagnosis
LMFT or LPCC	Master's	No	Therapy, couples and family or general counseling

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The Social Work Lens

Social workers are trained to look at the person in their situation. Housing, work, family, racism, money, and faith all count as part of the picture. That is one reason Tatiana can engage people from all walks of life, and it is why her work runs from one-on-one sessions to groups and staff training.

Your Protection

Why a License Matters

A license comes with a code of ethics, continuing education, confidentiality duties, and a state board you can complain to. It is one way to tell a licensed clinician from someone offering counseling without a license.