What’s the difference between an LMSW and an LCSW?
Learning the difference between an LMSW vs. LCSW can be confusing when considering which social work path to take. Find out more about these social work license types and how they fit into the social work field.
By: Heather Rose Artushin, LISW-CP, Edited by: Rebecca Munday, Reviewed by: Melissa Bronstein, LICSW
Last updated: June 30, 2025
Key differences between an LMSW and LCSW
After earning your master of social work (MSW), you can choose to become a licensed master of social work (LMSW), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or your state's licensing equivalent.
LMSWs
LMSWs must earn an MSW and an LMSW license. These social work generalists work in many different environments at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. They can only practice generalist social work independently. To provide clinical social work services, such as mental health counseling, they must work under the supervision of an LCSW or a licensed psychologist (LP).
LCSWs
LCSWs must earn an MSW and an LCSW license. Like LMSWs, LCSWs can perform various micro, mezzo, and macro duties. However, their clinical license allows them to work independently in clinical, advocacy, and supervisory roles. Unlike other types of social workers, LCSWs can diagnose mental health conditions and practice clinical social work independently, if desired.
Education and licensure requirements
There are several key similarities and differences in education and licensure requirements for LMSWs vs. LCSWs.
Both LMSWs and LCSWs must first earn a master's in social work from a program that's accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which includes a supervised internship. Generalist program tracks allow students to learn about both clinical and macro social work practice, while clinical program tracks focus on mental health services and advanced interpersonal practice skills.
Post-graduation, LMSWs are eligible for licensure after passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) master's or advanced generalist exam, depending on their state. If LMSWs take on a clinical role, they must practice under the supervision of a fully licensed LCSW.
Aspiring LCSWs must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience with a limited license before passing the ASWB clinical exam and applying for full clinical licensure. With an LCSW license, social workers can practice clinical social work independently.
Requirements and license titles vary by state, so check with your state's social work licensing board to learn more.
Scope of practice and responsibilities
The scope of practice for LMSWs vs. LCSWs varies depending on the practice setting and client population.
LMSWs work in a wide range of settings. Some work as medical social workers, while others practice in underserved communities. Many LMSWs assume administrative or leadership roles in nonprofit organizations or government agencies.
LCSWs work in clinical practice, providing therapy services in both inpatient and outpatient settings with children, adults, families, and couples.
| LMSWs | LCSWs |
|---|---|
| Community Organizing | Assessment |
| Case management | Evidence-based intervention |
| Advocacy | Diagnosing mental health disorders |
| Administration | Counseling |
| Management | Facilitating therapy groups |
Salary and career outlook
Your earning potential as a licensed social worker depends on several factors, including your location, experience, and specialization.
Generally, social workers with an MSW tend to make more than those with a bachelor's in social work. See the table below to learn more about social workers' median annual salaries and job outlook by specialty.
| Social work specialty | Median annual salary (May 2024) | Projected job growth (2023-33) |
|---|---|---|
| Child, family, and school social workers | $58,570 | +5% |
| Mental health and substance use social workers | $60,060 | +12% |
| Healthcare social workers | $68,090 | +10% |
| Social workers, all other | $69,480 | +5% |
| All social workers | $61,330 | +7% |
Should I become an LMSW or LCSW?
Deciding what the best social work license type is for you (LMSW vs. LCSW) depends on your unique career goals. If you are interested in working primarily on a mezzo or macro level, contributing to community-wide transformation, policy changes, or organization management, an LMSW might be right for you.
If you're most interested in working with individuals, children and youth, or families who are managing situations related to mental health, consider going on to pursue LCSW licensure so you can provide clinical therapy services in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Once you are fully licensed, you can even start your own private practice. This opinion allows you to have full control over your schedule and earning potential.
Those who want to enter the field of social work as quickly as possible might opt for an LMSW license, which is available immediately after graduating with an MSW. The LCSW license requires at least two years of supervised postgraduate experience to earn.
Others, who want to practice clinical social work independently, might find the extra investment in LCSW licensure to be well worth it.
Take time to examine your aspirations and timeline to make the best decision for you.