Learn how to become a licensed Social Worker In Missouri. License, education, and employment information for anyone interested in Social Work in Missouri. Often referred to as the Show-Me State, Missouri is in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by eight states, including Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska to the north, Kansas to the west, and Arkansas and Tennessee to the south.
Missouri has a rich history and diverse geography. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, ranging from the expansive plains in the north to the rolling Ozark Mountains in the south. The state is also renowned for its two major rivers, the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, which have played a significant role in its development. The capital of Missouri is Jefferson City, while its largest city is Kansas City. Other major cities include St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia, which is home to the University of Missouri. The state offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. St. Louis is famous for its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant music scene, while Kansas City is renowned for its jazz heritage and delicious barbecue.
Why Become a Social Worker in Missouri?
Missouri has a thriving economy with a strong presence in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and technology industries. The state is known for its agricultural products, including soybeans, corn, and beef. Major companies like Anheuser-Busch and Monsanto have their headquarters in Missouri.
There are two broad types of social work. Direct practice Social Work requires a license in some states and an undergraduate degree. These professionals help clients through challenges by assessing needs and finding resources. However, all states require a license to practice Clinical Social Work and typically a master’s degree. Clinical social work involves treating mental and behavioral health, or also emotional issues. Each state has a slightly different process for how to become a social worker and for how to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
What are the Clinical Social Work Education Requirements in Missouri?
Clinical social work education requirements in Missouri follow the guidelines set by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee for a Social Worker. The following are the general education requirements to become a clinical social worker in Missouri:
Bachelor’s Degree:
The first step to becoming a licensed baccalaureate social worker in Missouri is to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from an accredited institution. Then, becoming a licensed baccalaureate social worker typically takes four years of full-time study.
Master’s Degree:
After completing a BSW, prospective clinical social workers must obtain a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Furthermore, MSW social work degree programs typically take two years to complete if pursued full-time.
Field Experience:
During the MSW program, students must complete a minimum of 900 clock hours of supervised field experience. This typically involves working directly with clients in a social work setting under the supervision of a licensed master social worker.
Licensure:
After completing the required education, individuals can apply for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri. The licensure process entails submitting an application, passing a jurisprudence exam, and also completing a criminal background check. Additionally, LCSW candidates must complete at least two years (3,000 hours) of post-graduate supervised clinical practice under the supervision of a qualified LCSW.
Examination:
Once the required supervised clinical practice hours are completed, individuals must pass the Association of Social Work Boards ASWB clinical exam to become licensed as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri.
Continuing Education:
Continuing education is required for the remainder of your career to become a social worker. Some continuing education is offered at a college or university program. You will complete these continuing education classes even if you took an ASWB advanced generalist exam.
It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change, and it is advisable to check with the Missouri Division of Professional Registration and Committee for Licensed Social Workers for the most up-to-date information on clinical social work education requirements in Missouri.
What Are the Social Work Licensing Requirements in Missouri?
The Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee for Social Workers regulates the licensing requirements for a social worker in Missouri. To become a licensed master social worker in Missouri, prospective social workers must meet the following requirements:
Education: Obtain a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Social Work (BSW or MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Field Experience: Complete the required amount of supervised field experience, which varies based on the level of education. BSW holders require at least 400 hours of supervised field experience. MSW holders need at least 3,000 hours of supervised professional practice, with 1,500 hours in direct client contact.
Examination: Pass the applicable examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). The level of examination depends on the desired licensure: the Bachelor’s Level Examination for the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) or the Clinical Level Examination for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to practice clinical social work.
Application: Apply to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee for Social Workers, along with the required documentation, fees, and verification of education and field experience.
What Are the Social Work Licenses in Missouri?
The Missouri Division of Professional Registration Committee for Social Workers oversees licensing in the state.
- Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker ( LBSW )
- Licensed Master Social Worker ( LMSW )
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker ( LCSW )
- Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker ( LAMSW )
Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW)
These professionals complete advanced training and also acquire a license to practice as a macro social worker LAMSW. A Macro social worker LAMSW involves working at the community, organizational, and policy levels rather than providing direct individual or clinical services.
A Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker LAMSW focuses on addressing social issues and implementing interventions that can have a broader impact on society. They engage in activities such as community organizing, policy development and analysis, program evaluation, and advocacy for social justice. They may work in various settings, including nonprofits, government agencies, research institutions, and community-based organizations.
To become a Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker, individuals typically need to complete a graduate degree in social work (Master of Social Work) and pass a licensing exam. The specific requirements for licensure may vary depending on the country or state. Licensure ensures that social workers have met the necessary education and competency standards to practice macro social work ethically and effectively.
It’s essential to note that the requirements may vary based on the specific type of social work license desired, and it’s recommended to visit the official website of the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee for Social Workers, for the most up-to-date and accurate information on licensing requirements.
Can You Get a Social Work License by Endorsement in Missouri?
Yes, you can obtain a social work license by endorsement in Missouri. Individuals who hold a social work license in another state and wish to practice in Missouri can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Here are the steps to apply for a social work license by endorsement in Missouri:
1. Meet Educational Requirements
Ensure that you meet the education requirements for the specific type of social work license you seek. This typically involves holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Social Work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
2. Complete Field Experience
If required, complete the supervised field experience specified by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee for Social Workers. The field experience requirements may vary based on the specific license you are seeking. This may include suicide prevention training.
3. Verify Out-of-State Licensure
Verify your current social work license from the state where you are currently licensed. This typically involves submitting a Verification of Licensure form directly from the licensing board in the state where you hold a license.
4. Completing the Application
Complete the application for licensure by endorsement, which can be obtained from the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Committee of Social Workers.
5. Submit Required Documentation
Along with the completed application, you must submit additional documentation. Some required items include transcripts, verification of field experience and supervised experience, and also any other supporting documents requested by the licensing board.
6. Criminal Background Check
Complete a criminal background check as the Missouri Division of Professional Registration requires.
7. Application Fee
Pay the applicable application fee as specified by the licensing board. It is important to note that specific requirements and processes may vary, so it is recommended to consult the official website of the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Missouri Committee of Social Workers, for the most up-to-date and accurate information on obtaining a social work license by endorsement in Missouri.
How Much do Social Workers Make in Missouri?
According to labor statistics, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for social workers in Missouri is $52,530. Additionally, the earnings for a licensed social worker in Missouri can vary based on multiple factors such as the level of education, specialization, experience, and the specific geographic location within the state. For example, social workers in metropolitan areas like St. Louis and Kansas City earn higher salaries than those in rural areas.
Here is a breakdown of the median annual wages for different social work occupations in Missouri as reported by the BLS:
| Missouri Social Work Career | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $51,460 (BLS) |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $57,920 (BLS) |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $49,850 (BLS) |
| Social Workers, All Other | $67,710 (BLS) |
| Social Work Teacher, Postsecondary | $66,790 (BLS) |
Remember that these figures are median wages, meaning that half of social workers in Missouri may earn more or less than these amounts. Additionally, salaries can vary based on factors including education, experience, and employer type (e.g., government, non-profit, or private sector).
What Type of Careers Can Social Workers Get In Missouri?
Social workers in Missouri can find a variety of career paths and employment opportunities. Some common career options for social workers in Missouri include:
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
These social workers specialize in providing services to children and families, including child welfare, adoption, foster care, and school counseling.
Healthcare Social Workers
They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings to assist patients and their families in navigating medical challenges, addressing emotional and psychological needs, and connecting them with necessary resources.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
These professionals help individuals and families manage mental health issues, addiction, and substance abuse disorders, providing therapy, counseling, and support services.
Clinical Social Workers
They engage in therapeutic work with individuals, couples, and families, providing counseling and mental health services. These clinical social work services may include private practice or working in mental health agencies.
Geriatric Social Workers
They specialize in providing support and services to older adults, assisting with healthcare, housing, and overall well-being issues.
Community Social Workers
They work in community-based organizations, non-profits, and also government agencies. These professionals provide services and advocate for the needs of both individuals and families in the community.
Policy Advocates and Researchers
These social workers focus on influencing social policies, conducting research, and advocating for social justice and equity. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, and also advocacy organizations.
School Social Workers
They work directly within schools to support students’ social, emotional, and also academic well-being. They provide counseling, and crisis intervention, and connect students and families with community resources.
Occupational Social Workers
They work in workplace settings to provide support and resources to employees, addressing issues such as workplace conflicts, stress management, and employee well-being.
These are just a few examples of the career paths available to social workers in Missouri. The field of social work offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals who are passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in their communities.
Social Work Organizations in Missouri
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Missouri Chapter (NASW MO)
- Missouri Society for Clinical Social Work (MSCSW)
- School Social Workers Association of Missouri (SSWAM)
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