California Board Considers Predegree Hours for LCSW and LPCC Licensure

In a recent meeting of the Board of Behavioral Sciences, significant discussions centered around the potential inclusion of pre-degree hours for applicants seeking licensure as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) in California. This proposal aims to align the requirements for social work students with those of Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainees, who are currently allowed to earn up to 1,300 supervised hours before graduation.

The board acknowledged the importance of these pre-degree hours, which encompass various activities such as client advocacy, consultation, and direct supervision. Advocates for the change emphasized that these hours are crucial for preparing social work students to meet the standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and to effectively engage in practices that promote social justice and equity.

During the meeting, board members expressed their intent to explore the possibility of counting these pre-degree hours for both LCSWs and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) as part of a phased approach. This initiative is expected to enhance the training and readiness of future social workers while maintaining compliance with universal licensing requirements.

The board unanimously voted to direct staff to pursue legislative proposals that would incorporate the discussed changes into the Business and Professions Code. This decision reflects a commitment to improving the educational framework for social work professionals in California, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve diverse communities.

As the board continues to evaluate these changes, residents can anticipate updates that may significantly impact the landscape of social work education and practice in the state. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential legislative actions aimed at refining the licensure process for aspiring social workers.