Licensed Master Social Worker License in Vermont

Vermont licenses social workers through the Office of Professional Regulation, offering Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) credentials. The LICSW requires an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, the ASWB Clinical exam, and at least two years of supervised clinical experience. Continuing education is required for biennial renewal. Vermont is a small, predominantly rural state that faces significant social work workforce challenges across nearly all communities. The state's aging population creates growing demand for geriatric social workers. Vermont has been a leader in community-based mental health services through its designated agency system, which employs a large number of social workers. The University of Vermont produces social work graduates, but the state's small scale means workforce pipeline issues are magnified. Vermont has explored the Social Work Licensure Compact, which would be particularly beneficial given the state's proximity to New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New York labor markets. Background checks are required.