Kentucky Board Of Social Work Licensing Guide

The state of Kentucky takes pride in its commitment to protecting the public's health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that only qualified and competent social workers are licensed to practice. As a prospective social worker, obtaining a license from the Kentucky Board of Social Work is a crucial step in launching your career. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of becoming a licensed social worker in Kentucky, covering the requirements, application process, and what to expect.

Understanding the Kentucky Board of Social Work

The Kentucky Board of Social Work is responsible for regulating the practice of social work in the state. The Board's primary mission is to protect the public by ensuring that social workers meet the necessary standards of education, training, and experience. The Board is composed of seven members, including five licensed social workers, one consumer member, and one member from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Licensure Requirements in Kentucky

To become a licensed social worker in Kentucky, you'll need to meet the following requirements:

Education

Earn a master's degree in social work (MSW) or a doctoral degree in social work (DSW) from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program.
Complete a minimum of 900 hours of supervised field experience.

Examination

Pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) clinical or advanced generalist exam, depending on the level of licensure you're seeking.

Background Check

Undergo a background check through the Kentucky State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Application and Fees

Submit a completed application to the Kentucky Board of Social Work, along with the required fees.

Licensure Levels in Kentucky

Kentucky offers three levels of licensure for social workers:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

Requires a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
Allows for supervised practice under the guidance of a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

Requires a master's degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
Allows for independent practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Requires a master's degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, plus two years of post-graduate supervised experience.
Allows for independent practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as supervision of other social workers.

Application Process

To apply for licensure in Kentucky, follow these steps:

Create an account on the Kentucky Board of Social Work's online application portal.
Complete the application, including providing education and work experience information.
Upload required documents, such as transcripts and certificates.
Pay the application fee.
Submit to a background check.

Exam Preparation

To prepare for the ASWB exam, consider the following:

Review the exam content outline and format.
Use study materials, such as textbooks and online courses.
Practice with sample questions and case studies.
Join a study group or seek guidance from a mentor.

Licensure Maintenance

To maintain licensure in Kentucky, social workers must:

Complete continuing education requirements (20 hours per biennium).
Pay renewal fees.
Report any changes in address or employment.

FAQs

What is the difference between an LSW and an LCSW?

An LSW requires a BSW degree and allows for supervised practice, while an LCSW requires an MSW degree and allows for independent practice.

How long does it take to become licensed in Kentucky?

The application process typically takes 6-12 weeks, but may vary depending on the complexity of the application and the speed of the applicant in providing required documents.

Can I practice as a social worker in Kentucky without a license?

No, it is illegal to practice as a social worker in Kentucky without a valid license from the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

In conclusion, becoming a licensed social worker in Kentucky requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful career in social work. Share your experiences, ask questions, and seek guidance from peers and mentors to ensure a smooth journey to licensure.