Walden University : MS in Psychology (HLC Accredited) Walden University : PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Clinical Mental Health Counseling (HLC Accredited) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from) Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from) Walden University : PhD in Clinical Psychology (HLC Accredited) Walden University : Master of Social Work (MSW) (CSWE Accredited) Walden University : PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Addiction Counseling (HLC Accredited)Understanding What a Master's in Social Work (MSW) Is
A Master of Social Work (MSW) is a graduate degree that equips students for advanced practice in social work, including roles that involve providing therapy. An MSW can be an important step if you want to become a therapist, but your ability to practice independently will still depend on earning the right state licensure.
Program Formats
MSW programs come in several formats to fit different schedules and educational backgrounds:
- Traditional programs typically take about two years to complete on a full-time basis.
- Accelerated online MSW programs allow students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to earn their MSW in as little as 12–16 months.
- Part-time options can extend the timeline to three or more years, providing flexibility for working professionals.
- Fully online formats make it possible to complete coursework remotely, though in-person fieldwork placements are still required.
GRE Requirements
Many schools now offer online MSW programs that don't require the GRE, which can streamline the admissions process. This is especially appealing for applicants who prefer to focus on their professional and academic experience rather than standardized testing.
Overall, an MSW provides both the theoretical foundation and the hands-on experience necessary for advanced practice in social work, making it a viable pathway to therapy roles—provided you complete the licensure steps required in your state.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Psychology
HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Benefit from this specialization’s comprehensive study of the social, cultural, and cognitive aspects of human behavior as you explore the fundamentals of psychology, including its theories, methods, and principles. You can evaluate and design research methods and examine multicultural and/or global perspectives of psychology. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning® format, you’ll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no weekly deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed. Learn More |
| Walden University
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Do you want to teach and empower the next generation of mental health counselors? With a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, you’ll prepare to train future clinical mental health counselors or broaden private-practice credentials. Ideal for students with a nonclinical mental health master’s degree, this specialization takes a deep dive into diagnosis, advanced psychopathology, and psychopharmacology. You’ll examine the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as well as different treatment modalities, diagnoses, and commonly used pharmaceuticals. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Learn how to support the well-being of your students as they cope with complex personal and family challenges. Explore human sexual development as well as the relationships and family dynamics impacting young people’s lives today. Build the cross-cultural competencies and skills required to understand family structures, life-cycle dynamics, intergenerational influences, and healthy family functioning. The optional accelerated track is designed for students who are interested in taking three courses per quarter and potentially finishing their program in a shorter time frame. The accelerated track has the same curriculum, residencies, and field experience requirements as the general track, but requires a strong time commitment and is best suited for students who can dedicate themselves full time to their studies. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
The counseling field is in need of qualified, compassionate professionals like you to meet the demand for services. In Walden's clinical mental health counseling and school counseling dual degree program, you’ll gain the insights and hands-on training to positively impact the lives of children, adults, and families. Learn More |
| Walden University
PhD in Clinical Psychology
HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Gain the skills to assess mental wellness and provide interventions. Taught by respected psychology faculty, coursework explores current theories and empirically supported practice. You can combine scholarly research with practical experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
Master of Social Work (MSW)
CSWE Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Walden’s CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) program can empower you to shape a better, more equitable world. Our program combines a purposeful curriculum with immersive learning experiences to help you become the confident and highly capable social work practitioner you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Addiction Counseling
HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Addiction is an issue that hits close to home for many. In our PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Addiction Counseling, you’ll gain deeper insights into this increasingly important area and learn how to best prepare the next generation of addiction counselors. Coursework in this specialization explores contemporary treatment and intervention models used to promote recovery as well as the treatment principles and philosophies of addiction-related programs. You’ll also gain insight into substance abuse policies and regulatory processes that influence service delivery in addiction counseling. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Therapist Roles You Can Pursue with an MSW
Earning an MSW can open the door to several therapy-related roles, though your ability to provide psychotherapy independently depends on obtaining state licensure. The most common pathway is becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), though titles and exact requirements vary by state.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Equivalent Titles
An LCSW (or the state-specific equivalent) is authorized to:
- Provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals, couples, and groups
- Conduct mental health assessments
- Develop treatment plans
- Offer case management and connect clients with community resources
While LCSW is the most widely recognized term, other common state-regulated titles include:
- LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker)
- LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker — typically non-clinical or requiring supervision for therapy)
Common Work Settings
Licensed clinical social workers may work in:
- Private practice
- Mental health clinics
- Hospitals and healthcare systems
- K–12 schools
- Community agencies
- Government programs
Important Note on the Term “Therapist”
The term therapist is not a universal legal designation. In many states, using titles like psychotherapist or licensed therapist without holding the appropriate license can result in legal penalties. Even with an MSW, you must complete the necessary post-graduate supervised experience and licensure process before offering therapy independently.
How MSW-Based Therapy Compares to Other Therapy Degrees
While an MSW can absolutely be a pathway to becoming a licensed therapist, it’s important to understand how it compares to other common graduate-level therapy degrees. Each has its own focus, licensure process, and career applications.
Master’s in Counseling / Clinical Mental Health Counseling
These programs typically lead to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credentials, depending on the state.
- Focus: Counseling theory, therapeutic techniques, and client-focused interventions.
- Difference from MSW: More concentrated on counseling and psychotherapy skills, with less emphasis on social services, policy, or advocacy.
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Graduates of MFT programs usually pursue Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credentials.
- Focus: Relationship dynamics, couples therapy, and family systems.
- Difference from MSW: Narrower in scope but deeply specialized in family and couple contexts.
Psychology (PsyD or PhD)
Doctoral-level psychology programs lead to licensure as a psychologist.
- Focus: In-depth psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across a broad spectrum of mental health concerns.
- Difference from MSW: Higher degree requirement, longer training time, and often greater emphasis on testing and research.
Bottom line: While counseling and MFT degrees focus heavily on therapy delivery, an MSW combines psychotherapy training with social work principles—offering broader career flexibility, particularly for roles that integrate mental health support with community resources.
Walden University - MS in Psychology (HLC Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - PhD in Clinical Psychology (HLC Accredited)
Walden University - Master of Social Work (MSW) (CSWE Accredited)
Advantages of Choosing an MSW Path to Therapy
For students wondering can you be a therapist with a master’s in social work, there are several compelling reasons why the MSW is a strong pathway toward a clinical career.
Broad Career Flexibility
An MSW equips graduates for more than just clinical therapy roles. With this degree, you can combine psychotherapy work with advocacy, policy development, program administration, or case management. This versatility allows for career shifts over time without needing additional degrees.
Strong Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for social workers to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the coming decade. Clinical social workers, in particular, benefit from steady demand in mental health facilities, healthcare settings, and private practice.
Diverse Work Settings and Populations
With an MSW and clinical licensure, you can work in a variety of environments, including:
- Private practice
- Hospitals and healthcare systems
- Mental health clinics
- Schools
- Community organizations
You also have the opportunity to serve a wide range of client populations, from children and families to older adults.
Flexible Learning Pathways
Many universities offer part-time, fully online, and accelerated MSW programs for advanced standing students—making it easier to balance education with other commitments. The growing number of online MSW programs that don’t require the GRE also streamlines the application process for busy professionals.
Potential Limitations and Considerations
While earning an MSW can be an excellent route for those asking can you be a therapist with a master’s in social work, there are a few important factors to weigh before committing.
Post-Graduate Supervised Practice
Even after completing your MSW, you won’t immediately be able to provide therapy independently. States typically require 2,000–3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over a period of 2–3 years before granting full licensure.
Variations in Scope of Practice
Each state sets its own rules for what a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or equivalent can do. This means your ability to diagnose, bill insurance, or use certain professional titles may vary depending on where you work.
Reimbursement Differences
Therapists with an MSW may find that reimbursement rates from insurance providers can differ compared to those for psychologists or certain other licensed mental health professionals. This can influence earning potential in private practice settings.
Accreditation Matters
Your MSW program must be CSWE-accredited for licensure eligibility in most states. Choosing a program without this accreditation can severely limit your ability to pursue clinical roles.
FAQ
Can I call myself a therapist right after earning my MSW?
Not in most states. While the term “therapist” is not always legally defined, providing psychotherapy typically requires licensure. After graduating with your MSW, you’ll likely need to complete supervised clinical hours and pass your state’s licensing exam before you can practice independently as a therapist.
Do all MSW programs prepare you for clinical licensure?
No. Some MSW programs focus on macro-level social work, policy, or administration rather than clinical training. If your goal is to provide therapy, choose a CSWE-accredited program with a clinical or direct practice track that meets your state’s requirements.
Is an MSW better than a counseling degree for becoming a therapist?
It depends on your career goals. An MSW offers broad flexibility, allowing you to work in therapy, advocacy, policy, or social services. A master’s in counseling is more narrowly focused on therapy and often includes more coursework in counseling techniques.
Can I get licensed if I complete an online MSW program?
Yes—if the program is CSWE-accredited and includes the required supervised clinical experiences. Many states accept online degrees, but always verify with your state licensing board to ensure the program meets all requirements.
Next Steps for Prospective Students
If your goal is to become a licensed therapist with an MSW, start by identifying CSWE-accredited programs that offer a clinical concentration. Review your state’s licensing requirements in detail to ensure your chosen program aligns with them. Decide whether a traditional, accelerated, or online format best suits your timeline and lifestyle. Finally, connect with admissions offices, current students, or alumni to get first-hand insights before applying. This preparation will help you select a program that supports both your career goals and licensure pathway.
List of Programs
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Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
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Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
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Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Doctorate
Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Doctorate
Walden University 🗹 Online https://info.waldenu.eduDoctorate
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Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
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Liberty University 🗹 Online
