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Montana Social Work — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)

Montana Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) license under 37-39-308, MCA. Initial, endorsement, and maintenance pathways are recorded separately.

Licensing authority: Montana Board of Behavioral Health · Application information

Annual active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
No examination is prescribed for ordinary renewal. 20 CE hours annually after the first renewal; two hours in suicide risk assessment and safety planning every odd year. Up to 20 hours may carry forward, with documentation maintained for three years.
Deadline
Annual renewal by December 31; renewal period November 1 through December 31. Submit a completed renewal form and applicable fees.
Military Exception
Activated reservists may request protected inactive status under 37-1-138; fees and CE cannot be required during covered active service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by endorsement — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Applicant Group
Substantially equivalent standards
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) OPTION 1  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Supervised work experience 500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards' (ASWB) bachelor's exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Licensure by endorsement — individual review of non equivalent qualifications
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Applicant Group
Non-equivalent standards evaluated by the Board
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) OPTION 1  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Supervised work experience 500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards' (ASWB) bachelor's exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Initial licensure by examination
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Education
Bachelor's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
Exam Timing
Staff may approve examination registration upon a complete application or after a candidate license is issued, subject to the examination entity's standards. Board approval and a specific study plan are required for more than three examination attempts.
Experience Currency
Supervised work experience must have been obtained in the five years before application under ARM 24.219.301(27), as amended effective August 22, 2026.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Prior Rules
The four-year passing-score limit, reference-letter requirements and separate ARM 24.219.512 out-of-state rule in the 2021 compilation are not carried forward; the licensing requirements were consolidated in 2024 and those provisions were repealed or replaced.
Supervised Experience
500 hours of post-degree supervised experience over at least 18 months, including 50 hours of individual or group supervision and 10 of those hours with the client populations to be served.
Supervision Ratio
At least two supervision hours for every 160 hours of social work; supervisor expertise must cover the client population and practice methods.
Supervisor
Qualified supervisor under ARM 24.219.421; new supervisors from August 22, 2026 need three years of licensure excluding candidacy and post-degree, post-candidacy Board-approved supervision training (one graduate semester credit or 20 hours); prior Montana supervisors retain the qualifications recognized in adoption Response 2.
Reactivation of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, late penalty and current renewal fees, and all certification and educational requirements accrued since last grant or renewal. Expired licensees are subject to mandatory CE audit under 37-1-306(2). Applicable candidate-registration limits remain conditions.
Time Limit
Within two years after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Form Condition
The May 5, 2025 reactivation form additionally requests disciplinary documents where applicable and verification of every professional license held during inactivity. Its CE timing states: To convert an inactive license back to active status, include: Also complete:  This form  License verification requests from  Fee (no cash, see amount below) jurisdictions for any professional  Disciplinary documents, if applicable licenses (including expired or for other  Proof of 10 hours of continuing education for each professions) held during the inactive year or partial year of inactive status (where at least period the last 2 years' hours must have been completed  Any additional requests from licensing within their respective renewal cycles or within the staff current renewal cycle)
Practice History
May not have been out of active practice for more than five years.
Requirements
Request active status and pay the required fee; complete ten CE hours per year of inactive status within the preceding 24 months under ARM 24.219.430(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Inactive licensees may not practice.
Renewal
Keep address current and pay annual inactive renewal fees to avoid expiration or termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a lapsed license within 45 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, current renewal fee, late penalty fee, and all applicable accrued certification and educational requirements. Candidate registration duration limits continue to apply where relevant.
Time Limit
Within 45 days after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military member, spouse, or veteran reciprocity — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Equivalency
Board determines the other jurisdiction's requirements are substantially equivalent. Pending charges or final disciplinary action for unprofessional conduct or impairment disqualify the applicant under 37-1-147(3).
Exam Treatment
The ASWB leaf carries the approved examination for full licensure under 37-39-308 and ARM 24.219.403. Existing licensed qualifications and the military reciprocity determination may satisfy the applicant's proof; this reference does not require every applicant to retake the examination.
Military Eligibility
Meets 37-1-147(1) military-member, spouse, station-transfer or honorably discharged relocation provisions; holds another state or United States territory license in good standing.
Restoration following protected military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Activation
Covered activated reservist must have reported activation and requested protected inactive status under 37-1-138(2)-(3).
Discharge
Submit discharge documents after release. The Board evaluates military duties and duration against professional requirements; it may restore fully, impose retention conditions, or suspend/revoke.
Hearing
Where conditions, suspension or revocation are imposed, a hearing may be requested within 90 days under 37-1-138(5). The statute identifies no examination for the restoration pathway.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New original license after automatic termination
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Education
Bachelor's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
New Application
Obtain a new original license under the applicable current education, supervised-experience, background-check and examination requirements.
Supervised Experience
500 hours of post-degree supervised experience over at least 18 months, including 50 hours of individual or group supervision and 10 of those hours with the client populations to be served.
Termination
A license not renewed within two years automatically terminates unless statute or rule provides otherwise; it cannot be reactivated.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Montana Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license under 37-39-308, MCA. Initial, endorsement, and maintenance pathways are recorded separately.

Licensing authority: Montana Board of Behavioral Health · Application information

Annual active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
No examination is prescribed for ordinary renewal. 20 CE hours annually after the first renewal; two hours in suicide risk assessment and safety planning every odd year. Up to 20 hours may carry forward, with documentation maintained for three years.
Deadline
Annual renewal by December 31; renewal period November 1 through December 31. Submit a completed renewal form and applicable fees.
Military Exception
Activated reservists may request protected inactive status under 37-1-138; fees and CE cannot be required during covered active service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by endorsement — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant Group
Substantially equivalent standards
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OPTION 1  Education One of the following:  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Lesser education plus experience Subject to board review and approval.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) clinical exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Licensure by endorsement — lower education standard with compensating experience
ASWB Clinical Exam
Additional Experience
10,000 hours of post-degree professional experience in addition to the supervised work experience; amended ARM 24.219.402(4) replaces the checklist's five-year formulation.
Applicant Group
Other jurisdiction otherwise substantially equivalent but with lower education standards.
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OPTION 1  Education One of the following:  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Lesser education plus experience Subject to board review and approval.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) clinical exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Education
Accredited master's degree in the profession with at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Supervised Experience
3000 post-degree supervised hours; candidates licensed after August 22, 2026 must complete them over at least 24 months and include at least 1500 hours of direct client contact. At least 100 hours are individual or group supervision; 50 are individual face-to-face supervision by an LCSW and 10 of those include direct observation of service delivery.
Licensure by endorsement — individual review of non equivalent qualifications
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant Group
Non-equivalent standards evaluated by the Board
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OPTION 1  Education One of the following:  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Lesser education plus experience Subject to board review and approval.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) clinical exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 3000 hours. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Initial licensure by examination — current supervised experience requirements
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Education
Master's or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
Exam Timing
Staff may approve examination registration upon a complete application or after a candidate license is issued, subject to the examination entity's standards. Board approval and a specific study plan are required for more than three examination attempts.
Experience Currency
Supervised work experience must have been obtained in the five years before application under ARM 24.219.301(27), as amended effective August 22, 2026.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Prior Rules
The four-year passing-score limit, reference-letter requirements and separate ARM 24.219.512 out-of-state rule in the 2021 compilation are not carried forward; the licensing requirements were consolidated in 2024 and those provisions were repealed or replaced.
Supervised Experience
3000 post-degree supervised hours; candidates licensed after August 22, 2026 must complete them over at least 24 months and include at least 1500 hours of direct client contact. At least 100 hours are individual or group supervision; 50 are individual face-to-face supervision by an LCSW and 10 of those include direct observation of service delivery.
Supervision Ratio
At least two supervision hours for every 160 hours of social work; supervisor expertise must cover the client population and practice methods.
Supervisor
Qualified supervisor under ARM 24.219.421; new supervisors from August 22, 2026 need three years of licensure excluding candidacy and post-degree, post-candidacy Board-approved supervision training (one graduate semester credit or 20 hours); prior Montana supervisors retain the qualifications recognized in adoption Response 2.
Initial licensure by examination — Board approved education and experience equivalence
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Approval
Lesser education plus experience is subject to Board review and approval as stated in Licensure Checklist Option 1.
Education
Under 37-39-308(6), the Board may license an applicant without the ordinary degree if the applicant meets Board-established additional postdegree social-work experience equivalent to the degree and supervised practice requirements.
Exam Timing
Staff may approve examination registration upon a complete application or after a candidate license is issued, subject to the examination entity's standards. Board approval and a specific study plan are required for more than three examination attempts.
Experience Currency
Supervised work experience must have been obtained in the five years before application under ARM 24.219.301(27), as amended effective August 22, 2026.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Prior Rules
The four-year passing-score limit, reference-letter requirements and separate ARM 24.219.512 out-of-state rule in the 2021 compilation are not carried forward; the licensing requirements were consolidated in 2024 and those provisions were repealed or replaced.
Supervised Experience
3000 post-degree supervised hours; candidates licensed after August 22, 2026 must complete them over at least 24 months and include at least 1500 hours of direct client contact. At least 100 hours are individual or group supervision; 50 are individual face-to-face supervision by an LCSW and 10 of those include direct observation of service delivery.
Supervision Ratio
At least two supervision hours for every 160 hours of social work; supervisor expertise must cover the client population and practice methods.
Supervisor
Qualified supervisor under ARM 24.219.421; new supervisors from August 22, 2026 need three years of licensure excluding candidacy and post-degree, post-candidacy Board-approved supervision training (one graduate semester credit or 20 hours); prior Montana supervisors retain the qualifications recognized in adoption Response 2.
Initial licensure by examination — candidates licensed before August 22, 2026
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant Group
LCSW candidate licensed before August 22, 2026.
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Education
Master's or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
Exam Timing
Staff may approve examination registration upon a complete application or after a candidate license is issued, subject to the examination entity's standards. Board approval and a specific study plan are required for more than three examination attempts.
Experience Currency
Supervised work experience must have been obtained in the five years before application under ARM 24.219.301(27), as amended effective August 22, 2026.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Prior Rules
The four-year passing-score limit, reference-letter requirements and separate ARM 24.219.512 out-of-state rule in the 2021 compilation are not carried forward; the licensing requirements were consolidated in 2024 and those provisions were repealed or replaced.
Supervised Experience
3000 post-degree hours with 100 individual/group supervision hours, 50 individual face-to-face hours by an LCSW, and 10 direct-observation hours. The new 24-month minimum and 1500 direct-client-contact hours do not apply to this grandfathered candidate group under ARM 24.219.504(2).
Supervision Ratio
At least two supervision hours for every 160 hours of social work; supervisor expertise must cover the client population and practice methods.
Supervisor
Qualified supervisor under ARM 24.219.421; new supervisors from August 22, 2026 need three years of licensure excluding candidacy and post-degree, post-candidacy Board-approved supervision training (one graduate semester credit or 20 hours); prior Montana supervisors retain the qualifications recognized in adoption Response 2.
Reactivation of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, late penalty and current renewal fees, and all certification and educational requirements accrued since last grant or renewal. Expired licensees are subject to mandatory CE audit under 37-1-306(2). Applicable candidate-registration limits remain conditions.
Time Limit
Within two years after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Form Condition
The May 5, 2025 reactivation form additionally requests disciplinary documents where applicable and verification of every professional license held during inactivity. Its CE timing states: To convert an inactive license back to active status, include: Also complete:  This form  License verification requests from  Fee (no cash, see amount below) jurisdictions for any professional  Disciplinary documents, if applicable licenses (including expired or for other  Proof of 10 hours of continuing education for each professions) held during the inactive year or partial year of inactive status (where at least period the last 2 years' hours must have been completed  Any additional requests from licensing within their respective renewal cycles or within the staff current renewal cycle)
Practice History
May not have been out of active practice for more than five years.
Requirements
Request active status and pay the required fee; complete ten CE hours per year of inactive status within the preceding 24 months under ARM 24.219.430(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Inactive licensees may not practice.
Renewal
Keep address current and pay annual inactive renewal fees to avoid expiration or termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a lapsed license within 45 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, current renewal fee, late penalty fee, and all applicable accrued certification and educational requirements. Candidate registration duration limits continue to apply where relevant.
Time Limit
Within 45 days after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military member, spouse, or veteran reciprocity — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Clinical Exam
Equivalency
Board determines the other jurisdiction's requirements are substantially equivalent. Pending charges or final disciplinary action for unprofessional conduct or impairment disqualify the applicant under 37-1-147(3).
Exam Treatment
The ASWB leaf carries the approved examination for full licensure under 37-39-308 and ARM 24.219.403. Existing licensed qualifications and the military reciprocity determination may satisfy the applicant's proof; this reference does not require every applicant to retake the examination.
Military Eligibility
Meets 37-1-147(1) military-member, spouse, station-transfer or honorably discharged relocation provisions; holds another state or United States territory license in good standing.
Restoration following protected military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Activation
Covered activated reservist must have reported activation and requested protected inactive status under 37-1-138(2)-(3).
Discharge
Submit discharge documents after release. The Board evaluates military duties and duration against professional requirements; it may restore fully, impose retention conditions, or suspend/revoke.
Hearing
Where conditions, suspension or revocation are imposed, a hearing may be requested within 90 days under 37-1-138(5). The statute identifies no examination for the restoration pathway.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New original license after automatic termination
ASWB Clinical Exam
Education
Master's or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
New Application
Obtain a new original license under the applicable current education, supervised-experience, background-check and examination requirements.
Supervised Experience
3000 post-degree supervised hours; candidates licensed after August 22, 2026 must complete them over at least 24 months and include at least 1500 hours of direct client contact. At least 100 hours are individual or group supervision; 50 are individual face-to-face supervision by an LCSW and 10 of those include direct observation of service delivery.
Termination
A license not renewed within two years automatically terminates unless statute or rule provides otherwise; it cannot be reactivated.

Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW)

Montana Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) license under 37-39-308, MCA. Initial, endorsement, and maintenance pathways are recorded separately.

Licensing authority: Montana Board of Behavioral Health · Application information

Annual active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
No examination is prescribed for ordinary renewal. 20 CE hours annually after the first renewal; two hours in suicide risk assessment and safety planning every odd year. Up to 20 hours may carry forward, with documentation maintained for three years.
Deadline
Annual renewal by December 31; renewal period November 1 through December 31. Submit a completed renewal form and applicable fees.
Military Exception
Activated reservists may request protected inactive status under 37-1-138; fees and CE cannot be required during covered active service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by endorsement — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Masters Exam
Applicant Group
Substantially equivalent standards
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) OPTION 1  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) master's exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Licensure by endorsement — lower education standard with compensating experience
ASWB Masters Exam
Additional Experience
10,000 hours of post-degree professional experience in addition to the supervised work experience; amended ARM 24.219.402(4) replaces the checklist's five-year formulation.
Applicant Group
Other jurisdiction otherwise substantially equivalent but with lower education standards.
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) OPTION 1  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) master's exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Education
Accredited master's degree in the profession with at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Supervised Experience
1500 hours of post-degree supervised experience over at least 18 months, including 75 hours of individual or group supervision and 25 of those hours with the client populations to be served.
Licensure by endorsement — individual review of non equivalent qualifications
ASWB Masters Exam
Applicant Group
Non-equivalent standards evaluated by the Board
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Board Checklist
Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) OPTION 1  Candidate's education See candidate's checklist for this license type.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504.  Exam Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) master's exam. OPTION 2  Equivalent out-of-state license Current, active, in good standing from a state with standards substantially equivalent to Montana's. OPTION 3  Out-of-state license with lesser education standards Current, active, in good standing from a state otherwise substantially equivalent but with lesser education standards than Montana's.  Master's degree plus experience Master's degree in this profession from an accredited institution with at least 48 semester/72 quarter credits plus 5 years' post-degree work experience.  Supervised work experience 1500 hours over a minimum of 18 months within the last 5 years. See Administrative Rules of Montana 24.219.504. OPTION 4  Other non-equivalent out-of-state license Subject to board review and approval.
Board Review
Option 2 accepts a substantially equivalent license; the non-equivalent option requires Board review and approval.
Exam Treatment
37-39-308 requires an applicant to have passed an approved examination; ARM 24.219.403 names the corresponding ASWB examination. A passing examination remains a reference even if it preceded application. The Board checklist's endorsement options list license and qualifications instead of a separate examination item; they are retained as applicant conditions and do not create a separate obligation to retake an examination.
Existing License
Current, active license in good standing in another jurisdiction. Montana determines substantial equivalency at application, or whether actual qualifications and work experience cure deficiencies under 37-1-304(2), MCA.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Other Examinations
Any Board-accepted examination from another jurisdiction, another country, or an unnamed approved examination is applicant evidence or a condition rather than an invented registered examination.
Initial licensure by examination
ASWB Masters Exam
Application
Completed Board form and applicable fee; FBI fingerprint background check completed within six months of application; current direct verification of every professional license held in another jurisdiction at any time.
Education
Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
Exam Timing
Staff may approve examination registration upon a complete application or after a candidate license is issued, subject to the examination entity's standards. Board approval and a specific study plan are required for more than three examination attempts.
Experience Currency
Supervised work experience must have been obtained in the five years before application under ARM 24.219.301(27), as amended effective August 22, 2026.
Military Training
Under 37-1-145, MCA, satisfactory evidence of relevant military education, training, or service must be accepted toward qualifications; this does not identify a different examination.
Prior Rules
The four-year passing-score limit, reference-letter requirements and separate ARM 24.219.512 out-of-state rule in the 2021 compilation are not carried forward; the licensing requirements were consolidated in 2024 and those provisions were repealed or replaced.
Supervised Experience
1500 hours of post-degree supervised experience over at least 18 months, including 75 hours of individual or group supervision and 25 of those hours with the client populations to be served.
Supervision Ratio
At least two supervision hours for every 160 hours of social work; supervisor expertise must cover the client population and practice methods.
Supervisor
Qualified supervisor under ARM 24.219.421; new supervisors from August 22, 2026 need three years of licensure excluding candidacy and post-degree, post-candidacy Board-approved supervision training (one graduate semester credit or 20 hours); prior Montana supervisors retain the qualifications recognized in adoption Response 2.
Reactivation of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, late penalty and current renewal fees, and all certification and educational requirements accrued since last grant or renewal. Expired licensees are subject to mandatory CE audit under 37-1-306(2). Applicable candidate-registration limits remain conditions.
Time Limit
Within two years after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Form Condition
The May 5, 2025 reactivation form additionally requests disciplinary documents where applicable and verification of every professional license held during inactivity. Its CE timing states: To convert an inactive license back to active status, include: Also complete:  This form  License verification requests from  Fee (no cash, see amount below) jurisdictions for any professional  Disciplinary documents, if applicable licenses (including expired or for other  Proof of 10 hours of continuing education for each professions) held during the inactive year or partial year of inactive status (where at least period the last 2 years' hours must have been completed  Any additional requests from licensing within their respective renewal cycles or within the staff current renewal cycle)
Practice History
May not have been out of active practice for more than five years.
Requirements
Request active status and pay the required fee; complete ten CE hours per year of inactive status within the preceding 24 months under ARM 24.219.430(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Inactive licensees may not practice.
Renewal
Keep address current and pay annual inactive renewal fees to avoid expiration or termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a lapsed license within 45 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Completed renewal form, current renewal fee, late penalty fee, and all applicable accrued certification and educational requirements. Candidate registration duration limits continue to apply where relevant.
Time Limit
Within 45 days after renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military member, spouse, or veteran reciprocity — substantially equivalent license
ASWB Masters Exam
Equivalency
Board determines the other jurisdiction's requirements are substantially equivalent. Pending charges or final disciplinary action for unprofessional conduct or impairment disqualify the applicant under 37-1-147(3).
Exam Treatment
The ASWB leaf carries the approved examination for full licensure under 37-39-308 and ARM 24.219.403. Existing licensed qualifications and the military reciprocity determination may satisfy the applicant's proof; this reference does not require every applicant to retake the examination.
Military Eligibility
Meets 37-1-147(1) military-member, spouse, station-transfer or honorably discharged relocation provisions; holds another state or United States territory license in good standing.
Restoration following protected military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Activation
Covered activated reservist must have reported activation and requested protected inactive status under 37-1-138(2)-(3).
Discharge
Submit discharge documents after release. The Board evaluates military duties and duration against professional requirements; it may restore fully, impose retention conditions, or suspend/revoke.
Hearing
Where conditions, suspension or revocation are imposed, a hearing may be requested within 90 days under 37-1-138(5). The statute identifies no examination for the restoration pathway.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New original license after automatic termination
ASWB Masters Exam
Education
Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, including programs in candidate accreditation status under ARM 24.219.402(5).
New Application
Obtain a new original license under the applicable current education, supervised-experience, background-check and examination requirements.
Supervised Experience
1500 hours of post-degree supervised experience over at least 18 months, including 75 hours of individual or group supervision and 25 of those hours with the client populations to be served.
Termination
A license not renewed within two years automatically terminates unless statute or rule provides otherwise; it cannot be reactivated.

ASWB Bachelors Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Task-centered approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources

ASWB Clinical Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$260 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (36%) (36%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (32% — the heading in the Clinical content outline prints no percentage; page 6 of the guidebook states the Clinical examination will have 32 percent of the questions testing Assessment and Planning) (32%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in assessment and common indicators of mental health and brain-related conditions
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Couples interventions and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of establishing program objectives and outcomes
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Program evaluation and related impact on services
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Fiscal management and resource allocation techniques
Examination sources

ASWB Masters Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures for safe, inclusive, and a healthy work environment
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources