Growing Your Network: How to Get Licensed in Multiple States as a LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) are increasingly interested in cross state licensure largely due to the rise in teletherapy. 70% of the clinicians surveyed during our 2023 Cross-State Licensure Survey planned to maintain an entirely virtual practice, a nearly 71% increase from the previous year.

Cross-state licensure can open the door to new opportunities for LCSWs looking to expand their practice and find new clients that align with their goals or philosophy of care, or to retain clients who are moving out of state— an experience reported by 70% of clinicians.

While the benefits are clear, getting licensed in additional states is not easy, and can come with several barriers to entry.

Clinicians described the process as confusing, frustrating, overwhelming, and bureaucratic. Additional barriers listed by clinicians we surveyed include time, cost, vagueness in the application process, and uncertainty that they’ll be able to find enough clients in additional states.

Curious whether getting cross-licensed in additional states is worth the time and money? We’re here to help you evaluate the benefits vs. the challenges and put together a plan when you’re ready.

Cross-State Licensure Q&A

What is multi-state or cross-state licensure for Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)?

Multi-state licensure is the legal process that enables a Licensed Clinical Social Worker already licensed to practice in one state to expand their practice in one or more additional states.

How long does cross-state licensure take?

Our Cross-State Licensure Survey found that 25% of clinicians waited between four and six months to get a license in an additional state. Eleven percent waited seven months to a year.

How much does cross-state licensure cost?

While the potential to increase revenue with an additional state license can be a real benefit, the costs can also be significant. A second license can cost anywhere from $250-1,000 with the majority falling somewhere between $250-500.

How difficult is the cross-state licensure application process?

Although some organizations are working on legislation that could streamline the cross-state licensure process (continued below), each state has slightly different requirements. This can make it arduous to apply for a license in multiple states. Lack of information about the process is a top barrier for 53% of survey respondents.

Is cross-state licensure worth it?

While there could be potential to grow your business, there is also no guarantee that the time, money, and effort you put into obtaining cross-state licensure as a LCSW will in fact pay off, which many clinicians cite as a concern. Many LCSWs worry that they may not be able to establish enough clients in an additional state to make licensure worthwhile.

However, joining a nationwide platform like Alma can help lower your risk, by surfacing your profile to thousands of people seeking therapy across all the states in which you’re licensed to practice.

Practicing Across State Lines as a LCSW

For social workers, the rules to getting cross-licensed in other states depends largely on the state where you are licensed and the states where you are seeking cross-licensing. According to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), many state boards offer reciprocity agreements, meaning if you hold an active license in one state it is understood that you can fulfill requirements in additional states.

However, there are nuances state by state and reciprocity agreements still may mean additional paperwork, fees, continuing education and potentially a waiting period. Some states are easier than others and it’s always a good idea to double-check requirements with each state’s governing board. The ASWB offers an easy tool to find out what is required of each state.

Additionally the ASWB together with the Department of Defense (DoD) and Council of State Governments (CSG) are working towards passing a Social Work Interstate Licensing Compact Legislation to reduce the barriers and improve access to multistate practice. While this legislation has passed in seven states, multi-state licenses are not yet being issued. You can stay up to date on the legislation at the official compact page.

More things to consider before seeking cross-state licensure

While gaining additional state licenses is the first step in expanding your practice, it’s not the only consideration when growing a business across state lines. You will also need to check each state’s requirements for scope of practice and continuing education to ensure you are compliant in each state where you hold a license.

Each state may also have its own insurance requirements, such as liability or malpractice insurance. Last but not least, expanding your practice means making sure you are fulfilling your tax requirements in each of the states where you practice. It’s always best to consult with professionals to ensure you are checking all the boxes and keeping your practice compliant.

Ready to expand your practice? Alma is here for you!

At Alma, we believe when clinicians have the support they need, the system gets better for everyone––this includes supporting you through cross state licensure. As one of the only platforms serving all fifty states, we can help you make an informed decision about expanding your practice.

Alma members get access to tools and resources that make it easier to network with therapists in other states, accept major insurance plans, keep your clients on track with sessions and progress, streamline your continuing education, and so much more. Ready to open the doors to new opportunities? We are here to help.

*All data within this white paper is attributed to Alma’s 2023 Cross-State Licensure Survey unless otherwise specified or attributed.