Licensure Definitions

What is an LCSW? 

A licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is a master’s-degreed mental health service provider, trained to work with individuals, families, and groups in treating mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders, who work to help clients achieve optimum mental and emotional health. 

What is a CSW? 

A Clinical Social Worker (CSW) is a specialty practice area of social work which focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness, emotional, and other behavioral disturbances. An Intern is finishing their master’s degree in social work on their way to becoming an LCSW. 

What is an MSW?

A Master’s in Social Work Intern (MSWi) is a key component of any Master of Social Work program. A person with a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) provides the same care you would receive from an LCSW or CSW. An Intern is finishing their master’s degree on their way to becoming a licensed professional. 

What is a CMHC?

A Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) is a master’s degree mental health professional who treats the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional aspects of mental health and substance use conditions. They work with individuals, families, couples, and groups in a variety of settings.

What is an ACMHC? 

An Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC) is a master’s degree mental health professional who provides the same care you would receive from a CMHC and is working to complete the state’s hourly requirements to obtain licensure. 

What is an LMFT? 

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a mental health professional who has obtained a master’s degree in psychotherapy and family systems and has completed all the state requirements for obtaining a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist. 

What is an MFT?

A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is a mental health professional who is obtaining a master’s degree in psychotherapy and family systems. Upon completion of a rigorous, fully accredited training program the MFT may obtain licensure, which grants them the ability to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the framework of marriage, couples, and family relationships. An MFT has the same roles and responsibilities as an LMFT. 

What is an AMFT?

An Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) has obtained a master’s degree, has the same roles and responsibilities as an MFT, and is in the process of completing the state requirements for obtaining a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist. 

What is an Intern?

An intern is a Master's level student finishing their education to become a therapist/counselor. Interns have finished most, if not all, of their education and now perform clinical work under the supervision of a Licensed therapist. They also have the support of their professors who act as mentors during their internship. 

Mental health therapists in all their forms work diligently to help individuals and communities address their emotional, behavioral, and mental health concerns in a safe environment.