washington social work continuing education requirements

Washington Social Work Licensing Requirements

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Washington provides a straightforward path to becoming an advanced or independent clinical social worker. The state offers top bachelor’s and master’s programs in social work, higher-than-average salaries, and strong employment growth projections. Explore how to become a licensed social worker in the Evergreen State.

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Washington State Social Work Licensing Requirements

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) oversees Washington state social work licensing. The DOH issues two provisional licenses: licensed social worker associate-advanced (LSWAA) and licensed associate social worker-independent clinical (LSWAIC). The DOH also offers two full licenses: licensed advanced social worker (LASW) and licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW).

Both associate and full licensure require a master’s degree in social work or a doctorate from a program holding Council on Social Work Education accreditation. Associate licenses allow completion of the post-graduate supervised training hours required for full licensure.

Licensed Social Worker Associate — Advanced

LSWAAs have completed their social work graduate programs and are in the process of gaining the supervised experience required for full licensure as LASWs. Advanced social worker candidates must accrue 3,000 hours, including 800 hours of direct client contact and 90 hours under the supervision of a LASW or LICSW.

Washington state licensure requirements for LSWAA include:

• Master’s or doctoral degree in social work
• Declaration that the applicant is working toward full licensure

Licensed Social Worker Associate—Independent Clinical

LSWAICs have earned their master’s or doctorate in social work and are working on their 3,000 hours of supervised experience. The post-graduate training must take a minimum of two years to complete and include 1,000 hours of direct client contact under the supervision of an LICSW with 100 hours of direct LICSW supervision or a mental health practitioner with an equivalent license.

Washington state licensure requirements for LSWAIC include:

Licensed Advanced Social Worker

LASWs provide services in advocacy, case management, community organization, and consultation. They often work in healthcare settings on teams of care providers. LASWs can practice clinical social work, such as psychotherapy, under the supervision of an LICSW or an equally qualified and licensed professional, such as a psychologist or advanced nurse practitioner.

Washington state licensure requirements for LASW include:

• 3,000 hours of supervised experience
• Passing score on the ASWB advanced generalist or clinical exam

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

LICSWs can offer all social work services, clinical and non-clinical, independently. After gaining experience, they can also supervise LASWs and licensed associate social workers. LICSWs diagnose emotional and mental disorders and provide psychotherapeutic treatment to their clients in healthcare facilities, social service agencies, or private practice.

Washington state licensure requirements for LICSW include:

• Passing score on the ASWB clinical exam

Social Work License Reciprocity in Washington

Washington state social work licensing reciprocity is based on the substantial equivalency of the scope of social work practice in other states. If the DOH finds substantial equivalency, applicants who have held licenses in those states during the prior 12 months can pursue temporary probationary licenses to practice social work in Washington. Reciprocity applicants cannot have disciplinary or disqualifying criminal histories.

Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education in Washington State

Washington social workers and social work associates renew their licenses every year on or before their birthdays. Renewal requires verified continuing education.

Associate social workers with provisional licenses must log 18 hours of continuing education (CE) annually. CE required for LASWs and LICSWs totals 36 hours every two years, including six hours of ethics.

In addition, all categories of licensed social workers complete six hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management every six years and two hours of health equity training every four years.

BSW Programs Available in Washington

• Enrollment Type: Full Time
• 2024 Tuition: $7,287 per semester in-state, $25,517 per semester out-of-state
• Enrollment Type: Full Time, Part Time
• 2024 Tuition: $20,928 per year
• 2024 Tuition: $52,259 per year
• 2024 Tuition: $44,900 per year
• 2024 Tuition: $55,620 per year
• 2024 Tuition: $4,215 per quarter in-state, $13,999 per quarter out-of-state
• 2024 Tuition: $33,012 per year

MSW Programs Available in Washington

• Enrollment Type: Full Time, Part Time, Advanced Standing
• 2024 Tuition: $12,738 per semester in-state, $28,100 per semester out-of-state
• Enrollment Type: Full Time, Advanced Standing
• 2024 Tuition: $849 per credit
• Available Concentrations: Clinical or Direct Practice, Community Development and Social Systems, Management or Administration
• 2024 Tuition: $7,890 per quarter in-state, $13,287 per quarter out-of-state (Full Time); $912 per quarter (Part Time)
• Available Concentrations: Clinical or Direct Practice
• 2024 Tuition: $695 per credit

Washington Social Worker Career and Salary Information

Washington social workers earn average salaries exceeding the national average salary of all occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) ranks Washington fifth among the top-paying states for the “social workers, all other” category, including job titles in criminal justice and forensics.

The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area ranks sixth for “all other” social workers, with an average annual earnings of $92,780.

Long-term projections for 2020-2030 show employment growth for Washington social workers across all occupations . According to Projections Central , child, family, school, and healthcare social workers are projected to grow by 15%, mental health and substance use social workers by 17%, and all other social workers by 7%.

Social Work Associations in Washington

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Washington Chapter : Offers information about regional chapters within the state, upcoming Washington conferences, and continuing education opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington State Social Work

What are the different types of social workers in washington state.

Washington state social work licensing falls into four categories: licensed social worker associate-advanced (LSWAA), licensed associate social worker-independent clinical (LSWAIC), licensed advanced social worker (LASW), and licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW). Associates are provisionally licensed social workers gaining supervised experience for full licensure.

How do I get licensed as a social worker in Washington?

The Washington Department of Health regulates and licenses social workers and requires a master’s or doctoral degree in social work, 3,000 hours of post-graduate experience, and a passing score on the ASWB advanced generalist or clinical exam.

How much do social workers in Washington make?

Child, family, and school social workers earn an average annual salary of $64,860; healthcare social workers earn $70,390; mental health and substance use social workers earn $67,280; and all other social workers earn $90,580.

How long does it take to become a social worker in Washington state?

Earning a BSW takes four years of full-time study at Washington universities and confers advanced standing admission status to an MSW program. Advanced standing MSW students can complete their degrees in one year, while bachelor’s degree holders in other fields need two years to finish an MSW. Licensure requires another two years to gain post-graduate supervised experience.

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Continuing Education Requirements for Social Workers (LICSW, LASW) in Washington State

Attention : Several states and disciplines have relaxed requirements regarding live / in person Continuing Education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please check with your board to see the most current requirements.

• Washington State social workers must complete 36 hours of continuing education (CE), including 6 hours of professional law and ethics, every 2 years.
• Social workers must take a 6 hour course in suicide assessment, treatment, and management every 6 years. These 6 hours count toward the required 36 hours. Our course on suicide is listed on the WA State Department of Health Model List.
• Social workers can earn 26 of the 36 hours through distance learning courses
• Courses must be relevant to social work and contribute to the advancement of professional competence.

CE Approvals

At Health, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6949. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. At Health, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

The State Board of Washington accepts programs offered by ASWB approved sponsors.

At Health, LLC, Provider #1707, is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. At Health, LLC, maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period: 5/3/2023-5/3/2026.

Washington State social workers can earn 26 of their 36 credits through athealth.com, including meeting the requirement for 6 hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management. 

View the course catalog

State laws can change. Practitioners are responsible for determining their state’s licensure requirements. To view the Washington continuing education regulations, click the button below.

CE Requirements for Washington State Social Workers

Page last modified or reviewed by athealth.com on Aug 1, 2023 .

Ethics Courses

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Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal Dates and CE Requirements

Agents of change.

• July 28, 2024

Navigating Social Work licensure in Washington requires a clear grasp of the renewal process, continuing education requirements, and the various credentials available to practitioners. As a field committed to enhancing community well-being, Social Work in Washington is governed by specific standards and regulations to ensure that professionals are well-prepared, both in terms of knowledge and ethical practice.

This blog post details the licensure renewal process, highlights essential dates and fees, and explores the various types of credentials that mental health practitioners can pursue in the state.

Whether you are a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), a Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW) gaining experience, or a Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA) focused on maintaining your status, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource.

Did you know? Agents of Change Continuing Education offers Unlimited Access to 150+ CE courses for one low annual fee to meet your state’s requirements for Continuing Education credits.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers with Continuing Education, learn more here about Agents of Change and claim your 5 FREE CEUs!

1) Key Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal Dates

In Washington, the credentialing and licensure requirements for Social Workers are detailed and specific to ensure that practitioners are well-qualified and adhere to high standards. Below is an overview of the credentials, licensure renewal details, and associated costs:

Credentials

• LSWAIC : Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical
• LSWAIP : Licensed Social Work Associate Advanced
• LICSW : Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
• LASW : Licensed Advanced Social Worker

Licensure Requirements

Lswaic (licensed social work associate independent clinical).

• Education : Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
• Supervised Experience : Complete a supervised experience under a licensed independent clinical Social Worker.
• Examination : Pass the ASWB Clinical exam.

LSWAIP (Licensed Social Work Associate Advanced)

• Supervised Experience : Complete a supervised experience under a licensed advanced Social Worker.
• Examination : Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam.

LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker)

• Supervised Experience : 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including 1,000 hours of direct client contact.

LASW (Licensed Advanced Social Worker)

• Supervised Experience : 3,200 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including 800 hours of direct client contact.

Licensure Renewal Details and Costs

Renewal requirements.

• Continuing Education : 36 hours of continuing education every two years, including 6 hours in professional ethics.
• Renewal Period : Every two years. Social Work licenses must be renewed annually by the last day of the licensee’s birth month.

Renewal Costs

• LSWAIC/LSWAIP : $216
• LICSW/LASW : $216

Fees for Specific Licenses

Initial licensure fees.

• Application Fee : $115
• Initial License Fee : $130

Examination Fees

• ASWB Clinical Exam : $260
• ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam : $260

Additional Information

• Fingerprinting and Background Check : Required for all applicants.
• Jurisprudence Exam : Some applicants may need to pass a state jurisprudence exam, which assesses knowledge of state-specific laws and regulations governing Social Work practice.

Agents of Change Continuing Education offers Unlimited Access to 150+ CE courses for one low annual fee to meet Washington’s requirements for Continuing Education credits.

For more detailed information, please visit: Washington State Department of Health website and the Washington State Society for Clinical Social Work ​  

2) Washington Social Work Continuing Education Requirements

In Washington, Social Workers are required to complete continuing education (CE) to renew their licenses. Here’s a detailed overview of the continuing education requirements:

General Continuing Education Requirements

• Total Hours : Social Workers must complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Ethics : At least 6 of these hours must be in professional ethics.
• Suicide Assessment : For licensed Social Workers, 6 hours of continuing education must focus on suicide assessment, treatment, and management within the first year of licensure and before the first renewal.

Specific CE Requirements for License Types

• Total CE Hours : 36 hours every two years.
• Professional Ethics : 6 hours.
• Suicide Assessment : 6 hours within the first year of licensure.
• Total CE Hours : 18 hours annually.
• Professional Ethics and Law : 6 hours every two years.
• Suicide Assessment : 6 hours before the first renewal.
• Approved Courses : Continuing education activities must be approved by recognized bodies such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
• Record Keeping : Social workers must maintain records of their continuing education activities, including certificates of completion, for at least four years.
• Online Learning : Online courses and webinars can count towards CE hours if they are approved by the appropriate accrediting organizations.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Washington State Department of Health and specific continuing education guidelines provided by professional organizations like the Washington State Society for Clinical Social Work .

Agents of Change Continuing Education is a great way to meet Washington’s CE requirements and track your completed CEUs, with over 150 courses that meet these requirements!

Agents of Change, #1919, is approved as an ACE provider to offer Social Work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

3) FAQs – Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal and CEUs

Q: What are the continuing education requirements for Social Workers in Washington?

A: In Washington, Social Workers are required to complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include:

• Professional Ethics : At least 6 hours in professional ethics.
• Suicide Assessment, Treatment, and Management : 6 hours within the first year of licensure and before the first renewal for all licensed Social Workers.
• Record Keeping : Social Workers must keep records of their continuing education activities, including certificates of completion, for at least four years. Approved courses must be recognized by bodies such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Online courses and webinars can count towards CE hours if approved by the appropriate accrediting organizations.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Washington State Department of Health – Continuing Education Requirements .

Q: What are the licensure requirements for becoming a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington?

A: To become a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, the requirements include:

• Education : A Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
• Supervised Experience : Completion of 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, which includes 1,000 hours of direct client contact.
• Examination : Passing the ASWB Clinical exam.
• Additional Requirements : Submission of official transcripts, proof of supervised experience, and other documentation as required by the Washington State Department of Health.

For detailed steps and application forms, refer to the Washington State Department of Health – Social Worker Licensure Information .

Q: How much does it cost to renew a Social Work license in Washington?

A: The renewal fees for Social Work licenses in Washington are as follows:

• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW) : $216 every two years.
• Licensed Social Worker Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) and Licensed Social Worker Associate Advanced (LSWAIP) : $216 every two years.
• Late Renewal Penalty : $50
• Expired License Reissuance : $72.50
• Duplicate License : $10
• Verification of Credential : $25

These fees ensure that Social Workers maintain their licensure and continue to meet professional standards. Detailed information can be found on the Washington State Department of Health – Fee Schedule .

Resources for CE: Agents of Change Continuing Education offers over 150 courses that meet Washington’s CE requirements. Regulatory boards have the final say on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

4) Conclusion

Navigating the licensure process for Social Workers in Washington requires a clear understanding of the various credentialing options, continuing education requirements, and associated costs. Whether you are an aspiring Social Worker or an experienced practitioner, meeting these standards is crucial for maintaining your professional status and ensuring the highest level of care for your clients.

The Washington State Department of Health provides detailed guidelines and resources to assist you in fulfilling these requirements, from initial licensure to ongoing education and renewal.

Continuing education plays a vital role in keeping Social Workers updated with the latest knowledge and practices in the field. By fulfilling the mandatory continuing education hours, including ethics and specialized training in suicide assessment, Social Workers can enhance their skills and stay current with evolving professional standards. These educational requirements not only help in professional growth but also ensure that Social Workers are well-equipped to address the diverse needs of their communities effectively.

Resources like Agents of Change Continuing Education provide accessible and varied learning opportunities for Social Workers to meet Continuing Education requirements. Learn more about Agents of Change Continuing Education.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers with their Continuing Education and want you to be next!

————————————————————————————————————————————————

► Learn more about the Agents of Change Continuing Education here: https://agentsofchangetraining.com

About the Instructor, Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing Continuing Education for Social Workers for more than 10 years. From all of this experience helping others pass their exams, she created Agents of Change Continuing Education to help Social Workers stay up-to-date on the latest trends, research, and techniques.

#socialwork #socialworker #socialwork #socialworklicense #socialworklicensing #continuinged #continuingeducation #ce #socialworkce #freecesocialwork #lmsw #lcsw

Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

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Getting continuing education credits

Maintaining your social work license requires more than just filing paperwork every two years. Regulatory boards recognize the importance of lifelong learning to the social work profession.

Social workers in all areas of practice benefit from both continuing education in familiar subjects—including important updates related to current, evidence-based practice—and topic areas that allow them to learn and practice new skills competently.

Continuing education requirements

How much CE do I need? What types of CE are required?

CE requirements for license renewal are determined by your board. ASWB compiles information on CE requirements in the United States and Canada.

• CE requrements Explore your board's CE requirements in the ASWB Laws and Regulations Database

Three ways to find ACE credit

• ACE providers Download a list of all approved ACE providers
• Individual course and conference approval Approved individual courses and conferences are listed on our spreadsheet
• Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education ASWB authorizes some Joint Accreditation providers to offer ACE credit to social workers

• User Registration

CE Providers

Ce providers, important note about transitioning to online learning.

Many of you have asked over the past few weeks about continuing education requirements for online learning now that we are in a new era of training due to the COVID-19 Crisis.

According to the WAC all virtual workshops need to have a quiz of content retention before a participant is given a CE Certificate. Our plan for NASW workshops online is to do 2-3 questions either multiple choice or true/false per hour of CE Credit. We are going to put these into a survey monkey survey and people will complete and then we will score. Once we see a 70% or better pass rate we will send the CE Certificate within 10-15 business days. They will be getting a 2nd link for another survey monkey survey for the evaluation which is also required.

Having a quiz is required for ALL virtual events, both live and on demand. Please make adjustments asap. We want to stay in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Health.

WAC 246-809-610

Eligible continuing education activities.

(1) The continuing education (CE) program or course for licensed counselors and associates must:

(a) Be relevant to the profession; and

(b) Contribute to the advancement, extension and enhancement of their professional competence.

(2) Courses or workshops primarily designed to increase practice income or office efficiency are not eligible for CE credit.

(3) Acceptable CE courses (including distance learning), seminars, workshops and postgraduate institutes are those which are:

(a) Programs having a featured instructor, speaker(s) or panel approved by an industry-recognized local, state, national, international organization or institution of higher learning; or

(b) Distance learning programs, approved by an industry-recognized local, state, national or international organization or institution of higher learning. These programs must require tests of comprehension upon completion. Distance learning programs are limited to twenty-six hours per reporting period.

(4) Training programs sponsored by the agency where a licensed counselor or associate is employed are acceptable but are limited to twenty-six hours per reporting period.

(5) Other learning experience, such as serving on a panel, board or council, community service, research, peer consultation, or publishing articles for professional publications are acceptable but are limited to six hours per reporting period.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.225.040 . WSR 17-13-082, § 246-809-610, filed 6/16/17, effective 7/17/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.442 (7). WSR 14-09-102, § 246-809-610, filed 4/22/14, effective 4/22/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.225.040 . WSR 04-06-010, § 246-809-610, filed 2/20/04, effective 3/22/04. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.19 RCW. WSR 02-11-108, § 246-809-610, filed 5/20/02, effective 6/20/02.]

 NASW CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDER APPROVAL 

 The NASW Washington State Chapter offers an approval program for continuing education providers who wish to offer continuing education for social workers, mental health counselors and marriage and family counselors Licensed by the Washington State Department of Health. Those entities that wish to use the name of NASW, Washington State Chapter, in the promotion of their conference, workshop or seminar promotional materials may do so after submitting the attached application and receiving written approval and a provider number. 

This approval assures attendees of these programs that the course content and instructor qualifications meet the standards and guidelines set by the NASW Continuing Education Committee and will qualify for State re-licensure. 

Why NASW’s approval is valuable: 

• NASW’s review and approval of courses will ensure the market that such courses meet quality standards for continuing education and re-licensure; 
• Continuing Education is a professional expectation for all social workers, Licensed or non-Licensed; 
• NASW’s endorsement of courses will provide greater opportunity for the Licensed social worker to obtain quality education; 
• NASW is the professional association for all social workers and has access to all Licensed social workers in the state; 
• NASW continuing education content will also meet the requirements for Licensed Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Counselors. 

 Authorization typically takes 4-6 weeks from receipt of the completed application. A $90 rush fee will be added to any application needing authorization in less than 4 weeks time. Upon approval you will be assigned a NASW identifying number and instructions for marketing purposes. 

Provider Application (for new providers and renewals)

Ce provider application pre-approval form  2 year unlimited.

This category is for the delivery of an unlimited number of different topic and content workshops presented over a two year period. This category requires the application and all supporting documentation for all workshops being delivered under the two year unlimited category to be submitted 90 days before the workshop is delivered

Post Event Report Form

Please return this form along with requisite materials listed below with forty-five (45) days of each CE events sponsored by your agency/organization. 

LICENSING BOARDS

District of Columbia

Board Website:  https://dchealth.dc.gov/node/161602

Statutes:  https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Subchapter%20V_Licensing%20of%20Health%20Professionals.pdf

Rules:   https://dchealth.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Chapter%2070%20Social%20Work%207-5-2019.pdf

Board Website:   https://health.maryland.gov/bswe/Pages/default.aspx

Statutes:  https://health.maryland.gov/bswe/Pages/regulation.aspx

Rules:  http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/subtitle_chapters/10_Chapters.aspx#Subtitle42

Board Website:  http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/

Statutes:  https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title18/agency140/chapter20/

Rules: http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/social_laws_regs.htm#reg

www.gwscsw.org PO Box 711 | Garrisonville, VA  22463 | 202-478-7638 | [email protected]

• Free State Social Work, LLC The Smart Resource for Online Continuing Education
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Washington Social Work Continuing Education

Welcome washington social workers.

Free State Social Work is approved as a continuing education provider by the  Association of Social Work Boards Approved Continuing Education Program  (provider #1235) and the  National Board for Certified Counselors  (provider #6605).  We are also approved by the  Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board  (provider 10-001) and the  Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling  (CE Provider # 50-13565).

Does the Washington Board accept courses from ASWB-approved continuing education providers?

How many hours can i earn with on-line ce courses.

Washington regulations limit distance learning programs to 26 hours per reporting period.  This rule is currently being reviewed.

        Our program does not offer an approved suicide assessment, treatment, and management course.  You must select a course from the Washington State Model List for suicide prevention training: https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-healthcare-providers/healthcare-professions-and-facilities/suicide-prevention/training-programs/model-list.

How Can I Get Started?

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour.  We also offer an unlimited package. One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years of unlimited courses are $124.99 .   Click here for more information about how to get started  or you can  browse our complete course catalog .

Where Can I Review Washington Social Work Continuing Education Requirements?

You can review Washington social work continuing education requirements at https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/SocialWorker/ContinuingEducationInformation https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/SocialWorker/ContinuingEducationInformation.

You can also contact the board at: State Department of Health Health Professions and Facilities PO Box 47865 Olympia, Washington 98504-7865 360-236-4700

Please remember that we have done our best to research your state’s licensing guidelines. Licensing regulations can change frequently including guidelines about how many hours you can earn on-line. Most jurisdictions require a certain number of hours in ethics and other areas of practice. The final authority for approving any continuing education activity rests with your state board. Even those states that endorse the ACE program may have exceptions in terms of the courses that they will accept. It is ultimately your responsibility to understand the licensing regulations in your state.

Does Free State Social Work offer Washington Social Work CEUs? Trainings? Contact Hours? Credit Hours?

Different jurisdictions have different definitions.  For some jurisdictions, the term CEU consists of ten credit hours.  At Free State Social Work, we offer continuing education credit hours and we estimate that each credit hour will require one hour of reading.

At Free State Social Work, we offer great online continuing education for social workers, counselors, and therapists.

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour. Please browse our complete course catalog or use the category links below.

We also offer an unlimited package! One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years are $124.99. Our unlimited packages do not require you to agree to an ongoing subscription or automatic renewals. Click here for more details about our unlimited packages .

If you would like to sample one of our courses, you can try a free course here .

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Social Workers CE Requirements, Accreditations & Approvals

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As a Jointly Accredited Organization, NetCE is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved under this program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

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Continuing Education

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Continuing Education Requirements for Washington Licensed Social Workers (And How to Stay on Track)

As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Washington, it is your responsibility to adhere to continuing education requirements each period in order to renew your license. Beyond license renewal being key to you maintaining your practice, continuing education is essential to stay abreast of what is happening in your field – something your clients will always appreciate you taking seriously. Education is how we all continue to learn and further hone our skills and expertise, so it’s certainly something to be celebrated. Though education is fantastic, keeping on track with the many hours you need to fulfill can be a challenge. Thankfully, there is a fantastic resource available to help you with that. Before we dive into the resource, let’s start by outlining what is required of Washington LCSWs in order to renew their license.

Licensee Requirements for Washington Licensed Social Workers

Licensed clinical social workers in the state of Washington are held to the same continuing education requirements as MFTs and LPCs in the state. All of which are required to fulfill 36 hours of continuing education every two years. The continuing education hours all need to be considered approved for continuing education, which are those offered or approved by industry-recognized entities. A helpful reference link to ensure a course or program will be accepted is  here . 

In addition to all 36 hours needing to be from approved providers, licensees must also meet the requirement that at least six hours be on professional ethics and law. Beyond that, six hours  every six years  needs to be on suicide assessment, treatment, and management. As a final note, up to 26 hours can come from distance learning, to allow room for added flexibility for licensees. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Washington LCSWs need to obtain 36 hours of continuing education every two years
• At least six hours each cycle must be on professional ethics and law
• A minimum of six hours every six years should be on suicide intervention 
• No more than 26 hours can be from distance learning 

Given licensed social workers are likely to achieve their continuing education certificates in increments, from various workshops, conventions, agencies, and institutions, there is a lot of documentation to keep track of (potentially 36 or more certificates throughout the course of two years). As proof is required when you apply for renewal, it’s imperative you keep all of those certificates in a safe place – easily accessible and easy to track your progress. CE Hub is the safe place you need to work through your continuing education with ease. 

What is CE Hub? 

CE Hub is an app built specifically for social workers. Recognizing the difficulty that is storing continuing education certificates and keeping track of your hours, CE Hub was created to take the stress out of continuing education requirements. Instead of worrying throughout the period that you may not be on track, or perhaps that you may have lost a document or two, CE Hub provides you the peace of mind you need to enjoy the learning process. Using the platform is simple: you sign up, upload your continuing education certificates as you obtain them, then CE Hub handles the rest. All of your continuing education credits are tracked for you, and you even receive a reminder when it’s time to renew your license. Alleviate the stress of continuing education requirements by taking advantage of CE Hub today! 

Disclaimer: this content is for informational purposes only. Licensees should always confirm their continuing education requirements with their respective governing agency. In the state of Washington, LCSWs can clarify anything about their license by contacting  the Washington State Department of Health at the number (360) 236-4700.

Reference Links: 

https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/SocialWorker/ContinuingEducationInformation

https://www.doh.wa.gov/AboutUs/ContactUs

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