MLG’s Licensure Support for Mental Health Professionals
Medical Licensure Group (MLG) has a reputable history in medical licensing. For more than 15 years, we’ve provided high-quality services to healthcare professionals, helping to reduce their stress and save time.
We’re excited to announce that we will now offer services to licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs), clinical social workers (CSWs) and marriage and family therapists (MFTs). As the stigma surrounding mental health treatment has subsided and insurance coverage has grown, more people have begun seeking support from these specialized professionals. In this post, we’ll explain how we can help therapists, counselors and social workers obtain and maintain their licenses.
Understanding the New Professions
More than 41 million adults in the United States received treatment for counseling for their mental health in 2021, and many of them turned to LMHCs, CSWs and MFTs for support. While they often have overlapping responsibilities, these professionals have distinct roles in mental healthcare.
LMHCs
LMHCs work with individuals and groups who are struggling with mental health issues, emotional disorders and behavioral problems. They conduct intake assessments, lead counseling sessions and use psychotherapy strategies to address a range of issues, from depression to post-traumatic stress.
States generally require LMHCs to have at least a master’s degree in mental health counseling or a related field to earn licensure. They must also complete postgraduate supervised hours and pass an exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors.
CSWs
Like most social workers, CSWs help their clients access community resources and navigate difficult circumstances, such as unemployment, domestic abuse and adoptions. However, social workers with a clinical license also treat clients with mental health and emotional problems.
The licensure requirements for CSWs differ significantly from state to state, but they typically include completing a master’s degree in social work and a certain number of supervised clinical experience hours. Some CSWs also have to take a clinical exam and the social work exam administered by the Association of Social Work Board.
MFTs
MFTs also provide psychotherapy and diagnose and treat mental health conditions, but they focus their work on families and couples. They help clients deal with challenges such as addiction, divorce and grief.
To become a licensed MFT, most professionals must have a master’s degree and supervised clinical experience. States generally also require prospective MFTs to take the National Marital and Family Therapy examination.
The Challenges of Licensure in Mental Health and Social Work
The licensure process for LMHCs, CSWs and MFTs can be daunting for new and seasoned professionals alike. Varying state requirements and complicated documentation can prevent otherwise qualified individuals from pursuing their goals and serving their clients.
After earning their initial license, mental health professionals must also maintain their licensure status. This is vital to upholding professional integrity and establishing client trust.
How MLG Supports LMHCs, CSWs and MFTs
Over the years, MLG has found ways to make the licensure process as seamless as possible. Although we treat each case as unique, these are the broad steps:
- Pre-qualification analysis: To ensure we know exactly what requirements you have to meet, MLG conducts a thorough eligibility check specific to your profession and state.
- Application and documentation support: MLG helps you fill out your licensing application so that all your required documents are prepared accurately and submitted on time.
- Credentials verification: We’ll do all the necessary research to verify your credentials and education history, both of which are vital to successfully obtaining a license.
Throughout this process, MLG is committed to providing personalized client service that addresses your specific needs. We partner every professional with a dedicated licensing specialist who gives you regular updates and tackles any issues as they arise.
The MLG Advantage for Mental Health and Social Work Professionals
Licensure isn’t always a straightforward process. Some cases are complex — such as when they involve a multiple-state medical license — and MLG has the expertise to tackle these kinds of cases. Because licensure laws and requirements differ from state to state and evolve over time, we continuously monitor any changes so that you receive the most current advice and assistance.
Licensure can be tedious, time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you’re a busy professional. MLG takes the burden off your shoulders to keep your stress level low and ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Simplify the Licensure Process With MLG
LMHCs, CSWs and MFTs play a critical role in the healthcare system, helping vulnerable people navigate some of the most challenging times in their lives. When there’s a delay or problem with your licensure, it can prevent you from serving those clients.
MLG is dedicated to assisting mental health professionals in their licensure journey. Call 850.433.4600 to schedule a tailored consultation and get more information about how we simplify the licensure process.