Quote:
Originally Posted by mftPsychSoc
From the posts I've read it sounds like the MSW(LCSW) is much more marketable than an MA in counseling(LMHC/LPC). Is this generally the same for LCSW vs LMFT's as well? Also, when it comes to the job market, is this trend apparent? And out of curiosity are there instances of LCSW going for training in MFT or MHC to get additional licensure as LMHC's or LMFT's?
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I would support that the MSW is the most flexible of the masters-level degrees. The majority of the positions I've ever held or applied for were for LCSW or LPC. There aren't a lot of LMFT's in my area, so I *think* they're considered equivalent but don't know much about them. It was my understanding that some LMFTs run into problems finding positions where the majority of clients are individuals, because their training focuses on the MFT end of things. Please, someone correct me if I'm wrong on that.
Where I've seen the specific MSW requirements are for positions which are not *specifially* designated as mental health. As an example, one of the hospital systems I work for uses MSWs and MA/Couns for their behavioral health intake assessors, and for some of the therapists on the behavioral health units. However, on the medical floors- doing psychosocial assessments- it has to be social workers- no counselors, no MFTs. I believe this has to do with accreditation and Medicare issues. At the other hospital, I do forensic child abuse evaluations in the ER- again, MUST be a social worker- my boss is not able to hire a counselor. Clinically, there's no reason a counselor couldn't learn to do those assessments- it's because of the degree.
Regarding additional training, I could do a post-masters MFT certification if I chose to, but I'd rather repeatedly gouge my eyes out with a fork than do couples counseling. There would be no need to get another license, however. It'd be pretty redundant.
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