LCSW Supervision FAQ

Beginning the journey from LMSW to LCSW can bring up excitement, uncertainty, and a lot of questions. Supervision isn’t just about meeting requirements—it’s a relationship, a container for growth, and a place to become more grounded in who you are as a clinician. Below are some of the most common questions I receive. 

Most LMSWs in my program meet with me for about four hours each month, usually through two 2-hour group supervision sessions. We meet online via Zoom, which allows us to stay connected while also honoring the realities of full lives and busy schedules.

Texas requires a minimum of 24 months to complete supervision. There isn’t a way to shorten this timeline. During this time, you’ll complete 3,000 supervised work hours at your place of employment and 100 supervision hours with me.

If your goal is to complete supervision in around 24 months, you’ll need to be working at least 30 hours per week. and attend 4 supervision hours per month. Those working part-time are completely welcome in my supervision groups. 

Part-time clinicians attend  2 supervision hours per month, which can extend the process to four to five years. Many clinicians feel the most supported when supervision unfolds at an individualized pace allowing space for learning to integrate rather than rushing through.

Clinical work completed before supervision officially begins doesn’t count toward licensure. Because of this, starting supervision earlier rather than later can make the process feel more supportive and less like a race to the finish line. 

* Supervision completed with a prior LCSW-S supervisor may still be applicable if you have a signed verification form confirming earlier supervision hours. In some situations, BHEC has also approved supervision completed outside of Texas.

If your role involves direct client or patient care and you regularly use clinical assessment or treatment skills to assess, diagnose, and treat  mental health or substance use for at least 4 hours each week using DSM criteria it will often meet LCSW supervision requirements. You don’t need to be the person assigning the final diagnosis. Many clinicians work on teams where diagnosis is completed by physicians or licensed providers. If you’re using clinical judgment, screening tools, or diagnostic frameworks in your work, that typically qualifies.

My program is intentionally group-based. Group supervision offers the opportunity to learn through shared reflection, multiple perspectives, and the reassurance that you don’t have to do this work alone. It’s often a great fit for clinicians who value connection and collaborative learning. There are occasions that individual supervision is appropriate based on individual needs, such as an initial session before you begin groups or to process a sensitive topic. 

Group sessions are a space for shared learning and thoughtful discussion. We talk through clinical cases, therapeutic approaches, ethical questions, and the DSM, always keeping the LCSW exam and real-world practice in mind. Most months include one discussion-based group and one training-focused group. Training sessions may explore neuropsychology or somatic interventions, clinical tools, or the practical side of building a sustainable practice or career. Together, the groups are designed to support your growth as both a clinician and a professional.

Supervision is offered at $125 per hour and typically includes four hours of supervision per month ($500 monthly). Most months, this is scheduled as two 2-hour sessions, a pace that allows many clinicians to complete supervision in about 25 months. Some employers offer partial or full reimbursement for supervision, so it’s always worth checking with your workplace.

The program is primarily group-based, though we’ll begin with an individual session early on so we can build connection, establish goals, and get to know each other more personally. After that, individual sessions are available as needed, and are offered at the same $125 per hour rate.

When you’re ready to move forward, send me an email or reach out on the contact form and we will schedule a time for an initial individual session where we will complete a supervision agreement and clinical supervision plan together. I’ll also share a simple letter template for your employer to sign, simply noting that your supervision happens outside of your organization. Nothing needs to be submitted to the board until after you’ve completed supervision and passed the LCSW exam.

If you’re wondering something that isn’t answered here, you’re always welcome to reach out on my contact form or attend my free monthly Introduction to Supervision information session as an opportunity to connect and explore whether my supervision style aligns with what you’re looking for.