Complex five-tier social work licensing system with unique consultation agreement requirements, separating clinical and non-clinical practice pathways.
Understanding Maine's five-tier system and progression routes
Five distinct license types with consultation agreement requirements and separate clinical/non-clinical pathways.
Entry-level conditional license requiring bachelor's degree and active consultation agreement on file with the Board.
Non-clinical bachelor-level license requiring BSW degree OR completion of LSX consultation requirements plus ASWB examination.
Non-clinical master's level independent license allowing private practice in non-clinical social work services.
Conditional clinical license for master's graduates working toward full clinical licensure under consultation agreement.
Highest clinical license allowing independent clinical practice after completing consultation requirements as MC licensee.
Mandatory consultation agreements for conditional licenses (LSX, MC) with active agreements required on file with the Board at all times.
Most complex system in New England with five distinct license types offering multiple pathways based on education level and practice goals.
Clear separation between clinical (MC/LC) and non-clinical (LSX/LS/LM) practice tracks with different requirements and scope.
Various entry points: bachelor's level (LSX, LS), master's generalist (LM), and master's clinical (MC) allowing flexibility in career paths.
Consultation requirements create structured mentorship system ensuring proper supervision and skill development at appropriate levels.
Each license level has clearly defined practice scope, preventing scope creep and ensuring appropriate level of service delivery.
Maine's consultation agreement system requires active agreements on file with the Board. If consultation ends, conditional licensees must immediately notify Board and submit new agreements to continue practice.
Maine offers five distinct social work licenses: LSX (conditional entry), LS (bachelor level), LM (master non-clinical), MC (master clinical conditional), and LC (full clinical). Choose carefully based on your career goals.
Maine clearly separates clinical (MC/LC) and non-clinical (LSX/LS/LM) practice. Clinical licenses require different supervision and lead to therapy/mental health practice authority.
Conditional licensees (LSX, MC) must immediately notify the Board if consultation relationships end. Failure to maintain active consultation may result in license suspension.
All Maine social work licenses renew every two years with 25 hours of continuing education required across all license levels.
Professional Licensing Division
State of Maine
License Types: LSX, LS, LM, MC, LC
Renewal: Every 2 Years
CE Hours: 25 Required
Special Feature: Consultation Agreement System