In Washington State, becoming a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) requires passing a standardized exam that has been shown to create unequal barriers for many qualified professionals. Even after completing thousands of hours of supervised clinical work, individuals can be blocked from practicing independently based on a single test.

This is not just a workforce issue, it is an issue of access, equity, and public health. When qualified social workers are unable to obtain licensure, communities across Washington face reduced access to critical mental health services.

We are calling on Washington State policymakers, educational institutions, and social work licensing boards to amend current licensure laws and create an alternative pathway to LICSW certification that recognizes clinical experience, competency, and professional readiness beyond a standardized exam. Doing so would not only enhance the social work profession by making it more accessible but also better equip to serve the needs of all communities.

It’s time to expand access, strengthen the workforce, and create a more equitable path forward. Sign this petition to support a fairer, more equitable licensure process for the future of social work in Washington State. Stand with us as we strive to break down these barriers and build a more inclusive and representative social work community.