Clinical
The clinical practice enhancement provides recognition to registered social workers (RSWs) who have achieved advanced competence in clinical social work practice. This practice enhancement reflects a commitment to professional excellence, advanced knowledge, skill and ethical practice in the delivery of addiction and mental health services.
What is Clinical Social Work?
Clinical social work involves the diagnosis, assessment, treatment and delivery of psychotherapeutic interventions to support mental health and well-being across the lifespan. Practice may include work with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Protected Titles
In accordance with the Social Workers Profession Regulation, only those registrants who apply, qualify for and complete the clinical practice enhancement requirements are permitted to use the protected titles:
- clinical social worker
- registered clinical social worker (RCSW)
These titles are recognized indicators of advanced competence and professional practice in clinical social work practice.
Benefits of the Clinical Practice Enhancement
Registered clinical social workers are entitled to:
- Enhanced Public Protection – Designation stated on the public registry and practice permit
- Use of Protected Titles – Including registered clinical social worker (RCSW) and clinical social worker
- Professional Recognition – Recognition as advanced clinical practitioners by the profession, employers, insurance providers/third parties, and the public
- Career Advancement Opportunities – Enhanced eligibility for specialized clinical roles and professional growth opportunities
- Insurance Recognition – Eligibility for recognition by certain third-party insurers and benefit providers
- Commitment to Professional Excellence – Demonstrates adherence to ACSW Standards of Practice, ethical practice, and ongoing continuing competence requirements in advanced clinical social work practice
Click here for more information about eligibility and how to apply.
Restricted psychosocial interventions
Restricted psychosocial interventions are social work services performed with an expectation of treating a substantial disorder of thought, mood, perception, orientation, or memory that grossly impairs judgement, behaviour, capacity to recognize reality, or ability to meet the ordinary demands of life.
ACSW regulates this narrow area of practice. Registered social workers must limit their practice to areas in which they have gained competence through education, training, and supervised experience.
Not all social workers have met the requirements to perform restricted psychosocial interventions. Click here for more information on applying for this regulated area of practice.