Renewing Your LSW or LCSW License in Colorado – Insights from a Clinical Supervisor
By Natalie Thomas
It’s about that time again for social workers in Colorado…license renewal for 2023! As a clinical supervisor, I understand the significance of maintaining an active and updated clinical license in Colorado. It not only demonstrates our commitment to professional growth but also ensures that we can continue practicing and making a positive impact in the lives of our clients.
In this blog, I will provide you with information on how to renew your LSW or LCSW license in Colorado. Whether you’re a seasoned social worker or it’s your first time going through the renewal process, this article will help you streamline the process and ensure a successful license renewal.
Understanding the Requirements
Before jumping right into the renewal process, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the requirements developed by the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners via Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies website.
There are three components of license renewal. LSW or LCSW licensees should complete a Professional Practice Rubric and Self-Assessment, a Learning Plan, and document all of your Continuing Professional Development hours. You will create learning goals and list how you will achieve these goals on your Learning Plan.
Even though we do not have to submit these documents, you are required to keep these items in your personal files electronically or on paper just in case you are audited. I recommend keeping your documents all together in one folder on your computer that is easily accessible at all times.
Continuing Professional Development Hours
The primary criteria for license renewal include obtaining Continuing Professional Development hours. For social workers, Colorado allows a variety of activities that can go towards your required 40 hours of professional development, such as:
- Volunteer service
- Consultation
- Supervision
- Presenting
- Coursework (workshops, conferences, online classes)
- Publication, and
- Independent learning
Many LSWs and LCSWs tend to stress out wondering how to obtain all their hours if they received their initial license midway through the renewal cycle…. don’t worry! Continuing Professional Development hours requirements are prorated at 1.66 hours per month, including the month the license is issued through the month the license expires.
*Another way to meet the Professional Development Hours criteria is by choosing “Deem Status” or “Active Duty Military Exemption”. If you work in an agency that may be a part of Colorado’s formalized professional development program, you may qualify for Deem Status. Check with your organization before you select this option to make sure you qualify.
Continuing Education Tips
For myself, I said during the last renewal cycle I was going to start staying organized and keep track of all my trainings and hours as the years went on. I definitely haven’t done that again. My advice would be to:
Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the Colorado State Board’s guidelines on CEUs, ensuring you fulfill the required hours in a timely manner. Ask your colleagues what courses or workshops they are taking and have enjoyed! Start early with attending trainings and make sure they align with what you list for your goals on your Learning Plan.
Diverse Learning Opportunities: Engage in a variety of professional development activities, such as workshops, conferences, webinars, and online courses, to broaden your knowledge and skill set. Maybe this is one of your goals! To expand your knowledge on a particular subject.
Document and Organize: Make sure you are keeping track of your CEUs, including course titles, dates attended, and the number of hours earned. Even if you do like I do and print or create a folder for your certificates to go back and track later is still helpful. Staying organized will make the renewal process smoother.
LSW and LCSW Renewal Process
Renewal is every two years however I always feel like it creeps up on me! My advice is to:
Plan Ahead: Mark your calendar and set a reminder for your renewal date. Colorado LCSW licenses expire on August 31st of odd-numbered years. Start the renewal process well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.
Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including your CEU certificates, conference certificates, independent study documents, etc.
Online Application: Visit the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners website and navigate to the license renewal section. Create an account or log in to access the online application.
Application Submission: Complete the application, providing accurate information and making sure all required fields are filled. Attach any documentation as specified, paying attention to file format and size requirements.
Application Fee: This is the most dreaded part! Pay the renewal fee online. Be sure to keep a copy of the payment confirmation for your records.
Review and Follow-Up: After submitting your application, carefully review the confirmation email for any additional instructions or pending documents. Address any discrepancies promptly and efficiently.
And, You’re Almost Done!
Renewing your LSW orLCSW license in Colorado is not always the most fun, however it’s a necessary step in maintaining your professional standing and continuing to serve our clients. By understanding the requirements, following the renewal process carefully, and staying proactive in your continuing education, you can ensure a seamless renewal experience.
As social workers, we are committed to lifelong learning and growth, and license renewal is a fundamental part of that journey. Embrace the process, invest in your professional development, and keep making a difference in the lives of those you serve.
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Author Bio
Natalie Thomas is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Clinical Supervisor (ACS). She provides group and individual clinical supervision for provisionally licensed counselors and social workers, along with clinical consultation for independently licensed therapists. Natalie enjoys supporting therapists develop new skills and find their niche.
