Colorado LCSW & MFT Licensure

Your Step-by-Step Path to Licensure and Beyond

Outline of state of Colorado

This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from education to exams to continuing education.

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Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) 

How to become a Social Worker in Colorado

Step 1: Complete a CSWE-accredited Social Work program
Step 2: Register as an LSW
  • Go to the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners website and fill out the form here
  • Include an official college or university transcript
  • Take the Colorado Mental Health Profession’s Jurisprudence Examination found online here
  • Pay the $70 application and processing fee
Step 3: Register for the ASWB Masters Level Exam and Study with TDC
Step 4: Begin to Accrue Hours towards your LCSW Colorado License
  • Complete and document 3,360 hours of supervised work experience over a period of no less than 24 months.
  • At least 1,680 of the hours must be spent in a role that includes testing, diagnosis, assessment, treatment, or counseling. Up to 1,200 hours may be credited for the teaching of social work or psychotherapy.
  • Supervision is to be provided by a clinical social worker. 96 hours of clinical supervision is required; it should be spread out over the course of the supervision period. At least 48 of the supervision hours should be individual.
  • At the end of the supervision period, the supervisor will submit verification to the Colorado Board.
  • Finally, fill out and submit the application form and again pay the $70 processing fee.
Step 5: Register for the LCSW Exam and Begin Your Studies!
  • When your application has been accepted, contact the ASWB and register for the LCSW exam and Pearson VUE to schedule your exam 
  • Once again, it’s time to study! Check out our LCSW Exam Prep: ASWB Clinical Level program to help you pass with confidence!

LCSW Continuing Education Requirements

Pre-licensure - Social workers in CO have the same Professional Development Activities (PDAs) requirements as Licensed Social workers
License Renewal
  • Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years (Must be renewed by August 31 of every ODD year)
  • Total Hours Required: 40 hours
  • Professional Practice Rubric and Self-Assessment: Must complete the Professional Practice Rubric and a self-assessment as part of the program
Therapist Development Center is an approved provider through ASWB ACE.
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Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)

How to become a MFT in Colorado

Step 1: Earn Your Degree
  • Master’s in MFT or related field from COAMFTE or Board equivalent program
Step 2: Accrue Supervised Experience
  • 2,000 hours of supervised experience and a minimum of 2 years
  • Minimum of 1,500 direct client contact hours
  • 1,000 of which shall be with couples and families 
Step 3: Pass Required Exams
Step 4: Apply for LMFT Licensure
  • Submit supervised hours and exam results
  • Submit transcripts
  • Send fingerprints for background check
  • Pass Colorado Jurisprudence Exam
  • Pay application fee of $200

LMFT Continuing Education Requirements

CE Requirements For Colorado MFTS
(Referred to as Professional Development or PD in CO)
License Renewal
  • Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years
  • Total Hours Required: 40 hours
  • Must include 6 hours professional ethics
  • Must retake the Colorado Jurisprudence Exam during each renewal cycle
  • Professional Development Hours (PDH) in line with your Learning Plan and retain documentation of the completed activities
Therapist Development Center is an approved provider through ASWB ACE 

Disclaimer: Please confirm all information with your state licensing board, as requirements may change.

CO Licensing Board

Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners
Website: https://dpo.colorado.gov/SocialWork
Phone: 303-894-7800
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