What Is the Highest License Level for a Social Worker?

Social workers aim to help people dealing with poverty, domestic violence, and substance dependency. In Nebraska, working in this profession is quite beneficial. As of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in this state, social workers earn about $62,480 each year.

However, it is not possible to work without obtaining a state license. In Nebraska, there are several Nebraska Social Worker License types. The highest level of permit is a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) which enables one to become a leading expert in the field and get more opportunities.

Why Should I Get the LIMHP License?

The Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) is a qualified expert who provides a full range of clinical social work services. This status helps the specialists to supervise other mental health specialists. Moreover, they also offer high-level clinical and diagnostic services without the need for additional consultation.

Furthermore, they can work completely independently. However, getting this type of permit is not that easy. First, you should apply to become a full or provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner. After that, you will be able to apply for LIMHP authorization. This manual will help you get your permit effortlessly.

Required Experience

Generally, those who want to qualify for Nebraska Social Worker License should be ready to work hard. First, they should have at least 3,000 hours of supervised mental health background. Note that at least half of this experience should be gained through direct contact with a client. In addition, the latter must be diagnosed with a serious cognitive health disorder. Make sure to complete this requirement within two years and no more than five years.

Specifically, the main process is as follows. During those hours, the person should be supervised by an independent provider. The latter can have the profession of psychologist, physician, or LIMHP. The supervisor also must be certified and in good standing for one year at least. If you have already made these steps, you can already fill in the application form.

Pass the ASWB Exam

One of the fundamental requirements to get such permission is to take an exam. The required clinical exam is organized by the Association of Social Work Board (ASWB). As of February 2019, the cost of the exam is $260. In addition, if you have already completed this exam for the LMHP authorization, you do not have to retake it.

Structure

The test consists of 170 multiple-choice questions. There are 20 pretests and 150 scored questions. Be aware that the pretest questions are not going to affect your score. However, the scored questions will count toward your total grade. The results are going to be available within 14 days from the test day.

After Test

After finishing the test, the staff members will give you an unofficial document regarding your score. Note that you should keep this document only for your record. After receiving the scores, they cannot be altered. However, if you are not happy with the results, you are free to retake it. In this case, you should wait for 90 days to retake it.

Submit Your Application

After successfully passing the examination, you can start working on your application form. Make sure to complete all requirements before starting the application process. Moreover, the application should be submitted to the Licensure Unit. You also have to pay the fee, which is $155.

In addition to the application, your clinical supervisor should also submit the Affidavit of Supervised Experience form. Additional fees depend on the procedures and the time of the year that you are applying. Moreover, it also depends on other credentials that the applicant holds.

Renew Your LIMHP Permit

The applicants should renew the certificates for authorizations every two years. Furthermore, they are due on September 1st of even-numbered years. You will get a renewal notice 30 days before the expiration date. The notice is sent by the Licensure Unit.

Note that not everyone can renew their certificate. To be eligible for the renewal, you must complete 32 hours of continuing education. You should do so during each renewal period. The continuing education should include two courses of ethics. Also, the renewal fee is $155.

Receive Your Permit

Once the Department reviews and accepts your request, you will receive your permit Afterward, the Board of Licensing will allow you to provide clinical social work services. Those services include the following:

Assessments

Treating major mental disorders

You can provide those services without any supervision or consultation. More specifically, you can legally use the title “clinical independent social worker.”