| Aspect | Commission Clinical Social Worker | Licensed Clinical Social Worker |
|---|
| Credentials | Requires clinical social work degree, supervised experience, and state-specific commission/license | Requires master's degree in social work, supervised clinical experience, and state licensure |
| Work Environment | Often works in government agencies, clinics, or community programs with a focus on public service | Works in healthcare, private practice, or mental health settings |
| Usage & Industry | Commonly used in government and public health sectors with specific commissions | Widely recognized in healthcare and mental health industries |
The main difference is that a Commission Clinical Social Worker typically holds a specific state commission or certification to practice in public or government settings, whereas a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is licensed to provide clinical therapy across various settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and supervised experience, but their scope and employment environments differ.