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Utilization Review Lcsw Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP) Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia Overview Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) is seeking ...

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Utilization Review Lcsw information

What is a utilization review LCSW?

A Utilization Review LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) is a mental health professional who evaluates the medical necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of mental health services for patients. They review clinical documentation to ensure that treatments meet insurance and regulatory guidelines, often acting as a liaison between healthcare providers and payers. Their goal is to ensure patients receive necessary care while also reducing unnecessary costs and maintaining compliance with healthcare policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utilization review LCSW?

To thrive as a Utilization Review LCSW, you need a master's degree in social work (MSW), LCSW licensure, and a strong understanding of clinical assessment and care coordination. Familiarity with medical necessity criteria, insurance guidelines, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential, and certification in case management or utilization review is often preferred. Exceptional analytical skills, attention to detail, and clear communication help you advocate effectively for patients and collaborate with healthcare teams. These competencies ensure appropriate care, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with regulatory standards in healthcare delivery.

What are the main challenges utilization review LCSWs face when balancing clinical judgment and insurance guidelines?

Utilization Review LCSWs often encounter the challenge of aligning their clinical assessments with insurance coverage criteria, which can sometimes restrict recommended care options. Navigating these situations requires strong communication skills to advocate for appropriate patient care while adhering to payer policies. Frequent collaboration with healthcare providers and insurance representatives is essential to ensure patients receive necessary services without unnecessary delays. This balancing act can be demanding but is also highly rewarding for those who value systemic impact and patient advocacy.

What is the difference between Utilization Review Lcsw vs Medical Social Worker?

AspectUtilization Review LcswMedical Social Worker
CredentialsLicensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), certification in utilization review often preferredLicensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with clinical social work experience in healthcare
Work EnvironmentInsurance companies, healthcare organizations, utilization review departmentsHospitals, clinics, patient homes, healthcare settings
Primary FocusReviewing medical necessity, insurance approvals, and utilization managementProviding psychosocial support, discharge planning, and patient advocacy

The Utilization Review Lcsw primarily focuses on insurance review and utilization management within healthcare settings, requiring knowledge of medical necessity criteria. In contrast, Medical Social Workers provide direct patient support, counseling, and discharge planning. While both roles require an LCSW license, their daily responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Utilization Review Lcsw jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Utilization Review Lcsw job openings:

Infographic showing various Utilization Review Lcsw job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

MDPerm

Portsmouth, VA โ€ข On-site

$92K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments to determine patient needs, strengths, and available family or community resources

  • Provide individual, group, couples, and family therapy using evidence-based clinical modalities

  • Develop and implement discharge plans, follow-up care, and care transitions to other healthcare facilities


Job description

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP)
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VirginiaOverview
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) is seeking a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to serve as a primary mental health therapist within the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP).
This is a full-time outpatient role in which the LCSW independently provides diagnostic assessments, evidence-based psychotherapy, and care coordination services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. The position emphasizes guideline-based treatment, clinical autonomy, and collaboration within an interdisciplinary military healthcare team.Schedule & Work Hours
  • Full-Time | On-Site
  • Schedule: Monday-Friday
  • Hours: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • No weekends
  • No on-call requirement
Clinical Focus & Therapeutic Modalities
The LCSW provides in-depth mental health diagnostic evaluations and psychotherapy using evidence-based treatment approaches. Approved modalities include:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
  • Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Key Responsibilities
  • Independently function as the primary mental health therapist in an outpatient behavioral health setting
  • Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments to determine patient needs, strengths, and available family or community resources
  • Provide individual, group, couples, and family therapy using evidence-based clinical modalities
  • Assess and treat patients experiencing chronic and acute medical, psychological, and substance-related conditions
  • Provide counseling to patients and families related to adjustment, functional limitations, and ongoing treatment needs
  • Develop and implement discharge plans, follow-up care, and care transitions to other healthcare facilities (e.g., VA facilities, rehabilitation hospitals, nursing homes)
  • Coordinate referrals and continuity of care with civilian health and social service agencies
  • Provide consultation services to medical, nursing, and ancillary staff regarding psychosocial issues, discharge planning, and follow-up care
  • Deliver crisis intervention services as needed
  • Maintain timely, accurate clinical documentation in accordance with facility and regulatory standards
Qualifications
Education
  • Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) with a clinical focus

Licensure
  • Current, full, active, and unrestricted Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license
  • License may be held in any U.S. state

Experience
  • Minimum two (2) years of full-time post-independent licensure clinical experience
Why Join NMCP SARP?
This role offers the opportunity to practice independently within a structured outpatient substance abuse treatment program while supporting service members and beneficiaries. Providers enjoy a predictable weekday schedule, strong interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to deliver meaningful, evidence-based care.
MDPerm LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of credentialing, background screening, and any facility-specific requirements.