# Clinical social workers in Colorado

> A clinical social worker (LCSW) has a master's degree in social work and provides talk therapy. Social workers also help people find community resources such as housing, benefits, and support groups.

Source: Colorado Health Insurance Colorado Care Index (https://coloradohealthinsurance.com/care/social-worker), data updated 2026-11-11. Published by Grove Benefit Advisors LLC, a licensed Colorado health insurance agency.

## When people see one

- You want therapy and help finding community services.
- You are dealing with a hospital stay, a diagnosis, or caregiving.
- You want counseling for depression, anxiety, or trauma.

## How it differs

- Licensed professional counselor: A licensed professional counselor also provides talk therapy. Social workers train in connecting people to resources as well.
- Marriage and family therapist: A marriage and family therapist focuses on couples and families. A clinical social worker treats individuals, couples, and families.

## On 2027 Colorado plans

- Referral: Not on most plans. Kaiser Permanente plans need a referral for some specialists, so ask the insurance company before you book. The other plans don't require one for outpatient mental health care, according to each plan's 2027 summary of benefits.
- Visit cost by metal level (standard plans):
  - Bronze: $0 to $80 a visit on 25 of 56 plans
  - Silver: $0 to $85 a visit on 35 of 58 plans
  - Gold: $0 to $90 a visit on 26 of 30 plans

## In Colorado

- 8,840 clinicians at 3,922 locations in public records (NPPES, CMS).
- 17,546 active Colorado licenses (DORA).

## Questions to ask the office

- Are you taking new patients?
- Do you bill my 2027 plan? Which plan and network name do you use?
- Do you offer telehealth visits?
- How long is the wait for a first appointment, and do you bill insurance or take self-pay only?

## Sources

- [NASW: National Association of Social Workers](https://www.socialworkers.org/)
- [NIMH: Psychotherapies](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies)