Earn your Ph.D in Clinical Social Work
Founded in 1981 by a group of visionary social workers, the Institute for Clinical Social Work provides students with a psychodynamic graduate education that values social justice, diversity, and compassionate practice.
What ICSW can do for your future
As the nation’s first and only accredited, independent institution to offer a doctoral program in clinical social work, we make distinct contributions to this vibrant and rewarding field. Our students graduate prepared to become leaders in clinical counseling and psychotherapy.
ICSW is independent and accredited
ICSW is proud to be the first and only independent, accredited clinical social work Ph.D. program in the United States. It boasts 130 full and part-time students and 60 faculty. ICSW remains independent and is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It is recognized across the nation for its outstanding faculty of scholar-practitioners, dedication to students, and contributions to the field of psychodynamic education.
ICSW Success Stories
"I chose ICSW because I was intrigued with the psychodynamic approach that is offered and I wanted to expand my knowledge within that framework. Additionally, I appreciate the opportunity to complete my degree entirely online and the diversity of the faculty and students."Amanda Aguilera, Distance Masters Student
De’Asia Thompson, Third-Year PhD Student
De’Asia focuses on improving the mental health and well-being of Black women and other women of color. At her practice, she focuses on providing a safe space for clients to heal as they navigate various terrains such as race, gender, sexuality, and other intersectional places they meet that contributes to their depression and anxiety.
Andrew Petersen, Full-time Distance PhD Student
"I completed my MSW in 2013 and am currently a full-time distance PhD student at ICSW. Upon graduating, my first position in Northern New York was providing attachment-focused psychotherapy to children within the foster care system." Our Mission
The mission of the Institute for Clinical Social Work, an institution of higher education, is to prepare scholars and practitioners to advance the knowledge and quality of practice in the fields of clinical social work and counseling and to serve diverse communities through professional and academic contributions.