April 14, 2025
By Molly Urnek

With over 23 million residents and only about 13,000 Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Florida is facing a critical shortage of licensed clinicians to meet the growing demand for life-saving mental health services.

Thanks to a $300,000 grant from Sunshine Health and the Centene Foundation, the USF School of Social Work will be able to address this gap through its Pathway to Licensure Initiative, which supports social workers on their journeys to becoming LCSWs.

“The gift from the Centene Foundation is a game-changer in addressing the shortage of LCSWs in Florida,” says Melissa Thompson, interim associate director and associate instructor in the School of Social Work. “Their support creates a sustainable pipeline of competent professionals prepared to serve the needs of their communities.”

This three-year commitment will strengthen the Clinical Fellowship Program, which is designed to guide Master of Social Work graduates through the stages of professional licensure. Each year, the initiative is expected to yield 12 new licensed clinicians, totaling 36 over the life of the grant.

By directly addressing the shortage of LCSWs, this generous gift will help expand access to behavioral health services and increase the number of highly qualified clinicians in the Tampa Bay region.
 
“The USF School of Social Work is deeply grateful to the Centene Foundation for this visionary investment in the future of our workforce and the well-being of our communities,” says Chris Simmons, interim director of the School of Social Work.

With Sunshine Health and the Centene Foundation’s support, USF will partner with local agencies to provide post-graduate employment opportunities and fully funded clinical supervision — removing one of the most significant barriers to licensure. 

Beyond reducing financial burdens, the program offers ongoing mentorship, career guidance and skill-building support that ensures social work graduates can transition confidently and competently into impactful careers serving our most vulnerable communities. 

“This funding not only supports individual social workers but also strengthens the behavioral health system and expands access to quality care for those who need it most,” says Thompson.