I passed my LMSW today on my first try after studying for about a month!🎉
I have pretty bad test anxiety, especially with ADHD, so I was really nervous going into the exam. I didn’t apply for extra testing time because I was on a time crunch and needed to get licensed for a job I have lined up.
I scored a 101 on the official ASWB practice exam and passed the actual exam with a 107. A pass is a pass, and that’s all that matters! I wanted to share what helped me in case it helps someone else.
What helped me:
Took a Pocket Prep mock exam to identify my weak areas.
Made Quizlet flashcards from a study guide (I split them into three sections).
Studied consistently every day.
Watched RayTube videos to better understand theories, modalities, and improve my critical thinking.
Used Pocket Prep daily (20–50 questions).
Took full-length practice exams on Pocket Prep and Quizlet.
Bought the official ASWB Practice Exam ($85), which I thought was well worth it.
If anyone wants the study guide or the Quizlet flashcards I made, feel free to message me!
Topics I studied:
Common DSM-5 diagnoses
CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Narrative, Motivational Interviewing
Family therapies
Crisis intervention & the helping process
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Defense mechanisms & cognitive distortions
Family dynamics & group work
Community practice roles
Stages of Change
Major theories (psychodynamic, person-centered, systems, social learning, attachment, etc.)
Erikson, Piaget, Kohlberg, and Freud
Parenting styles
NASW Code of Ethics
Common medications (I saved these for last)
I’m probably forgetting a lot. But you don’t need to know every topic in depth. Just have a general understanding.
I hope this helps! Feel free to message me if you have questions about my study plan or the resources I used. Good luck—you’ve got this! 😊
Originally posted by u/dayswithanna on Reddit.
Top comment by u/SuspiciousSeesaw2423
It took me a doctor’s appointment and about a week or 2 for them to approve my time and a half. Highly encourage people to take advantage and apply for it if they need it.
Failed my first time and got to the end of my exam with only a few minutes to review my answers (this was when you had no split). Took the newer version where its in 2 parts plus time and a half and passed. I felt so relieved knowing I had all the time I needed.