2025 NASW-NJ Annual Conference Program Book by socialworkers

March 30 - April 1

Message from the NASW-NJ PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear NASW-NJ Members and Conference Attendees,

AMML HUSSEIN

EdD MSW LSW

Welcome to the 2025 NASW-NJ Annual Conference and Exhibition in Atlantic City! Hope is a powerful force. It fuels change, inspires action, and strengthens our resolve to create a more just and compassionate world. As we gather for this year’s NASW-NJ Conference, we do so with a deep sense of purpose and excitement, knowing that our collective commitment to social work is essential for the individuals, families, and communities we serve.

As the President and the Executive Director of NASW-NJ, we are honored to welcome you to this auspicious convening of social work professionals, thought leaders, and changemakers This conference is a culmination of our shared efforts throughout Social Work Month, a time when we reflect on our profession’s impact and reaffirm our dedication to equity, justice, and transformation This year’s theme, “Doing Good, Doing Right, Doing Well: Ethical and Evidence-Based Practice in the Future,” resonates deeply in our current time The theme underscores the critical balance between doing good ensuring our actions benefit those we serve; doing right upholding the highest ethical standards; and doing well achieving excellence in our practice through evidence-based methods

Social work is more than a profession; it is a movement that is grounded in the values of dignity, service, and social justice This conference is not just an event; it is a celebration of our resilience, our passion, and our unwavering belief that change is possible when we come together

During times of uncertainty, when the weight of systemic challenges, societal shifts, and personal struggles can feel overwhelming, we find strength in our community. No matter the obstacles ahead, we stand together, guided by our values and our unwavering belief in the power of collective action.

We invite you to be fully present in this experience connect with colleagues, engage in meaningful discussions, and take in the knowledge and inspiration that this space offers. We will also be hosting feel-good events throughout the conference to bring everyone together for some lighthearted fun So, we hope you join us at our Quizlet Game Show, where you can show-off your trivia knowledge, and bring your best dance moves to our fusion Disco/Country Dance Party!

As Social Work Month comes to an end, we move forward with a renewed sense of purpose We hope you leave this conference feeling inspired, empowered, and deeply connected to the community that surrounds you Together, we are shaping a future where justice, healing, and equity are not just aspirations, but realities

Thank you for being part of this journey Your dedication and passion make all the difference!

With gratitude and solidarity,

Dr Amml Hussein, President, NASW-NJ, Associate Professor of Teaching, Rutgers University

Dr Tiffany L Mayers, Executive Director, NASW-NJ

WELCOME FROM THE WELCOME FROM THE CONFERENCE CHAIR CONFERENCE CHAIR DAWN APGAR

PhD, LSW, ACSW

Dr. Dawn Apgar is Chair of the NASW-NJ Continuing Education Committee and Associate Professor/BSW Program Director at Seton Hall University. Dr. Apgar has served in many NASW leadership positions on the state and national levels, including as a former President of the NASW-NJ Board of Directors and the current Chair of the national Credentialing Committee. Dr. Apgar’s scholarship and writings focus extensively on social work education, licensure, and practice, the three foundational pillars of the profession.

Welcome to this year’s NASW-NJ conference which begins in Social Work Month! We are excited to be back at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino where we will explore the future of social work practice through the lens of ethics, evidence, and excellence. Our theme, Doing Good, Doing Right, Doing Well: Ethical and Evidence-Based Practice in the Future, invites us to reflect on the evolving nature of our profession and the vital role of both ethical frameworks and evidence-based practices in shaping our work As social workers, we strive to act in the best interest of those we serve, grounded in principles that honor human dignity, social justice, and the pursuit of equitable well-being for all

Today, social workers stand at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, navigating a complex world where new challenges demand not only compassion and advocacy but also the integration of scientific evidence and ethical decision-making By grounding our work in evidence-based practices, we ensure that our interventions are not just compassionate, but also effective, ensuring real, measurable change for the individuals, families, and communities we support

Throughout this conference, we will explore what it means to uphold the highest standards of ethical practice while embracing the tools and research that guide us toward the best outcomes for those we serve From keynote speakers to interactive workshops, this conference is designed to push us to think critically about how we integrate ethical standards and evidence into our daily work In the face of change, we must not only keep pace but lead

the way, grounded in practices that promote lasting wellbeing and justice for marginalized communities

As we engage in these conversations, let us also remember the core values that define us as social workers: empathy, respect, responsibility, and integrity. These values are our foundation, guiding us to "do good" by helping those in need, "do right" by adhering to ethical principles, and "do well" by advancing our practice with evidence that ensures we are making a true difference in the lives of others

In this shared space of learning and growth, we invite each of you to contribute your unique perspectives and experiences The diversity of our voices will strengthen the collective knowledge that guides our profession forward. Together, we will not only enhance our practices but also strengthen our capacity to advocate for social change and promote equity in our communities

As you move through this conference, let it serve as an opportunity to deepen your commitment to ethical, evidence-based practice May the knowledge gained here empower you to make meaningful changes in your practice and in your communities When you leave this conference, carry forward the inspiration and insights you have gained, using them to build a future in which ethical and evidence-based practices are not only valued but central to the way we create a more just and compassionate world

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to the vital work of social work Together, we can Do Good, Do Right, and Do Well as we shape the future of our profession and the communities we serve

Conference Main Areas

*Allmeetingspacesarelocatedonthe2nd floorexceptforHardRockLiveatEtess ArenaandDaerNightclubwhichare locatedonthe1stfloor

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - General Map

How to Use the App

Navigate to your phone’s app store (Apple or Google Play Store) and search for “NASW-NJ”

You should see the app pictured left here Click the “Get” button and you should be prompted to download it

From there you’ll be directed to the login screen Type in your registration information exactly as it was done for the original registration

Once you open it, click the download icon by our conference event name

Now you’re officially in the app and will be taken to the home screen From here you can access the different areas of conference in a few different ways

The banners up top will cycle through some featured events and sponsors.

These buttons will take you to other featured pages

Schedule Icon

Click this to view the upcoming sessions and your personal schedule

A code will then be sent to the email associated with your registration Type in the provided code on the following screen.

Home screen icon

Click this to return the home screen at any time.

If you didn’t receive a code, click the “Didn’t receive a code?” button at the bottom of the screen

This toolbar will help you navigate to all the main pages.

Community Icon

Click this to join the discussion forums and ask panelists questions during sessions

More Icon

Click this to access more detailed information about the conference (such as the map)

Profile Icon

Click this to change your profile settings

HASSLE-FREE CE CERTIFICATES At Conference

Your name badge contains a barcode that will be scanned to verify your attendance at your registered workshops and various events,

SO MAKE SURE YOU WEAR YOUR BADGE AT ALL TIMES!

TO OBTAIN YOUR CEUS AT THE CONFERENCE, FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:

1. Receive your bar-coded name badge at the Conference Registration Desk.

2. Upon entering the room of the workshop for which you are registered, have your badge scanned by the volunteer on duty.

TO RECEIVE YOUR CE CERTIFICATE

When you have completed all your workshops, your CE certificate will automatically be e-mailed to you within 10 days!

NASW-NJ acknowledges that the conference gathers on the land of the Lenni-Lanape. We honor the Lenape and other Indigenous caretakers of these lands and waters, the elders who lived here before, the Indigenous today, and the generations to come.

Special Thank You to the

Continuing Education/ Conference Planning Committee

Dawn Apgar, PhD, LSW, ACSW

V. DuWayne Battle, PhD, DMin, MSW, MDiv

Ruslana Church, LCSW

Staci Fattore, LCSW

Katherine Findley, PhD, MSW

Amml Hussein, EdD, MSW, LSW

Kecia Melvin, LCSW

Widian Nicola, DSW, LCSW

Rosemarie Patrizio, LCSW, LCADC

Donna Pincavage, MSW, LSW, MPA

Gardan Speights, DSW, LCSW

Gilberto Velasquez, MSW, LSW

Schedule at a Glance

Sunday,

March 30

Conference Check-In Desk Opens at 8 AM

Optional Pre-Conference Plenary: Flipping the Script on Youth Suicide: Understanding and Addressing Youth Suicide Risk

Self-Care Workshop in Self-Care Lounge (TAMPA ABC)

Visit Exhibit Hall

Keynote - Navigating Digital Futures: Contemporary Social Work & Generative Artificial Intelligence

Break/Visit Exhibits

Concurrent Sessions

Exhibit Grand Opening Reception & Executive Director Meet-&-Greet/w light food

Quizlet Game Show

Sponsor & Exhibitor Reception

Monday,

March 31

Conference Check-In Desk Opens at 8 AM

Continental Breakfast/Visit Exhibits

Keynote - Reimagining Social Work: Leading with Purpose in a New Era

Break/Visit Exhibits

Concurrent Sessions

Student Program

Lunch & Visit Exhibit Hall

Plenary - Social Work Diagnosis in the Age of the DSM: The Clinician's Dilemma

Refreshment Breaks & Visit Exhibit Hall

Plenary - Whose Body is it, Anyway: The Intersection of Health, Client Autonomy, and Social Work Across The Lifespan

Free Time/ Networking/ Visit Exhibits (Raffle Prizes Given Out)

Disco/Country Party

Tuesday, April 1

7:30 AM 9:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM

9:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 1:00 PM

Conference Check-In Desk Opens at 8 AM

Continental Breakfast & Visit Exhibits

Closing Plenary Session- 3 Rivers of Social Work CEO’s of NASW, CSWE, ASWB

Break/ Last chance to Visit Exhibit Hall

Concurrent Sessions

On-Demand Workshops

On-demand virtual sessions available April 2 – May 2

Information on accessing your on-demand workshops will be provided at the conference

Monday Student

10:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Student Leadership Summit

Program

LEARN,RELAX,&EN LEARN,RELAX,&EN

Pre-Conference Plenary:

Flipping the Script on Youth Suicide: Understanding and Addressing Youth Suicid

JONATHAN B. SINGER, PHD, LCSW

Rooted in real-world applications and informed by ethical considerations, this address will illuminate how social workers can harness tools like ChatGPT to augment service coordination, clinical interactions, and administrative workflows while ensuring fidelity to core social work values

SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

EXHIBIT HALL G RECEPTION

Join us for the Grand Opening Reception of the Exhibit Hall. Mingle with our exhibitors, network and enjoy light food. Complete your Exhibitor Bingo card to earn a chance to win free attendance to next year's Annual Conference.

Sponsoredby

QUIZLIT GAME SHOW

This engaging event combines fun trivia with essential social work topics, offering a chance to learn, laugh, and win prizes! Don’t miss this dynamic and entertaining experience let the games begin!

STUDENT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

This workshop is designed to equip social work students with the essential leadership skills and knowledge to positively impact our community It will feature roundtable talks with leaders in the field who will discuss topics related to developing a professional identity, elevating practice, branding, social justice, the business of social work, and more.

Expect a night filled with toe-tapping country hits, groovy disco beats, and a dance floor that's ready to rock! 30 30 31 31 4:30-6:30PM

DISCO/COUNTRY PARTY

Join us for a night where the Wild West meets the Disco Inferno! Dust off your cowboy boots and shine up your disco balls for the ultimate Country/Disco Dance Party

Sponsoredby

SUNDAY PRE-CONFERENCE

PLENARY: Separate Registration Required

10AM–12PM

Flipping the Script on Youth Suicide:

Understanding and Addressing Youth Suicide Risk

Jonathan B. Singer, PhD, LCSW

2 Clinical CEUS

SUNDAY KEYNOTE

12:30-2PM

Navigating Digital Futures: Contemporary Social Work and Generative Artificial Intelligence

Jonathan B Singer, PhD, LCSW

1 5 General CEUs

SPECIAL EVENT

7-8:30PM

Quizlet Game Show

1 5 General CEUs

DuWayne Battle, PhD, DMin, MSW, MDiv

Jeff Feldman, MSW, LSW

SUNDAY WORKSHOPS

2:30-4:30PM

MONDAY KEYNOTE SESSION

8:30-10AM

Reimagining Social Work: Leading with Purpose in a New Era

Lakeya Cherry, DSW, MSSW

1 5 Clinical CEUs

MONDAY PLENARY SESSIONS

Social Work Diagnosis in the Age of the DSM: The Clinician's Dilemma

2:30-4PM

Jerome C ("Jerry") Wakefield, PhD, DSW, MSW, MA

1 5 Clinical/Ethics CEUs

Whose Body is it, Anyway:

The Intersection of Health, Client Autonomy, and Social Work Across The Lifespan

5-6:30PM

Facilitator: E Goldblatt Hyatt (they/them), DSW, LCSW, MBE

Presenters: Judie McCoyd, PhD, LCSW

Patricia Palmer, LCSW

Kimberly Rumaker, LCSW

Jacqueline Salvatore, MSW LSW, Simone Snyder, MSW 1.5 Clinical CEUs

MONDAY

STUDENT EVENT

10:30AM-1:30PM

Social Work Student Leadership Summit

For information about the Student Leadership Summit please see page 13

MONDAY WORKSHOPS

10:30AM-12:30PM

M1 Anti-Oppressive Supervision: Cultivating Radical Genuineness Between BIPOC Supervisees and White Supervisors

Jennifer Campbell, LCSW, DBT-LBC & Ayanna Bates, LSW, LMSW

2 Social/Cultural Competence or Clinical CEUs

M2. Suicide Prevention Strategies and Support: Empowering School Mental Health Professionals

Jillian Meinhardt, MSW, LCSW

2 Clinical CEUs

M3. Supporting Latina/o/e Youth in Child Welfare: Culturally Informed School Social Work

Sharon Bale-Peña, DSW, LCSW

2 Social/Cultural or Clinical CEUs

M4. Chronic Pain and Mental Health: Managing Symptoms Physically and Emotionally

J Cangialosi, LCPC

2 Clinical CEUs

M5. The Trauma of Incarceration: Institutionalized Racism & Shared Humanity

Helena D. Lewis, DSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCS

Asa Paris, DSW, LCSW, LCADC, CJM

2 Social/Cultural Competence or Clinical or Ethic CEUs

M6. Understanding Religious Trauma: Advocating for the Future

Becky Johnson, MSW, LCSW, CCM

2 Clinical CEUs

M7. "Liberating Grief": Applying an Anti Oppressive Framework to the Field

E. Goldblatt Hyatt, DSW, LCSW, MBE

Tangela Sawyerr, DSW, MA

2 Clinical or Social/Cultural CEUs

M8. The Right to Grieve: Disenfranchised Grief and Its Impact on Health

Anthony Gallo, MSW, LCSW, LCADC

2 Social/Cultural Competence or Clinical CEUs

TUESDAY WORKSHOPS

11AM-1PM

T1. Creating Cultures of Change: Social Work Practice in Education & Beyond!

Jordan Warner, BSW

V DuWayne Battle, PhD, DMin, MSW, MDiv

2 Social/Cultural Competence or General CEUs

T2. First Steps Toward Decolonial Practice:

Introducing the Contextual Indigeneity in Social Work Toolkit (CISWT)

Ausirys Alviz, MSW,LCSW

2 Social/Cultural Competence or General CEUs

T3. Radical Self-Care for the Social Worker Leader

Sharea Farmer, LCSW

Michelle Hall-Boggan, LCSW

2 Social/Cultural Competence or Clinical CEUs

T4. What Works in Therapy: Understanding the Common Factors of Psychotherapy

Douglas Behan, DSW, LCSW

2 Clinical CEUs

T5. Enhancing Ethical Practice with Clients At-Risk for Suicide to Protect Against Malpractice

Maureen Underwood, MSW, LCSW

Michelle Scott, MSW, PhD

2 Ethics or Clinical CEUs

BRIGHTON II

T6. Recent Changes to DSM Depressive and Grief Disorders: Are We Misdiagnosing Normal Sadness and Grief as Mental Disorders

Jerome C. ("Jerry") Wakefield, PhD, DSW, MSW, MA

2 Clinical CEUs

T7. Civic Empowerment of our Unhoused Neighbors

Caitlin Krenn, DSW, LCSW, SIFI

BIG CYPRESS STUDIO B

2 Social/Cultural Competence or General or Ethics CEUs

T8. Modern Teens and Classic Techniques: Getting Them to Open Up

Noel Hiers, LCSW

Brian Taylor, LSW

2 Clinical CEUs

HOLLYWOOD EAST

ON-DEMAND WORKSHOPS

D1. Evidence and Ethics: Building Inclusive Practices for a Diverse Future

La'Tesha Sampson, PhD, DSW, MPA, LCSW ACSW

2 General or Social/Cultural CEUs

D2. Trauma-Informed & Stress Reducing Practices in Educational Settings

Danielle Bachant, LCSW, MT- B

Jennifer A Pax, PhD, JD, MSW, LCSW

2 Clinical CEUs

IMMOKALEE STUDIO B

T9. The Ethics Bridge: Connecting Values to Decision-Making in Social Work

Kristin L. Miller, MSW, LCSW

2 Clinical or Ethics CEUs

TUESDAY CLOSING PLENARY

9-10:30AM

SEMINOLE BALLROOM

Closing Plenary Session - Facing the Future Together: Navigating Challenges in Social Work

Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C

Stacey Hardy-Chandler, PhD, JD, LCSW Halaevalu Fonongava Ofahengaue Vakalahi, PhD, MSW

1.5 General CEUs

D3. Integrating Participatory Design and Community-Engaged Scholarship for Ethical and Evidence-Based Practice

Duwayne Battle PhD, DMin, MSW, MDiv

Amml F Hussein, EdD, LMSW

2 Ethics CEUs

D4. Promoting Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation: A Framework for National Projects in Community-Engaged Research

Amml F. Hussein, EdD, LMSW

Juan A Rios, DSW, LCSW

2 Social/Cultural Competence or General CEUs

HOW TO PLAY

EXHIBITOR BINGO

Earn a Chance to Win Free Attendance to the 2026 NASW-NJ Annual Conference

Our sponsors and exhibitors offer a wide-array of programs, services, and information to help social workers assist clients, develop their careers, and institute smart business practices.

To encourage you to visit with ALL our exhibitors, we’ve brought back our popular Exhibitor Bingo game! Pick up your Bingo card when you get your conference tote bag and be sure to bring it with you to the Exhibit Hall.

Each exhibitor you visit will place a star sticker on your bingo card. When you have a sticker from every exhibitor and your bingo card is complete, just drop it off at the NASW-NJ Booth. When you do so, you’ll automatically be entered into a random drawing to win free attendance to next year’s NASW-NJ Annual Conference. It’s as simple as that!

So be sure to spend some time with our sponsors and exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall, located in the Arena. And don’t miss our Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception on Sunday, March 30 from 4-6pm HAPPY BINGO-ING!

Social Work Student Leadership Summit

Monday, March 30, 10:30AM-12:30PM

This workshop is designed to equip social work students with the essential leadership skills and knowledge to positively impact our community The workshop will include roundtable talks with leaders in the field who will discuss topics related to developing a professional identity, elevating practice, branding, social justice, the business of social work, and more

Students can expect to be inspired by engaged conversations on leadership, connect and network with fellow students and professionals, and enhance personal and professional growth The workshop will be followed by a lunch where students can connect with professionals in the field

Agenda

10:30AM-10:40AM: 10:40AM-12:40AM: 12:40AM-12:45AM: 12:45AM-1:30PM: 1:30PM-2:30PM:

Intro/Welcome/Opening/Introductions

Table Rotation

Brief Group Process and Thank Yous

Mentorship Lunch

Visit Exhibit Hall

Not able to attend in person? We’ve got you covered!

While we are thrilled to be able to return to Atlantic City for an in-person conference experience with our social work community, we recognize that not everyone is comfortable returning to in-person events. Or maybe your schedule just doesn’t allow the time away. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on this year’s conference.

Our Virtual Conference option will allow you to earn 8.5 CE credits while participating remotely in the highlights of the conference, including keynotes and select plenaries. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the on-demand workshop options available to conference attendees.

Please note, keynotes and plenaries will only be available to stream live during their scheduled conference slots; they will not be available to access after the livestream. The On-Demand workshops will be available for you to access between April 2 – May 2

Have additional questions about the Virtual Conference Option? Email conference.naswnj@socialworkers.org

OUR PRESENTERS OUR PRESENTERS

Jonathan B Singer, PhD, LCSW

Jonathan B. Singer, PhD, LCSW is a professor at Loyola University Chicago's School of Social Work, Past-President of the American Association of Suicidology and coauthor of two editions of the best-selling text, Suicide in Schools: A Practitioner's Guide to Multilevel Prevention, Assessment, Intervention, and Postvention He is a two-time winner of the National Association of Social Workers Media Award (2012 and 2016) In 2023, he was inducted as an NASW "Social Work Pioneer" for introducing podcasting to social work, and in 2024 he was inducted as a Fellow of the Society for Social Work and Research

Dr Singer is a well-regarded international speaker who has given continuing education workshops, keynote addresses, and presentations on youth suicide, ethics, technology, adolescent development and attachment-based family therapy in the USA, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. Dr. Singer has chaired national committees for the National Associate of Social Workers (NASW) and Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). He is an NASW Expert, Healio Psychiatry Peer Perspective Board member, and has served on several national advisory boards including JED Foundation, Suicide Prevention Resource Center, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline He was a 2014 Visiting Scholar at Fordham University, the 2017 Lucille N Austin Scholar at Columbia University, the 2018 Distinguished Lecturer at Weber State University, and 2024 Visiting Fellow at Indiana University

Moderator: Juan A Rios, DSW, LCSW

Lakeya Cherry, DSW, MSSW

Dr Lakeya Cherry, DSW, MSSW, ACC, is the CEO/Founder of Lakeya Cherry LLC, a Partner at Evolution, and an executive leadership coach. She is an ICF Certified Coach, a StartingBloc Fellow, a Google #IamRemarkable Facilitator, and a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator. Her coaching experience has fueled her passion for helping individuals, teams, and organizations lead authentically and courageously.

Her former clients include Glassdoor, LA Cleantech Incubator (LACI), Snap, Cisco, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Southern Veterinary Partners (SVP), The Trust powered by the NFL Players Association, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Chicago Foundation for Women, Seattle Children’s Hospital, UCSD Palliative Care, Black Administrators of Child Welfare, and the National Child Welfare Workforce Institute

Dr Cherry is the former CEO of The Network for Social Work Management, where she expanded the organization globally and introduced transformative programming She also serves as a Commissioner on San Diego’s Commission on the Status of Women. Her educational background includes a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California, an MS in Social Work from Columbia University, and a BA in Psychology and Legal Studies from the University of California at Santa Cruz. She holds additional certifications in Team Coaching, Psychological Safety, EQi 2 0 and EQ 360, Diversity and Inclusion, Women's Entrepreneurship, and Nonprofit Executive Leadership

Moderator: Widian Nicola DSW LCSW

erome C ("Jerry") Wakefield, PhD, DSW, MSW, MA

. Jerry is a University Professor and Professor of Social Work at New York University. He s additional appointments in Philosophy, Bioethics, and the School of Global Public alth. He is also Honorary Faculty in the NYU-affiliated Psychoanalytic Association of w York Before coming to NYU, he held faculty positions in the University of Chicago hool of Social Service Administration and the Rutgers University School of Social ork Dr Jerry is the author of over 300 publications on the diagnosis of mental disorder, ychiatric epidemiology, and the philosophy of psychiatry, and the author, coauthor, or itor of seven books

oderator: Tawanda Hubbard, MSW, DSW, LCSW

acilitator:

Goldblatt Hyatt (they/them), DSW, LCSW, MBE

Goldblatt Hyatt is an administrator, clinician, and author with nearly 20 years' experience the field of death and dying, grief and loss, and reproductive healthcare A clinicianholar, Dr Goldblatt Hyatt's interests focus on reproductive justice: the right to have a ild, the right to not have a child, the right to parent in safe and sustainable communities, d the right to bodily, sexual, and gender autonomy In their clinical practice, they ecialize in working with people who have had later abortions due to fetal anomaly: this is area of passion and advocacy for Dr Goldblatt Hyatt, and they have appeared alongside nnsylvania Governors Tom Wolf and Josh Shapiro as well as featured by numerous mpaigns by Planned Parenthood A nationally-recognized speaker who has appeared on evision, podcasts, and multimedia platforms, Dr Goldblatt Hyatt is frequently mmissioned to train healthcare providers, social workers, death educators, and ethicists

udie McCoyd, PhD, LCSW

dith L M McCoyd (Ph D , Bryn Mawr College- GSSWSR, 2003; MSSW, Columbia UniversitySW, 1985) is an associate professor at Rutgers University's School of Social Work, who rves as Associate Director of Doctoral Programs Her research lies at the intersection of alth care, medical technologies, decision-making, and bereavement Specifically, Dr cCoyd explores the decisions to use prenatal diagnostic and interventional technologies, e experience of high-risk pregnancy, whether to continue a pregnancy affected by fetal omalies or utilize fetal surgery, and the emotional responses to these events She is a ensed clinical social worker (PA) who maintains a small clinical practice and serves in adership roles with the National Association of Perinatal Social Workers She teaches in e Masters, Ph D , and DSW programs

atricia Palmer, LCSW

tricia is a LCSW who earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Family Science om the University of Maryland in College Park She then earned her MSW with a ncentration in Children and Families from Rutgers University Patricia’s role as a havioral Health Consultant in Pediatrics began in 2021 She began her career working as care manager at Families and Communities Together (F.A.C.T), the Care Management ganization of Union County in New Jersey Patricia also served as a Behaviorist at mmunity Access Unlimited. In her most recent role, she worked in the Child and olescent Psychiatric Services (CAPS) program at East Orange General Hospital tricia’s interest areas include child and adolescent behavioral health and behavioral alth services for adoptive and foster families Patricia’s goal is to make behavioral alth services accessible for children and families of color and other marginalized pulations

mberly Rumaker, LCSW

m is a LCSW who received her Master of Social Service from Bryn Mawr College School of Social rk. She is the Manager of SamaritSocial Work and Counseling Services, Samaritan Healthcare d Hospice In her career, Kim has worked with adults with disabilities, children with chronic dical needs and developmental disabilities, 9-11 Pennsylvania survivors and families and people all ages receiving hospice care For the past 16 years she has worked with Samaritan as a field cial worker and since 2012 as the manager of social work and counseling services Kim is ssionate about her work and empowering people to both live and die well

acqueline Salvatore, MSW, LSW

cqueline has spent her career supporting patients and families through end of life and grief She s worked at the NJ Sharing Network since 2016 and is currently the Manager of Family Services e also runs the Aftercare and Bereavement program at NJ Sharing Network for all donor families, luding grief counseling, support groups, events in honor of their loved ones, and education about e impact and outcomes of organ and tissue donation. Prior to her work at NJ Sharing Network, cqueline worked at Compassionate Care Hospice where she had many roles supporting patients d families through the dying process, grief, and bereavement. She received her BA at Smith llege in 2002 and her MSW at Columbia School of Social Work in 2007

imone Snyder, MSW

mone is a training coordinator at the Center for Research on Ending Violence at Rutgers iversity’s School of Social Work She is an adjunct faculty member at both Rutgers and nmouth University, where she integrates her expertise in reproductive justice, maternal alth, and gender-based violence into her teaching and training Currently a Doctor of Social rk (DSW) student, her research examines obstetric violence and its intersections with stemic inequities, with the aim of advancing birth justice and improving care for minoritized mmunities

nthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C

Estreet is the current CEO of the National Association of Social Workers Prior to leading SW, Dr Estreet was chair of the MSW program at Morgan State University He founded Next ep Treatment Center in Baltimore, was previously vice president of the NASW Board of rectors and served as president of the NASW Maryland Chapter

tacey Hardy-Chandler, PhD, JD, LCSW

a leader, Dr Hardy-Chandler combines her background and training in social work (MSW), clinical ychology (PhD), law (JD), and org leadership (PGDip) to promote innovations that honor dividuals and dynamic macro systems ‘Ubuntu’ means, ‘I am, only because you are ” She believes at paradoxically, the future of leadership in a complex and ambiguous world requires derstanding the ancient wisdom and power of ‘we-ness' - interconnection Her rich, diverse and namic background has provided her with the foundation for the fourth phase of her career, rving her beloved social work profession as CEO of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)

hanéa Thomas, Ed.D, LICSW, CSE (he/she/Dr.)

Thomas, EdD, LICSW, CSE, a proud Howard University School of Social Work alum, is a bold turer, seasoned scholar–practitioner, TEDx Speaker, and a Certified Sexuality Educator, with ore than 20 years of professional clinical social work and educational experience in the ashington, D C metro area, and beyond As the Executive Director of Accreditation, Dr Thomas ersees accreditation operations of more than 900 social work programs and post-Master’s social rk fellowship programs across the United States and its territories She brings experience in rriculum development, strategic planning, training, and organizational accountability to the team

oderated by Tiffany L Mayers, DSW, LCSW

OUR PRESENTERS

Ausirys Alviz, MSW, LCSW

As a first-generation migrant, Ausirys has worked hard to contribute to her community wearing many hats: psychotherapist, educator, and doctoral candidate passionate about trauma-informed, contextual approaches to healing and social justice. As a first generation scholar and clinician, she has strived to bridge clinical practice with advocacy for marginalized communities Through her practice, Transparent Healing Psychotherapy LLC, she aims to provide culturally affirming and holistic care for individuals navigating trauma and interpersonal violence

Elizabeth Amadiz, MSW

Elizabeth is an MSW candidate and a passionate community educator focused on mental health awareness She actively participates in community events, providing education to normalize conversations about mental health and encourage seeking care Her mission is to change the perception of mental health, advocating for it to be recognized as an integral part of overall health Elizabeth is committed to helping families and communities have open, stigma-free conversations about mental wellbeing, just as they would with any other health issue

Jacquee Aviles-Tores,MSW SSW, LSW

Jacqueline is a first-generation university graduate who has served over 25 years in the field of social work Jacqueline takes great pride in representing her community She is currently expanding her work beyond NJ to include New York City, to serve undocumented and underserved populations, focusing on Latinx communities Her purpose is to be a leader, advocate, and voice for those that are unheard and feel invisible in this country Jacqueline is the founder of Core Family Solutions LLC, which will be the continued foundation of her therapeutic and overall services

Danielle Bachant, LCSW, MT-B (she/they)

Currently, Danielle serves as the Director of the Counseling Center at New Jersey City University (NJCU) where she has been employed for the past two years She received her Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy degree from Temple University As a Music Therapist, Danielle was inspired by her work with families who were impacted by domestic violence, which lead her to pursue a Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Violence Against Women and Children from Rutgers University

Sharon Bale-Peña, DSW, LCSW

Dr Bale-Pena is a professor in the Social Work Program in the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work She received her Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) degree from Rutgers University Her area of scholarship focuses on the provision of mental health services in school settings particularly among lowincome and underserved communities She is also part of a collaborative study exploring how social work faculty apply a liberatory consciousness framework in the classroom to create learning opportunities that empower students to think critically and engage with social justice principles.

Ayanna Bates, LSW, LMSW

Ayanna is a clinical therapist and mental health advocate with robust counseling, coaching, and advising experience with knowledge of mental disorders and intellectual disabilities She is a strong community and social services professional with a Master's of Social Work degree from Columbia University School of Social Work (CSSW), successfully completed CSSW's intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy training program, and obtained a Bachelor's of Arts degree (Cum Laude) in Psychology at CUNY Queens College.

DuWayne Battle, PhD, DMin, MSW, MDiv

Dr. Battle is a Professor of Teaching, the Assistant Dean of Bachelor's Programs, Director of the BASW Program at Rutgers University He is also the Campus Coordinator of the Baccalaureate Child Welfare Education Program (BCWEP). Under his leadership the undergraduate social work program more than quadrupled, making it one of the largest and most diverse in New Jersey Dr Battle is the past President of the National Association of Social Workers – NJ Chapter (NASW-NJ)

OUR PRESENTERS

Douglas Behan, DSW, LCSW

Dr Behan is the Director of the Office of Continuing Education and an Associate Professor of Professional Practice at Rutgers University He enjoys leading the nation’s largest university-based social work continuing education program and teaching the courses Clinical Social Work I & II in the MSW program and Engaged Scholarship in the DSW program He has over 30 years of experience in a variety of social work settings He has worked extensively in the mental health field as a clinician, supervisor, and administrator

Jennifer Campbell, LCSW, DBT-LBC

Jennifer has a Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University She is a DBT-LBC Certified Clinician™ and has several years of experience delivering evidence based treatments, including comprehensive DBT, CBT-E, ACT, and DBT-PE for clients across various levels of care. Her specialties include treating teenagers and young adults struggling with eating disorders, chronic emotion dysregulation, trauma, and concerns with rigid cognitions and fixed thinking.

J Cangialosi, LCPC

J. is a licensed clinical therapist at Relief Mental Health, brings over a decade of compassion to her work. Specializing in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and stress management, she helps individuals make meaningful changes. J’s practice fosters an inclusive, judgment free environment, meeting patients where they are She also leads clinical development trainings, contributes to media and podcasts and writes on Medium, advocating for mental health and supporting Relief’s mission

Lakeya Cherry, DSW, MSSW, ACC

Dr Lakeya Cherry is the CEO/Founder of Lakeya Cherry LLC, a Partner at Evolution, and an executive leadership coach who has dedicated her career to the growth and development of individuals and their organizations As an ICF Certified Coach, a StartingBloc Fellow, a Google #IamRemarkable Facilitator, and a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator, she believes that when leaders are empowered to reach their fullest potential, they will be able to support those around them more effectively

Sandra N Crespo, LICSW

Sandra is a licensed clinical social worker, professor, and advocate for diversity in social work leadership As Clinic Director for Transformations Care Network in the DMV region, she integrates technology with clinical therapy for inclusive mental health care Her career includes clinical practice, program design, and executive administration in Child Protective Services and Juvenile Justice in Massachusetts, Maryland, and Washington, D C A Neurodivergent leader, she is pursuing a DSW at Simmons University with a focus on Neurodivergent Leadership: Embracing Diverse Minds for Organizational Success.

Silvia Dutchevici, MA, MSW, LCSW

Silvia is president and founder of the Critical Therapy Institute and author of Critical Therapy: Power and Liberation in Psychotherapy Dutchevici created critical therapy on perceiving a need for the theory and practice of psychology to reflect how race, class, gender, and religion intersect with psychological conflicts. She is a founding board member of Black Women's Blueprint and a member of the Physicians for Human Right’s Asylum Network.

Sharea Farmer, LCSW

Sharea is the Founder and CEO of RS Counseling & Wellness with over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker Her training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Racial Trauma Therapy Her expertise in both clinical and administration has allowed her to work in the private and public sectors as an advocate for employee wellness, Diversity & Inclusion, Race Equity, and Trauma-Informed Practices

OUR PRESENTERS

Talia Starr Filippelli, MSW, LCSW

Talia Starr Filippelli is a highly sought-after psychotherapist, parenting expert, and media consultant with over a decade of experience helping families thrive As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Holistic Health Coach, and Certified Personal Trainer, she brings a unique, integrative approach to emotional well-being, child development, and family dynamics As a consultant to major networks like CNN, CBS, and Sesame Workshop, Talia is a trusted voice in parenting and mental health, delivering expert insights on topics ranging from parental burnout to emotional intelligence in children

Anthony Gallo, MSW, LCSW, LCADC

Anthony’s passion is developing businesses in the social services field, particularly for the treatment of mental health disorders This has culminated in the establishment of his company, Anthony Gallo Consulting (marketed as Gallo Counseling). His professional experiences include mental health counseling, drug counseling, portfolio and budget review, social media management, graphical and video production, program cost/benefit analysis, and coordinating policy development

Michelle Hall-Boggan, LCSW

In 2020 Michelle emerged herself back into her holistic healing practices that she found to be so empowering during her young adult life This included being trained in Integrative Yoga Nidra mindfulness practices and she began to offer weekly meditation sessions that proved to be transformative In February 2021, Michelle founded Keep Evolving Wellness Center with a heartfelt mission: to make emotional wellness accessible to black women and to provide the tools and resources needed to thrive

Noel Hiers, LCSW

Noel is owner and therapist at Collaborative Perspectives LLC, a women-owned small business based in Northfield, New Jersey With over twenty five years of experience, Noël specializes in assisting people of all ages struggling with: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Emotional Regulation & Anger, Gender Identity & Expression, LGBTQI+ topics, Non-suicidal Self-injury, Suicidal Thoughts, and Trauma She is a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and also certified in Critical Incident Stress Management

Amml F Hussein, EdD, LMSW

Dr Hussein is the Board President of NASW-NJ She is a futurist researcher focused on improving the human condition through technology and inclusive policies Dr Hussein leads the Research Unit at the Council on Social Work Education, managing extensive datasets and initiatives that connect research, policy, and practice for student scholars Her work emphasizes anti-racist and decolonized education Dr Hussein’s collaborations with academics aim to develop innovative solutions to societal challenges, showcasing her commitment to progressive research and advocacy

Becky Johnson, MSW, LCSW, CCM

Becky is an experienced Director of Case Management with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry She is an accomplished Social Work and Case Management professional skilled in assessment, discharge planning, insurance criteria and coverage, insurance appeals, Motivational Interviewing, Social Work Counseling, leadership, and analytical thinking

Caitlin Krenn, DSW, LCSW, SIFI

Caitlin is a LCSW, educator, researcher, and passionate advocate working with children and families experiencing housing insecurity in NYC. She is currently the Managing Director of Mental Health Services at The Door, a youth services organization in NYC Caitlin has previously held positions in clinical leadership at Housing Works and Women in Need (WIN), both in NYC as well. As a National Policy Fellow with the Network for Social Work Management (2020), Caitlin’s research yielded a four-pronged model of civic empowerment in family shelters.

OUR PRESENTERS

Helena D Lewis, DSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCS

Dr Lewis is an award-winning actress, poet, playwright, and proud social worker Dr Lewis She has 21 years of experience working for non-profit agencies contracted with the New Jersey Department of Corrections and State Parole Board to provide residential community release programs (RCRP) for incarcerated women and parolees with substance abuse and mental health issues Dr Lewis earned her DSW and MSW from Rutgers University and is an advocate of utilizing creative arts in clinical settings.

Prescott Loveland, JD, MSW

Assistant Public Defender Prescott Loveland supervises and supports several criminal trial regions in addition to OPD’s collaborative defense programs including the forensic, immigration, and navigator units Prescott joined OPD in 2024 after about nine years with the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia (PDS) Prescott’s trial and litigation experience includes complex forensic and mental health issues and defending children prosecuted as adults Prescott teaches and trains on trial advocacy, sentencing mitigation, team defense, client-centered representation, and trauma-informed practice

Rosita L Marines, MS-NPL, ADV-CSW, MSW

Rosita L Marinez has over 20 years of experience specializing in operations management, program development, clinical supervision, and executive leadership Her areas of focus are mental health, substance-use disorder, HIV/AIDS, and housing The past 14 years, she has dedicated her career to the housing sector. She recently opened the first housing resource center in a clubhouse model at Fountain House, where she holds a senior leadership position as the director of housing operations

Jillian Meinhardt, MSW, LCSW

Jillian is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in DC, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts and Virginia specializing in individual and family therapy for children, teens and young adults With a background in school social work in a therapeutic and special education setting, she uses a dynamic approach to better support all aspects of her client’s life Focusing on the whole individual and not just the diagnosis, she understands the current pressures for young people today, including academics, social life, home life and social media.

Kristin L. Miller, MSW, LCSW

Kristin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to helping people heal, grow, and reach their full potential She is the co-founder of Mosaic Counseling & Consulting LLC, a group practice which provides individual, group, and family therapy, support groups, and workshops And she is the owner of Kristin L Miller, LCSW LLC, which provides training and consulting services to social service agencies, schools, universities, organizations, and churches Kristin has more than 20 years of experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults who are grieving various losses

Widian Nicola, DSW, LCSW

Dr Nicola is a licensed clinical social worker, associate professor of social work at Seton Hall University, and researcher dedicated to helping people forge deeper, more fulfilling relationships. She believes connection with ourselves, others, and the world is the essence of a meaningful life As a social worker for over twenty years, she has worked along the continuum of care, from inpatient to outpatient settings. She is a proud contributor on topics related to mental health, immigrant and social justice, and universal human rights. In her practice, she specializes in couples therapy.

Asa Paris, DSW, LCSW, LCADC, CJM

Dr Paris is a private practice clinical social worker specializing in adult and adolescent male sexual assault and substance use disorder survivors Dr Paris has concentrated the bulk of his research focus and clinical practice to gaining insight on and working with military, first responder, and formally incarcerated populations

OUR PRESENTERS

Jennifer A Pax, PhD, JD, MSW, LCSW

Jennifer is an Assistant Professor/Director of the Bachelor of Social Work Program at New Jersey City University, Department of Sociology & Anthropology Her research interests include community engaged learning; interprofessional education and professional practice; aging population: health, well-being, case management and clinical services; clinical supervision and ethical social work practice; and adolescent and young adult development and well-being.

Juan A Rios, DSW, LCSW

Juan Rios is an assistant professor at Seton Hall University He has presented nationally and internationally at various Social Work conferences As a practitioner scholar, he believes in the importance of integrating theoretical knowledge to practice in the field of social work His academic mission is to ensure his students are constantly applying scholastic thought with applied learning Dr Rios has experience in both non-profit and government sectors and presently serves as the Clinical Director of a multiservice specialty practice and as a clinical consultant to community mental health agencies

La'Tesha Sampson, PhD, MPA, MSW, LCSW

Dr La'Tesha Sampson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, professor, author, activist and media personality She has been a Social Worker for 25 years, owns several private practices and is currently the Director of the MSW Practicum Education and MPA Programs at Seton Hall University She is the CEO and Founder of Great Joy Counseling and Consulting Services, a group practice with a dedicated team of LCSWs, LSWs, LPCs, LACs, LMFTs, LAMFTs, RNs, and APNs They are committed to delivering specialized services through various treatment modalities

Erica Sandoval, LCSW

ica Sandoval is an award-winning mental health practitioner, speaker, executive coach, entrepreneur, odcaster, philanthropist, and author of Latinx/e in Social Work Volumes I and II She is also the founder d CEO of Sandoval Psychotherapy Consultation – known as Sandoval CoLab – where she oversees a team social workers and leads diversity, equity, and inclusion work for organizations, universities, health care cilities, medical and corporate professionals Ms Sandoval is also trained in ketamine-assisted ychotherapy (KAP), a breakthrough approach to an awakened mind and healing trauma and depression

Tangela Sawyerr, DSW, MA

Dr Sawyerr is an Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Assistant Professor of Teaching at Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey School of Social Work. She has more than twenty years of social work experience in addiction, homelessness, and child protective services Dr Sawyerr's scholarly interest explores the multi-dimensional grief experiences of adult siblings. She is also committed to utilizing an intersectional approach to amplify research in underrepresented communities to advance grief equity and social justice within bereavement

Michelle Scott, MSW, PhD

Dr Scott is an Associate Professor at Monmouth University’s School of Social Work and Director of the SRF Suicide Prevention Research and Training Project Her research career has focused on suicide prevention of youth and young adults. Her work extends from evaluations of school-based screening for suicide-risk including evaluating the Columbia Suicide Screen, the original measure used in Columbia University: Teen Screen, and to evaluations of educational approaches and programs for suicide prevention.

Colleen Smith, MSW, LCSW

An LCSW and the Director of New Jersey Programs at the Center for Justice Innovation, Colleen oversees Newark Community Solutions and supports the Center’s work throughout the state of New Jersey Colleen possesses over a decade of experience working with people involved in the legal system in both community and custodial settings She also works in higher education and is an alumnus of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Clinical Scholars program, a national leadership program that helps interdisciplinary teams of clinicians build a culture of health in their communities

OUR PRESENTERS

Tiffany Starr, MSW, LSW

Tiffany is a compassionate and dedicated licensed social worker with extensive experience in gun violence prevention, community organizing, and training facilitation She has a proven track record in trauma sensitive training, advocacy, and public speaking Tiffany is adept at raising awareness and leading impactful initiatives to support and empower individuals and communities

Jessica Taube, MSW, LSW

Jessica is an experienced social worker, community organizer, facilitator, and program director with 14 years of experience in the field. She is fluent in Spanish, trained in restorative justice, and has extensive experience developing programs and curriculum Jessica is passionate about social justice and is always challenging herself to grow as she incorporates anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices in her work. She believes strongly in youth leadership and has extensive experience with youth leadership development Jessica previously worked as a therapist with youth and families during times of crisis

Brian Taylor, LSW

Brian is an LSW currently working with SAFE in Hunterdon, an organization serving survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault in Hunterdon County, NJ The organization provides trauma-informed care and helps victims find a path to recovery.

Maureen Underwood, MSW, LCSW

Maureen is a licensed clinical social worker, certified group psychotherapist and a nationally recognized expert on youth suicide prevention, with focus on schools and best-practice programs that enhance overall student outcomes She is co-developer of LIFELINES: A Suicide Prevention Program, LIFELINES Postvention and LIFELINES Intervention, all published by Hazelden publications Since 1987 Maureen has been engaged in addressing cluster suicide among youth populations. She has more than 30 years experience in mental health and crisis intervention Maureen has developed numerous programs and published extensively on these and other related topics.

Jordan Warner, BSW

Jordan is a passionate social work student committed to social justice, sustainability, and community empowerment. With a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, and currently pursuing an Advanced MSW, she has been recognized for her leadership and advocacy in student life Her work focuses on addressing systemic inequalities and promoting sustainable policies that support marginalized communities After earning her Master's, she plans to pursue a J D specializing in Environmental Policy to drive impactful change at the intersection of law, social work, and environmental justice.

THANKS TO OUR 2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception Sponsor

Learn more at https://zoobooksystems com

Gold Exhibit Booth Sponsors

Elev8 Center NJ (Booth 321)

Ellie Mental Health (Booth 606)

GenPsych(Booth 521)

Halespring (Booth 615)

Modern Psychiatry (Booth 520)

Peak Mental Health (Booth 421)

Seabrook (Booth 620)

Senior Care Therapy (Booth 314)

Summit Oaks (Booth 625)

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper Health (Booth 420)

Silver Exhibit Booth Sponsors

A Home Within (Booth 221)

Accurate Billing Group LLC (Booth 211)

Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry (Booth 220)

Hackensack Meridian Health (Booth 226)

Hamilton Behavioral (Booth 209)

Hampton Behavioral Health Center (Booth 217)

InStride Health (Booth 225)

Kutztown University of PA - Dept of Social Work (Booth 218)

Newport Healthcare (Booth 213)

Norris McLaughlin, P.A. (Booth 215)

Pax Health (Booth 216)

Relief Mental Health (Booth 227)

Savia Community Counseling Service, LLC (Booth 219)

The Crossroads Companies (Pro Recovery Solutions) (Booth 222)

Turnbridge (Booth 420)

Sponsor & Exhibitor DIRECTORY

ABetterTomorrowCounseling Services

901 Route 168 Suite 103 Turnersville, NJ, 08012 (609)254-9386

https://abettertomorrowcounselingse rvices com

A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services provides outpatient and IIC therapy for individuals, families, couples and children. We provide a wide variety of therapeutic techniques to help you reach your goals

AHomeWithin

107 Hutchinson Street Hightstown, NJ 08520 732-829-4729

www ahomewithin org

With a mission to create and support lasting, caring relationships for individuals who have experienced foster care, we support a network of licensed therapists who provide pro bono therapy to a single child or adult

AbsoluteAwakenings&True LifeCare

3000 NJ-10

Morris Plains, NJ 07950 866-846-1094

absoluteawakenings.com

Absolute Awakenings treats addiction; True Life Care focuses on mental health - both offer personalized, evidence-based care for lasting recovery

AccurateBillingGroupLLC

915 Lacey Rd 2nd Fl Forked River, NJ 08731 (609)713-4031

www abgnj com

Medical Billing/Consulting

AlinaLodge 61 Ward Rd Blairstown, NJ 07825 (856)776-6437

www.alinalodge.org

Primary SUD detox/residential

AllaireHealthServices

1105 E County Line Rd Suite 201 Lakewood, NJ 08701 (862)357-5629

allairehs.com

Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long Term Care Communities, Proud Providers of Services for those aging in place

ARSTreatmentCenters

1200 Route 9 South Cape May Court House, NJ 08210 (570)441-8183

arshealth com

SUD OTP, OP, IOP Treatment

AssociatedBillingCenterLLC

241 Forsgate Dr Suite 116 Jamesburg, NJ 08831 (908)616-8830

https://mentalhealthbillers com/ We exclusively work with Mental Health practices from our Central Jersey office.

BanyanTreatmentCenter

100 N Buckstown Dr Langhorne, PA 08054 (732)427-1294

Banyantreatmentcenters com

Banyan Treatment Center is a national treatment provider specializing in substance use and mental health treatment, providing all levels of care

BoldAgePace

1075 Stephenson Ave Suite B Oceanport, NJ 07757 (732)778-4492 www boldagepace com

We are invested in setting the standard for PACE that maximizes both health outcomes and quality of life for older adults We combine solution-minded thinking, creativity and a bold can-do culture to deliver a unique support system for aging at home

BritelifeRecovery

504 Iron Ridge Rd Hanover, PA 17331 (267)371-2664

www.briteliferecovery.com

SUD Detox/Residential and IOP

CenterofRevitalizingPsychiatry 795 Main St Hackensack, NJ 07601 (917)742-0725

RevitalizingPsychiatry.com

Outpatient Mental Health Clinic

CharlieHealth

233 E Main St St 401 Bowman, Montana 59715 (551)254-4344

charliehealth com

Charlie Health is a fully virtual mental health IOP provider We serve as a resource for clinicians looking for a higher level of care for patients

ColonCreationsCo

5001 Pellingham Circle Enola, PA, 17025 (717)610-5589

https://www coloncreations com/ Unique and Bold Handmade Polymer Clay Earrings

CouncilonCompulsiveGambling ofNJ,Inc 3635 Quakerbridge Rd Trenton, NJ 08619 (609)516-3887

www 800gambler org

CCGNJ, Inc is a private non-profit organization that provides information, education and referral services for problem gamblers and their loved ones.

DiscoveryInstitute

80 Conover Rd

Marlboro, NJ 07746 (732)673-3871

discoverynj.org

Discovery Institute has been around for 50+ years We are an all male SUD/co occurring inpatient facility We accept all insurances including medicaid

Elev8CenterNJ

20 Toler Pl Newark, NJ 07114 973-271-9876

www.elev8centernj.com

We are a 250 bed SUD and Cooccurring treatment center (50 detox beds, 200 STR and LTR beds)

Sponsor & Exhibitor DIRECTORY

Ellie Mental Health

Booth #606

26 Madison Ave

Morristown, NJ, 07960 (732)233-5428

https://elliementalhealth.com

Individual therapy

Family Psychiatry & Therapy

351 Evelyn St 3rd Fl Paramus, NJ 07652 (201)316-5581

familypsychnj com

Experts in trauma-focused psychiatry and psychotherapy, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related conditions

Fairleigh Dickinson

210 Park Avenue M-SP2-01 Florham Park, NJ, 07932 (732) 979-3778

www fdu edu/msw

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Master of Social Work online program prepares you to make a positive impact on social and economic justice, human rights and quality of life for diverse populations

Gen Psych

5 Regent St Livingston, NJ 07039 (908)303-7592

www.GenPsych.com

GenPsych provides PHP & IOP programs for children, teens, & adults. MH, SUD, ED, DBT, OCD 8 NJ locations In-person or virtual In-net No waitlist

Guardian Recovery

427 Independence Dr Burlington, NJ 08016 (609)273-7206

guardianrecovery com

Guardian Recovery is a nationwide organization that provides the full continuum of care for adult and adolescents.

Mental Health Primary Treatment Program in NJ and FL EXHIBITOR

Hackensack Meridian Health

252 Rt 601

Belle Mead, NJ, 08502 (908)625-8305

www carrierclinic org

To inspire hope and recovery through expert treatment, education, compassionate care, and outstanding service.

Halespring

2 Edgemarth Hill Rd Westport, CT 06880

https://halespring com (646) 298-6437

Collaborate Confidently Create community Improve Outcomes

Halespring is the platform designed for the behavioral health community

Hamilton Behavioral

300A Forest Avenue Paramus, NJ, 07652 (973)715-2778

www hamiltonbehavioral com

Mental health providers specializing in a variety of conditions including Generalized Anxiety disorder, Major Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, Mood disorders, Autism, Personality disorders, Anger management, and more We provide services for patients in the Greater Metropolitan area and various parts of NJ

Hampton Behavioral Health Center

650 Rancocas Rd Westampton, NJ 08060

609-518-2207

www hamptonhospital com

Support mental health

Healing Us Centers

61 W Main Street Freehold, NJ 07728 (908)907-0827

www.hucenters.com

Hoarders Express

529 Markey St Camden, NJ 08102 (856)816-3842

www HoardersExpress com

We help Organize, Sort & Dispose with being Kind, Compassionate, Caring & Non-Judgmental

InStride Health

396 Washington St Suite 266

Wellesley, MA 02481 (484)678-7253

www instride health

Specialty outpatient care for 7-22 y o with anxiety and/or OCD using CBT and ERP Fully virtual, we see patients all across NJ and ten other states

Integrated Care Concepts

615 Hope Rd Building 5B; 2nd Floor Eatontown, NJ, 07724 (908) 489-8088

integratedcareconcepts com

Our team of licensed therapists and highly trained mind-body specialists use a host of mental health treatment methodologies, blending Western and Eastern healing methods to provide trauma-informed care

Just Espresso Yourself, LLC

323 Schindler Dr Brick, NJ 08723 (732) 523-0695

just-espresso-yourself.com

Expressive art social worker facilitates group professional development, psycho-educational art workshops for self-care or team building experiences

KidsPeace

4085 Independence Dr

Schnecksville, PA 18078 (610) 597-5130

www kidspeace org

Serving behavioral and mental health needs of children, families and communities.

Sponsor & Exhibitor DIRECTORY

KutztownUniversityof Pennsylvania

15219 Kutztown Rd Old Main 339 Kutztown, PA 19530 (717)575-9781

https://www kutztown edu/academics /colleges-and-departments/liberalarts-and-sciences/departments/ social-work.html

Kutztown University responds to the community's needs by preparing social work professionals, leaders, and educators in BSW, MSW and DSW programs

LatinxTherapy (917)214-9848

https://www latinxinsocialwork com/ mission/ Books, workshops, and retreats

LeademCounseling

668 Commons Way

Toms River, NJ 08755 (609)848-4507

www leademcounseling com

Outpatient Private Practice specializing in individualized therapeutic intensives and sex addiction treatment

LifeForceSeniorCare

1040 Kings Highway North Suite 310 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 (856)404-4147

www lifeforceseniorcare com

Life Force Senior Care provides live-in home care services in New Jersey. Our HHAs and supporting staff deliver quality and continuity in care

MaryvilleIntegratedCare

526 South Burnt Mill Rd Voorhees, NJ 08043 (856)912-1496

www.maryvillenj.org

Inpatient and outpatient treatment and recovery support services for individuals suffering from substance use and/or mental health disorders

MeridianCounselingServices

1930 Marlton Pike E, Suite V-105 Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 (856) 751-0505

https://meridiancounseling net/ Meridian Counseling Services was founded 20 years ago to provide high quality counseling services to adults and children. We value ensuring therapy is accessible by participating in many insurance plans

ModernPsychiatry

40 Bey Lea Rd Suite C101 Toms River, NJ 08753 (732)267-8704

www mymodernpsychiatry com Psychological Services

NarcoticsAnonymousPublic InformationCommittee

P.O. Box 4267 Trenton, NJ 08610 (609)705-9393

www nanj org 12 Step Recovery Fellowship

NASW-NJMembership

4365 Route 1 South, Suite 201 Monmouth Junction, NJ 08540 (732) 296-8070

Naswnj socialworkers org

NASW-NJMerchandise

4365 Route 1 South, Suite 201 Monmouth Junction, NJ 08540 (732) 296-8070

Naswnj.socialworkers.org

NASWAssuranceServices

50 Citizens Way Suite 304 (240)457-3906

www naswassurance org

Manage social worker insurance

NewHopeIntegratedBehavioral HealthCare

80 Conover Rd

Marlboro, NJ 07746 (732)598-9177

newhopeibhc org Substance Use Treatment

NewJerseyDepartmentof ChildrenandFamilies

50 E State St Trenton, NJ 08625 (609)947-7505

www nj gov/dcf/ NJDCF: Safe Healthy Connected

NewportHealthcare

79207 Sandy Ln Wharton, NJ 07885 (949)480-7558

www nj gov/ooie

Advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, addressing complaints, protecting rights and ensuring quality care

NJCouncilonDevelopmental Disabilities

20 W State St 6th Fl Trenton, NJ 08625 609-984-5444

www.njcdd.org

Advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, addressing complaints, protecting rights and ensuring quality care

NJDOLDivisionofTemporaryDisability andFamilyLeaveInsurance

1 John Fitch Way Trenton, NJ 08625 (848) 250-4007

myleavebenefits nj org Cash benefits for NJ workers

NJ-Al-Anon/Alateen

8 Randolph Pl Keansburg, NJ 07734 (908)461-7768

NJ-Al-Anon org

Provide comfort and support for families and friends of alcoholics

NorrisMcLaughlin,P.A.

400 Crossing Blvd Bridgewater, NJ 08807 (973)768-4018

https://norrismclaughlin com/ Attorneys at Law

Sponsor & Exhibitor DIRECTORY

Oasis Senior Advisors

371 Hoes Lane Suite 200

Piscataway, NJ 08854

(732)524-8864

oasissenioradvisors.com/central-jersey

Oasis Senior Advisors helps families find senior living options for their loved ones, for free

Overeaters Anonymous

109 Jumping Brook Rd

https://www njioa org (732)221-6400

Fellowship for people recovering from unhealthy relationships with food and body image OA's twelve-step program works like Alcoholics Anonymous This program can help clients

PAX Health

3 Stearns Rd. East Brunswick, NJ 08816

(732)406-3515

paxhealth net

Behavioral Health Company

Peak Mental Health

771 E Rt 70 Marlton, NJ 08053 (609)284-0700

https://mentalhealthpeak com/ PHP IOP for mental health and substance abuse

Penn Medicine Princeton House

Behavioral Health

351 New Albany Rd. Moorestwon, NJ 08057 (609)712-0738

www princetonhouse org

Inpatient and outptatient treatment for people needing psychiatric and addiction help

Penn Medicine Princeton Center for Eating Disorders

1 Plainsboro Road Plainsboro, NJ 08536 (640)261-0803

https://www.princetonhcs.org/careservices/center-for-eating-disorderscare

Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment

PSE&G

80 Park Plaza, 14th Floor

Newark, NJ 07102 (201)376-2467

pseg.com/help

PSE&G Payment Assistance Outreach Team has information on energy assistance/energy efficiency programs that can help your clients to save energy

Ramapo College of NJ

505 Ramapo Valley Rd Mahwah, NJ 07430 (201)684-7304

https://www ramapo edu/ Ramapo College of New Jersey is dedicated to providing students a strong foundation for a lifetime of achievement.

Relief Mental Health

1100 Jorie Blvd #300 Oak Brook, Illinois 60523 (630)806-9925

https://reliefmh com/

Relief Mental Health is a leading outpatient provider of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), SPRAVATO® (esketamine), psychiatry, and therapy

Rowan University Social Work Program

201 Mullica Hill blvd Glassboro, NJ, 08028 (215) 806-6573

go.rowan.edu/socialwork

Rowan University proudly offers an inperson MSW program and will started a BSW program in fall 2024

Rutgers School of Social Work

120 Albany St Tower One, Suite 200 New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (267)307-8023

socialwork rutgers edu Our mission is to develop and disseminate knowledge through social work research, education, and training

Savia Community Counseling Services, LLC 116 Terrace Avenue 211 Lodi, NJ 07644 (201)679-4010 www.saviacounseling.com Mental Health Services

Seabrook

133 Polk Lane Bridgeton, NJ 08302

Seabrook org (609) 501-8996 Substance use/co-occurring

Senior Care Therapy

365 W PASSAIC ST Rochelle Park, NJ 07662

www.seniorcaretherapy.com

Dedicated to improving the lives of seniors through comprehensive behavioral health services.

Seton Hall University

400 South Orange Avenue South Orange, NJ 07079 (973)275-3375

https://www shu edu/social-work

The Seton Hall University master's degree in social work prepares students to take their social work career to new heights, offering concentration options in behavioral health and the only graduate forensic program in the state of New Jersey.

Springer Publishing 902 Carnegie Center Suite 140 Princeton, NJ, 08540 (212)461-4477

https://www springerpub com/ Springer Publishing is an awardwinning publisher of healthcare and behavioral sciences resources, featuring books, apps, journals, and digital products Our digital learning products, textbooks, and nursing exam prep tools are designed for the way educators teach, practitioners work, and students learn

Sponsor & Exhibitor DIRECTORY

Springpoint

4 Marion Avenue Franklin Park, NJ, 08823 (732) 547-8989

www springpointsl org

The Springpoint Difference Expect the Best Live your Best

Summit Oaks Hospital 19 Prospect Street Summit, NJ 07902 (908)522-7071

Summitoakshospital com Free, 24/7 crisis intervention, assessment, referral and admission services

Supreme Consultants, LLC

71 Union Ave. Suite 207 Rutherford, NJ 07070 (201)372.9600

www.supremeconsultants.com

Supreme Consultants provides skilled, bilingual professionals and services to bridge cultural gaps in NJ schools and behavioral health organizations.

The Crossroads Companies (Pro Recovery Solutions)

202 West Parkway Drive Suite 3 Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 (609)457-4835

www.prorecsol.com

Mental Health and Substance Misuse Outpatient Centers

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper Health 761 Cuthbert Blvd Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 (908) 528-6042

www southjerseryrecovery com

The Recovery Village has been a trusted resource for quality addiction treatment for over a decade Our board-certified medical director guides a team

The Renfrew Center (of eating disorders)

1 Kalisa Way Suite 211 Paramus, NJ 07652 (201) 615-1475

www.renfrewcenter.com

The Renfrew Center is the nation’s first residential eating disorder treatment facility

Turnbridge

189 Orange St New Haven, Connecticut 06510 (973)883-5348

www turnbridge com Treatment Provider

United Way of Hunterdon County 4 Walter E Foran Blvd Ste 401 Flemington, NJ 08822 908-892-7369

https://www uwhunterdon org/ Non-Profit

Walden University-Adtalem Global Education

560 W Monroe St. Suite 13 Chicago, Illinois 60661 (609)815-6082

www.waldenu.edu/naswnj 10% tuition reduction on Walden’s programs, plus a $3,000 grant on bachelor’s and master’s programs or a $5,000 grant on doctoral programs.

Water Gap Wellness Center

100 Plaza Court East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 (203)945-8304

https://www watergapwellness com/ Water Gap Wellness is the Northeast's premier mental health extended care program, located in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, just one hour from New York

Zoobook Systems LLC

220 Market St Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 (201)966-4688

www zoobooksystems com Electronic health record

DISCOUNTS

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO SPA:

Discount of 10% off all regularly priced services.

Guests may make reservations by calling 609-449-5380 and identifying themselves as an attendee of the National Association of Social Workers – New Jersey.

Link to the guide of services: 07-22-hard-rock-ac-spa-brochure pdf (hardrockhotelatlanticcity com)

GENERAL HOTEL SHOP & CAFE:

Hard Rock Cafe: $10 off $50 purchase by showing your conference badge

Visit the Rock Shop Get 10% off of Hard Rock merchandise by showing your conference badge

neral Perks: Special show discount for The Hook comes from Spiegelworld e creators of Las Vegas #1 variety show Absinthe as well as Atomic Saloon

Price Levels: Siren Circle, Promenade, Lido, Mermaid Grotto Convention Attendee Price: $67.58 (all inclusive of taxes and fees)

Visit: https://spiegelworld com/shows/the-hook/ for more information

CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2026

NASW-NJ is soliciting proposals for presentation at our next statewide continuing education conference in 2026 We encourage you to share your knowledge and experience with your colleagues through a two-or fourhour workshop You will not only receive maximum exposure by presenting at the statewide conference, but you will have the opportunity to engage and enlighten other social workers

Workshop proposals are assigned for CE credits as clinical, general, ethics, opioids, and/or social and cultural competence While proposals should include elements of the determined topic areas, NASW is committed to ensuring that all workshops actively infuse a cultural competence and social justice framework into its content.

CRITERIA FOR PRESENTERS:

Five years of experience in the particular area of instruction; OR a graduate degree in the particular area (an MSW is sufficient); AND

Certification or licensure as a social worker, psychologist, Board certified psychiatrist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor or Medical Doctor.

Social Workers who are submitting proposals must be members of NASW.

Willingness to present to a large audience of up to 100 or more.

ACTION.

JOIN NASW.

Socialworkersarecurrentlybeingcalleduponto provideexpertise,engageandtakeactiontopavethe wayforabrighter,saferandmoreinclusivefuture. Thoughthisworkisnotnewtoourprofession,there’s nobetterormoreimportanttimetocometogetheras acollectiveandamplifyourvoicesandvaluesbybeing partofthelargest,mostinfluentialorganizationof socialworkersintheworld.

Advocacy

Social workers speak out and NASW-NJ takes action, whether that’s advocating for state licensure improvements, more opportunities to practice across state lines, or meeting with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs to understand licensure delays and develop a plan for the future

Professional Development:

Develop and provide the resources you need to support your clients, colleagues, and communities at large Since March 2020 alone, NASW-NJ has provided over 200 programs to keep social workers informed and upto-date on the newest professional advancements through certificate and continuing education programs, Community Conversations, the Race, Responsibility, & Reconciliation series and more.

Professional Home:

NASW-NJ makes it easy for social workers to connect and collaborate through virtual and regional in-person events, Unit Events, Shared Interest Groups, and leadership opportunities within the chapter and the national organization.

Engage with us to learn about what it means to be a member of NASW-NJ. At NASW-NJ, we work to provide you with the tools, resources and opportunities you need to keep doing just that.

Interested in learning more? Call our Member Services Team at 800 742 4089 or join online at www socialworkers org/join

throughout the state. Develop your leadership experience while learning new skills.

The NASW-NJ Chapter volunteer leadership is composed of social workers just like yourself, who are passionate about our field, our collective purpose, and have a desire to contribute to the dialogue and lend their talents and voices to the betterment of our Chapter.

Here’s a few ways you can volunteer with us:

Serve as a Unit Leader – NASW-NJ has units across the state to provide members with regionally based networking and educational opportunities. As a volunteer chair or co-chair, you can help plan and coordinate events that bring value to our members.

Serve on a Committee – Committees are a great way to learn more about the inner workings of our professional organization and help shape programs and policies These are one-year appointments and typically meet via phone or Zoom on a monthly basis.

Serve as a Shared Interest Group

Facilitator – Social work is one of the most diverse professions, and our Shared Interest Groups allow members in similar practice-areas to talk through shared experiences, challenges, opportunities, and to network. As a facilitator, you can help guide the group, coordinate meetings, and lead the discussion

Serve on the Board of Directors – Lead and serve our organization at the highest level! Board positions are elected by member vote and serve one to two-year appointments. Our Board meets bi-monthly and is active in conversations, dialogue, and Chapter governance in-between meetings

Am I qualified to volunteer?

You should be an NASW-NJ member and a social worker (but if you’re an associate member, we can talk with you about those qualifications as well!) Social workers are in every aspect of our community and we hope our leadership is as diverse as our membership.

Sound exciting? Contact us today about becoming a volunteer! You can email Resia Cooper, Engagement Coordinator, at rcooper.naswnj@socialworkers.org for more information.

R E G I O N S

NASW-NJ has 4 regions across the state of New Jersey.

April26-28, 2026

April18-20, 2027