Greater Washington Society for Clinical Social Work Social-Work-Speaks

Using ACT Skills for Eating Disorder Recovery: A Guide for Therapists

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:02:55 GMT

By Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C, Therapist & Founder of

If you’re reading this as a therapist, there’s a good chance you’ve worked with clients who feel completely stuck in unhelpful thoughts and patterns around food or body image. You may have seen clients who understand, on an intellectual level, that their eating disorder thoughts are distorted, yet still feel unable to disengage from them or behave differently in the moment.

In my work treating eating disorders, two clinical patterns show up again and again.

First, clients are often highly fused with eating disorder thoughts. These thoughts are not experienced as “mental events,” but as facts or rules that must be obeyed. Many clients do not initially recognize these as thoughts at all. Instead, the eating disorder voice feels authoritative.

Second, eating disorder behaviors often function as subconscious coping strategies. Restriction, bingeing, purging, or compulsive exercise are frequently attempts to manage overwhelming emotions, trauma responses, anxiety, shame, experiences of oppression, or attachment and relational wounds. This is important to name clearly for clients: eating disorders are not choices or a result of being ‘vain.’ They are serious mental illnesses that often develop as attempts to survive unbearable internal experiences.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is one of the modalities used by myself and members of my team at The Eating Disorder Center. ACT can be particularly effective for eating disorder treatment because it shifts the therapeutic focus away from eliminating thoughts and emotions and toward changing a client’s relationship with their internal experience.

One ACT process that is especially useful in eating disorder recovery is cognitive defusion.

Thought Defusion in Eating Disorder Treatment

Defusion refers to a set of skills designed to help clients create distance from their thoughts, rather than automatically believing or obeying them. In the context of eating disorders, defusion allows clients to notice eating disorder thoughts without acting on them, so they can move toward behaviors that align with recovery and with their deeper values.

Importantly, ACT does not ask clients to determine whether a thought is “true” or “false.” Instead, we help clients assess whether a thought is helpful or unhelpful in moving them toward the life they want.

Below are several defusion strategies that can be particularly effective when working with eating disorder thoughts.

1. “I Am Having the Thought That…”

One of the simplest and most accessible defusion techniques is linguistic distancing.

When a client notices an eating disorder thought, invite them to add the phrase:
“I am having the thought that…”

For example:
“I am having the thought that I cannot eat carbohydrates.”

An additional layer is:
“I am noticing that I’m having the thought that…”

This subtle shift can be powerful. It helps clients begin to experience thoughts as events occurring in the mind, rather than truths that require immediate action. Over time, this practice can loosen the grip of rigid eating disorder rules and create space for choice.

2. Labeling Repetitive Eating Disorder Stories

Many eating disorder thoughts show up in predictable, repetitive narratives. Helping clients identify and label these patterns can reduce their intensity and authority.

For example, a client might label a recurring thought pattern as:
“This is the ‘If I recover, I won’t be able to cope’ story.”

Or:
“This is the ‘I can’t trust my body’ story.”

By externalizing and naming these stories, clients can learn to recognize them more quickly and respond with greater flexibility, rather than being pulled into automatic behavioral responses.

3. Using Metaphor and Analogy

ACT metaphors can be especially effective with eating disorder clients, as they bypass debate and engage experiential understanding.

One analogy I frequently use is to compare eating disorder thoughts to unhelpful TikTok videos. Clients can click on them, engage, and watch them all the way through. Or they can notice the thought and swipe past it. With enough swiping, the algorithm begins to change.

Other clients resonate more with the idea of eating disorder thoughts as spam emails or scam texts. They may still arrive, but clients do not need to open them, analyze them, or respond.

Metaphors like these help normalize the presence of eating disorder thoughts in recovery while reducing the urgency to act on them.

4. Singing the Thought

This technique does not resonate with everyone, but for some clients it can be surprisingly effective.

Inviting a client to sing an eating disorder thought to the tune of a familiar song can strip the thought of its seriousness and perceived authority. The goal is not to mock the client’s experience, but to highlight that thoughts are sounds and words produced by the mind, not commands that must be followed.

Bringing It All Together Clinically

When using ACT with eating disorder clients, the broader therapeutic goal is to help clients learn how to:

Notice and defuse from unhelpful thoughts
Allow uncomfortable emotions without using eating disorder behaviors to escape them
Clarify personal values around recovery, relationships, health, freedom, and meaning
Take committed action in alignment with those values, even in the presence of discomfort

For therapists who do not specialize in eating disorders, it’s crucial to refer out or seek consultation. Eating disorders are treatable, yet complex illnesses and are the second deadliest mental illness. With treatment and support, full recovery is possible.

About The Eating Disorder Center

The Eating Disorder Center is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy practice founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in treating teens andadults with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, and body image concerns.

We offer eating disorder therapy in Rockville, Maryland, serving individuals in Potomac, North Potomac, Bethesda, Olney, Silver Spring, Germantown, and Washington, D.C. We also provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Florida, Pennsylvania, and California.

Information on ASWB Exam Changes | January 2026

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 18:46:30 GMT

As most CSWA members know, the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), which oversees the licensure examinations for social workers, has been working for the past three years to eliminate the disparities in pass rates to the exam (see ASWB Report, 2022). CSWA has been having quarterly meetings with ASWB leaders to share updates in the field, as well as to discuss the problems we have seen in the clinical examination.

ASWB has just released the first of several changes which will be made to improve the exams as follows:

Association of Social Work Boards Examination Changes

The exam will shift from four content areas to three to better reflect real-world social work practice.

The total number of questions will be reduced (specifically from 150 scored + 20 pretest to 110 scored + 12 pretest) while maintaining the 4-hour exam time.

There will be a stronger emphasis on problem-solving, reasoning, and application - not just recall.

The updated exam will feature a higher proportion of 3-option multiple-choice items to improve clarity and focus.

These changes are set to go live in August 2026. ASWB hopes these changes will lead to a more streamlined, relevant exam; content that mirrors current professional practice; and a greater emphasis on real-world skills. The other changes which CSWA hopes will be addressed will be the pass disparities which have been identified. ASWB’s information on the topic can be found at https://www.aswb.org/upcoming-changes-to-the-social-work-licensing-exams/.

Contact: Laura Groshong, LICSW, CSWA Director of Policy and Practice, lwgroshong@clinicalsocialworkassociation.org

Shutdown Resources

Edward Geraty — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:02:06 GMT

Here are a list of resources that are available for those who will need assistance due to the shutdown.

RESOURCES:

Bank of America: announced assistance available to furloughed Federal employees. Call the priority assistance line [844.219.0690](tel:844.219.0690).

Chase Bank: Chase today announced efforts to help its customers who are U.S. government employees affected by the U.S. government shutdown. Here’s the special line they set up [1-888-356-0023](tel:1-888-356-0023).

Congressional Federal Credit Union: For more information on our Relief Line of Credit or any of our assistance programs, contact our Member Service Representatives at [800-491-2328](tel:800-491-2328) or stop by one of our branch locations.

Fed Choice: They’re offering quite a few different options to assist – for existing and new members.

Interior Federal Credit Union: They’re offering a special loan for both member and non-member furloughed Federal workers. Net paycheck up to $15,000, interest free up to 30 days. Members may apply for a limit up to the equivalent of 2 net paychecks. More offers are available on the site or call [800-914-8619](tel:800-914-8619)

Navy Federal Credit Union: These guys are offering a special loan program. Read the FAQs PDF from this link to see if you qualify or call [1-888-842-6328](tel:1-888-842-6328)

PayPal: PayPal has made a very generous offer. They’ve allocated $25 million to fund interest-free cash advances to our furloughed Federal workers that need assistance right now. This is for both new and existing PayPal Credit customers. Minimum loan is $250 with a maximum cash advance of $500. Your account does need to be in good standing if you’re an existing PayPal Credit customer. Existing customers call [1-877-689-1975](tel:1-877-689-1975). For new accounts, apply here first, then after approval call [1-877-689-1975](tel:1-877-689-1975).

U.S. Bank: Will waive all late fees if you miss a mortgage payment due to the shutdown. Also mentioned they will defer first payment dates for new mortgages.

U.S. Employees Credit Union: USECU is also offering shutdown loans, but only until Tuesday, January 15th. Call [(312) 922.5310](tel:(312) 922.5310) to get help.

SunTrust: SunTrust didn’t make a specific offer, but they did make a public announcement that they have programs in place to help clients affected by the shutdown.

Synchrony Bank: These guys handle store cards for Amazon, Lowes, Walmart, JCPenney, Chevron/Texaco, and many other large nationwide companies that you might do business with on a day-to-day basis. They are allowing affected customers to defer payments until after the shutdown. Contact them for more information.

Union Plus: For union members, there are a great number of options available if you’re with Union Plus. Call them at [800-472-2005](tel:800-472-2005) to ask about these offers: $300 Furlough Grant for eligible Union Plus credit card holders, Mortgage Assistance Loan & $300 Grant: payment grace period for your Union Plus Life and Accident Insurance, payment grace period for Union Plus Auto Insurance, and payment grace period for Union Plus Life and Accident Insurance.

Wells Fargo: They’ve got a few different options to help depending on the services clients have with their bank.

Furlough Grants

FEEA-NARFE: This is an awesome offer that every furloughed Federal worker needs to take advantage of. FEEA-NARFE fund is offering $100 grants to active federal employee members who are not receiving a paycheck during the current shutdown due to being furloughed or working in excepted status. To apply, visit the FEEA website.

Thrift Savings Plan

TSP Plan News and Announcements: TSP allows for the suspension of loan payments when you go into non-pay status. They do not require documentation about your furlough currently. Missing one or two payments will not cause your loan to go into default. Log in to your account to check your status or simply call the Thrift Line at [1-877-968-3778](tel:1-877-968-3778).

Toyota Financial Services & Lexus Financial Services: Affected lease and finance customers in good standing with their accounts may be eligible to take advantage of up to two months of finance contract payment extensions or lease deferred payments. Toyota Financial Services call [800-874-8822](tel:800-874-8822) and Lexus Financial Services call [800-874-7050](tel:800-874-7050).

Hyundai Capital: Hyundai will extend all Hyundai Capital auto loans and lease payments for 30 days for current Hyundai owners who are federal government employees furloughed during the shutdown. Impacted consumers should contact Hyundai Motor Finance at [1-800-523-4030](tel:1-800-523-4030) to take advantage of this offer.

Kia Motors Finance: Kia has announced they’re offering deferred payments of 30 days. If you’ve been affected by the current Government Shutdown and need assistance from Kia Finance, please contact us at [1-866-331-5632](tel:1-866-331-5632).

Ford Credit, GM Financial, & Mercedes-Benz Financial Services: It has been reported that these companies are among those providing qualified customers options such as payment deferrals, late fee waivers and special care lines to address their individual problems, though official announcements from these companies have not been released online.

Mobile Telephone Service Providers

AT&T: Will assist with adjusting late fees, providing extensions, and revising payment schedules.

Sprint: Will provide short-term payment solutions. Call [1-888-211-4747](tel:1-888-211-4747)

T-Mobile: Offering short-term assistance and can spread out service payments over time. Call [1-877-746-0909](tel:1-877-746-0909) or 611 from a T-Mobile device.

Verizon: Offering flexible payment options and has a Promise to Pay program to set payments for a future date. Call [1-866-266-1445](tel:1-866-266-1445).

Rental Home Assistance

National Rental Home Council: Represents many of the nation’s largest operators of single-family rental homes. They’re offering deferred rent payment options with no late fees to any renter who has been furloughed.

OPM Sample Letters for Creditors and Mortgage Companies: OPM created these sample letters for Federal workers to contact their landlords, mortgage lenders, and utilities, to request help during the shutdown.

National Food Resources & Advice

Feeding America: These guys have a nationwide network of 200 food banks. From those food banks, they have 60,000 partner pantries from which they can serve every community across the United States. This is an awesome resource, and they have already begun serving Federal employees affected by the government shutdown.

Your School District: To save on food and ensure your kid eats breakfast and/or lunch free (less stress and worry for you), notify the district of your furlough. No income is an emergency and normally qualifies you for the free meal program.

Home, Auto & Life Insurance Relief

MetLife: For those not receiving a paycheck from the federal government because of the current shutdown, MetLife Auto & Home may grant a one-time, 30-day grace period on your payment of premium on a MetLife Auto & Home policy. Members must request this one-time allowance by calling [1-800-GET-MET8](tel:1-800-GET-MET8). Certain restrictions apply, and premium remains due after delay expires.

Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company: To help the nearly 27,000 AFGE members who currently have a policy with the company during this government shutdown, the company “will keep the policy-in-force by waving the cost of insurance charges for the next 30 days.”. Policies beginning with the letter "Y" call: [844-800-9146](tel:844-800-9146), all other policies call: [888-513-8797](tel:888-513-8797)

Other Notable Mentions for Relief & Assistance.

Rent-A-Center (Benefits Plus Membership): If your account was up to date at the time of furlough and you are a part of benefits plus you may be eligible for a payment waiver based on your state: “Involuntary Unemployment Payment Waiver: Losing a job is hard and making payments while unemployed is even harder. Fortunately, your Membership waives your payments when you are involuntarily unemployed. Whether you were fired, laid off, suspended, or are out of work due to a labor dispute or strike, your payments are covered for up to four (4) months, up to $1,000, or when you’re able to return to work.”

National Freebie Offers

U.S. Office of Personnel Management: Their fact sheet states that federal employees may be eligible for unemployment compensation administered by state unemployment insurance agencies. So, eligibility is determined by state law, not on the Federal level, which may work in your favor.

USAA Are offering deferments for all loans and credit card payments.

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Regulating Racial Reactivity and Defensiveness in Work with Youth and Families

Edward Geraty — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 23:54:39 GMT

IN PERSON CE Event!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ONLINE REGISTRATION: https://gwscsw.org/event-6215332

Regulating Racial Reactivity and Defensiveness in Work with Youth and Families

Mark your calendars for the GWSCSW event listed below. Register today and save your spot!

Catholic University

Presenter: Kenneth V. Hardy, PhD
Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Cost: $45 Retiree/Graduate/Student | $75 Member | $120 Nonmember (Please make sure you are logged in to get the correct member pricing)

After you Register Online for GWSCSW Events -- you will have the option of paying by credit card or sending in a check. If you send a check your profile will be updated when the check is received. All checks can be mailed to: PO Box 711 | Garrisonville, VA 22463

NOTE: GWSCSW has applied with the National Board for Certified Counselors to be an authorized sponsor of Continuing Education for licensed counselors.

Legislative Town Hall-Connecting Clinical Practice with Recent Legislation

Edward Geraty — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:39:17 GMT

. Register today and save your spot! https://www.gwscsw.org/event-6225280

Legislative Town Hall-Connecting Clinical Practice with Recent Legislation
Online ZOOM
Sunday, June 29, 2025 | 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Cost: EVENT IS FREE FOR MEMBERS - COST FOR CEUs IS $15 (Please make sure you are logged in to get the correct member pricing)

Category 1 - 1 CEU

Please join our fabulous lobbyists-Christine Krone, Mark Smith and Guy Rohling-for an hour long update on June 29^th at 11 am. We will hear what has been going on for the past 6 months regarding social work with the legislatures from DC, Maryland and Virginia. Laura Groshong from the Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA) will also join to give us an update on national issues, including the Interstate Compact. There will also be time for your questions!

This event is free to membership, but you must register to join. I look forward to seeing you there!

Judy Gallant, LCSW-C
Director, GWSCSW Legislation and Advocacy

4 CEUs; Navigating the Complexities of Private Practice: Balancing Client Care, Ethics, Self-Confidence, and the Need for Profit

Edward Geraty — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:34:58 GMT

https://www.gwscsw.org/event-6153739

Behavior and Conduct Guidelines for Participants and Presenters at GWSCSW Educational Events:

Edward Geraty — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:33:06 GMT

https://www.gwscsw.org/Behavior-and-Conduct-Guidelines

All GWSCSW CEU events are designed to be professional, ethical, safe spaces to further learning, skill-building and discussion about topics of interest within the field of clinical social work. To that end, we request that both participants and presenters take responsibility to cultivate an environment where optimal learning takes place, by:

Encouraging ethical, diverse, and inclusive conversation that represents the culture of clinical social work.
Embracing differences, promoting honest and curious discussions, responding with questions rather than ultimatums and keeping a collegial and open mind to further understanding.
Behaving with respect: Not using disparaging terms, verbal insults, bullying statements, offensive racist, hateful, homophobic or sexist language, or any forms of harassment.

5 Social Work Trends for 2025: What They Mean for the Profession

Edward Geraty — Mon, 26 May 2025 14:46:13 GMT

5 Social Work Trends for 2025: What They Mean for the Profession

https://online.marymount.edu/blog/5-social-work-trends-2025

Social Workers; Burnout and self care

Edward Geraty — Mon, 26 May 2025 14:42:54 GMT

https://djph.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/djph-101-05.pdf

Social Work Compact implementation timeline

Edward Geraty — Wed, 21 May 2025 14:09:16 GMT

Social Work Compact implementation timeline

SW-Commission-Timeline.pdf

Town Hall: Keeping Ourselves Centered

Edward Geraty — Wed, 21 May 2025 14:05:26 GMT

Town Hall: Keeping Ourselves Centered

Tuesday, June 17, 2025, 5:30-7:30 PM Eastern Time on Zoom

CSWA is offering another opportunity for members to connect! Staying centered personally and professionally is an important part of being a Clinical Social Worker, and CSWA is happy to offer this member benefit that supports both the clinician and the social work profession. This free and confidential event is moderated by CSWA's Director of Policy and Practice, Laura Groshong, LISCW. Information about returning to our offices, insurance coverage, self-care, the ASWB report, telemental health, the progress of the Compact, as well as whatever participants want to discuss, will be on our agenda. The more we can help each other, the more we can help our patients. This event will not be recorded.

https://www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/event-6160501

Legislative Alert: 2024 Mental Health Parity Rule Rescinded

Edward Geraty — Tue, 20 May 2025 13:03:35 GMT

Legislative Alert: 2024 Mental Health Parity Rule Rescinded

May 20, 2025

A week ago, the Trump Administration announced its intention to stop the passage of the 2024 Mental Health Parity Rule that would have made the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Parity Act (MHPAEA) enforcement much stronger. As most CSWA members are aware, the implementation of this 16-year-old law has been a challenge [laws are the beginning of the legislative process which are implemented by rules]. The constant problems LCSWs have dealing with prior authorizations, network adequacy, reimbursement rates, timely reimbursement of claims, and more would have been largely resolved in the 2024 rule proposed by the Biden Administration. (View the proposed rule at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/09/23/2024-20612/requirements-related-to-the-mental-health-parity-and-addiction-equity-act.)

Also about a week ago, the Trump Administration stopped putting new rules out for public comment, making it difficult for CSWA and other organizations to have a voice in the development of new rules. This is a major attack on the democratic process which allows the public to have a voice in the implementation of our laws.

One way we CAN affect rules is by contacting our members of Congress to ask that they informally influence the administration and agencies that carry out the proposed rule. An excellent summary of the dangers of eliminating the proposed rule can be found at KFF by visiting https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/trump-biden-mental-health-parity-insurance-law-coverage-deadline/. These helpful materials can be used to develop a bill in Congress to implement this rule. Even though the current administration has announced that they are unwilling to implement any of the 2024 proposed rule, we can let our members of Congress know that we as constituents want them to push back on this attempt to allow insurers to continue practices that hurt LCSWs and our patients.

Here is a template for that you can use to send a message to your members of Congress at https://www.congress.gov/contact-us: “I am a licensed clinical social worker, a constituent, and a member of the Clinical Social Work Association. I am writing to ask you to oppose the intent of the Trump Administration to stop the 2024 Rule for the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Parity Act. For 16 years this Act has languished because passing meaningful rules has been opposed by insurers and the corporations that have become the groups that control our health care system. Please give our citizens the access to the mental health and addiction services they need by pushing for the passage of the 2024 MHPAEA Rule.”

As always, please let me know when you have sent your messages.

Laura Groshong, LICSW, CSWA Director of Policy and Practice

lwgroshong@clinicalsocialworkassociation.org

Affiliated society members: If you are receiving this communication from your state society but did not also receive it directly from CSWA then you are not an active CSWA member. Membership in a state society does not equate to membership in CSWA. Membership in both organizations is highly recommended. Please consider joining CSWA today - your support is instrumental in maintaining CSWA's ability to work nationally on your behalf and on behalf of the field of clinical social work. Please visit our membership information and registration page for additional information.

Clinical Social Work Association
The National Voice for Clinical Social Work

DC Board of SW license renewals now live...

Edward Geraty — Fri, 16 May 2025 14:10:21 GMT

https://s12.view.sfmc-marketing.com/view_email.aspx?qs=68a9a39a155c4c90a3d16cfa069bd33e3f493c06dfd7522b686d18be3d334b101ad33e9356d4d7b6199aed5d8bdaf8ef977cac111b3bb4922f58893c87b56c21878c35dd3ff48c34

CEU event: Navigating the Complexities of Private Practice: Balancing Client Care, Ethics, Self-Confidence, and the Need for Profit

Edward Geraty — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:16:52 GMT

https://www.gwscsw.org/event-6153739

· When

Friday, June 20, 202

9:30 AM - 1:30 PM

ONLINE ZOOM

Registration

· Member – $100.00

$25.00 per credit hour

· Nonmember – $160.00

$40.00 per credit hour

· State Affiliate Member – $100.00

· Student/Graduate/Retiree Member – $60.00

$15 per credit hour

Presenter: Lynn Grodzki, LCSW, MCC

CEUs: Category 1 | 4 CEUs -- 4 Continuing Education Hours (CEUs), including 1 hour approved for Ethics credit -- Recorded version will be available with Category 2 CEUs

A 4-Hour CEU Workshop for Early-Career Therapists, their supervisors and owners/operators of a private practice

Starting and operating a private practice brings challenges to a therapist beyond simple logistics. Despite finishing graduate school, getting licensed and having spent time in other settings, you need to consider important concerns, including:

· How do you reconcile profit and service, or deal with the psychological issues that are inherent in money?

· What is the best way to quickly supervise yourself, session by session, to make sure that you feel confident in your clinical work?

· What ethical red flags exist primarily for those in private practice—and how can you avoid them?

· How can you help clients stay long enough to complete their treatment?

CEU What is Narcissistic Abuse and How Do We Intervene? A Clinicians Guide

Edward Geraty — Thu, 15 May 2025 19:57:53 GMT

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ONLINE REGISTRATION: What is Narcissistic Abuse and How Do We Intervene? A Clinicians Guide

Mark your calendars for the GWSCSW event listed below. Register today and save your spot!

What is Narcissistic Abuse and How Do We Intervene? A Clinicians Guide
Online ZOOM
Sunday, June 22, 2025 | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Cost: $45 Retiree/Graduate/Student | $75 Member | $120 Nonmember (Please make sure you are logged in to get the correct member pricing)

Presenter Ed Geraty, LCSW-C (MD), LICSW (WV), LCSW (VA), LICSW (DC)

CEUs: Category 1 | 3.0

Synopsis this presentation will explain the patterns of the traumatizing narcissist and the relational system of subjugation; discuss the origin of the Narcissistic ABUSE CYCLE ; and describe how victims of the traumatizing narcissist can be helped to recognize the nature of the abuse and learn to recover from damage to the sense of self.

Workshop Objectives:

Upon finishing this training, participants will be able to:

Define narcissistic abuse and its clinical presentation
Identify signs and patterns of narcissistic abuse in clients
Understand psychological effects on survivors
Learn evidence-based therapeutic approaches
Discuss treatment challenges and clinician strategies

Health Insurance Companies That May Cover Weight Loss Programs:

Edward Geraty — Thu, 15 May 2025 16:14:02 GMT

United Healthcare offers a program called Real Appeal that provides weight loss coaching and support and may offer reimbursement for weight loss programs like Noom.
Blue Cross Blue Shield offers a health insurance program called Blue365 which provides discounts on health and wellness and weight loss programs here. Some BCBS plans including Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts may also offer weight loss reimbursement for the cost of Noom.
Aetna health insurance offers a program called the Aetna Weight Management discount program here, which provides discounts on weight loss programs and products. Some Aetna plans may also offer weight loss reimbursement like Noom.
Cigna? Cigna has a program called Healthy Rewards for up to 30% off weight management and nutrition, but Noom is not listed as one of the programs

You may be able to use your FSA, HSA (Health Savings Account), or HRA to pay for the cost if you have a letter of medical necessity from your doctor, or if your plan specifically includes Noom as a qualifying weight loss program.

Notice Regarding Nondeductible Portion of GWSCSW Membership Dues

Fri, 09 May 2025 03:09:51 GMT

Notice Regarding Nondeductible Portion of GWSCSW Membership Dues: In accordance with the requirements of Internal Revenue Code §6033(e), we are notifying you that a portion of your GWSCSW dues is attributable to lobbying and is therefore not deductible to you as an ordinary and necessary business expense for federal income tax purposes. Based upon GWSCSW’s anticipated lobbying expenses and a good faith estimate of dues payments received through the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, you should consider 47.25% of your dues payment nondeductible.

DC Continuing Ed re Public Health Priorities

Edward Geraty — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:53:55 GMT

DC offers online CE courses that meet these requirements for DC licensed social workers. https://www.dcrxce.com/

Ketamine found effective in treatment-resistant depression

Edward Geraty — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:19:41 GMT

Ketamine found effective in treatment-resistant depression — Harvard Gazette - https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/05/ketamine-found-effective-in-treatment-resistant-depression/

Social Work Licensure Compact

Edward Geraty — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 13:14:56 GMT

https://www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/compact-information

Follow-Up on 7 Cups

Edward Geraty — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 19:16:21 GMT

Follow-Up on 7 Cups

April 8, 2025

By Laura Groshong, LICSW, CSWA Director of Policy and Practice

Thanks to all of you who have contacted me to let me know you have sent messages to 7 Cups that you would like to be taken off their list. Please continue to check if your name is on the 7 Cups list. CSWA is working with the Psychotherapy Advocacy Network (PsiAN) to expand the number of clinicians who respond to 7 Cups. This effort is more complex than our work with CareDash was because 1) it has been in place and gathering clinicians’ information for much longer, and 2) it mixes peer counseling and licensed professionals together without acknowledging the differences in scopes of practice, training, and regulation.

CSWA will be writing a letter to the 7 Cups Legal Department to demand that the ways our professional information is being used without our permission, as well as confused with unlicensed people, be stopped. We will be sending more information on how to fight this attempt to make clinicians join the 7 Cups network or risk losing potential patients. Here is a summary of what we know so far.

The following letter has been sent to many clinicians when they ask to be removed from the 7 Cups list:

Thank you for contacting 7 Cups. 7 Cups is the world’s largest mental health community. We have over 570,000 trained volunteer listeners across 189 countries that provide support in 140 languages. We have reached over 73 million people. Often, we need to make referrals to licensed clinicians, shelters, and food pantries. That is why we built our provider directory and local support service. We are now starting to make referrals to local clinicians.

The goal of the local support systems (7cups.com/local) is to connect people online to services offline so they can get better help. We believe therapists are an important part of local support systems.

I understand that you may have reasons for wanting to be removed, but I wanted to share some additional context that you might find helpful. 7 Cups sends out thousands of free referrals to therapists every month. If someone were to complete the contact form on your profile, we would forward their information to you for follow-up. This would essentially be a free referral for you. We operate similarly with food pantries and shelters, as our goal is to connect people with local resources in their community.

We are providing therapists the option of a free premium month of being listed on 7 Cups to gain additional referrals. We are also providing this premium service to therapists free of charge if they cannot afford it as we think it is important for therapists to get referrals and build their practice. We want to feature as many therapists we can as part of the local support system.

If you do not wish to have your profile listed and decide not to become part of our local support network then please let us know and we will delete your profile within 48 business hours.

When members have checked to see whether their names were in fact removed, often they were not within the 48 hours as 7 Cups said they would. One malpractice insurer has recommended the use of our information without our permission be considered internet fraud and that a complaint be filed with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (https://www.ic3.gov/). This can be added to the list of actions to be taken to oppose 7 Cups from our previous post.

CSWA will continue to provide information about this unfair and possibly illegal activity as we have it.

Clinical Social Work Association
The National Voice for Clinical Social Work

Implicit Bias Workshop

Edward Geraty — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 23:22:08 GMT

https://gwscsw.org/event-6128565

April 2025 - Implicit Bias Training/Anti-Oppressive

Social Work Practice

(Meets new MD Board of Social Work requirements)

When
Sunday, April 27, 2025
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location
Online ZOOM
Spaces left
73

Registration

Members – $75.00
$25 per credit hour
Nonmember – $120.00
$40 per credit hour
Student/Graduate/Retiree – $45.00
$15 per credit hour
VASCSW Member – $75.00

Presenter Ed Geraty, LCSW-C (MD), LICSW (WV), LCSW (VA), LICSW (DC)

CEUs: Category 1 | 3.0 (this training meets the Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice content requirement and will be noted on the CEU certificate)

The purpose of this Implicit Bias Training, also referred to as Unconscious Bias Training, is to raise awareness about individuals' implicit biases and provide them with tools and strategies for impartial decision-making, thereby reducing the influence of these biases. Implicit bias affects the way we make choices, engage with others, and conduct ourselves.

Research has consistently shown that implicit bias is linked to several adverse consequences, including lower-quality healthcare provision (e.g., treatment recommendations and empathy), unequal disciplinary actions in schools (e.g., suspensions and expulsions), discriminatory workplace practices (e.g., hiring, promotions, and retention), and racial disparities in criminal justice responses (e.g., arrests, law enforcement-involved shootings, and legal sentencing).

Hence, it is essential to recognize and actively work towards mitigating implicit bias to ensure that our decisions, interactions, and conduct are equitable and devoid of discrimination. Furthermore, this training supports clinicians in their professional practice by enabling them to implement culturally informed approaches that mitigate the impact of implicit bias.

Workshop Objectives:

Upon finishing this training, participants will be able to:

Articulate the concept of implicit bias and its underlying origins.
Recognize the ramifications of implicit bias in both workplace and clinical settings.
Engage in conversations about methods for self-exploration and for tracking and managing their individual implicit biases.
Explain the process of implementing culturally sensitive frameworks and utilizing evidence-based strategies to address implicit bias within organizations and clinical practice.

Agenda:

Intros
Pivotal Implications of unconscious biases
how to Address Blind spots and Racial Bias in a Session
Break
How To Reduce Implicit Bias
Promoting Inclusivity.
Different types of bias
Closing

CSWA – Statement on DEI

Edward Geraty — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 19:46:47 GMT

As an organization dedicated to the needs of our patients, licensed clinical social workers and the practice of clinical social work, the Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA) strongly opposes the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to eradicate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These actions contradict the foundational values of social work, threaten the well-being of marginalized individuals and communities, and hinder clinical social workers’ efforts to ensure equitable access to society’s benefits.

Our profession is built on a commitment to both mental health and social justice, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status—have access to equitable opportunities and care. The dismantling of DEI initiatives undermines these efforts, reinforcing systemic disparities and eroding progress toward a more just society.

The dignity and worth of the person-in-environment is central to clinical social work. We recognize that acknowledging and addressing systemic inequities is essential to affirming the humanity of all individuals. The importance of human relationships further compels us to foster inclusive spaces that support diverse voices and lived experiences.

As social workers, we are bound by the principles of integrity and competence, requiring us to base our practice on evidence and ethical responsibility. Decades of research affirm that culturally competent and inclusive approaches improve client outcomes, making DEI efforts a professional necessity, not a political choice.

CSWA stands firmly against policies that seek to erase or delegitimize DEI initiatives. The attack on DEI principles is a misguided and harmful attack on our profession and the people we serve. We call upon policymakers, educators, and practitioners to uphold the field of clinical social work’s mission by advocating for policies that promote inclusivity, equity, and the well-being of all communities.

Stephanie Payne, LCSW, President

Laura W. Groshong, LICSW, Director of Policy and Practice

Clinical Social Work Association
The National Voice for Clinical Social Work

Clinician Online Information May Have Been Stolen

Edward Geraty — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 23:01:11 GMT

March 27, 2025

Clinician Online Information May Have Been Stolen

Link to the Clinical Social Work Association website Announcement.

An incident has come up in which our professional information may have been – or may be – taken and used without your permission. Here are the details and ways to protect your practices.

https://clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/alerts/13479956

Look up a license

Edward Geraty — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 18:25:35 GMT

Look up a license

Below are links to State social work regulatory board websites that provide online confirmation of licensure status

https://www.aswb.org/licenses/protecting-the-public/look-up-license/

Assoc of Social Work Boards Exam and Practice Resources

Edward Geraty — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 18:22:43 GMT

Learn everything you need to know about taking an ASWB social work licensing exam.

https://www.aswb.org/exam/

Senior Seminars

Edward Geraty — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:19:02 GMT

Senior Seminars began in 2006 to meet the needs of later career members of our society and those who are pre and post retirement. Presently there are four active groups that meet monthly and there is interest in another group in the N.W. D.C. area.

From Susan Miller, Seminar leader in Northern Virginia:

We continue to enjoy our group discussions. The group has created a very warm and supportive environment to process the emotional as well the practical aspects of moving into or toward retirement. Thank you for creating the opportunity for us to get together.

From Beverly Magida in Rebecca Harrison’s McLean Seminar:

For me, the group provides a supportive setting where I can safely share my ambivalent feelings regarding ending my practice after thirty years at the end of this year. This includes discussing my excitement and apprehensions about pursuing my "next life" when so much of my identity has been connected to being a therapist. I also talk with these colleagues about my difficulty referring clients on to other therapists, doubting if they will be able to meet my clients' needs, knowing fully well it is really my expectations that is the issue; a projection on my part about being the " good enough" therapist.

From Martha Horne in Estelle Berley’s Seminar:

I have thoroughly enjoyed the varied and interesting books – from novels, to books about aging, to professional books – that all relate to our various practices in social work. The lively discussions of our lives, experiences as social workers and the excellent leadership of the group make the books come alive. I am grateful to the CSSS for its monthly support and reflections on my life as my world has changed over the past eleven years ( can it be?) that I have been in the group.

If interested in participating in one of the seminars, contact the Senior Seminar Chair at seniorseminar@gwscsw.org

Member Only Listserv

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:30:18 GMT

Listserv Guidelines (Revised February 17, 2025)

1. Purpose of Listserv: The Greater Washington Society of Clinical Social Work’s (GWSCSW) listserv was created to provide GWSCSW members a platform to share professional resources (e.g. training and CE opportunities, office space for rent, publications and awards). The listserv is also a place to discuss local and national matters that pertain to the profession and/or practice of Social Work (e.g., policies, licensure, insurance, and practice trends). It is not a substitute for formal or informal supervision or consultation, though requests for names and contact information for Clinical Supervisors is permitted. The listserv is not intended as a forum to discuss matters not related to the profession and/or practice of Social Work.

Become a Society member and join the Listserv https://www.gwscsw.org/join-us

Committees & Volunteer Opportunities for Members

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:22:09 GMT

Greater Washington Society for Clinical Social Work is run by committees of volunteers who offer their time and professional expertise. In return they receive opportunities to develop professional connections and visibility and to have interesting and fun interactions with colleagues. We all receive the many benefits that the society provides through their generosity. Please consider volunteering - life is more fun when you get involved!

https://www.gwscsw.org/Committee_Volunteers

The Clinical Social Work Association Code of Ethics

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:12:05 GMT

PREAMBLE

The principal objective of the clinical social work profession is enhancing the mental health and wellbeing of the individuals and families who seek services from its practitioners. Clinical social work practice encompasses four major areas: biopsychosocial assessment and diagnosis, case management, counseling, and psychotherapy. Biopsychosocial Assessment and Diagnosis is the ability to understand the client holistically and use the most current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)1 to conceptualize the client's https://clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/resources/Documents/Webinars/Code%20of%20Ethics%20(copyright%202025).pdf

CSWA Position Paper on Protecting Patients at Risk of Deportation

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:35:02 GMT

This paper focuses on how LCSWs can protect themselves and their patients in the face of new efforts to deport undocumented or DACA immigrants, including how to protect patient records if they are demanded by ICE agents or other law enforcement personnel. This event may sound unlikely to many LCSWs, as HIPAA has provided protection of our records since 2003, albeit imperfectly. The idea that government agents could show up at our offices, homes or elsewhere to claim patient records and/or just find out whether they are a patient, has not been a major issue for most LCSWs. Nonetheless, that is exactly what could happen with the administration’s expanded intent to deport immigrants based on information found in churches, medical offices, and other formerly protected spaces. There are several ways that LCSWs can attempt to maintain the privacy of our patients if we are faced with the new incursions into the sanctity and ethics of the work we do. After consultation with several lawyers, here are some legal ways to keep our medical records private.

Position Paper - Protecting Patients at Risk of Deportation.pdf

March CE events upcoming

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:15:20 GMT

Education Calendar of Events

Switch to Calendar View

From Arrest to Release: Where Clinical Practice Intersects
- When
  Friday, March 21, 2025
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Location
  Online ZOOM
- Spaces left
  43
Presenter: Jane Tambreé, LCSW-C

CEUs: Category 1 | 3.0

This webinar will follow the life of a person from the time of arrest to the time of release, detailing the processes that occur while progressing through the penal/court system.

Throughout this movement, there are several opportunities for a clinician to provide services to the detained person which varies depending upon the bias of the agency employing the clinician.
Legal terms and concepts will be discussed, as well as assessments, testimony and treatment planning.

Included will be an essay written by me which highlights the use of self during the interview process and the need to identify, and manage transference and counter transference.

Workshop Objectives:

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
1. Describe "the arrest to release process”.
2. Name several ways clinicians can intervene in a forensic setting.
3. Define many of the terms used in both penal and court settings.
4. Describe specific evaluations/ assessments typically used in the court process.
About the Presenter: janetambree.com
Show details

Political Grief Work
- When
  Sunday, March 30, 2025
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Location
  Online ZOOM
- Spaces left
  7
Presenter: Ed Geraty, LCSW-C MD,WV,VA,VT,DC,FL,& DE

CEUs: Category 1 | 3.0

Political grief arises not only from local and national election losses but also from broader societal issues: oppression, systemic racism, mass shootings, human rights violations, war, and environmental destruction. These losses, both tangible and intangible, can leave us feeling unsafe, distrustful, and uncertain about the future.

Understanding the circle of grief can help us all to recognize that we may all be experiencing different aspects of that cycle at different times, regardless of our personal political opinions, beliefs , affiliations, and attitudes, we can still look deeper at the underlying grief that we may all be feeling.

Workshop Objectives:

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the concept of political grief work.
2. Determine where the individual may be at this particular time in their process.
3. Understand how individuals with differing opinions and affiliations may also be grieving.
4. Review strategies to navigate the grief process.
Workshop Agenda:

10-10:15 introductions
10:15 to 10:45 Understanding the concept of political grief work
10:45-11:15 Determining where the individual may be at this particular time in their process
11:15-11:45 | Discussion
11:45-12 | Break
12-12:30 | Reviewing strategies to navigate the grief process
12:30-12:50 | Developing a Plan of Action
12:50-1 | Summary/close

About the Presenter:

https://sites.google.com/view/insiteintegrativeservicesllc/home
Show details

Psychotherapy Record Keeping Requirements

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:12:54 GMT

PSYCHOTHERAPY RECORD KEEPING REQUIREMENTS

Judy Gallant, LCSW-C, Director, GWSCSW Legislation & Advocacy Branch

Bottom line: We must keep our records for the amount of time our state/jurisdiction requires. Additionally, for HIPAA, you must maintain – until 6 years after the last date of service - your privacy policies and procedures, privacy practices notices, disposition of complaints, and other actions, activities, and designations that the Privacy Rule requires to be documented. And, for Medicare, records need to be saved for 7 years.

More specifically:

In MD and VA, this means we need to retain them for a minimum of 5 years after our discharge date. For minors, we must keep them either 5 years after their discharge date, or 3 years after they reach the age of majority, whichever is later.

In DC, records need to be retained for 3 years after last seeing the patient. For minors we must keep records 3 years after last seeing the patient or for 3 years after the patient turns 18, whichever is later.

FOR HIPAA:

Does the HIPAA Privacy Rule require covered entities to keep patients’ medical records for any period of time? No, the HIPAA Privacy Rule does not include medical record retention requirements. Rather, State laws generally govern how long medical records are to be retained. However, the HIPAA Privacy Rule does require that covered entities apply appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect the privacy of medical records and other protected health information (PHI) for whatever period such information is maintained by a covered entity, including through disposal. See 45 CFR 164.530(c). (From a CURRENT HHS.GOV posting: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ocr/privacy/hipaa/enforcement/examples/disposalfaqs.pdf)

For Full Rule, go to p.3, bottom right: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ocr/privacy/hipaa/enforcement/examples/disposalfaqs.pdf

And, for Medicare records:

For "a Medicare provider or supplier providing covered ordered, certified, referred, or prescribed Medicare Part A or B services….(t)he regulation requires you to maintain medical records for 7 years from the Date of Service (DOS).”

From CURRENT CMS webpage: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/mln4840534-medical-record-maintenance-and-access-requirements.pdf

Our Booklist

Edward Geraty — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:11:01 GMT

Book List

Addiction

Addiction: General
Hoarding
Pornography
Sex
Substance Abuse
Substance Abuse: Children & Adolescents
Trauma (see

Anger & Forgiveness

Anger: General
Children’s Books
Forgiveness
For Men
For Women

Body Image & Eating Disorders

Body Image
Eating Disorders
Eating/Feeding Disorders: Children

Childhood Topics

ADHD
Anxiety
Autism Spectrum
Bipolar Disorder
Bullying
Eating/Feeding Disorders
Divorce/Parental Separation
Enuresis/Encopresis
Grief & Loss
Scizophrenia/Psychosis
Sensory Integration
Self-Esteem
Self Harm
Special Needs (Misc Disorders)
Substance Abuse
Trauma

Children's Books - Anger & Emotional Regulation

Adolescence
Anger
Body Development
Bullying
Developmental Disability
Divorce/Parental Separation
Enuresis/Encopresis
Grief & Loss
Nightmares
Parental Illness
Trauma

Diversity

Financial Awareness/Money Management

Debt Recovery
Financial Planning
Relationship Issues

Grief & Loss

Grief & Loss: General
Children & Parenting
Children’s Books
Loss of a Child
Loss of a Pet
Loss of a Sibling
Suicide

LGBTQI Topics

Gender Identity
Sexual Identity
Gender & Sexual Identity: For Parents

Lifespan Topics

Adoption
Aging
Aging Parents
Children & Transitions: Deciding to Have Children (Or Not)
Children & Transitions: Parenting Adult Children
Children & Transitions: Postpartum Anxiety/Depression
Children & Transitions: Return to Work
Chronic Pain
Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease
Infertility
Leadership
Medical Conditions (Misc.)
Vocation/Finding Purpose

Mental Health Disorders

Mental Health Disorders: General
ADHD
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder
Depression
Depression: For Men
Mental Health Issues: For Adolescents
Mental Health Issues: For Family Members
Schizophrenia/Psychosis

Parenting

Adolescents
Adoption
Adult Children
Boys
Challenging Behaviors
Divorce/Separation & Single Parenting
Girls
For Fathers
Mind-Body Connection and Mindfulness
Return to Work after Children
Postpartum Depression/Anxiety
Young Children

Personality Disorders

Borderline Personality Disorder
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
For Adult Children
For Partners

Relationship Topics

Attachment
Blended Families
Boundaries
Co-Dependency
Communication Skills
Couples Therapy
Crisis in Marriage/Relationship
Divorce, Marital Separation, & Break-Up
Divorce/Parental Separation: Children & Parenting
Divorce/Parental Separation: Children’s Books
Intimacy
Domestic Violence (see Trauma)
Lying
New Couples & Relationship Strengthening

Self-Esteem & Self-Compassion

Increasing Self-Esteem: Adults
Increasing Self-Esteem: Children
Increasing Self-Compassion & Overcoming Guilt/Shame
Overcoming Perfectionism
Using Mindfulness/Mind-Body Connection

Sex

Addiction (see Addiction: Sex)
Sex: General
Aging
Low Libido
For Men
For Women
For Trauma Survivors

Social Skills Building

Bullying
For Adults
For Children

Suicide

Grief/After a Suicide
Suicide of a Parent
Working with Suicidality

Treatment Issues & Approaches (Misc.)

Communication
Mind-Body Connection
Mindfulness
Self-Harm
Suicidality

Trauma

Trauma: General
Trauma: Addiction
Bullying
Children & Parenting
Children’s Books
Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence: Perpetrators
Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence: Survivors
Holocaust Survivors
For Partners
Sex
Using Mindfulness/Mind-Body Work
Vicarious Trauma/Compassion Fatigue

Continuing Education Presenters Wanted

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:05:32 GMT

The GWSCSW is seeking presenters to offer 3 hour virtual continuing education workshops.

GWSCSW sponsors Social Work Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for both educational workshops and study groups. Please read the following guidelines prior to submitting a request for event or study group sponsorship.

In order to submit a proposal, the presenter must be a licensed clinical social worker (or other licensed mental health professional).

We have changed the guidelines and presenters do not have to specifically be licensed social workers or GWSCSW members as long as they are licensed in another mental health field (LCPCs, psychologists, etc). Payment is $125 per CE hour.

Proposals must be relevant to the field of social work and clinical social work practice and have specific goals, objectives, references, and an agenda. Proposals must comply with the guidelines of the National Association of Social Workers Standards for Professional Education.

All educational events are currently occurring virtually in accordance with local and national public health guidelines and when this changes, this webpage will be updated.

Priority for approval of events and study groups will be given to:

Ethics
Topics with wide membership requests and appeal
Anti-racism topics and education
Clinical methods and topics that are accepted within social work literature. This includes those methods that are researched with evidence-based protocols and have been presented at regional and/or national social work conferences.

If you are interested in presenting a workshop please go to the submit a proposal link above. We look forward to your collaboration.

Ed Geraty LCSW-C, LICSW
Chair Continuing Education Branch

Follow-up on Telemental Health Medicare Coverage

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:46:23 GMT

Follow-up on Telemental Health Medicare Coverage

March 17, 2025

Laura Groshong, LICSW, CSWA Director of Policy and Practice

As CSWA predicted, the Continuing Resolution to keep the Federal government running passed the Senate on March 14, having already passed the House, with the stipulation that telemental health, telehealth, and audio-only treatment through Medicare be continued for six months beginning April 1, 2025. This means that there will need to be another vote to continue coverage of telemental health after October 1, 2025. As we know, most commercial insurers follow the Medicare policies.

An even better outcome is that the in-person requirement every 6 or 12 months is put on hold as well.

The text of the Continuing Resolution that confirms this in the Federal Register as follows:

p. 93 of CR

(d) DELAYING THE IN-PERSON REQUIREMENTS UNDER MEDICARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FURNISHED THROUGH TELEHEALTH AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY.— (1) DELAY IN REQUIREMENTS FOR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FURNISHED THROUGH TELEHEALTH.—Section 1834(m)(7)(B)(i) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)(7)(B)(i)) is amended, in the matter preceding subclause (I), by striking ‘‘on or after April 1, 2025’’ and inserting ‘‘on or after October 1, 2025,’’

(e) ALLOWING FOR THE FURNISHING OF AUDIO ONLY TELEHEALTH SERVICES.—Section 1834(m)(9) of VerDate Sep 11 2014 12:32 Mar 11, 2025 •HR 1968 EH the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)(9)) is amended by striking ‘‘ending on March 31, 2025’’ and inserting ‘‘ending on September 30, 2025’’.

Thanks to all who wrote to members of Congress.

The Webinar Library

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:28:54 GMT

Our Webinar Library offers on demand Category 2 workshops. You can access our library at https://gwscsw.org/Workshop-Library

Clinical Practice Resources

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:24:28 GMT

CLINICAL PRACTICE Resources

The Clinical Social Work Association offers its members a variety of professional support by providing up-to-date information on issues that affect clinical social work practice in the public, private, and social sectors. CSWA strives to maintain relevant information in those areas of practice that directly impact Clinical Social Workers, including changes in Medicare and updates to HIPAA.

Below, please find a sample of the kind of articles and other practical tools that are available to members of CSWA.

More comprehensive resources and templates can be found in the Members-Only section of the website.

Federal Advocacy

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:19:55 GMT

FEDERAL ADVOCACY

The Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA) Director of Legislation and Policy, Laura Groshong regularly provides Legislative/Regulatory Alerts to the CSWA membership to keep them informed about important legislation or regulations that have been introduced at the national level. In addition to keeping members informed, the CSWA also monitors all current national legislation that affects clinical social workers and the need for action to members of Congress. The list of Legislative Alerts listed below allows members to review the history of CSWA action on national bills in Congress that affect clinical social workers and the outcomes of CSWA actions.

GWSCSW is an affiliate member of the CSWA. With the CSWA leading the national voice, GWSCSW supports their efforts by working with this national association and the other 15 affiliated states to reinforce the needs of the profession and to strengthen our influence at the national level.

As a GWSCSW member, you are eligible for a discounted individual membership with the CSWA. . More information here.

Social Work Licensure Compact

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:16:05 GMT

The Social Work Licensure Compact has been enacted in at least seven states and has reached activation status, however multistate licenses are not yet being issued. The implementation process for the compact will take 12 to 24 months before multistate licenses are able to issued.

For further details and updates click this link: https://swcompact.org/

Mentor Program

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:11:03 GMT

Mentoring Programs

 Purpose of the Mentor Program

The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide a link between a Mentor, who is an established member of the profession, with a graduating social work student, a recent graduate, a social worker re-entering the field or one new to the area. The program is open to all GWSCSW Members no matter what area of concentration or special interest he or she has in the field of social work.

The Mentee is assigned to an individual Mentor upon receipt of the application. Additional services offered are support groups and other workshops. Mentoring might be a one-time meeting or an ongoing relationship. Contact may be by phone or email, but face-to-face meetings are encouraged, when possible.

Mentor: a wise and trusted counselor and teacher

Recent MSW graduates and social workers resuming practice, new to the Washington Metro area or contemplating changing an area of clinical focus after years of practice may want to talk with a Mentor.

These are some of the common issues a new or returning social worker might like assistance with as a Mentee:

Job search strategies
Advice on how to handle tough situations with co-workers or boss in a new job
Information about licensure
Group support alongside other new or transitioning social workers
Assistance with strategies for starting a private psychotherapy practice
Continuing professional development

Note: The role of the Mentor is not to provide psychotherapy or supervision to the Mentee. If these are your needs, the Therapist Finder System is the appropriate resource.

The Mentoring Program (directed through the Professional Development Committee) also recruits anyone interested in becoming a Mentor: experienced clinical social workers willing to help someone consider his/her goals and act as a sounding board, providing guidance and advice. You can determine the extent of your own time commitment.

Click here for further information.

Professional Resources

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:07:49 GMT

Professional Resources

NAtional Association for Clinical Social Work

Clinical Social Work Association

LICENSING BOARDS

District of Columbia

Board Website: https://dchealth.dc.gov/node/161602

Statutes: https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Subchapter%20V_Licensing%20of%20Health%20Professionals.pdf

Rules: https://dchealth.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Chapter%2070%20Social%20Work%207-5-2019.pdf

Maryland

Board Website: https://health.maryland.gov/bswe/Pages/default.aspx

Statutes: https://health.maryland.gov/bswe/Pages/regulation.aspx

Rules: http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/subtitle_chapters/10_Chapters.aspx#Subtitle42

Virginia

Board Website: http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/

Statutes: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title18/agency140/chapter20/

Rules: http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/social_laws_regs.htm#reg

ICD-10 Resources

Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS.gov) ICD-10 Code look-up: Enter a description or key word to look up an ICD 10 code. |

http://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/staticpages/icd-10-code-lookup.aspx

CMS: Road to 10: Collection of webcasts, clinician case stories, specialty references, etc. |http://www.roadto10.org/

CMS Interactive Case Studies

http://www.roadto10.org/ics/

Clinical Social Work Associationhas a recorded webinar of ICD-10 Implementation | www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org
AMA Recommendations for Transitioning to ICD 10

http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/solutions-managing-your-practice/coding-billing-insurance/hipaahealth-insurance-portability-accountability-act/transaction-code-set-standards/icd10-code-set.page

ICD10Data.com: Warning: Non-government site. User friendly site that takes the official ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS medical codes and adds millions of cross references betweencodes. | www.icd10data.com
Below are links to the crosswalk site for DSM-ICD. It's all you need to make the transition.
http://dhcfp.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/dhcfpnvgov/content/Public/AdminSupport/DSM%204CW5.pdf
The whole ICD-10 CM is available free of cost at the CMS website:

https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coding/icd10/2015-icd-10-cm-and-gems.html

http://www.naswma.org/?page=ICD10

Upcoming Continuing Education Workshops

Edward Geraty — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:02:22 GMT

https://gwscsw.org/events-calendar

Ethical Practices

Edward Geraty — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 20:33:45 GMT

Clinical Social Workers have standards for ethical practice based on the regulations of the social work boards in their licensing jurisdictions. Information on these standards can be found at the following links:

Maryland: https://health.maryland.gov/bswe/Documents/Regs/10.42.03CodeofEthics.pdf
District of Columbia: Follows the NASW Code of Ethics - https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English
Virginia: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title18/agency140/chapter20/section150/

Many clinical social workers also subscribe to the codes of ethics of professional organizations with which they are affiliated.

The National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics can be found at:
Click here to view the NASW Code of Ethics (no download available, but you can view it on the NASW website)
The Clinical Social Work Association Code of Ethics can be found at: https://www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/CSWA-Ethics

President's Message

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 18:07:12 GMT

I bring greetings to our membership from myself and my co-President Steve Szopa. I want to thank everyone for their continued support of the Society and participation in the workshops, seminars, and Town Halls. The Education Committee continues to plan and hold interesting workshops for our membership, and anyone interested in providing training is encouraged to contact our Education Committee Chair, Ed Geraty. We are continuing in the completion of our Strategic Plan, and our work to become more outwardly facing to the membership, and increasing the atmosphere of inclusiveness to make all members feel welcome. We are continuing to collect data from the 2024 Membership Survey; please take a moment to complete it if you haven't already done so. This survey, the first we've done in recent years, will allow us to know our membership in order to develop programming and activities for all, and make a more welcoming Society.

I want to give a Thank You to the Chair of the Social Justice Committee Rachel Keller for all the work she's done with her Committee as well as working with the DEI Consultant and the Communications Task Force. Rachel Thank You. I also want to give a Thank You to Erika Bugaj who headed our Community Branch, and the tremendous job she's done. Erika Thank You for your service. I also want to give a Thank You to Kate Rossier for the work she's done as overseeing the Low Cost Therapy Program for MSW students, and for being an advisor to the President. Kate Thank You for your service.

As always, the Society continues our mission to advance the field of social work, including:

Access to our vibrant listserv
Sponsoring continuing education events
Continuing our legislation and advocacy work
Coordinating with our lobbyists on legislative issues of concern to social work
Offering our mentorship program
Providing low-cost therapy for MSW students.

As the current Board begins to transition, I want to encourage anyone interested in going the extra step in supporting the Society to think about volunteering to serve in one of the vacant or soon to vacant positions. Anyone interested in volunteering sometime, please let me know.

I continue to welcome and encourage your feedback. What would make the Society more inviting and appealing to you? Of course, not every suggestion can be enacted, but I believe helpful information will emerge from your feedback.

As I end this note, I want us all to remember our mission as Social Workers, and the benefits we provide to our clients and others with our knowledge and humanity. I would also ask that we remember this in responding to our colleagues and their inquiries and comments. As always I want to continue to foster a feeling of connection and the sense that this is a Society for everyone.

On behalf of myself and my co-President Steve Szopa, Thank You for your support of myself and the Society!
Karla Abney, GWSCSW President

Greater Washington Society for Clinical Social Work Social-Work-Speaks

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NAtional Association for Clinical Social Work

LICENSING BOARDS

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Upcoming Continuing Education Workshops

Ethical Practices

President's Message