Nevada’s Mental Health Workforce Is at Risk—Help Pass AB 406 Today!

Right now in Nevada, tech companies are marketing AI chatbots as if they were licensed therapists, with deadly consequences. In the U.S., a 14‑year‑old boy died by suicide after an AI program reinforced his darkest thoughts instead of guiding him to safety. In another headline‑making failure, Google’s Gemini told a user to “please die.” These tragedies prove what every mental health professional already knows: real therapy demands human connection, clinical judgment, and ethical accountability—qualities no algorithm can replicate.

That’s why the National Association of Social Workers–Nevada Chapter is partnering with Assemblyperson Jovan Jackson to champion Assembly Bill 406 (AB 406).

This urgently needed legislation will:

• Ban AI chatbots from engaging in therapeutic interactions with clients, protecting the public from unregulated, unsafe “AI therapy.”
• Permit AI to handle strictly administrative tasks—only under the direct oversight of a licensed clinician and with robust safeguards.

Without AB 406, AI companies will keep pushing unproven bots into the most vulnerable corners of our communities, and unlicensed, unsupervised “providers” will profit at the expense of real care. Nevada legislators need to hear—loudly and immediately—that we refuse to let that happen.

Here’s where you come in:

1. Click the button below. You’ll send an automatic, personalized message urging your legislators to vote YES on AB 406. It takes less than two minutes.
2. Share the action alert—forward this email, post the link in your Facebook groups, and text it to colleagues. Anyone—even those outside NASW or the social‑work profession—can and should participate. Every voice counts.

Our professional integrity, our clients’ safety, and Nevada’s mental‑health future all depend on the swift passage of AB 406. Please act today—and then help us amplify the call.

Thank you for standing up for ethical, human‑centered mental health care.

In solidarity,

Kyle Hillman, CAE

Executive Director

National Association of Social Workers, Nevada Chapter

AI Companies are Seeking to Replace Mental Health Professionals - We Need You to Help Fight Back!

Direct link to Action Alert: Action Center

Nevada Social Work Awards - 2025

All nominees must be a current resident or practice in the state of Nevada.

-Social Worker of the Year

-Public Citizen of the Year

-Lifetime Achievement Award

-Emerging Leader of the Year

-Professor of the Year*

Social Worker of the Year: An NASW-Nevada Chapter member in good standing who: reflects the values espoused in our NASW-Nevada Chapter Mission Statement; promotes the NASW to the public and advocates for the populations social work serves; represents the highest ethical standards of social work as defined in the NASW Code of Ethics; contributes to improvement of the social fabric in tangible and intangible ways; takes risks and enlists public support for improved human services. Must be licensed in social work and work/reside in the state of Nevada.

Lifetime Achievement Award: An NASW-Nevada Chapter member in good standing who: has accomplished stellar successes in his/her social work career which have enhanced the profession, supported clients, upheld social work values, and advocated for the betterment of all people. Must have previously been licensed in social work and work/reside in the state of Nevada.

Public Citizen of the Year: A non-social worker who: exemplifies the social work profession with outstanding service to individuals served by social workers; reflects the highest ethical standards in his/her field of endeavor; takes risks and enlists public support for improved human services; advocates for and contributes to the public’s awareness of social problems. Must reside/work in the state of Nevada.

Emerging Leader: Emerging leaders are “early” career social workers who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, expertise, and dedication to the profession in the state of Illinois, whose contributions enhance practice knowledge and/or the capacity of the profession and the human service to obtain resources and influence. They have all demonstrated excellence in a variety of areas, including public or nonprofit agency-based practice, policy/legislative advocacy, academia, resource development, and administration. Must reside/work in the state of Nevada.

PLEASE NOTE: The chapter is committed to diversity among award recipients. Nominations MUST be submitted using this online nomination form. We will be contacting your nominee for additional information. You are encouraged to work closely with your nominee to complete the nomination.

NOMINATION DEADLINE: May 31st, 2025

Previous award recipients are not eligible for nomination (in the same award category); however, past nominees may be nominated again.

*Nomination process for Professor of the Year will take place separately, nominated by NASW Student Members only.

Nominate Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/nevada-social-work-awards-2025

NEW! NASW-NV SOCIAL WORK BOOK CLUB

Looking for a flexible and engaging way to fulfill your continuing education requirements? Join our exclusive social work virtual book club and transform your professional development journey!

Why Join Our Virtual Book Club?

• Earn CEUs Effortlessly
• Gain 3 CEUs for each book you read and pass a short online quiz (score 80% or higher).
• Complete all six books to earn up to 18 CEUs per year.
• Explore Curated Social Work Literature
• Dive into six handpicked books annually that resonate with your field.
• Stay updated with the latest insights and apply new knowledge to your practice.
• Connect and Grow Your Network
• Engage in enriching discussions with a community of passionate social workers.
• Share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from peers nationwide.
• Flexible, On-Demand Participation
• Access our online community forum anytime, anywhere—no scheduled meetings!
• Fit your professional development seamlessly into your busy schedule.
• Stay Motivated and Accountable
• Be part of a group that encourages you to meet your reading and professional goals.
• Enjoy the collective energy of like-minded professionals committed to growth.

Affordable Investment in Your Career

• NASW Chapter Members: $79 per year (Use code MOAK2018277 at checkout)
• Non-Members: $99 per year

Note: The participation fee includes access to the online community and CEU quizzes. Books are purchased separately.

Embark on a journey of learning, connection, and professional enrichment—all from the comfort of your home.



To sign up, visit NASW-NV Book Club Sign-up

Please note: The book club and virtual discussion platform are managed by PBC Guru. Please email them at info@pbc.guru with any questions or visit their website at http://www.pbc.guru to learn more.

>> More at NASW-NV Social Work Book Club

National Foster Care Month: Aging out of Care

April Ferguson LCSW-C

Apr 29, 2025

May is National Foster Care Month, and NASW recognizes the work social workers do to secure permanent placement and help young people age out of foster care.

Read more about National Foster Care Month: Aging out of Care

Child Abuse Prevention Month: Increasing Family Protective Factors to Reduce Risk

April Ferguson LCSW-C

Apr 03, 2025

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) acknowledges April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. This is a time to recognize the role social workers play in supporting prevention efforts. A key to prevention is strengthening families by increasing family protective factors and reducing risk. According to the CDC definition, “Protective factors are characteristics that may decrease the likelihood of experiencing adverse childhood experiences (ACES).” ACEs include child abuse and neglect, violence and other harmful occurrences.

Read more about Child Abuse Prevention Month: Increasing Family Protective Factors to Reduce Risk

Seeking Social Workers to Revise the Standards and Indicators for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice

Jan 15, 2025

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is establishing a task force to revise the 2015-published “Standards and Indicators for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice. " NASW is seeking social workers to participate in the revision process. Candidates must be NASW members and have at least five years of experience in Micro, Mezzo, or Macro Practice settings working with culturally diverse populations.

Read more about Seeking Social Workers to Revise the Standards and Indicators for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice

Call for Workshop Speakers!

Are you a speaker? or an expert in your field?

We are looking for speakers for our NASW-Nevada-hosted Education workshops.

Topics can include but not limited to:

Substance Abuse/Use

Social Justice

LGBTQ+ Issues

Workplace Conflict Management

Ethics

Aging

Child Abuse/Family Violence

Children, Youth, & Families

Clinical/Behavioral Health

Spirituality/Mind-Body Wellness

If you or someone you know would be interested use the form below to connect with us!

Sign up here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/x5oe7n115szsiw/

NASW-Nevada Hosted Education:

NASW-NV CEUs are accepted by the following boards and organizations:

• Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers
• Nevada State Board of Psychological Examiners
• State of Nevada | Department of Education
• State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Marriage and Family Therapists & Clinical Professional Counselors

ADHD in Teens and The Family System: Understanding a Diagnosis with Emotional Complexity During an Emotionally Complex Time of Development

Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 12:30 to 2:00pm CT / 11:30am to 1:00pm MST / 10:30am to 12:00pm PST

Presenter: Jaimee Ory (she/hers) LCSW, CRADC, ACHT

Virtual Platform: Zoom Meeting

CEUs Available: 1.5 CEUs

Description: This NASW-IL training is designed for mental health professionals who work with teens and/or work with family systems who have a family member with ADHD. Although the emphasis on the training is on ADHD and its impact on adolescent development, it also discusses the implications of ADHD on the family system. This training is designed to target the complexity and nuances of this diagnosis that are often overlooked and misunderstood, and outlines the most up-to-date and relevant information regarding understanding ADHD, along with direct practice tools on how the diagnosis can impact the development of self, family system dynamics and almost all spheres of a teen’s life, such as: school performance, relationships with peers, relationships with family members, decision-making, emotional regulation and impulse control skills. Practitioners will leave the training with a better understanding of the complexity of this diagnosis, and tools to work with their clients to better foster better outcomes in the lives of both the individuals and the families that they treat.

Register Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/z18sav6y0tajsx9/

LCSW Clinical Supervision Renewal Course: Next-Level Supervision in the Modern Era

Date: July 15th, 2025 at 9 am PT, 11 CT

Presentation Length:

6 hour

Location: Zoom

In a time of profound change, marked by post-pandemic challenges, cultural reckoning, and increasing mental health demands, the role of clinical supervisor has become more vital than ever. For social workers across Nevada, clinical supervision is no longer just a regulatory requirement, it’s a space for growth, safety, and transformation. This course offers a comprehensive and engaging supervision renewal experience for Licensed Clinical Social Workers. Designed to help supervisors navigate today’s uncertainty with clarity and confidence, the training moves beyond compliance into clinical excellence, ethical integrity and mentorship. 

Presented by: Kimberly Warmsley, MSW, LCSW

Kimberly is a visionary leader, transformative therapist, and social justice advocate. She has built a powerful legacy as a clinician and clinical supervisor. Known for advancing trauma-informed and transformative clinical practices. As a clinical supervisor, Kimberly has spent 15 years working across diverse care settings, including medical social work, community-based mental health, and crisis response. Her supervision style is rooted in empowerment, reflective practice, and equity.

Cost: 6 CEU / $90 Nonmember / $20 NASW Member / Free for students (no CEUs)

Register Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/zf21yjy1bgki5f/

Transforming the Future: Evolving from School Social Work to Leadership, Expanding Influence Beyond Caseloads

Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 11:00am to 12:30pm CT / 10:00 to 11:30am MST / 9:00 to 10:30am PST

Presenter: Catherine Murray (she/her)

Virtual Platform: Zoom Meeting

CEUs Available: 1.5 CEUs

Description: This NASW-IL presentation highlights the importance of Transformative SEL’s focal constructs as they apply in the context of school social work professionals, and models of delivery within the school setting. Participants will not only understand the critical role of social work skills in fostering student success but also reflect on their personal growth, enhancing their ability to positively impact student and community well-being. Focal constructs highlighted include identity, curiosity, and agency toward self and others. Each of these focal constructs are mirrored within the Code of Ethics for the social work profession, as well as the code of conduct for school administrators. This session will facilitate learning by developing leadership skills of the target audience, as well as highlighting the linkage between individual services to Tier 1 SEL in schools (adults and students). 

Register Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/z1w56ily14wdl6c/

Substance Use Among U.S. Military and Veteran Populations: Prevalence and Clinical Considerations

Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 3:00 to 4:00 pm CT / 2:00 to 3:00 pm MST / 1:00 to 2:00 pm PST

Presenter: Jarrett Langfitt (he/him/his), LCSW, CADC

Virtual Platform: Zoom Meeting

Cost: $15 Nonmember / $10 NASW Member

CEUs Available: 1.0 CEUs

Description: This NASW-IL course provides an overview of substance use among U.S. military members and veterans. Attendees will learn about the history and function of substance use in the U.S. military, current prevalence and trends, and clinical considerations/approaches for working with military members and veterans who use substances. 

Register Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/z19ey9yf0lihddg/

Know Your Rights and ICE Enforcement

Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:30 pm CT / 1:00 to 2:30 pm MST / 12:00 to 1:30 pm PST

Presenter: Fred Tsao (he/him/his)

Virtual Platform: Zoom Meeting

Description: This NASW-IL cultural competency CEU training will provide an overview of recent policy changes regarding immigration enforcement; the rights that immigrants have when faced with immigration agents; how families can prepare for the arrest of a family member; and how anyone can record and report incidents.

Cost: 1.5 Cultural Competency CEUs / $23 Nonmember / $10 NASW Member 

Register Here: https://naswil.wufoo.com/forms/z1mr1ipa02xnhnx/

Committee/Task Forces 2024-2025

The NASW-Nevada Chapter seeks volunteers in every part of the state to volunteer on chapter committees or task forces to support events and chapter priorities.

NASW is your association. Why not take advantage of all the opportunities it has to offer? Within each of our regions are ongoing leadership opportunities, CEU workshops, and networking events organized just for you. NASW-Nevada is your networking link to what’s going on in your community and the social work profession at large. This is your professional organization—make the most of your membership, and get involved!

Consider joining one of the many committees and task forces within the NASW-Nevada Chapter.

For 2024-2025, they include:

• Licensure Task Force - Review current existing licensure practices and make recommendations to the state on how to streamline licensure, create a more equitable path, and support Nevada students. In formation*

• Conference Committee - assists in education review, promotes the event, and solicits sponsors/exhibitors. In formation*

• Rural/Frontier Committee - a standing committee tasked with looking for ways to better integrate rural social workers into the association.

• Racial Equity Committee - a standing committee tasked with reviewing current issues around racial equity.

• Membership and Community Outreach Committee - a standing committee to work with community partners to further recruit members and inform the social work profession on NASW activities. In formation*

*Committees that are designated as "in formation" are committees that are currently not meeting but in which the association will be launched when needed or the applicable time period arrives. Committees marked "currently active" are currently meeting and have a formal charge.

Additional opportunities and task forces may be added throughout the year as needed by the Board of Directors. Updated opportunities will be reflected on the NASW-NV website and via email news blasts.

If you're interested in serving on one of these advisory groups, please complete an NASW-Nevada Committee Volunteer interest form.

Email admin.naswnv@socialworkers.org to Join the meetings!

News to highlight!

NASW is deeply concerned by workforce reductions at the Department of Veterans Affairs

Dismissals threaten the quality of care for millions of veterans

Read the NASW letter to VA Secretary Douglas Collins

Navigating Policy Changes Related to Schools and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

April Ferguson, LCSW-C, Senior Practice Associate

February 2025

The beginning of the Trump Administration, started with executive orders that impact school social workers, students, and other school personnel. Included in the executive orders were policies related to immigration and deportation. The administration also cancelled a policy that previously limited immigration enforcement in schools. Discussions regarding the education system’s interactions with ICE are not new and were a part of educational conversations with the release of Project 2025. In addition, education personnel have long been a source of support to students impacted by ICE raids that occur outside of schools as well. However, the administration’s choice to change the policy on enforcement in schools brings the conversation back to the forefront of the educational community. Read More Here!

A Second Trump Term: Coping Strategies for Social Workers

Since Donald J. Trump won the general election in November and since his first day in office last week, many Americans have experienced a range of negative emotions, and social workers are no exception. These feelings include anxiety, depression, fear, helplessness, and hopelessness. Here’s what you should know from #NASW

https://buff.ly/4hxOk2G

NASW Responds to Trump Administration Executive Orders

Jan 30, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Association of Social Workers is alarmed by Trump Administration executive orders that could hamper health care and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and hurt people who are immigrants or seeking gender-affirming care.

Read More Here: https://www.socialworkers.org/News/News-Releases/ID/3145/NASW-responds-to-Trump-Administration-Executive-Orders