NASW Board of Directors
Director-at-Large

Cynthia V. Catchings, PhD, LCSW-S, LCSW-C

Cynthia V. Catchings, PhD, LCSW-S, LCSW-C, is a clinical social worker, educator, author, researcher, and behavioral health leader with more than 20 years of experience in mental health, higher education, nonprofit leadership, and social work practice. A member of NASW for more than 20 years, Catchings is former president of NASW-Metro DC Chapter and former board member of NASW-TX Chapter. She has dedicated her career to advancing the social work profession, expanding mental health access, and promoting culturally responsive practice.

Catchings earned her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas-Pan American and a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Marriage and Family Therapy, Counseling, and Leadership. She is the Founder and CEO of the Women's Emotional Wellness Center and Consulting Firm, a federal government clinician and trainer, and an adjunct professor of social work.

A trilingual practitioner, Catchings has conducted ethnographic and social services research in more than 45 countries. She has authored the 8-Week Depression Relief Workbook and 52-Week Mental Health Journal. Her expertise has been featured in numerous national media outlets, and she remains committed to advancing the profession through leadership, advocacy, education, and service.