EP143: What Social Workers Need to Know About the Supreme Court’s Decision in Chiles v. Salazar
NASW Social Work Talks Podcast
In this episode of Social Work Talks, we break down the Supreme Court’s
ruling on conversion therapy bans, free speech, and the growing debate
around “talk therapy.” Our host NASW Member and Social Worker Lorrie
Appleton sits down with our guest NASW Deputy
General Counsel Ashlee Fox, JD, MSW, who leads the National Association
of Social Workers Legal Defense Fund. Learn why many experts believe
this case could have far-reaching implications for professional
standards, evidence-based practice, and the future
of mental health care. Tune in for this important conversation every
social worker should hear.
#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #SocialWorkTalks #SocialWork #MentalHealth #Therapy #NASW #ConversionTherapy#BehavioralHealth
May 12, 2026
Listen to Episode 143
Read a transcript of episode 143
Watch episode 143 on YouTube
Show Notes:
NASW Blog, Ashlee Fox, JD, MSW
“What Social Workers need to know about the Supreme Court Decision in Chiles vs. Salazar”
https://www.socialworkblog.org/advocacy/2026/04/what-social-workers-need-to-know-about-the-supreme-courts-decision-in-chiles-v-salazar/
NASW Legal Defense Fund
https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Legal-Defense-Fund
Since
1972 the mission of the Legal Defense fund (LDF), which was established
by the NASW Board, has been to advance the legal interests
of the social work profession.
The LDF accomplishes this goal through a three-pronged approach.
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Through the LDF, NASW files amicus (“friend of the court”) briefs in
cases of import to the profession around the country such as cases
addressing the rights of clinicians to protect the confidentiality of
client records.
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The LDF provides financial assistance for selected legal cases of
concern to the profession, helping ensure that social workers have
their “day in court.” To date, the LDF has provided grants totaling
approximately $100,000, which was made possible only
through the generous contributions of our members.
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LDF provides members with unique education and training resources.
For instance, the LDF provides a members-only free consultation service
on social work practice legal issues and has put out numerous legal
publications that help social workers better
understand their rights and responsibilities.
NASW Colorado Chapter Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision Impacting Colorado’s Ban on Conversion Therapy
for Minors
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JUucwPo-1FR61-fC4rDSW4dV9DIQmgXC7pqVQ0Fggks/edit?pli=1&tab=t.0