Clinical Social Work Practice Tools: Practice

The use of animals in therapy is seen as a valuable tool in promoting physical and emotional healing for individuals of all ages. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) recognizes the benefit of both humans and animals in their interactions and relationships. Treatment modalities such as equine-assisted therapy have been found to be increasingly popular and effective treatment option in mental health. Today, many mental health providers including clinical social workers incorporate equine therapy into their practice. This practice perspective provides an overview of equine therapy and answers frequently asked questions related to clinical social work practice

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) acknowledges National Suicide Prevention Week, which takes place the week of September 10-16, 2023.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide rates have increased by approximately 36% between 2000 and 2021. In 2021, there were 48,183 deaths by suicide, which equates to about one death every 11 minutes. The number of those who contemplate, or attempt suicide is higher. It is estimated that in 2021, 12.3 million adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.5 million planned a suicide attempt, and 1.7 million attempted suicide.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule on July 13, 2023 to seek public comments on proposed policy changes for Medicare payments under the Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) and other Medicare Part B issues beginning January 1, 2024.

NASW is developing a task force for the revision of the 2013 Guidelines for Social Work Safety in the Workplace. The guidelines were created to establish safety measures and protocols for social workers within the workplace. Social workers utilize these guidelines as a resource to help create, develop, and assist communities, private and public agencies, local, state, and federal policymakers to create a safe working environment in areas where social workers are employed.

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)  is seeking feedback from clinical social workers and other providers about how they should provide estimates for costs of services for patients who use their insurance to pay for health and mental health services.  Your feedback would be helpful in providing information to CMS who may create a proposed rule for preparing national standards in this area.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, social workers work diligently to address the growing mental health needs of their patients.