NASW-NY believes this change would weaken profession-specific supervision standards that exist to protect clients and ensure social workers receive training rooted in social work’s ethical framework and clinical approach. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) complete extensive specialized preparation, including substantial supervised post-master’s clinical experience, and shifting LMSW clinical supervision to a different profession introduces a mismatch in training emphasis and core competencies. Social work practice is grounded in a person-in-environment approach and includes specific training in cultural competence, power dynamics, systemic oppression, and social justice—competencies that are central to the profession and should remain a core part of clinical supervision.
NASW-NY is urging members to complete an Act Now message to their State Senator and Assembly Member.
This Act Now asks legislators to oppose the SUPPORT Act and maintain appropriate guardrails so LMSWs complete required clinical supervision through qualified supervision pathways—especially Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) and, where currently permitted, other licensed professionals such as psychiatrists or licensed psychologists in approved settings—so that supervision remains aligned with social work standards and protects the public.
Thank you for taking a few minutes to act. Legislators pay close attention when they hear directly from constituents, and your outreach helps protect high-quality supervision and the integrity of social work practice in New York.