Read about the candidates here, including me, and you can also register as an NASW member here, via the button on the top right. https://naswnys.org/2025-elections/
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About Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R, Candidate for NASW-NYS & NYC Chapter President
I’m Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R—licensed psychotherapist, educator, clinical supervisor, and Founder of MA Therapy, LLC, a culturally responsive group practice serving clients across New York State. I’m honored to run for President of our newly unified NASW-NYS & NYC Chapter because I believe in our profession’s power—and our shared responsibility—to lead transformative change.
I bring over two decades of experience in direct practice, clinical leadership, nonprofit management, higher education, and supervision. From my early work in NYC and Westchester to my life and practice in Western New York, I’ve built school-based programs, guided over 50 clinicians to licensure, and mentored countless social workers to launch successful private practices. I currently teach clinical practice at Columbia University School of Social Work and lead three community-centered divisions within MA Therapy:
Grounded in Lived Experience
I was born and raised in the Bronx in the 1980s. I’m a proud Gen X social worker, shaped by the resilience of my generation, the tireless work ethic of Baby Boomers, and the emotional intelligence and self-care values of Millennials and Gen Z. I became a mother as a teenager, working full-time while going to school and raising my son with the support of community, planning, and grit. I watched my father struggle with schizophrenia and addiction, and saw firsthand the gaps in care that fuel inequity. These experiences shaped my commitment to justice and access in mental health.
From Local Roots to Statewide Vision
I now live in Western New York, where my practice reaches clients from Buffalo to Brooklyn. I continue to maintain a residence and professional ties in NYC, giving me a full-spectrum understanding of what social workers need across regions—from rural systems to urban schools, hospitals, and private practice settings.
I’ve held leadership roles at Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) and The Jewish Board (JBFCS)—including launching four school-based mental health programs under the Joe Torre Foundation—and led teams across clinical, administrative, and community engagement functions.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Equity
I’ve supervised dozens of LMSWs, supported emerging clinicians from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, and helped them gain hours toward licensure and start their own practices. I’ve spent my career ensuring that representation, equity, and sustainability are at the heart of mental health care.
Giving Back—Locally and Globally
Beyond therapy and teaching, I am an active Kiva lender, having funded 93 loans to women-owned businesses in 17 countries including Senegal, Ecuador, Tajikistan, and the U.S. I do this in honor of my mother, who raised seven of us on her own and taught me the value of building networks for women to succeed.
I’m also a proud mom of Harison, Elias, and Sarah, grandmother to Aidan and Nathan, sister to Dhyana, John, Gail, Viv, Michele, and Tom, wife to Brian, and devoted dog mom to my German shepherds, Gina and Bella.
Why I’m Running
Social workers are the backbone of justice, healing, and care. I’m running for NASW-NYS/NYC Chapter President to:
Reignite NASW’s presence in MSW programs
Champion equitable licensure access, especially for emerging clinicians
Advocate for fair pay, ethical protections, and supervision support
Rebuild connections across counties, communities, and practice settings
Reflect the diversity of our state—and ensure no region or voice is left behind
Together, we can strengthen our profession from the inside out. I am ready to serve with strategy, heart, and unwavering commitment to social workers across New York State. If you have any specific questions or want more info, please email me directly at [email protected].