Advocating for the Future of the Social Work Workforce

In December 2025, I had the opportunity to attend Congressman Tim Kennedy’s press conference announcing the introduction of the LEAP Act, legislation aimed at addressing a federal student loan policy that has unintentionally restricted access to graduate education for several high-demand professions.

At the time, I was serving as the Western New York Division Director for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), New York Chapter, a role I previously held while advocating for the social work profession and the communities we serve.

The LEAP Act focuses on correcting a Department of Education policy that treats many graduate programs differently from other professional programs when it comes to federal student loan eligibility. The policy has affected fields such as social work, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and public health, all professions that are essential to the health and well-being of communities across the country.

As a licensed clinical social worker, this issue is deeply personal to me.

During the event, I spoke with Channel 7 News about the ongoing shortage of mental health providers in both rural and urban communities across New York State. In many communities throughout Western New York, as well as in New York City, the demand for mental health services continues to far exceed the number of available providers.

Master’s level social workers often serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking mental health care. When someone walks into a community clinic, calls a counseling center, or searches for a therapist in private practice, the professional they are most likely to meet first is often a social worker.

That makes access to social work education not only an educational issue, but also a public health issue.

During the press conference, I was asked whether I had personally taken out graduate student loans. The answer was yes. As the first college graduate in my immediate family, pursuing graduate education required financial support through student loans.

That experience is one shared by many social workers and other helping professionals across the country.

The LEAP Act is important because it protects access to graduate education for students who feel called to these professions but may not have the financial resources to pursue advanced training without federal loan support.

When the reporter asked what I would say to someone considering a career in social work or another helping profession affected by the LEAP Act, my response was simple.

This work is a calling. It is also a gift.

Social workers, nurses, therapists, and other health professionals play a critical role in supporting individuals, families, and communities during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

If someone feels called to this work, they should pursue it.

Our communities need compassionate, skilled professionals now more than ever. Policies like the LEAP Act help ensure that the pathway into these professions remains open to the next generation of helpers.

Advocacy for the profession and for the communities we serve is an important part of social work leadership. I am grateful to have been present for this conversation and to support efforts that strengthen the future of the mental health workforce.