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3/18/2026
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Opening Session and Keynote Address - From Roots to Resilience: Forging Generational Healing Over Time - Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Clinical Social Work; Dr. Justin Guy, DSW,LCSW-BACS, CCM. Drawing on frameworks of intergenerational trauma, resilience theory, and culturally responsive practice, participants will examine how the past informs present struggles and strengths, and how today’s interventions can create lasting futures of wellness. Through storytelling, case examples, and interactive dialogue, this session will highlight practical tools for connecting clients, families, and communities to sustainable pathways of healing. Limited to 500. Premier 1 & 2. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 8:00 AM
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1-1: Healing, Identity, and Reentry: Effectiveness of TF-CBT for Justice-Involved Girls – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, School Social Work, Clinical Social Work; Chrishel Crawford, MSW, LMSW, DSW-Student and Dr. Maurya Glaude, Ph.D., M.S.W., L.C.S.W.-B.A.C.S. The purpose of this presentation is to increase school-based and community clinicians’ understanding of the effectiveness of TF-CBT among justice-involved youth. TF-CBT has been shown to effectively decrease PTSD symptoms among justice-involved youth (Pangilinan, 2022). Participants will learn more about how unresolved trauma impacts youth and how trauma is associated with becoming involved in the justice system. School-based social work interventions using an interactive case study and trauma narrative will be presented. Limited to 300. Premier 1 & 2. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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1-2: Trauma-Informed Addiction Relapse Prevention: How ACEs Shape Later-Stage Recovery – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Addiction; Janice Johnson Dowd, LMSW. This workshop explores how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and unresolved trauma influence relapse after the first year of sobriety. Using research and clinical practice, the session highlights late-stage risk factors; emotional triggers, relationship patterns, and co-occurring symptoms, and shows screening methods that avoid retraumatization. Participants will learn to incorporate trauma-informed strategies into relapse-prevention plans, such as regulation skills, safety planning, and PTSD/CPTSD tools, to boost resilience, safeguard relationships, and support long-term recovery. Limited to 300. Premier 3. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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1-3: A Roadmap to Understanding Grief, Loss, and Prevention Outreach– General; Grief & Loss, Addiction, Public Health; Kara Etienne, LMSW and Kendra Edwards, LMSW. This presentation will explore barriers and challenges which impact the grieving process. It will emphasize the importance of connections and community support for individuals and families coping with loss (not just death and dying). Also, this presentation will emphasize the roll of prevention outreach in communities. Attendees will gain an understanding of how the grief recovery process works, ways to support their own grief and those impacted by grief. Limited to 50. Levee. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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1-4: Grounded in Ethics: Best Practices for Clinical Social Work – Ethics; Ethics, Mental-Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work; Carol Miles, LCSW. Clinical social workers play a vital role in addressing trauma, using evidence-based processes like EMDR, while attending to cultural competency. Professional codes (ACA, NASW, APA) emphasize confronting racism and dominant-culture assumptions. Practice varies across training, resources, and settings. With limited literature on racialized trauma, clinicians must avoid one-size-fits-all approaches. This training provides a step-by-step ethical decision-making framework that integrates cultural humility. Limited to 125. Cypress 1. (1.50 Ethics)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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1-5: Breaking Down Silos: Building a Community Wide Response to Homelessness – General; Advocacy, Admin/Business/Management; Alvin Smith, LCSW-BACS ACSW DCSW; Jennifer Carwile; Addie Duval, LCSW-BACS; Carrie Patterson, LCSW and Andrew Dietz, LMSW.
Starting in the spring of 2024, homelessness providers in Baton Rouge partnered with groups organized by a church and hospital to grow the local homelessness coalition and to pursue new initiatives. The coalition has brought in new resources, unified advocacy, and taken first steps toward better medical care for unsheltered residents. This presentation will discuss the hard work of breaking down silos to build unified coalitions with a shared vision and tangible results.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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1-6: Gambling Today: The Unconventional Becomes the Conventional – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Addiction, Clinical Social Work; Don Pledger, MS; Suzanne Bourgeois, Attorney, AAG and Robert Henson, CAC, CCGC.
This session examines the evolution and impact of gambling in Louisiana, highlighting its accessibility and growing risks. Panelists will explore hidden signs of problem gambling, strategies for early intervention, and practical approaches for navigating treatment resources. Emphasizing both clinical practice and community impact, the presentation equips social workers and counselors with tools to better identify, support, and connect clients affected by gambling-related harm.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 10:00 AM
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Wednesday Lunch - Executive Director Update on Louisiana Social Work – General; Advocacy; Will Francis, LMSW.
Come get lunch and listen to an update on the state of social work in Louisiana, the impact of state and federal legislation on the profession and the communities we serve, and chapter goals for the upcoming year.
Limited to 600. Premier 1 & 2. (1.00 General)
3/18/2026 12:00 PM
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A-7: Neurodivergent Sex – Clinical; Diversity, LGBTQ+, Clinical Social Work; Whitney Storey, MS, LPC, ASDCS.
This session offers mental health professionals a neurodiversity-affirming framework for addressing sexual health in clients with ADHD and/or Adult diagnosed Autism. We will explore how common neurodivergent traits impact sexual expression, intimacy, and relationships. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies for assessment and intervention, including communication techniques, sensory-informed approaches, and ways to navigate executive function challenges. The class also covers ethical considerations, intersectionality, and addressing misconceptions to help you provide affirming and effective care.
Limited to 125. Cypress 1. (3.00 Clinical)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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A-8: DSM, Gender Dysphoria, & Affirmative Therapy – Clinical; Children, Teens & Young Adults, LGBTQ+, Clinical Social Work; Steven Parks, LCSW-S
This presentation reviews the contentious history between the DSM and the LGBTQ+ community including the history of conceptualizing ‘homosexuality’ as a disorder to the diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria. Presentation will review the current diagnostic criteria and case examples of Gender Dysphoria in children and adults. Presentation will then transition to a review of LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy as the evidenced-based, culturally responsive approach to practice with individuals and families from the LGBTQ+ community.
Limited to 300. Premier 2. (3.00 Clinical)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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A-9: Trauma-Informed Supervision to Strengthen Connection in Times of Political Tension– Clinical or Supervision; Trauma-Informed Care, Diversity, Supervision and Social Work; Asia Daiges, LCSW-BACS and Paula Davis, LCSW-BACS.
Social workers and supervisors are navigating collective trauma amid political tension, funding shifts, and policy changes. Supervision can reinforce fear-based narratives or serve as a reflective, healing space that builds resilience and connection. Grounded in trauma-informed principles and inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “single story” concept, this session explores how to challenge overgeneralized narratives and foster multi-story, strengths-based supervision conversations that cultivate hope, cultural humility, and connection in politically charged times.
Limited to 300. Premier 1. (3.00 Clinical or Supervision)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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A-10: Psychedelic Treatments in Mental Health: Access to Evidence-Based Integrative Treatment – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health; Parker Robinson, MHA, LCSW-BACS.
Come learn about the current state of research and FDA approval expectations for treatments in depression, PTSD, palliative care, and addiction. We’ll explore what the drugs of promise are for each diagnosis. We’ll ask what integrative care is, and how it can be used in psychedelic treatment. Explore the systems, access and political issues for treatment in Louisiana as we look into what states already have treatment facilities and systems in place.
Limited to 50. Bayou. (3.00 Clinical)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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A-11: Ethical Decision-Making in Clinical Practice – Ethics; Ethics, Clinical Social Work; Tanya Stuart, LSCW-BACS, LAC,CCS.
This presentation provides participants with practical tools to navigate ethical practice in social work and counseling. Attendees will explore core ethical principles from NASW and LPC guidelines, apply systematic decision-making models, and examine common dilemmas in the field. With a focus on developing strategies for ethical practice and accessing key professional resources, the session equips practitioners to strengthen their competence and confidence in addressing ethical challenges in diverse practice settings.
Limited to 300. Premier 3. (3.00 Ethics)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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A-12: Chemistry of Ethical Self Care – Ethics; Mental-Behavioral Health, Ethics, Self-Care (Ethics); Lisa Donze Jacob, LCSW.
This presentation will review the Core Values and Ethical principals in the NASW Code of Ethics with extra attention on Integrity. We will describe what is meant by "self-care" and discuss how appropriate self-care is paramount to the profession of social work. We will discuss the (bio)chemistry associated with different types of self-care and we will practice self-care methods to be used by social workers and the people they serve.
Limited to 50. Levee. (3.00 Ethics)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-13: Geek Therapy: Utilizing Table Top Role Playing Games in Therapy – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care; Sam King, LCSW-BACS.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of Table Top Role Playing Games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). In addition to the game growing in popularity across demographics, D&D and other role-playing games are becoming more commonly used in therapeutic settings. This presentation will focus on how D&D and other role-playing games can be applied to existing, evidence-based interventions in therapy. It will not teach game mechanics.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-14: WILD CARE: A Restorative Workshop for Social Workers – General; Other; Margo Snipe.
From supporting families through crisis to advocating for the vulnerable, social workers hold other people’s greatest traumas. You orient toward suffering others turn away from, and the stories can stay with you. This immersive workshop offers guided journaling, embodied movement, and community conversation to explore the hidden toll of this work. Designed by Margo Snipe, a somatic mentor and trauma-informed facilitator, come rest, move with the heavy you hold, and reconnect to your Why.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-15: Families Speaking Louder Than Documents: Conflict and Collaboration in End-of-Life – Ethics; Ethics, Aging/Gerontology; Emma Quebedeaux, BS, RLT, Dr. Priscilla Allen, LMSW, PhD and Gina Rossi, LCSW-BACS, MHSA.
Family estrangement presents unique challenges in advance care planning. Grounded in the ethical values of self-determination and the importance of human relationships, this presentation will explore how social workers can support estranged clients in navigating the planning process, ensuring their rights, wishes, and autonomy are upheld. A case study will illustrate ethical dilemmas that can arise when estranged clients face end-of-life, highlighting the social worker’s role in advocating for client-centered planning and ethical care.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Ethics)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-16: Youth-Led Advocacy Driving Systemic Change and Community Empowerment – General; Advocacy, Child Welfare; Samantha Lacour, RSW and Breyanna Bradley.
The Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force (LEAF) presents its mission to empower youth through civic engagement, leadership development, and community advocacy. This session highlights LEAF’s grassroots impact and collaborative model, aligning with the 2026 NASW theme by showcasing how forging authentic connections with young leaders fuels resilient, inclusive communities. Participants will gain insight into LEAF’s transformative work and leave inspired to cultivate similar movements in their own regions.
Limited to 50. Natchez. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-17: Our Children, Our Future: Combating Infant Mortality Through Community Action – General; Health, Public Health; Dr. MaryAnne Candley, Ph.D., MSW, LMSW.
This session examines rising U.S. infant mortality rates and its stark racial disparities, with Black infants facing rates more than double those of whites. It explores systemic factors, including social determinants of health, and highlights a grassroots initiative improving birth outcomes. Attendees will analyze data, assess community strategies, and gain tools for macro-level practice. Emphasizing advocacy and collaboration, this call to action urges social workers to build equitable healthcare systems. "Because, our children, our future."
Limited to 40. Riverboat. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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2-18: Substance Use Disorder and Seniors: An Emerging Crisis – Clinical; Aging/Gerontology, Marriage & Family; Janice Johnson Dowd, LMSW.
Substance use disorder in older adults is increasing but often goes unnoticed. Alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other drugs can cause medical, safety, and mental health problems, while ageism, stigma, and symptom overlap with cognitive or chronic conditions can delay diagnosis. This training helps social workers and health professionals identify, assess, and support older adults with SUD. Participants learn about age-related risk factors, screening tools, and culturally responsive, trauma-informed interventions, focusing on ethics, and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Limited to 40. Creole Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 1:45 PM
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3-19: When to Pursue EMDR Training Versus Referring Clients Out? – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care; Carol Miles, LCSW.
Many clinicians are curious about EMDR but unclear on how it works, when to refer, or if it belongs in their toolbox. This training is designed for busy professionals who value trauma-informed care but don’t have time to sort through the noise. You’ll gain a clear overview of EMDR, guidance on when to refer and who benefits, plus insight on whether training yourself makes sense—all in one practical, focused hour and a half.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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3-20: Student Presentations – General; Other; Bobbye Roberts, LCSW-BACS.
This workshop, presented at the NASW-LA annual conference for many years, features exemplary papers completed by students at Louisiana's schools of social work. All social work degree programs in the State of Louisiana are invited to submit one outstanding student paper to be considered for presentation. Through review by a committee, the top three papers are selected, and presentations are made in this workshop. Topics reflect current issues in the field of social work.
Limited to 40. Riverboat. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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3-21: You Answered: Survey Findings from Louisiana's Youth and Family Providers – General; Mental-Behavioral Health, Social Work Career Development, Clinical Social Work; Dr. Stephen Phillippi, PhD, LCSW.
Join in this engaging session to dive into the results of Louisiana's most recent statewide survey of behavioral health providers regarding the gaps and needs in care for youth and their families. You will also hear how the workforce delivering that care perceives their professional health. Then, be part of the translation of what all this means for career paths and priorities for future care-- a care that doesn't grow and improve without you.
Limited to 50. Creole Queen. (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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3-22: Spirituality in Mental Health Practice: Assessment and Integration– General; Clinical or Ethic; Ethics, Trauma-Informed Care, Cultural Competence; Quaneisha Browning, MA, MSW, LCSW.
Many of the people we serve have spiritual beliefs or a spirituality background that bring them comfort and purpose. Through proper assessment and client-centered practice, you can effectively help these individuals to address their presenting problems. Quaneisha will provide training on how to utilize spirituality screening tools and educate participants about evidence-based practices for integrating spirituality into your clients' treatment plan.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 Clinical or Ethics)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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3-23: Breaking the Cycle: Understanding and Intervening in Intergenerational Trauma – Clinical; Trauma-Informed Care; Ebony Allen, LCSW-BACS.
This session examines intergenerational trauma and its effects on families and communities. Participants will learn to identify patterns of adversity, understand the role of systemic and cultural factors, and apply trauma-informed strategies to support healing. Emphasis is placed on practical interventions, resilience-building, and culturally responsive approaches that empower clients while promoting ethical and socially just social work practice.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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3-24: The Silent Departure: Navigating Death and Grief with A Multicultural Lens – General; Grief & Loss, Trauma-Informed Care, Cultural Competence; Teneka Gash, PLPC, RSW, Ashli Savoy-King, LPC, NCC and Carrie Davidson, LPC-S, NCC.
A core value of the counseling profession is to honor diversity and embrace a multicultural approach to supporting the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of people within their social and cultural context. This presentation aims to increase cultural humility by examining death, dying, and funeral rites from a multicultural approach. It also aims to highlight the importance of multicultural competency and the counselor's ability to practice cultural responsiveness.
Limited to 50. Natchez (1.50 General)
3/18/2026 3:30 PM
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Wednesday Evening Plenary – Make A Circle – General; Advocacy, Child Welfare; Karen Austin and Will Francis, LMSW.
Make A Circle follows a group of childcare providers who are determined to change how our society values the education of its youngest citizens. With a mix of humor, outrage, and passion, Make A Circle captures the unfolding stories of Patricia, a leader of a new union for child care providers, as she fights on behalf of a largely immigrant workforce; Charlotte, another union member who tirelessly lifts up the low-income families in her care; and Anne, the director of a large preschool, who finds novel ways to value and support her teachers when jobs at McDonald's are offering higher pay. Weaving together the magic they create in the classroom, the struggles they endure at home, and their tireless activism for their profession, Make A Circle is a moving portrait of life as an early childhood educator and a promising blueprint for fixing our broken childcare system.
Limited to 300. Premier 1. (2.00 General)
3/18/2026 6:00 PM
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Thursday Morning Plenary - Thursday Morning Plenary - Reimagining Social Work Community: Shared Stories and Organizing for Action – General; Advocacy; Adesack “Andy” Ounechith, RSW, MarCellus Rankin, Brittney Johnson, LMSW, Lauri L. Moore, LCSW and Jen Scott, PhD, LCSW.
As a member of Together Baton Rouge, a broad-based coalition of secular and faith-based organizations, NASW-LA has been working with organizers to engage social workers from across Baton Rouge to break down professional siloes and build a vehicle for action rooted in relationships. This session will detail the progress of our work, centering how we have been utilizing a key organizing tool - house meetings, small group conversations where people share stories of the issues affecting them – to build relationships among social workers in diverse practice settings. Attendees will experience house meetings to foster connection and consider their potential for organizing social workers to effect change on shared issues across Louisiana.
Limited to 500. Premier 1 & 2. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 8:00 AM
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4-25: Understanding Religious Trauma – General; Trauma-Informed Care, Diversity, LGBTQ+; Amanda Anderson, LCSW.
This presentation will focus on advising clinicians about the role of religious trauma in therapeutic settings and spiritual coping. The purpose is to help provide context around the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of alternative faiths, and the cultures impacted by religious conflict. Additionally, this presentation will provide trauma informed methods to assess and support those with religious trauma. This will include increasing understanding of diverse cultures and religions, while discussing coping strategies.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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4-26: Healing Mothers, Healing Families: Residential Treatment for Pregnant/Parenting Women - General; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Telehealth/Teletherapy; Ivory Wilson, MA,LAC,CCGC and Melinda Robinson, MBA.
This session explores residential substance use treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women, emphasizing gender-responsive care, trauma-informed approaches, and family preservation. Attendees will learn about program structure, referral pathways, and best practices to support maternal recovery and improve outcomes for both women and their children.
Limited to 50. Levee. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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4-27: Trauma in the Halls: Assessing Trauma in the School Setting – Clinical; Trauma-Informed Care, Children, Teens & Young Adults, School Social Work; Natalie Bunner, LCSW-BACS. "Trauma in the Halls" is an interactive training designed for school-based clinicians working on the front lines of student mental health. This trauma-informed framework focuses on interpreting and assessing student behavior, navigating complex school dynamics, and advocating within systems that often prioritize punishment over care. Through real-world case reflection, group engagement, and intervention exploration, participants will grow in clinical insight and strengthen communication strategies with both students and staff, increasing clarity and growing in compassion. Limited to 50 Delta Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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4-28: Overcoming the Struggle of Family Reunification in Early Sobriety – Clinical; Children, Teens & Young Adults, Addiction, Marriage & Family; Janice Johnson Dowd, LMSW. This workshop redefines family reunification in early sobriety by positioning families as active partners in recovery, not background players. Based on family-systems theory beyond traditional role models, it explores how engaged, well-supported families help stabilize early recovery and lower relapse risk. Participants will learn practical strategies to include families in treatment, foster empathic communication and boundary setting, and repair relationships while safeguarding individual recovery plans. Attendees will leave with actionable tools for reunification and healing. Limited to 300. Premier 3. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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4-29: Biology of Addiction: Screening and Accurate Diagnosis Matters in All Professions – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Addiction; Karla Alexander, LAC, LCSW, CCS. Addiction is a chronic brain disease with significant biological and physiological effects that impact behavior, decision-making, and overall health. This presentation highlights the importance of universal screening across all professions and emphasizes accurate diagnosis by distinguishing primary mental health conditions from substance-induced disorders. Understanding the biology of addiction reduces stigma, improves treatment outcomes, and strengthens community support—ensuring individuals receive care that addresses both substance use and its impact on mental health. Limited to 50. Bayou. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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4-30: The Law, Ethics, and Your Social Work Practice – Ethics; Ethics; Lisa Lipsey, LCSW, BCD, ACSW and Emily DeAngelo. In this interactive presentation, ethical dilemmas, and concerns will be discussed including boundary crossings, boundary, violations, and dual relationships. Risk management strategies to protect your client and you will be introduced. You will receive information about sanctioned complaints from the previous year. *Attendees should have a copy of the current Practice Act and Professional and Occupational Standards available during the session. They can be found at https://www.labswe.org/page/laws-rules. Limited to 125. Cypress 1. (1.50 Ethics)
3/19/2026 10:00 AM
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Awards Luncheon and NASW-LA Update – General
Lunch will feature the 2026 NASW-LA State Award winners, and attendees will hear about current and former outstanding social work professionals, allied organizations and public servants.
Limited to 600. Premier 1 & 2. (1.00 General)
3/19/2026 11:45 AM
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B-31: Autistic Spectrum Disorder 1: Diagnosis, Therapeutic Interaction and Support – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, School Social Work, Developmental Disabilities; Lisa Donze Jacob, LCSW.
Presentation will provide information regarding diagnostic criteria in the DSM 5-TR for Autistic Spectrum Disorder 1. Diagnosis will be examined in terms of similarities/differences between individuals, males and females. Participants will gain information regarding therapeutic support, school interventions, self-advocacy and social support group design for adults and children "on the spectrum" as well as support for parents of these children. Recent Evidence Based treatment and appropriate, accurate assessment will be discussed as well.
Limited to 300. Premier 2. (3.00 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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B-32: Sandtray Skills for School Social Workers – Clinical; Children, Teens & Young Adults, School Social Work, Clinical Social Work; Steven Parks, LCSW-S.
This continuing education workshop empowers school-based professionals to utilize the therapeutic powers of play using Sandtray. The workshop discusses theoretical underpinnings for use of Sandtray and the structure of Sandtray interventions. Workshop identifies therapeutic processing techniques for Sandtray and includes experiential learning activities. Workshop also discusses ethical documentation practices for Play Therapy and sandtray sessions.
Limited to 300. Premier 3. (3.00 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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B-33: Breaking the Cycle: Therapeutic Interventions for Domestic Violence Survivors – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Domestic/Partner Violence; Pamela Albers, LCSW-BACS,ACSW.
Domestic violence impacts one in three women, yet many survivors remain unseen in therapy. In Breaking the Cycle in the Therapy Room: Clinical Approaches to Domestic Violence, Pamela Albers, LCSW, BACS draws on over 20 years of experience to share evidence-informed strategies for identifying abuse, creating safe therapeutic spaces, and empowering survivors. This workshop equips mental health professionals with practical tools to enhance clinical practice and foster resilience, healing, and safer communities.
Limited to 300. Premier 1. (3.00 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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B-34: The Million Dollar Social Worker: Unlocking Confidence for Career Growth – General; Professional Growth in Social Work; Danielle Bailey, LCSW-BACS. The Million Dollar Social Worker isn’t about money—it’s about mindset. This workshop equips you with the confidence, consistency, and clarity to boldly design the career you desire and deserve." Learn how to silence self-doubt, stay consistent, and move from overthinking to purposeful action. The Million Dollar Social Worker workshop is designed to help social workers build unstoppable confidence, create opportunities, and pursue new paths with clarity and courage. Limited to 50. Bayou. (3.00 General)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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B-35: Innovating Parenting Coordination: A Collaborative, Educational Team Model – Clinical; Social Work & Courts; Bradley Craig, LMSW-IPR, CFLE and Cecilia Powers, LCSW-S.
High-conflict coparents often feel overwhelmed and stuck in ongoing disputes, placing heavy demands on social workers. This workshop introduces a collaborative, solution-focused model that emphasizes education, goal setting, and focusing on parents’ interests over positions. Social workers will learn strategies to empower parents to recognize their own resources and develop effective, timely solutions. The team-based approach supports coordinators in guiding families toward practical resolutions, opportunities to role model, while offering relief for families and professionals involved.
Limited to 50. Levee. (3.00 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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B-36: Beyond Awareness: Practicing Cultural Humility In Social Work – Ethics; Ethics, Diversity, Cultural Competence; Angela Seets, MA MSW LCSW-BACS and Alexis Briana Maitland, LMSW.
This workshop invites social workers to move beyond cultural competence into the intentional, lifelong practice of cultural humility. Through reflection, dialogue, and skill-building, participants will explore how power, privilege, identity, and intersectionality shape their practice. Whether you're a new or seasoned professional, this training offers practical strategies to build trust and accountability with diverse clients and communities.
Limited to 125. Cypress 1. (3.00 Ethics)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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5-37: Diversifying Your Income as a Social Worker for Professional Growth – General; Self-Care (Ethics), Private Practice, Professional Growth in Social Work; Dr. Dominique Spigner, DSW, LCSW-S, ADHD-CCSP, EMDR-C.
Social workers are often driven by passion and commitment to service, yet many face financial challenges due to traditional reliance on agency salaries, reimbursement structures, or grant-funded positions. This presentation will explore practical and ethical ways social workers can diversify their income while staying aligned with the values of the profession.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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5-38: Trauma Onset of Food Maintenance Syndrome in Non-Foster Care Population – General; Mental-Behavioral Health, Children, Teens & Young Adults, Health; Dr. Shantrell Charles, DSW, LMSW and Dr. Marie Smith, PhD. Food Maintenance Syndrome is an eating disorder that has been identified in the foster care population and is believed to correlate with previous stressors, and neglect, often leading to misdiagnoses. This trauma-derived condition is now being reported in the non-foster population. An examination of the cross-correlation between these populations relative to this eating disorder will be examined. Limited to 40. Creole Queen. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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5-39: Regulation and Repair: The Polyvagal Theory Framework for Trauma Recovery – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Private Practice; Dr. Damekia Morgan, LCSW-BACS and Lakeshia Allen, MSW Student.
This workshop introduces social workers to Polyvagal Theory and its application in trauma recovery. Participants will examine how the autonomic nervous system influences stress, safety, and regulation as foundations of healing. Through discussion and case examples, attendees will learn practical strategies to help clients shift from survival states toward repair, resilience, and reconnection. Emphasis will be placed on integrating Polyvagal concepts into trauma-informed practice across diverse populations and professional settings.
Limited to 50. Natchez. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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5-40: Sexual Pleasure Is a Right: Disability and Reproductive Justice – Clinical; Advocacy, Health, Physical Disabilities & Rehabilitation; Tiffany Taylor, LCSW, BCD and Dr. Cat Poehling.
This session explores systemic barriers to sexual autonomy for people with disabilities and presents strategies to advance sexual well-being. The presenters apply Disability Justice and Reproductive Justice frameworks to social work practice, centering disabled voices and dismantling deficit-based models. Participants will examine how integrating pleasure into care strengthens cultural humility, expands ethical responsibility, and supports client-centered interventions. The session highlights how justice-oriented approaches empower social workers to affirm bodily autonomy, sexual rights, and inclusive practice.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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5-41: Working Better Together: Integrating Child Welfare and Healthcare Support – General; Trauma-Informed Care, Child Welfare, Medical Social Work; Erinne Conner, LMSW.
Children and families involved in the child welfare system often face complex health challenges, yet the systems designed to serve them, health care and child welfare, frequently operate in parallel, rather than in partnership. With unique perspective in both fields, this training bridges that gap to explore practical strategies for social workers to improve collaboration between child welfare and healthcare systems to better support the health, safety, and stability of families.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 1:45 PM
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6-42: Treating Depression in Older Adults – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Aging/Gerontology; Dr. Deanna Robinson, PhD, MSW, LCSW-S.
This presentation explores effective strategies for treating depression in older adults, emphasizing evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, pharmacological options, and psychosocial interventions. Participants will learn to identify symptoms, assess risk factors, and develop person-centered care plans that promote emotional well-being, autonomy, and social support. The session also addresses barriers to treatment and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in geriatric mental health care.
Limited to 50. Natchez. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 3:30 PM
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6-43: Compassion in Action: Rethinking Substance Use Treatment – Clinical; Corrections, Forensics, & Juvenile Justice, Social Justice/Advocacy, Social Work & Courts; Dr. Candice Sorapuru, DSW, LCSW-BACS and Charisse Speaks, LCSW.
This presentation explores compassionate approaches to substance use treatment by addressing the complex interplay of trauma, neurobiology, and social context. Participants will examine why stopping is not simply a matter of willpower and how empathy-based practices foster engagement and healing. Practical strategies will be shared to help practitioners respond effectively to clients’ needs while reducing stigma. Attendees will leave with renewed tools to integrate compassion into treatment across diverse practice settings.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 3:30 PM
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6-44: Expanding the Toolbox: Psychedelics and Social Work Practice – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Advocacy, Cultural Competence; Darius Taylor, LCSW and Tiffany Taylor, LCSW,BCD.
This session examines the use of psychedelics as an emerging mental health treatment within communities of color. It explores how lived experiences, cultural influences, and systemic structures shape use, while addressing stigma, equity, and healing. Ethical implications for social work practice are emphasized throughout. Participants will learn how culturally responsive and justice-informed approaches can expand the healing toolbox and inform clinical care, advocacy, and policy across diverse communities.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/19/2026 3:30 PM
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6-45: Reimagining Reentry: Social Work's Role in Community Corrections – General; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Corrections, Forensics, & Juvenile Justice; Johnny Alexander, JD, LCSW, MAC, SAP, CCSOTS.
Reentry is a pivotal stage that determines whether justice-involved individuals succeed or return to incarceration. This workshop explores the vital role of social workers in community corrections, emphasizing trauma-informed practice, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and culturally responsive approaches. Participants will learn strategies to address housing, employment, substance use, and family reunification while partnering with probation and parole. The session highlights evidence-based interventions that balance accountability with support, promoting dignity, stability, and reduced recidivism.
Limited to 40. Riverboat. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 3:30 PM
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6-46: A Social Worker's View: Insight on Dementia Care – General; Aging/Gerontology; Ellen Mouton, LMSW.
Step into the world of dementia care through the lens of a social worker. Drawing from firsthand experience and professional insight, participants will gain a deeper understanding of dementia - what people wish others understood and the impact on families. This session offers meaningful takeaways to help build empathy and improve care.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 General)
3/19/2026 3:30 PM
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Friday Closing Plenary - Project Disrupt: Makers of The Movement – General; Advocacy, Health; Brandon Dykes.
Participants will hear the powerful stories of makers of the movement and be invited to embark on a personal journey to challenge, inspire, and re-ignite the movement maker in us all.
Limited to 500. Premier 1 & 2. (1.0 General)
3/20/2026 7:30 AM
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C-47: Educational Classification versus Diagnosis: Process of Evaluating Students with Disabilities – Clinical; School Social Work, Developmental Disabilities; Cindy Graham, LCSW, C-SSWS. The presentation will address the laws, guidelines, and processes for referral and evaluation of student suspected of having a disability. The presentation will explore the various classifications of disability, understanding and interpreting assessments often utilized during evaluations, the similarities and differences between an educational classification and a diagnosis, and the various means by which a student with a disability can be identified and provided services. Limited to 125. Cypress 1. (3.00 Clinical)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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C-48: Trauma-Informed Parenting: Utilizing Erikson’s Eight Stages of Development – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Trauma-Informed Care, Children, Teens & Young Adults; Janice Johnson Dowd, LMSW.
This workshop examines how trauma impacts Erikson’s eight developmental stages and how this knowledge informs treatment planning. It reviews behavioral and mental health patterns when development is disrupted and links these to personalized care and aftercare strategies to reduce relapse risk. The focus is on parent education and coaching, translating stage-specific insights into everyday skills that enhance attachment, co-regulation, and boundaries across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
Limited to 300. Premier 1. (3.00 Clinical)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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C-49: Radical Self-Care & Trauma Stewardship – Ethics; Trauma-Informed Care, Self-Care (Ethics), Clinical Social Work; Steven Parks, LCSW-S. This presentation engages social workers in understanding the clinical and ethical importance of engaging in self-care. Furthermore, the presentation differentiates faux self-care from the radical self-care strategies critical for sustainability in high trauma settings. Participants will engage in developing a trauma stewardship plan to nurture their own resiliency in professional and clinical social work practice. Limited to 300. Premier 2. (3.00 Ethics)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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C-50: The Integrative Dualities Method: Healing Beyond Coping – Clinical; Trauma-Informed Care, Cultural Competence, Clinical Social Work; Harry Turner, LCSW.
Harry Turner, LCSW, introduces the Integrative Dualities Method (IDM), a clinical framework that moves clients beyond coping toward genuine healing. Rooted in psychology and consciousness research, IDM equips social workers to recognize emotional dualities such as shame vs. forgiveness or grief vs. release. Through interactive practice with charts and reflection tools, participants will learn how to guide clients from contraction to freedom while integrating cultural and trauma-informed perspectives.
Limited to 300. Premier 3. (3.00 Clinical)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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7-51: Culturally Responsive Practice with Black Fathers in the Justice System – General; Trauma-Informed Care, Diversity, Corrections, Forensics, & Juvenile Justice; Johnny Alexander, JD, MSW, LCSW, MAC, SAP. CCSOTS. Black fathers in the justice system face unique challenges that impact family stability, reentry, and long-term well-being. This workshop examines how social workers can use culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices to support Black fathers navigating supervision, stigma, and systemic barriers. Drawing on research, case examples, and community perspectives, participants will learn strategies to strengthen family connections, promote healing, and advocate for equity in justice and social service systems, aligning practice with social work’s core values. Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 General)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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7-52: Promoting Social Network Analysis (SNA) in Nonprofit Social Work – General; Social Work Career Development, Admin/Business/Management, Professional Growth in Social Work; Dr. Lakisha Mearidy-Bell, PhD, RSW, PCGW. Social network analysis (SNA) has increasingly become a popular approach to obtain or sustain funding in the field of nonprofit social work. This workshop explores the key elements of SNA, its benefits to identifying federal, corporate, and private grants, and how to implement SNA in establishing social networks and professional relationships with potential stakeholders to obtain funding or sustain funding through various types of dyadic and triadic methods to strengthen social work services. Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 General)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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7-53: Trauma-Informed: Principles for Practice, Healing, and Resilience – Clinical; Trauma-Informed Care, Social Work & Courts, Private Practice; Damekia Morgan, LCSW-BACS and Zakiya Chambers, MSW Student.
This workshop offers a practical overview of trauma-informed principles with a focus on resilience in Louisiana communities. Participants will explore the foundations of trauma-informed care—safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural responsiveness—and learn how to apply them across diverse practice settings. The session emphasizes strategies for promoting healing among individuals, families, and communities impacted by adversity, while recognizing Louisiana’s unique cultural landscape and integrating trauma-informed care into both clinical and community-based work.
Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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7-54: Breaking Barriers: Culturally Responsive School Social Work in Underserved Communities – General; Mental-Behavioral Health, Children, Teens & Young Adults, Diversity; Whitney Delmore, LCSW and Sarah Harrell, MSNPA, MSW, LMSW.
This session explores strategies for delivering culturally responsive social work in schools serving underserved populations. Participants will examine systemic barriers affecting marginalized students, learn trauma-informed and equity-focused interventions, and explore ways to engage families and leverage community resources. Attendees will gain practical tools to enhance student well-being, strengthen school-family partnerships, and apply culturally competent practices that promote academic, social, and emotional success for all students.
Limited to 50. Natchez. (1.50 General)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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7-55: How Communities are Engaging New Behavioral Crisis Systems – General; Mental-Behavioral Health; Ann Darling, LCSW and Eric Eason, LPC.
Crisis services have gained national and state attention, highlighted by the rollout of 988 and related guidelines. In 2024, 5.5% of adults and 10.1% of adolescents seriously considered suicide. Suicide is a leading cause of death for ages 10-64. Louisiana’s Department of Health launched the Louisiana Crisis Response System (LA-CRS) in 2022, offering Medicaid-funded, community-tailored crisis services with key elements: contact, response, and safe spaces. This presentation reviews the system, it’s future, and integration toolkit.
Limited to 40. Riverboat. (1.50 General)
3/20/2026 8:45 AM
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8-56: Across Professions, Across Beliefs: Rethinking Responsibility for Poverty – General; Case Management, Financial Social Work; Dr. Coleen Cicale, LMSW, PhD, Dr. Jacqueline Guendouzi, PhD and Jamie Magee, LCSW-BACS. The presentation will discuss findings from the locus of control study, highlighting shifts in perspectives before and after participation in a Poverty Simulation. Health related student programs, along with business faculty, demonstrated increased recognition of external factors influencing poverty after the simulation. The immersive experience fostered empathy and dialogue, revealing how professional practice can be shaped by a deeper understanding of systemic barriers. Results emphasized the simulation’s value in advancing approaches to education and practice. Limited to 50. Natchez. (1.50 General)
3/20/2026 10:30 AM
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8-57: Personality Disorders and Addiction: A Clinical Deep Dive into Understanding Borderline, Histrionic, Narcissistic, and Antisocial Personality Disorders – Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Addiction; Dr. Emily Tilley, DSW, LCSW-BACS, LAC, CCGC. This presentation examines the intersection of Cluster B Personality Disorders—Borderline, Narcissistic, Histrionic, and Antisocial—and substance use disorders. With addiction often co-occurring in this population, diagnosis and treatment become increasingly complex. Through an evidence-based, practice-oriented lens, the session highlights psychological, neurobiological, and relational factors while equipping attendees with practical strategies to improve engagement, manage resistance, and support recovery for individuals navigating both addiction and Cluster B personality features. Limited to 50. Samuel Clemons. (1.50 Clinical)
3/20/2026 10:30 AM
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8-58: Enhancing Self-Care for SUD Helping Professionals through Connection and Community – Clinical or Ethics; Self-Care (Ethics), Addiction; Karla Alexander, LAC, LCSW, CCS.
This session explores evidence-based self-care practices tailored for clinicians, case managers, peer support specialists, and other front-line workers in the SUD field. Grounded in the theme of Forging Connection, Fueling Community, participants will learn how cultivating authentic peer connection and community support is not only a protective factor against burnout but also a vital part of ethical and sustainable practice.
Limited to 50. Delta Queen. (1.50 Clinical or Ethics)
3/20/2026 10:30 AM
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8-59: Mystery, Intrigue, & Magic: The Power of Bibliotherapy to Heal– Clinical; Mental-Behavioral Health, Children, Teens & Young Adults; Dr. Antoinette Wilson, PhD, LPC.
The purpose of this presentation is to describe key components of bibliotherapy and explore how it is used to improve therapeutic outcomes in play therapy. The presenter will help participants understand the healing power of books to foster and improve therapy outcomes.
Limited to 50. Mississippi Queen. (1.50 Clinical)
3/20/2026 10:30 AM
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