Wurzweiler School of Social Work

09/04/2026

Dr. Joyce Roberson-Steele and Dr. Laurie Blackman, presented at the 2026 NAADAC, The Association for Addiction Professionals Annual Conference, held from August 28-31 in Kansas City, MO. Their presentation was titled: The Role of Spirituality in Recovery from Substance Use: A Focused Look at Older African Americans.

About the Topic:

Older African Americans (OAA) who use substances face unique challenges related to substance use. Many tend to underutilize mental health services, often finding solace in spirituality, serving as a powerful source of healing, protection, and connection amid life's difficulties. There is limited research on the role of spirituality in recovery for OAA, as the aging process seems to heighten their need to make amends. This research focused on spiritual practices, self-reflection, and the desire for reconciliation. When unable to heal broken relationships, some turned to spirituality in their quest for forgiveness.

Congratulations to Dr. Roberson-Steele and Dr. Blackman on contributing to important conversations around substance use, recovery, spirituality, and aging.

09/02/2026

As we say goodbye to summer, take a moment to appreciate the memories that made the season special. And as you move forward, carry that gratitude with you into the season ahead.

What’s one summer memory you’ll carry with you into the fall?

09/01/2026

☀️🗽 Looking Back on a Summer of Learning, Connection & Community

This summer, Wurzweiler welcomed students from Hebrew University of Jerusalem (H*J) for a memorable week filled with learning, culture and community.

As part of their visit, the H*J students took part in a course on Social Perspective of Disability in an International Context. Outside the classroom, the students visited the Museum of Disability History and Lighthouse Guild. They also got to experience New York City through sightseeing, a Circle Line Cruise along the Hudson river, shared meals and meaningful connections with the Wurzweiler community.

Thank you to all who helped make this an unforgettable experience for the H*J students.

08/07/2026

📣 Faculty Publication Spotlight

Congratulations to Hanni B. Flaherty, PhD, LCSW-R, CASAC-M, on the publication of her latest article in the Clinical Social Work Journal.

As Artificial Intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into mental health care, Dr. Flaherty's latest research examines the ethical, clinical, and regulatory considerations of using AI chatbots with adolescents. The article highlights the importance of responsible implementation, human oversight, and transparent governance to ensure AI complements rather than replace clinical judgment.

🔗 https://bit.ly/4wk2dIN

08/05/2026

08/05/2026

🎙️ New Episode of the Social Work Talks Podcast!
Sports betting, online gambling, and prediction market apps are more accessible than ever. Along with that growth comes an increased risk of gambling disorder.

As sports betting and online gambling continue to expand, social workers play a critical role in identifying gambling disorder and connecting people to effective care. In our latest episode, explores the warning signs, risk factors, screening tools, and evidence based treatment approaches with leading experts from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.

🎧 Listen from our page: https://www.socialworkers.org/News/Social-Work-Talks-Podcast/EP-147-Understanding-Gambling-Disorder-and-How-Social-Workers-Can-Help

- or from wherever you normally get your podcasts!

07/22/2026

🌿Before you tackle the rest of your week, take a moment to check in with yourself. Your wellbeing matters just as much as your to-do list.

07/17/2026

🎉 Please join us in congratulating Dr. Hanni Flaherty on being awarded tenure!

This significant milestone reflects Dr. Flaherty's dedication to excellence in teaching, scholarship, leadership, and service to the Wurzweiler School of Social Work and the broader community.

Congratulations, Dr. Flaherty, on this well-earned recognition! We look forward to your continued contributions and wish you every success in the years ahead.

07/15/2026

📢 Upcoming Continuing Education Webinar
Understanding Medical Aid in Dying: Clinical, Policy and Caregiver Perspectives

🗓 Friday, July 17, 2026
⏰ 10:00am – 12:00pm (Eastern Time)
💻 Live on Zoom | 2 CEU Credit Hours

What you'll learn:
The knowledge and practical skills to navigate Medical Aid in Dying, along with a deeper understanding of its history, clinical practice, legal framework, policy considerations, and family caregiving perspectives.

🔗 Don't miss this engaging live webinar.

Register today: https://bit.ly/4vxz902

07/15/2026

Every client brings a story — but not every story is fully conscious.
This summer, discover how unconscious processes influence emotions, relationships, and the therapeutic encounter in our new virtual clinical CE series:
The Unconscious in Everyday Life: An Introduction to Psychodynamic Therapy
✔ 6 live sessions (Wednesdays, July 22 – August 26)
✔ Up to 6 CEs
✔ Practical, accessible content for today's clinical social workers
Join colleagues from across the country as we explore the hidden dynamics that shape everyday practice—and leave with new tools to better understand your clients and yourself.
Seats are limited. Register today at bit.ly/SummerCESeries
All courses are from 12-1pm AK | 1-2pm PT | 3-4pm CT | 4-5pm ET