Observed on June 19, Juneteenth is a celebration the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States.

Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation ended slavery on January 1, 1863, but slavery did not end in Texas until June 19, 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston. Enslaved people weren’t freed in Union-held territories until enactment of the 13^th amendment of the U.S. Constitution on December 18, 1865. It took over 2.5 years for slavery to end in the U.S., however, racism did not end with slavery and continues to this day in many forms.

While Black communities celebrated their freedom on Juneteenth, few outside the Black community knew or participated in these celebrations. Not until the 21^st century did Juneteenth become more widely known and is now recognized in most states and is even recognized as a holiday by some localities and companies. On June 16, 2021, the United States Congress passed a bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

We should honor Juneteenth as a “day of reflection,” and for many of us, that should mean taking the time to consider how we can join in the continued fight for racial justice and equality.

On Friday, June 19, let us mark Juneteenth by recognizing the continued impact of slavery in the U.S. and recommitting ourselves to anti-racism in all its forms. While there has been much progress for Black Americans, after many years of struggle, there is still far more work to be done. As social workers, we must commit to becoming educated and advocate for Racial Justice and practice anti-racism.

Learn more here:

https://www.naswnc.org/page/AntiRacism

Communities across North Carolina are hosting events to celebrate and honor Juneteenth so check your local news for events.

The North Carolina Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers is pleased to announce the election for the 2026 NASW-NC Board of Directors is now open.

Board Positions

The NASW-NC Board of Directors is comprised of 20 Board members who are elected by the Chapter membership. The Board of Directors shall exercise the powers of the Chapter, deciding on policy and priorities, program implementation, and the equitable allocation of financial resources under the broad policy and priority guidelines established by the membership of the Chapter.

2026 NASW-NC Board of Directors Ballot

Candidate information and statements can be viewed here.

Voting will be open to NASW-NC members June 1, 2026 - June 22, 2026

You MUST be a NASW-NC member to vote. You may only vote ONCE.

You must be logged into the NASW-NC website to vote.

PLEASE VOTE HERE.

Questions or Concerns? Contact Seth Maid Executive Director at smaid.naswnc@socialworkers.org

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced that 45 students across North Carolina are graduating this academic year from the NC Child Welfare Education Collaborative (CWEC), marking a significant step forward in the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s child welfare workforce.

The CWEC program, a partnership between NCDHHS, public colleges and universities, and county departments of social services, is designed to prepare the next generation of child welfare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to support children and families across the state. Established in 1999, CWEC has prepared more than 1,500 highly qualified child welfare social workers across the state.

"North Carolina is committed to building a strong, prepared, and resilient child welfare workforce," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "These graduates are stepping into critical roles with both classroom knowledge and real-world experience. Programs like CWEC help ensure that families receive support from professionals who are ready to serve from day one."

Graduates of the CWEC program enter the workforce uniquely prepared. Each student completes North Carolina’s required Pre-Service Training prior to graduation—allowing them to begin working with families immediately upon hire. In contrast, most newly hired child welfare staff must complete approximately seven weeks of training before taking on their first case.

CWEC students also complete internships within public child welfare agencies, gaining valuable, hands-on experience in county departments of social services. This direct exposure helps bridge the gap between academic learning and the realities of frontline child welfare work, enhancing both confidence and effectiveness as they begin their careers. Because of this experience, CWEC graduates have higher retention rates than other newly hired child welfare workers and tend to advance to leadership positions.

Of the 45 graduates in this year’s CWEC class, 5 are graduating from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical (A&T) State University, one of three North Carolina universities currently piloting a stipend program for CWEC students. NCDHHS attended NC A&T State University’s Social Work Department End of Year Celebration yesterday to celebrate CWEC graduates and to present students with their CWEC certificates and medallions.

"The North Carolina Child Welfare Education Collaborative (CWEC) program has been an overall exceptional experience for my students here at North Carolina A&T State University. The students’ professional growth since the beginning of this academic year has been nothing less than phenomenal, and their presentation and leadership skills have soared. These skills are evidenced in their communication with their peers, professors, and other professionals. Their leadership skills were demonstrated through their various recruitment engagements and information sessions regarding child welfare," said Dr. Lisa Workman, NC A&T State University’s Bachelor of Social Work Director and CWEC Liaison. "Furthermore, the strengthened partnership between North Carolina A&T State University, NCDHHS’ Division of Social Services, and Guilford County's Department of Social Services has been extremely rewarding. As a previously practicing child welfare professional for more than 14 years, I think the future of these students as professional child welfare workers is bright! Thank you to the State of North Carolina’s Department of Social Services and Guilford County's Department of Social Services for making this partnership such a great success and contributing to our students’ professional evolvement!"

As part of its continued investment in workforce development, NCDHHS re-instituted a stipend for students in the CWEC program, beginning in the Spring 2025 semester, at Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, and North Carolina A&T State University. The stipend covers tuition and fees for participating students. In return, graduates commit to working for a North Carolina county department of social services, helping ensure that communities across the state benefit from their training and expertise.

NCDHHS plans to expand this stipend opportunity to additional colleges and universities in the coming years, further increasing access to the CWEC program and strengthening the pipeline of qualified child welfare professionals statewide.

"We are proud of this CWEC cohort and the dedication they have shown in preparing for careers in child welfare. The graduation of each of our CWEC cohorts reflects the strength of the partnership between the University, the CWEC Program, and DSS agencies in preparing the next generation of child welfare social workers," said Kayla Warren, Appalachian State University Department of Social Work Professor and CWEC Liaison. "Through intentional coursework, training, and hands-on experience in practicum placements, these students are entering the workforce equipped to support children and families with skill, empathy, and professionalism. Investing in programs like CWEC is critical to building and sustaining a strong child welfare workforce in North Carolina."

"The ECU School of Social Work is grateful to remain a part of the Child Welfare Education Collaborative (CWEC), and we are excited to see the transformative impact that this year's nine BSW participants will have on child welfare practice in NC. The achievements of this student cohort highlight how the CWEC program effectively bridges the gap between academic training and child welfare workforce development," said Dr. Kevin White, East Carolina University School of Social Work Associate Professor and CWEC Liaison. "By participating in CWEC, our ECU participants will be equipped with specialized skills for practice and a deep commitment to supporting our most vulnerable children and families."

As part of this year’s celebration of CWEC graduates, NCDHHS is highlighting Holly Royals, the new director of New Hanover Department of Social Services who received her Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill through the CWEC program. Director Royals shares about her experience in the program in a recent newsletter article from the Department:

"CWEC provided a bridge between the classroom and real-world practice. The combination of coursework, field experience, and exposure to policy and practice realities helped me enter the workforce with both confidence and a clearer understanding of the complexity of child welfare. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, and staying grounded in the mission of serving children and families in North Carolina."

The Child Welfare Education Collaborative reflects North Carolina’s broader strategy to recruit, train, and retain a highly skilled workforce dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families. By reducing barriers to education, accelerating readiness for practice, and fostering strong partnerships between academic institutions and public agencies, CWEC continues to play a critical role in the state’s efforts to transform the child welfare system.

For more information about CWEC, visit the NCDHHS website: Child Welfare Education Collaborative.

• Graduate Rep (one position):
  • Arria Moore
  • Tiffany Williams-Fashimpaur
• Undergraduate Rep (one position):
  • Destiny Holder
  • Kiara Brecht
• Piedmont Rep (one position):
  • Danetta Christmas
  • Garry Wiley

• Member at Large (four positions):
  • Daysja Terry
  • Chelsea Iheme
  • Gina Rose
  • Tyhitia Allen
    
    
    

Initiative strengthens the crisis system in line with Governor Josh Stein’s Executive Order 33

PRESS RELEASE —The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, UNC System and the Social Work Coalition on NC Workforce Development held a kickoff event today to celebrate a new partnership aimed at strengthening the social work workforce in North Carolina. The event recognizing the Public Service Leadership Program (PSLP) coincides with a new report by the Sheps Center for Health Services Research and NCDHHS that identifies a shortage of social workers in North Carolina, particularly in rural areas.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, UNC System and the Social Work Coalition on NC Workforce Development held a kickoff event today to celebrate a new partnership aimed at strengthening the social work workforce in North Carolina. The event recognizing the Public Service Leadership Program (PSLP) coincides with a new report by the Sheps Center for Health Services Research and NCDHHS  that identifies a shortage of social workers in North Carolina, particularly in rural areas. 

The PSLP will work with high schools, community colleges and universities to raise awareness among students of careers in social work and equip them with the skills and knowledge to address the complex needs of children, individuals and families. NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai participated in a signing ceremony today with officials from the University of North Carolina system, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and the North Carolina Social Work Coalition on Workforce Development, to formalize the partnership.

“The need for social workers is expected to grow over the next few years," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Meeting this demand is one of our top priorities, and this exciting and innovative partnership will examine these challenges and help us create a system of care that makes services available when and where they are needed.” 

The Coalition consists of 25 universities and colleges, including 14 of the 16 members of the UNC system, that offer social work programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will serve as the lead entity for the coalition.

“Our public universities have a long history of stepping up to meet North Carolina’s most pressing needs, and this extraordinary investment in social work is very much in keeping with that proud tradition of service,” said UNC System President Peter Hans. “There are people across the state who will live better, more hopeful lives because of these far-sighted investments.”

“Social workers stand on the front lines of our society, supporting children and families and serving our most vulnerable neighbors with compassion and expertise,” said UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Lee H. Roberts. “Carolina is deeply honored to help shepherd this historic effort through our School of Social Work, in partnership with programs across North Carolina. This work is not about any one institution — it reflects a unified, statewide commitment to public service and the power of collaboration to meet our communities’ most pressing needs.”

According to the report, North Carolina had 9,830 licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) in 2024, an average of 8.95 LCSW per 10,000 residents. However, the workers were not distributed evenly throughout the state, with metro areas having twice as many LCSW per 10,000 residents as non-metro areas. Three counties had no LCSWs working as their reported practice address, while 41 counties had fewer than four LCSWs per 10,000 population.  In addition, less than 50% of those social workers are credentialed to work in the public mental health and substance use system.

"Social workers are the backbone of a strong community health system," said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director, NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Disorders. "They do more than manage caseloads. Social workers operate across multiple levels of intervention, from providing mental health therapy and care management services directly to clients to policy development and community organizing. They advocate for our most marginalized populations, and their work often leads to significant social change."

The five-year project kicked off in the fall with a one-year planning period, followed by a one-year pilot and a three-year testing period. The UNC School of Social Work’s Office of Community Engagement and Outreach will manage the implementation of the PSLP. Students interested in applying for the program will be able to in the spring. NCDHHS will provide more information when the application window opens.

“The Public Service Leadership Program is more than an investment — it is a commitment to North Carolina’s future,” said Ramona Denby-Brinson, PhD, ACSW, LMSW, and dean, UNC-Chapel Hill School of Social Work. “Together with 25 colleges and universities and our partners, including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, we are cultivating the next generation of social workers, strengthening resilience across the workforce and ensuring that every community in our 100 counties has access to the care and support it deserves.”

A video highlighting the PSLP partnership can be viewed here.  

NCDHHS is committed to strengthening the mental health and substance use care workforce in North Carolina as it works to increase access to care across the state. 

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today released a report detailing progress increasing access to quality mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services for all North Carolinians. The year-one progress report on the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services (DMH/DD/SUS) 2024-2029 strategic plan highlights achievements in the seven priority areas geared toward creating a comprehensive mental health care system that works for everyone.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today released a report detailing progress increasing access to quality mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services for all North Carolinians. The year-one progress report on the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services (DMH/DD/SUS) 2024-2029 strategic plan highlights achievements in the seven priority areas geared toward creating a comprehensive mental health care system that works for everyone.

"We are building a healthier North Carolina that puts people first, meeting their health needs at the right time and in the setting that is best for them," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "This purpose drives all the work we do and will continue to be our motivational force as we strive to build a healthier and safer state for everyone who calls North Carolina home."

The seven priorities outlined in the plan are:

The new report details progress NCDHHS made in each of the priority areas in 2025. Highlights listed from the first year include:

"Whether it’s for ourselves or loved ones, we are all impacted by mental health challenges, making it critical to ensure services are easy to access and in the setting that is right for the person needing care," said Debra Farrington, NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health. "Our efforts are working. We are growing capacity for mental health care in communities across the state. This includes integrating primary care with mental health and substance use disorder services."

"The department has spent the past year building the statewide workforce, growing community crisis supports and expanding access to services for people involved in the justice system," said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services. "I am proud of our progress and grateful to all our community partners for their continued support in implementing the Strategic Plan."

The department’s priority to improve mental health support for people involved in the justice system aligns with Governor Stein’s Executive Order 33; Protecting North Carolinians Through Stronger Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Systems. NCDHHS efforts center on care over punishment, expanding services that help people avoid incarceration, receive treatment while incarcerated and successfully re-enter their communities. Examples include partnerships with community organizations like Daymark Recovery Services and Aya House to provide housing support, mental health treatment and employment assistance for people recently released from incarceration.    

NCDHHS is also continuing work to lower opioid use and increase access to treatment. We partnered with Alliance Health LME-MCO and the NC Harm Reduction Coalition to improve naloxone ordering and delivery processes to decrease costs and better reach communities at highest risk of opioid overdoses. Since launching the partnership, more than 150,000 kits have been distributed.

These efforts are working. In the first quarter of 2025, the number of people receiving services through an Opioid Treatment Center increased by 9% over the first quarter of 2024.

The Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services Strategic Plan builds upon previous efforts by NCDHHS and its partners, including the Opioid Action Plan, Behavioral Health Roadmap, Suicide Prevention Action Plan, and Olmstead Plan. NCDHHS is committed to providing transparency, driving innovation and positive change to support the health and well-being of all North Carolinians.

Today Governor Stein signed an executive order to improve behavioral health care and public safety in North Carolina. Executive Order 33 directs several cabinet agencies to take action strengthening how the state’s behavioral health and criminal justice systems coordinate and serve the public. The Governor was joined by Kelly Crosbie, NCDHHS’ Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services; Secretary of Public Safety Jeff Smythe; Secretary of Adult Correction Leslie Dismukes; Director of State Human Resources Staci Meyer; legislators; law enforcement officials; and behavioral health professionals and advocates.  

“When people in crisis do not get help in time, the consequences can be tragic,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This executive order takes meaningful steps to improve how we respond when someone is in crisis and strengthen our behavioral health and public safety systems. These actions will help people get the care they need, reduce preventable harm, and make our communities safer.”

“People who are in crisis need care – plain and simple. By improving access, supporting the mental health workforce, and coordinating across systems, we can help people get the treatment they need sooner and prevent crises from escalating,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “I am grateful for the dedicated work of our local, community and state partners as we build a comprehensive mental health care system that leads to a healthier and safer North Carolina for all.”

“Law enforcement officers are often the first to respond when someone is in crisis, and they need the right tools and partners to do that work safely,” said Department of Public Safety Secretary Jeff Smythe. “This executive order strengthens coordination between public safety and behavioral health professionals. That way, we can reduce dangerous situations, ease strain on officers, and improve outcomes for the people and communities we serve.”

“Correctional officers work around the clock to keep people safe, often while supporting individuals with complex behavioral health needs,” said Department of Adult Correction Secretary Leslie Dismukes. “This executive order provides additional tools, coordination, and resources to better support our staff and ensure the people in our care receive appropriate treatment. Strengthening these systems helps officers do their jobs safely and effectively while improving outcomes for everyone involved.”

“The dedicated public servants working in the criminal justice and behavioral health systems are essential to keeping our communities safe and healthy,” said State Human Resources Director Staci Meyer. “I am committed to partnering with agencies to increase support of our current staff and to recruit the next generation of public servants to strengthen these critical workforces."

The executive order takes action in the following priority areas:

Click here to read Executive Order No. 33.

Last week, Governor Stein toured RHA Health Services’ Alamance County Behavioral Health Center in Burlington and met with providers and advocates to discuss strengthening mental health care across the state. The visit followed similar stops at behavioral health urgent care centers in Charlotte and Greenville. NCDHHS has launched seven new BHUCs in the past 18 months. The Governor also recently spoke at the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police’s 50th Annual Training Conference, where he called for continued investment in behavioral health services and stronger support for law enforcement recruitment and retention. Last year, Governor Stein formed a Gang Violence Prevention and Intervention Task Force to address the root causes of crime and intervene before it occurs.  

North Carolina’s 2023-2025 biennium budget included a historic $835 million investment in behavioral health, expanding mobile crisis response, crisis stabilization services for children, and diversion and re-entry programs for people involved with the justice system. Governor Stein continues to press the General Assembly to act on his $195 million public safety proposal, fully fund Medicaid, and restore mental health funding for inpatient and crisis care that was reduced last year. Medicaid is the nation’s largest payer for mental health and substance use disorder services.

Click here to view the 2025 NASW-NC Impact Report!

To say that 2025 has been challenging would be an understatement. 

ICE agents conducting raids in our communities. Trans individuals being targeted for who they are. Families forced to face a lack of food access because of a government shutdown. Enormous increases in the cost of health insurance. The potential loss of Medicaid expansion in North Carolina because of funding wars. Western North Carolina continuing to try to rebuild in the aftermath of a horrific disaster – while being caught in the middle of more fights over funding. A crackdown on free speech. Direct attacks on principles that are fundamental to the social work profession: diversity, equity, inclusion. Increased inflation. Many Americans, including social workers, facing funding cuts at work and layoffs. Most recently, an attack by the Trump Administration on the very nature of a social work degree.

This is, both sadly and astonishingly, not even close to a comprehensive list.

We mention these things not because we think they have been forgotten, but because it is important to recognize that the things that social workers are fighting for – for our clients, our communities, in our advocacy work – are now being done in the face of unprecedented struggle and push back. 

And yet, despite all of this, we are still here. 

In a society that seems to value division over inclusion, trolling over compassion, cruelty over kindness, social workers are still here. We continue to work every day to serve our clients and communities and uphold our core values, including social justice, respecting the dignity and worth of the person, competence, and integrity.  

We are proud to call ourselves social workers. We are proud to stand as part of this amazing profession. 

As you look over the work that NASW-NC was able to accomplish in 2025 (including the passing and signing of the Social Work Interstate Licensure Compact Bill, pictured above), please remember that we cannot achieve this alone. All of our work for the social work profession is only possible with a robust and engaged NASW membership. We hope you continue to feel pride for our profession in North Carolina, and inspired by what we have and will accomplish together. We hope you will continue this journey with us. We are stronger together and the impact you have is immeasurable. If you are not a member of NASW, please join us so we can support and advocate for you throughout your entire social work career.

Thank you for your NASW membership, your voice, and your support. NASW-NC will be here for you in 2026.

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the North Carolina Social Work Coalition on Workforce Development are partnering to create a Public Service Leadership Program (PSLP) that will strengthen the state’s social work workforce.

The coalition consists of 25 universities and colleges in North Carolina that offer social work programs and are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

"The need for social workers is expected to grow over the next decade, but supporting this workforce has long been a challenge due to low salaries and challenging workplace conditions," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "This program will work with high schools and universities to strengthen the pipeline of students interested in pursuing careers in social work by making them aware of these opportunities and providing training."

The five-year project kicked off this fall with a one-year planning period, followed by a one-year pilot and a three-year testing period. The School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will serve as the lead entity for the coalition. The School’s Office of Community Engagement and Outreach, led by Associate Dean Kathy Colville, will administratively manage the implementation of the PSLP. Students interested in applying for the program will be able to do so starting in March 2026. NCDHHS will provide more information when the application window opens.

"We are honored by the opportunity to collaborate with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and deeply appreciate their trust, support and confidence in our shared mission," UNC School of Social Work Dean Ramona Denby-Brinson said. "The people of North Carolina deserve a health and human services workforce that is not only highly skilled, but also compassionate and responsive to the diverse needs of our communities. Social workers are at the forefront of this effort; the PSLP is poised to transform how we prepare social workers to lead and serve across the state."

"Social workers bring unique and highly valuable skills to our public system of care," said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services. "This new leadership program will strengthen our workforce by preparing social workers to meet the complex needs of individuals and families across North Carolina. By investing in training, support, and career pathways, we are building a workforce that can make a lasting impact in communities—especially those that have historically lacked access to quality mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental disability services."

The PSLP will focus on and work toward three goals:
• Increasing awareness of careers in social work among students in North Carolina high schools, community colleges, colleges and universities;
• Strengthening the learning experience of current social work students by equipping them with the professional knowledge and skills needed to address the complex needs of NC families and communities. A special emphasis will be placed on rural communities and Medicaid-eligible populations, within these critical service domains: child and family services, mental health, substance use, aging, and intellectual/developmental disabilities; and justice-involved populations.
• Creating resiliency in the existing workforce to increase retention and compassion satisfaction while also effectively serving populations with complex needs.
"The social work profession is expected to grow by 12% over the next six years and the PSLP program will be a driving force to ensure that we meet that workforce demand," said Sarah Reives Houston, UNC School of Social Work interim assistant dean of workforce development. "Not only will it encourage the next generation of social workers to enter the field, but it’s also going to take care of the state’s current social workers and ensure they have the tools to support their communities. I’m proud of the colleges and universities that have banded together as part of the Social Work Coalition on NC Workforce Development to make this dream a reality."

Ensuring there are enough mental health professionals in the workforce is a critical component of care. From early childhood educators to direct care workers and public health leaders, NCDHHS is committed to building a workforce that will continue to keep North Carolinians healthy and well.

By Mirean Coleman, LICSW, CT

Revised October 9, 2025

Effective September 30, 2025, several telehealth flexibilities that were put into place during the COVID-19 pandemic expired and now require congressional actions to be renewed. As of today, lawmakers have not addressed the expirations.Clinical social workers should be aware of two expirations that may impact the way they practice: the geographic waiver and in-person requirement.

Geographic Waiver

The telehealth geographic waivers have expired and impact non behavioral and mental health services.  Telehealth behavioral and mental health services can continue to be provided by clinical social workers and other health care providers as long as licensure, federal, state and health insurance plan requirements are met. Clinical social workers should contact each of their third-party payers to confirm their plans for telehealth services. Doing this may help prevent future denied telehealth claims and liabilities. 

In-Person Requirement

Currently, Congress has not extended the in-person telehealth waiver. The telehealth in-person requirement is being implemented for Medicare patients who receive mental health services. New patients must receive an in-person visit within six months prior to the first telehealth mental health service, and then at least once every 12 months thereafter.

• CMS has provided some flexibility by allowing the required in-person service to be furnished by another social worker within the same group practice if the original social worker is unavailable. 
• The in-person service must be provided by a Medicare provider
• Established patients who began treatment while the waiver was in effect and are currently receiving behavioral health services via telehealth are not required to have an in-person visit within six months of the September 30 expiration date.

Exceptions to In-Person

Exceptions to the in-person requirement include:

• Patients located in a rural area and in an eligible originating site such as a rural health clinic
• If the risks and burdens of travel outweigh the benefits of an in-person encounter.
• Patients receiving treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD) or a co-occurring mental health condition.  

It is important for clinical social workers to contact their Medicare Administrative Contractor and other third payer payers to learn what telehealth changes they implemented on October 1, 2025.

NASW is advocating for telehealth permanency and will keep members abreast of future congressional telehealth changes.

Panels will provide independent oversight and system improvement recommendations for child protective services

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced the introduction of three new Citizen Review Panels to evaluate child welfare services and make system improvement recommendations aimed at strengthening the safety and well-being of children and families across the state. Applications to serve on a Citizen Review Panel are open now at the NCDHHS Citizen Review Panels website and will remain open until October 25, 2025.

As required under the federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), the panels will assess data, trends, policies and procedures and receive needed information to provide recommendations to the state on how to better protect children and support families involved in the child welfare system. The Citizen Review Panels are also part of NCDHHS’ broader effort to enhance practices within permanency placement, kinship, foster care, mental and physical health services, case reviews and any action involving child protection so the department can learn from and keep children safe.

"We are committed to protecting the health and well-being of all children in North Carolina. We owe it to every child and family in North Carolina to consistently examine and strengthen the systems that are designed to keep them safe," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "The new Citizen Review Panels reflect our ongoing efforts to uphold transparency, accountability and community partnership as we work to transform child welfare in North Carolina."

Citizen Review Panels will be composed of volunteer members representing a wide range of expertise – including individuals with lived experience in the child welfare system, child health and safety professionals, local providers and advocates. Each panel will consist of 20 members within each of the three regions and will determine its own area of focus, which may include issues such as teen suicide, unsafe sleep or domestic violence.

The panel may shift their focus year to year based on statewide trends and emerging needs. NCDHHS has selected Health Management Associates (HMA) to support the Citizen Review Panel process over the next three years. HMA will notify applicants who are accepted for a Citizen Review Panel in November. Additional information regarding membership can be found on the NCDHHS Citizen Review Panels website.

The Citizen Review Panels will evaluate the department’s ability to effectively fulfill child protection duties in our state supervised county administered system which could include child fatality information and will provide recommendations for long term improvements.

Strengthening child welfare services is a central part of NCDHHS’ work to better protect children and improve outcomes for families in North Carolina. These efforts are guided by a larger vision to ensure that every child involved in the system, regardless of where they live, has access to consistent, high-quality services and a safe, permanent and nurturing environment where they can thrive.

For more information about the department’s efforts to transform the child welfare system, read Transforming Child Welfare in North Carolina: A Unified Vision for Children and Families.

The NC State Health Plan (SHP) decided to end the Clear Pricing Project (CPP) effective 12/31/25. They announced this via email to participating providers and members in April 2025 and sent out term letters in mid-July 2025 via certified mail. Aetna and SHP will be sending a follow-up email in August.

Behavioral Health Access Program (BHAP)

• The SHP is offering a new custom fee schedule to BH providers
• Most fees are based on 140% of current year Medicare
• There will not be a differential copay for BHAP providers (and no badge in the provider search)
• Providers can sign an online amendment at Go.Aetna.com/joinbhap similar to how they signed up for CPP
• The BHAP amendment and FAQ document are posted under helpful resources
• There is currently no plan to “close” BHAP signup, but the effective date will be January 1, 2026 or the 30th day after it is mutually signed, whichever is later

Additional Information

• Aetna SHP site for providers Go.Aetna.com/ncshp
• SHP provider site (includes their 2026 benefit plan comparison): shpnc.gov/nc-state-health-plan-network

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and First Lady Anna Stein, in collaboration with Shatterproof, announced the launch of the Unshame North Carolina (Unshame NC) campaign to end stigma related to substance use disorder. Unshame NC has two primary goals: to increase knowledge and awareness of substance use disorder and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) as a treatment option.

"Stigma is deeply rooted and causes real harm to people and communities across North Carolina," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "Unshame NC is part of a collaborative effort from all of us to end stigma, build acceptance and increase support for treatment for people on their path to recovery."

"Many people struggling with substance use don’t seek help because of stigma," said North Carolina First Lady Anna Stein. "This campaign will highlight the stories of people who have experience with substance use disorder and recovery and bring greater awareness to effective methods of treatment for opioid use disorder."

NCDHHS and First Lady Stein launched Unshame NC this morning at the Wake County Drug Overdose Prevention Coalition meeting. The website, https://www.unshamenc.org/ includes testimonials from North Carolinians sharing their personal stories of substance use, hope and recovery. Facebook and Instagram content will help drive users to the website, which provides links to resources, including information on how to find the right treatment center, and guidance for providers and for family members seeking care for a loved one. NCDHHS contracted with national non-profit Shatterproof to develop and implement the Unshame NC campaign.

Recent data from a statewide survey indicates 57% of North Carolinians know someone with opioid use disorder. Despite this widespread issue, only 34% of North Carolina residents know how to find quality treatment for themselves or their loved ones. Additionally, only one in five adults in North Carolina recognizes that opioid use disorder is a medical condition. These findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive education that connects people to lifesaving resources and treatment.

"There’s no better evidence that recovery is real than a life changed," said Kelly Crosbie, MSW LCSW, NCDHHS Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services. "We’re pairing the stories of people in recovery with a statewide effort to increase access to MOUD, so more people can benefit from evidence-based care.  Real access means supporting people on the recovery journey that makes sense for them, without judgment—and offering them every opportunity for lifesaving treatment, that includes MOUD."

Unshame NC focuses on the voices and experiences of North Carolinians impacted by substance use disorder. Through storytelling, education, and grassroots activation, the campaign demonstrates that people with substance use disorder are valued members of our communities—our family, neighbors, and coworkers—and highlights actionable ways we can ensure everyone has the support they need to thrive.

"While most North Carolinians believe that people with SUD can recover with treatment, stigma and misinformation can create barriers to care," said Courtney McKeon, Senior Vice President for Shatterproof’s National Stigma Initiative and longtime resident of The Research Triangle. "We see this often regarding medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), a gold standard of care. Through the stories of North Carolinians, we have the opportunity to increase understanding of all treatment options and support individuals on their path to improved health and wellness."

"It's not just about overdoses. It's not just about lives that were lost or lives that were saved," says Michael, one of Unshame NC’s story sharers. "It's also about how we treat the people who went through it and how we bring them out of the shadows. How do we welcome them back into society? How do we get them back to where we need to be? And that requires a lot of folks like me to speak out and help break the stigma."

People with substance use disorder flourish in environments that offer both community support and multiple pathways for treatment. If you want to share your story with NCDHHS and Unshame NC, you can get involved by filling out a Story Sharer Interest Form or joining the Unshame NC coalition.

Follow @UnshameNC on Facebook and Instagram or visit us at www.UnshameNC.org to hear people’s stories and learn more.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, NCDHHS provides somewhere to go, someone to talk to and someone to respond. You can find the help that is right for you 24/7 on the NCDHHS Crisis Services website.

The 988 Lifeline Chat and Text - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available to everyone 24/7 by call, text, or chat.

North Carolinians can call the 24/7 Peer Warmline at 1-855-PEERS NC (855-733-7762) to speak with a Peer Support Specialist. Peer Support Specialists (or "peers") are people living in recovery with mental illness and/or substance use disorder who provide support to others who may have similar life experiences and can benefit from their lived experiences. The NC Recovery Helpline (800-688-4232) offers support and referrals for treatment and resources.

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ASWB is seeking volunteers to participate on the standard setting panel for the next iteration of competence assessments for social work licensing. The standard setting workshop will be held in person on January 30–31, 2026.

Panelists will review the examinations and consider the standards of minimum competence for safe practice. With the facilitation of psychometricians, they will provide recommendations for passing scores for the licensing examinations for each category of social work practice.

Appointed panelists will be required to attend a two-day workshop on Friday, January 30, and Saturday, January 31, 2026, with travel on Thursday, January 29, and Sunday, February 1. ASWB pays for all travel, meals, and lodging.

Selection is based on category and area of practice, with the panel’s overall composition balanced for gender, racial, ethnic, practice, educational, and geographic diversity.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must:

• Possess a degree in social work such as a BSW, MSW, DSW, Ph.D., or the equivalent (Individuals without a social work degree may be considered for the Associate exam standard setting panel.)
• Hold a valid social work license
• Be practicing social work (Social work educators are considered to be practicing social workers.)

Application

• Complete the online application and demographic questionnaire
• Upload a resume or curriculum vitae using the attachment feature in the application.

Deadline

Applications must be received by Friday, August 15, 2025.

Appointed panelists will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement.

Notification of selection will be made by October 1, 2025, and invited participants will have until October 22, 2025, to accept the appointment.

Apply now

NASW-NC member Victor R. Armstrong, Sr., MSW was honored on June 16, 2025 at the National NASW Conference in Chicago as the 2025 NASW National Social Worker of the Year!

A member of NASW for 26 years, Armstrong is recognized for his leadership in public mental health, suicide prevention, and health equity.

Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement with the American Foundation for Suicide prevention, Armstrong was the first Chief Health Equity Officer for the North Carolina Department of Health & Human services. He has more than 30 years of experience in human services, primarily dedicated to building and strengthening community resources to assist those who are marginalized.

He currently serves on the steering committee of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, as well as the 988 National Advisory Committee. He is also on the Board of Directors for College for Behavioral Health Leadership, Recovery Innovations International, and i2i Center for Integrative Health. He is a member of the NC Institute of Medicine and is the host of the “Strong Talk” podcast.

Armstrong is also very active in the professional social work community. He was the keynote speaker at NASW North Carolina’s 2021 Advocacy Week and has contributed to conferences and workshops focused on stigma, access to care, and health disparities. He was named NASW North Carolina’s Social Worker of the Year in 2022.

He holds an MSW in Social Work from East Carolina University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from North Carolina Central University. He previously held leadership positions in state government, hospital systems, and national nonprofits. Throughout his career, Armstrong has maintained a focus on expanding access to mental health care and improving outcomes for underserved populations.

NASW is proud to honor Victor R. Armstrong, Sr., MSW, for his ongoing commitment to the values and mission of the social work profession.

Read more about Victor and full press release here.

RALEIGH — The United States Department of Health and Human Services recently announced it would eliminate federal funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline service dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth services. On July 17, 2025, people who call 988 will no longer have the option to Press 3, specific to LGBTQ+ youth considering suicide. In response, and to reaffirm North Carolina’s commitment to serving everyone who calls 988 for crisis care, Kelly Crosbie, NCDHHS Director of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, released the following statement.

"The need for mental health care for young people in North Carolina has never been greater, and we are committed to reaching every person in every community in every corner of our state. North Carolina is a national leader in 988 implementation, with calls being answered in under 14 seconds on average, with every call being answered. This will not end with the elimination of federal dollars to support the 988 option to press 3 for the LGBTQ+ community. More than 8,000 North Carolinians call the 988 Lifeline each month for support. Everyone can and should still call 988, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. Experienced and trained 988 operators will respond to all calls and ensure that people receive the support and resources that they need.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10 to 14, and a leading cause of death among 15–24-year-olds. LGBTQ+ young people are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers. In North Carolina, there will always be someone to call, someone to respond and somewhere to go if you are in crisis or just need someone to talk to.

In addition to being a national leader in crisis care, we are working to transform mental health care in North Carolina to build a system that works for everyone and supports people through their mental and behavioral health journey."

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or need someone to talk to, you are not alone. Resources are available on the NCDHHS Suicide Prevention website for social or family situations, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, thoughts of suicide, alcohol or drug use, or if you just need someone to talk to. Our Crisis Services Communications Toolkit includes free flyers, posters and other resources to promote and explain crisis services in your community in English and Spanish.

• For those in a mental health crisis, NCDHHS provides somewhere to go, someone to talk to and someone to respond. The 988 Lifeline Chat and Text - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available to everyone 24/7 by call, text, or chat. Targeted resources are available for Veterans, Spanish speakers, and currently for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.

• North Carolinians can call the Peer Warmline (1-855-PEERS NC [855-733-7762]) 24/7 to speak with a Peer Support Specialist. Peer Support Specialists (or “peers”) are people living in recovery with mental illness and/or substance use disorder who provide support to others who may have similar life experiences and can benefit from their lived experiences.

NCDHHS crisis services include mobile crisis teams that can come to you and community crisis centers, which are safe places where you can get help from a licensed clinician, without needing to go to the emergency room.

Until now, North Carolina’s 100 county departments of social services, who administer child welfare services, have operated with a patchwork of independent data systems – nearly half of counties are still largely reliant on manual processes and paper records for child welfare operations. PATH NC will bring all 100 counties together for the first time into a unified system.

"PATH NC is more than a technology upgrade – it’s an investment in North Carolina’s children and families," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "By providing social services staff with better tools, clearer data and integrated support, we are laying the foundation for a safer, more responsive child welfare system that delivers better, more consistent results – no matter where you live."

NCDHHS' goal for PATH NC was not merely to create a system that collects information, but also to improve child welfare practice through evidence-based tools and actionable insights for the workforce. While developing the new system, the department worked in close collaboration with county leaders to fully redesign the state’s Structured Decision-Making (SDM) tools. Nationally certified by Evident Change for accuracy and consistent results, the new SDM tools within PATH NC help frontline staff better identify and assess risk and safety concerns when responding to reports of child abuse or neglect.

Over the last five years, NCDHHS has worked hand-in-hand with North Carolina’s county departments of social services to plan, develop and test both PATH NC and the SDM tools. The department’s projected total investment for the new system’s design, development, training and implementation is approximately $65 million. An early review of cases supported by PATH NC and the new SDM tools shows promising results – county intake decisions are consistently aligned with state policies and best practice in child protective services.

"We’ve built PATH NC from the ground up in collaboration with county leaders to ensure it meets the current, real-world needs of North Carolina’s child welfare social workers," said NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Opportunity and Well-Being Michael Leighs. "It’s designed to improve the everyday experience of staff while making it easier to track, report and respond to what’s happening in real time. PATH NC is a critical part of our work to transform the child welfare system and improve the lives of children and families in North Carolina."

The new system aligns with NCDHHS’ broader efforts to strengthen system oversight and modernize service delivery. Key features of PATH NC include:

• Mobile-Friendly Design – The system supports documentation from the field, including some offline functionality, so that staff can update case records while conducting assessments, facilitating family visits, attending court and more.
• Decision-Making Tools – PATH NC’s new certified SDM tools provide built-in risk and safety assessments, dashboards and real-time alerts for county staff and supervisors.
• Advanced Capabilities – The system features global search functionality, comprehensive data analytics and dashboards. The platform also has the capability to add automated policy support functions and dedicated portals for providers and families in the future.
• Comprehensive Case Management – Fully implemented, PATH NC will include modules for intake, assessment, in-home services, foster care, adoption, financials, licensing and eligibility all together in one system.
• Data Accessibility – Once all counties have transitioned to PATH NC, staff will be able to access statewide data, including a family’s full history with child welfare services, regardless of whether they move or transfer to a different county.
• Integrated Systems – PATH NC is designed to interface with other child-serving systems such as NC Medicaid, the NC Department of Public Instruction and other partner agencies in the future, which will streamline information sharing and reduce administrative burden across the system.

The statewide rollout of PATH NC began June 2, 2025, with an initial cohort of 15 counties using the system to support child welfare intakes and assessments. Over the next eight months, all remaining counties will transition to PATH NC for intake and assessment. Implementation for ongoing case management modules will begin in early 2026 and is anticipated to be completed in summer 2026. This phased rollout allows NCDHHS to provide targeted training and individualized support as each cohort of counties prepares to transition to PATH NC. The department will continue to update and improve the system based on user feedback throughout the implementation process.

"PATH NC is going to be a game changer for the state, and we’re excited to be among the first counties leading the way," said Christa Smith, Director of Forsyth County DSS. "The system gives our staff the right tools to make timely, informed decisions, and it gives our supervisors the data they need to identify trends and improve practice. We look forward to seeing everything PATH NC will do for us and our DSS partners across the state."

PATH NC is a critical step forward in NCDHHS’ ongoing effort to transform child welfare in North Carolina through systemic change, increased access to services, better data and stronger alignment among state and county systems. By streamlining documentation processes and providing real-time access to child welfare data for users across the system, PATH NC offers more opportunity for state and county staff to pinpoint trends or challenges in child welfare practice and address them sooner – ultimately leading to a stronger system and better outcomes for children and families.

To learn more about ongoing initiatives to transform child welfare services in North Carolina, read NCDHHS’ Transforming Child Welfare in North Carolina: A Unified Vision for Children and Families.

Click here for NCDHHS B-roll footage of PATH NC for intake and assessments.

While the Juneteenth holiday comes just once a year, mental health equity is a year-round priority. Unfortunately, African Americans are disproportionately impacted by mental health concerns, due to systemic and persistent societal disparities. 

African American adults are more likely than white adults to report persistent symptoms of emotional distress, but only one in three Black adults with mental illness receive treatment. 

Statistics about mental health concerns for Black youth are startling. A NCDHHS report on health disparities published in September 2024 found that Black youth are more likely to attempt suicide than other racial or ethnic groups. Various sources show specific impacts: 

• In 2022, suicide was the third leading cause of death among African Americans 10 to 24 years old;  

• In 2023, Non-Hispanic Black students in grades 9 through 12 attempted suicide in the preceding 12-month period at 1.3 times the rate of Non-Hispanic White students; 

• In December, the University of North Carolina published a report in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry finding that nearly 28% of Black middle school students have reported suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 

Mental health disparities are more than statistics; they represent real barriers that prevent thousands of Black Americans from accessing the resources and supports they deserve to ensure equitable access to mental and physical well-being. Our goal of increasing access to mental health treatment and services is crucial for populations who have historically had less access to care. That is why equity is one of the guiding principles of our strategic plan. 

Today, we are proud to highlight our innovative work to support Black youth mental wellness and suicide prevention through our Stronger Together project: 

• We joined 7 other states and the District of Columbia to participate in SAMHSA’s Black Youth Suicide Policy Academy , forming a cross-sector leadership team to develop innovative approaches to reduce suicide risk among Black youth.

• We shared researched about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline through tailored outreach to Black barbers, including an inspiring event promoting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline which was featured in this news article and video . 

• We developed and sought public comment on our Black Youth Suicide Prevention Action Plan , and are now reviewing that feedback. The plan addresses critical factors affecting Black youth suicide risk, such as systemic barriers to accessing care, cultural stigma around mental health, limited representation among providers and the need for culturally responsive prevention strategies and community engagement. 

• We formed the NC Black Youth Wellness Advisory Council and the Black Youth Wellness Community of Practice and Education (COPE), and we are planning the Stronger Together Conference in September to promote statewide solutions for Black youth mental wellness. This conference will be held on Saturday, September 20th in Rocky Mount. Contact hannah.harms@dhhs.nc.gov for more information. 

Juneteenth is both a celebration of progress and a call to action. It’s an opportunity for us to energize our efforts toward creating a future where mental health equity is a reality for all, particularly for African Americans who have faced unique challenges in accessing quality, trauma-informed care resulting from histories of marginalization and inequity. 

As part of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services commitment to transforming mental health care, the department is seeking public comment on its Suicide Prevention Action Plan (2026-2030) . This work is critical in improving the lives of all North Carolinians and addressing the mental health crisis. The public is invited to read the plan and provide feedback by July 9, 2025.

The Suicide Prevention Action Plan is a collaboration between NCDHHS, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (DPI). 

NCDHHS crisis services include mobile crisis teams that can come to you and community crisis centers, which are safe places where you can get help from a licensed clinician, without needing to go to the emergency room. 

Providers are invited to submit a request via the online survey form: Naloxone Request Survey through Thursday, July 10, 2025. This form is for organizations to submit requests for naloxone for distribution in communities with high overdose rates. This form is not intended for individuals requesting naloxone. For resources related to overdose prevention and accessing naloxone, please visit NaloxoneSaves-nc.org .