The society was established in the early 1970's specifically to promote the needs of social workers interested in psychodynamic approaches to treatment. It was instrumental in gaining licensure for those clinical social workers in private practice. At the time, the state society was also part of  "The National Federation of Societies for Clinical Social Work”.  Although the federation eventually dissolved, the New Jersey society retained our local organization. Recognizing the value of guild affiliation, the New Jersy Society for Clinical Social Work remained affiliated with the Clinical Social Work Guild, OPEIU-AFL-CIO until 2018. As a result of our affiliation with the Guild, NJSCSW has become a viable and politically active organization and currently we continue our legislatve and lobbying activities. 

To advocate broad accessibility, delivery and maintenance of high quality therapeutic services.

To promote the economic health and viability of the profession.

To increase contributions of Clinical Social Work to the formation of public policy for people who need treatment for mental, emotional and substance abuse disorders.

Through our legislative and political activities, Clinical Social Workers can become the leaders in the field of healthcare advocacy necessary to promote the practice of clinical social work.

NJSCSW remains the only professonal organization that exclusively represents the interests of Clinical Social Workers on the state level. It provides a voice for professional clinicians to advance practice in a manner that is in the best interest of the client/patient and in the best interest of the clinical social work profession.

We will become mental health providers of choice.