Consultation objectives

1. Ensure that the scope of practice for clinical social work is inclusive of various parts of the professional practice.
2. Examine all risks to the public associated with the delivery of clinical social work services.
3. Assess for unintended consequences of regulatory changes.

Proposal

Click here to download clinical regulation proposal (PDF).

Dates & audiences

• April 5: NSH/IWK Employees (12-1 p.m.)
• April 7: Private Practitioners (5-6 p.m.)
• April 11: General NSCSW Membership (5-6 p.m.)
• April 14: Private Practitioners (12-1 p.m.)
• April 26: NSH/IWK Employees (5-6 p.m.)
• April 28: General NSCSW Membership (12-1 p.m.)

Engagement with Black and Indigenous social workers will be sought through direct invitations.

Background

The NSCSW clinical committee was formed in April of 2021 with the objective of working to strengthen clinical social work practice in Nova Scotia by exploring the regulatory tools best positioned to serve and protect the public interest, preserve the integrity of clinical practice within the social work profession, and maintain public confidence in the ability of the social work profession to regulate itself.

The clinical committee was tasked with establishing a clear clinical scope of practice, assessing risks to the public associated with that practice, developing recommendations, and drafting policy to assure that only those fully qualified are entitled and have the support to practice clinical social work in Nova Scotia are doing so.

A proposal was drafted by the clinical committee to lay out a clear vision and rationale for the regulation of clinical practice in Nova Scotia and to assist in the engagement process with various groups of interest. To ensure that the NSCSW committee is achieving its goals it is essential that it engage with core parts of the profession and folks served by clinical social workers, with special attention paid to the needs of the Indigenous and Black practitioners and communities within Nova Scotia.

Eligibility

This consultation is specifically for current members of the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers, including retired associates and student members. You will need a member number to sign up.