Professional Social Work Organizations in California
Professional social work organizations in California can elevate your career path. Your success in social work largely depends on professional connections and continuous learning opportunities.
When you become a social worker in California, you’ll have access to many organizations that can propel development in their careers. The California Board of Behavioral Sciences grants licenses to social workers practicing in the state, and many professionals earn advanced credentials. Social work organizations offer excellent options for professionals seeking local or broader connections. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) remains the world’s largest professional social worker membership organization with 140,000 members. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) represents more than 2,500 individual members and serves as the nation’s sole accrediting agency for social work education.
The right organizational membership delivers networking opportunities, educational resources, and tools that help you excel professionally. Healthcare-focused groups and advocacy associations provide diverse benefits to their members. These 12 professional social work organizations in California deserve your attention as you plan your career growth.
Mental Health America (MHA)
Mental Health America (MHA) is one of the nation’s oldest professional social work organizations that promotes mental health through prevention and early intervention. Founded in 1909, MHA has altered the map of mental health across the United States.
Mission
MHA helps improve mental health and well-being of all people in the United States through public education, research, advocacy, and direct service. The organization aims to create a world where communities have fair opportunities for mental wellness. People can thrive with purpose and meaning in a healthy society without discrimination where they reach their full potential through meaningful social inclusion.
Key Programs
MHA prioritizes prevention and early intervention by directing funds upstream instead of just crisis response. Their strategic plan “Next Generation Prevention” targets future generations’ health and system reforms. MHA supports quality measurement systems that include positive patient experiences. They promote universal approaches to screening and mental health literacy education. The organization removes barriers to treatment and champions non-coercive, person-centered care models.
Membership Benefits
You’ll join a respected network of mental health professionals and advocates when you become an MHA member. Your practice gets more visibility through MHA’s powerful awareness campaigns that have boosted website traffic by over 200%. You also get free access to exclusive networking events, expanded CEU opportunities, and regular newsletters with advocacy alerts.
MHA in California
Mental Health America of California (MHAC) has led the state since 1957 as a peer-run organization. MHAC pushes for full implementation of the Mental Health Services Act. They provide advocacy and education for state decisions in Sacramento and California communities. Their work ensures adequate funding, eliminates mental health disparities, and improves access to insurance coverage.
Pricing
Professional membership costs $100 if you have individual needs and $250 for group practices yearly. These fees help MHA’s ongoing advocacy and educational initiatives while giving members valuable networking and professional development opportunities.
Best for
MHA suits social workers who are passionate about prevention-focused mental health advocacy, policy change, and community education. The organization is perfect for professionals who value upstream interventions and believe in peer support and lived experience in mental health services.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) stands as the country’s largest grassroots mental health organization. It works to improve lives for millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI’s powerful support network spans more than 700 state organizations and affiliates nationwide.
Mission
NAMI’s main goal focuses on providing advocacy, education, support, and public awareness. These efforts help individuals and families affected by mental illness build better lives. The organization envisions a society where people with mental health conditions get support without facing stigma or discrimination. NAMI works hard to ensure everyone can access proper treatment and resources.
Key Programs
NAMI has several evidence-based education programs that social work professionals can use:
- NAMI Basics OnDemand – online education for parents and caregivers
- NAMI Family-to-Family – designated as evidence-based by SAMHSA for families of people with mental health conditions
- NAMI Homefront – specifically designed for families of military service members and veterans
- NAMI Peer-to-Peer – for adults with mental health conditions
- NAMI Provider – for mental health professionals to expand compassion and make shared care possible
NAMI’s programming combines support groups, advocacy initiatives, and educational resources. These shape national public policy for people with mental illness.
Membership Benefits
Your NAMI membership connects you to all three organizational levels—national, state, and local. Members receive the NAMI Advocate magazine, discounts on National Convention registration, access to exclusive website content, and updates about meetings and events. Members become part of a growing movement that creates positive change for mental health.
NAMI in California
NAMI California serves as the statewide affiliate with over 110,000 active advocates and 58 affiliates throughout the state. Each year, the organization helps more than 20,000 Californians through its programs. You’ll find notable affiliates in Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, and throughout the Bay Area. These connect individuals and families to vital resources in urban and rural areas.
Pricing
NAMI has three membership tiers:
- Household membership: $60 annually (includes all members at same address)
- Regular membership: $40 annually (individual)
- Open Door membership: $5 annually (for those with limited financial resources)
Best for
Social workers specializing in mental health will find NAMI valuable to connect with peer support networks, access evidence-based training programs, and join advocacy efforts. The organization helps professionals who work with families affected by mental illness or want to learn more about lived experience views.
Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW)
The Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) started its journey in 1984 as a specialized professional social work organization that focuses on oncology care. This international nonprofit supports more than 1,300 professionals and students who help cancer patients in healthcare settings of all types.
Mission
AOSW strives to deliver excellent psychosocial care to people with cancer, their families, and caregivers. The organization, as a 501(c)3 entity, helps cancer patients and their families find vital community, state, national, and international resources as part of the oncology team. Advocacy remains at the heart of the organization’s work since its beginning.
Key Programs
The organization provides many professional development opportunities. Members can attend their annual conference that offers continuing education credits recognized by the Association of Social Work Boards. They publish the Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, create practice standards that other professional groups follow, and develop educational resources like the Cancer Survivor Toolbox. AOSW also works together with organizations such as the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute.
Membership Benefits
Your AOSW membership includes:
- Journal of Psychosocial Oncology subscription at no cost
- SWON (members-only listserv) access
- Lower annual conference registration fees
- Career center for job opportunities
- Webinars on various topics at no cost
- Learning from experienced members through mentorship
Members can vote and serve on the Board of Directors and committees.
AOSW in California
AOSW has members in 49 states, including California, though it doesn’t have a California-specific chapter. Members work in hospitals, cancer centers, hospice, community-based oncology practices, and advocacy organizations throughout the state.
Pricing
The membership fees depend on your career stage:
- Student: $115 annually
- Introductory (new professionals): $165 annually
- Regular (social workers in oncology): $215 annually
- Associate (non-social work professionals): $215 annually
- Retired social workers: $115 annually
Best for
Social workers in oncology settings will find AOSW valuable, especially those who want specialized training and peer support. The organization is a great fit for professionals who want to learn evidence-based practices in cancer care, connect with experienced oncology social workers, and stay updated through research in their journal and educational programs.
Association of Pediatric Oncology Social Workers (APOSW)
The Association of Pediatric Oncology Social Workers (APOSW) started with just six social workers meeting in Philadelphia back in 1976. Today, it has grown into an international organization with over 300 members worldwide. This professional group focuses solely on helping children and youth with cancer and blood disorders, along with their families.
Mission
APOSW wants to improve pediatric psychosocial oncology care through five essential areas: clinical social work practice, research, advocacy, education, and program development. The organization has spent years promoting professional and ethical standards that enhance young patients’ and their families’ psychosocial well-being.
Key Programs
Training and education are the life-blood of APOSW’s programming, with annual expenditures reaching $167,418 for these initiatives. Social workers can earn up to 14 clinical CE contact hours at their annual conference. The 2022 virtual conference “Mobilizing Strengths, Chances and Breakthroughs in Pediatric Oncology Social Work” created shared learning experiences to help families dealing with childhood cancer. The organization also runs the Houston Tyler Rothschild Scholarship fund to help selected members attend conferences.
Membership Benefits
Members get:
- An online directory to network with peers easily
- A reliable resource directory that helps with daily work
- A chance to join the APOSW Mentorship Program
- Recognition as leaders in pediatric psychosocial oncology
- Unlimited job postings on the APOSW website
APOSW in California
California doesn’t have its own chapter, but APOSW’s international membership has professionals from California who work in hospitals, clinics, educational institutions, and private practices. Members work together across state lines to share what works best in pediatric oncology social work.
Pricing
APOSW has several membership options:
- Regular Membership: $95 annually
- Associate Membership: $75 annually
- Non-North American Membership: $50 annually
- Student Membership: $50 annually
- Retired Membership: $50 annually
Organizations can get institutional memberships at $250 annually for non-profits and $2,250 annually for for-profit corporations.
Best for
Social workers who specialize in pediatric oncology will find APOSW valuable, especially when they want to connect with others in this specific field. The organization helps professionals learn specialized ways to support children with cancer and their families – from diagnosis through survivorship and during the bereavement process.
California Social Work Education Center (CalSWEC)
The California Social Work Education Center (CalSWEC), 34 years old, stands as the nation’s largest single-state coalition of social work educators and practitioners. This powerful alliance connects 20 accredited social work graduate schools with all 58 county departments of social services and mental health, the California Department of Social Services, and many professional organizations.
Mission
CalSWEC builds statewide partnerships that aid education and training of social workers. This ensures culturally responsive and quality health and social service delivery to California’s people. The main goals include preparing diverse social workers for human services careers in child welfare, integrated behavioral health, and aging. The organization also defines social work education standards and conducts research to spread best practices.
Key Programs
The organization runs several important initiatives:
- Title IV-E Stipend Program – Provides financial support to MSW and BSW students preparing for careers in public child welfare
- Pathway Program – A part-time distance education program delivered by three schools to develop workforce in rural and remote regions
- Tribal Pilot Program – Offers stipends for Native American students pursuing MSW degrees to practice in Tribal or county social services
After 33 years at UC Berkeley, CalSWEC moved its operations to other host institutions including UC Davis and UCLA on June 30, 2024.
Membership Benefits
CalSWEC provides direct educational support through stipends instead of traditional memberships. Full-time MSW students can receive $18,500 per year for two years ($37,000 total). Some programs offer up to $25,000 yearly. Students get full tuition coverage, book allowances up to $500 per semester, and travel stipends.
CalSWEC in California
CalSWEC has trained thousands of MSW and BSW-level social workers in child welfare, integrated behavioral health, and aging across California. The consortium structure creates a unique statewide network for professional development and research by connecting major California social work schools with county agencies.
Pricing
CalSWEC offers financial support through various programs instead of charging fees:
- Two-Year Stipend: $18,500 annually for full-time students
- Three-Year Program: Available for current county/state child welfare employees
- CYWF Concentration: Requires placement in child welfare settings
Recipients must work in public child welfare agencies for one year per year of support received.
Best for
Social work students who want careers in public child welfare and need financial support will find CalSWEC invaluable. The program helps those who want to work with underserved populations in California’s rural areas, tribal communities, or county agencies. Current public social services employees seeking advanced degrees can grow professionally while keeping their jobs through CalSWEC’s flexible structure.
National Association of Social Workers – California Chapter (NASW-CA)
Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers – California Chapter (NASW-CA) represents the state division of the world’s largest professional social work organization. Thousands of California social workers rely on NASW-CA as their primary resource.
Mission
NASW-CA wants to enhance the quality and image of social work across California. The organization champions social change and justice to help all state residents thrive. Staff members, leadership teams, and organization members collaborate every three years to create program goals that address changing professional needs.
Key Programs
The chapter provides detailed continuing education through their EmpowerEd Program. Social workers can access online courses approved by California licensing boards for LCSWs, MFTs, and LPCCs. NASW-CA hosts an annual conference, and the 2025 event “Social Workers Moving California Forward: A Commitment to Change” will take place in Irvine. Members can develop advocacy skills and meet legislators through Legislative Education and Advocacy Days (LEAD).
Membership Benefits
Members get licensure guidance, reduced rates for continuing education, exam preparation courses, and free case/ethics consultations. The organization provides free virtual peer support groups, networking mixers, and self-care sessions tailored for social work professionals. One annual fee gives you membership to both national and state chapters, connecting you with colleagues throughout California.
NASW-CA in California
Regional networks span the state and provide local support with professional development opportunities. NASW-CA’s committees focus on diversity, inclusion, and capacity building to advocate at the state level.
Pricing
Annual membership dues vary by qualification:
- MSW/DSW/PhD: $236
- BSW: $158
- Students (BSW/MSW): $60
- Transitional (post-graduation): $116-179
- Retired: $74
Best for
NASW-CA offers great value to social workers who need continuing education, legislative advocacy opportunities, and professional networking in California. The organization’s detailed benefits make it especially valuable for students and early-career professionals who can access reduced rates and mentorship programs.
Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR)
The Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) started its journey in 1994 as an independent organization with a commitment to advance social work research. This 29-year-old organization has grown into a thriving community that now connects more than 1,800 members across 45 states and 15 countries.
Mission
SSWR works to distribute and translate research that addresses social work practice and policy issues while building a diverse, just, and equitable society. We encouraged rigorous research design and built trans-disciplinary support networks. The organization also creates learning opportunities to enhance research conduct and application. SSWR promotes increased research funding and builds strategic collaborations with other organizations to strengthen social work science.
Key Programs
The National Research Capacity Building Initiative (NRCBI) began its mission in 2010 to promote social work research funding at the national level. The core team meets regularly with federal funders from NIH, NIMH, and other agencies. Their annual conference showcases over 500 symposia, workshops, roundtables, and poster presentations. On top of that, SSWR’s Mentor Match Program connects doctoral students with experienced researchers.
Membership Benefits
Members get access to:
- Leadership roles on the Board of Directors and committees
- Free electronic subscription to the Journal of Social Work Research
- Research webinars and state-of-the-art incubator programs
- Networking through membership directories and reduced conference fees
- Career development through job postings and doctoral student resources
SSWR in California
SSWR doesn’t have a California-specific chapter. However, its members come from more than 200 universities and institutions nationwide, with strong representation from California’s social work programs and research centers.
Pricing
- Full Member: $225 annually
- Student Member: $50 annually
- Associate Member: $225 annually
- Emeritus Member: $50 annually
- Associate Student: $50 annually
Members can join from January through December. Applications received after October 1st will count toward the next calendar year.
Best for
SSWR serves research-focused social workers, academics, doctoral students, and practitioners who want to use evidence-based practice. The organization welcomes professionals who aim to enhance social work’s knowledge base through scholarly activities and research-informed practice.
California Association of Deans and Directors (CADD)
The California Association of Deans and Directors (CADD) is a volunteer membership organization dedicated to improving social work education across the state. The group brings together Chairs, Directors, and Deans from California’s social work programs. CADD has been around for almost 50 years, starting as informal meetings in the 1960s.
Mission
CADD works to promote excellence in social work education throughout California. The organization connects people with volunteer and educational opportunities that make a positive difference in communities. Their vision aims to help people find their passion for volunteerism through programs that make it easier to get involved with charitable organizations and causes.
Key Programs
The organization creates programs that blend education, volunteering, and fundraising to boost participation. CADD has given over $100,000 to support causes like food donations, disaster relief, and family crisis assistance over the last several years since 2013. The organization partnered with NASW-CA to tackle racial and gender disparities in social work licensing exams.
Membership Benefits
Members get access to professional development opportunities and a strong network of peers who share best practices. Members work together to address emerging challenges in social work education during yearly strategic planning retreats.
CADD in California
CADD now represents 25 organizations throughout California, including all major social work programs. The organization works closely with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences on licensure issues that affect social workers across the state.
Pricing
CADD runs on modest membership dues from participating institutions as a volunteer organization.
Best for
CADD serves academic leaders in social work education who want to build relationships with peers and find opportunities to support California’s educational community.
National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work (NADD)
The 37-year old National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work (NADD) unites academic leaders from social work graduate programs throughout North America and serves over 200 deans, directors, and chairpersons.
Mission
NADD champions excellence in social work education by helping members become effective institutional leaders. The organization promotes professional growth among academic administrators and provides platforms for collaboration and resource sharing. We focused on enhancing leadership within the social work education sector.
Core Programs
NADD organizes two annual gatherings: a one-day event at the Council on Social Work Education Conference and a 2½-day spring conference. The organization maintains an active listserv where members exchange best practices and discuss program offerings. Task forces address critical areas like Anti-Racism, Behavioral Health, Child Welfare, and International Collaboration.
Membership Benefits
Members receive:
- Leadership development resources
- Networking with peer administrators
- Strategic collaborations with organizations like the Hartford Foundation
- Forums to address institutional challenges
- Opportunities to shape educational policies
NADD in California
Notwithstanding that, California’s deans and directors actively participate in NADD’s national initiatives. They contribute to nationwide educational standards while implementing practices in their respective institutions.
Pricing
Chief executive officers of graduate or combined graduate/undergraduate social work programs accredited by or in candidacy with the Council on Social Work Education can apply for membership.
Best for
NADD serves academic administrators who want to develop leadership skills, influence policy, and build collaborative relationships with fellow social work education leaders across institutions.
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has been the only accrediting body for social work education programs in the United States since 1952. Today, it represents more than 750 accredited baccalaureate and master’s degree programs.
Mission
CSWE envisions “a well-educated social work profession equipped to promote health, well-being, and justice for all people in a diverse society”. We focused on ensuring quality education that prepares social workers to create and sustain healthy communities. The organization’s accreditation standards are rooted in core values of justice, dignity, human relations, integrity, and competence.
Key Programs
CSWE runs a thorough peer-review accreditation process that balances comparable outcomes with flexibility for program differentiation. The organization’s educational resources include curricular guides, teaching guides, webinars, and a Community Knowledge Hub. CSWE now provides self-paced learning modules and live Q&A sessions for educators at no extra cost.
Membership Benefits
Members connect with a vibrant community and get access to professional development opportunities, networking events, and research resources. The institution’s membership extends these benefits to faculty, students, and staff at accredited programs.
CSWE in California
Many California programs hold CSWE accreditation, which the state requires for licensure. The accreditation process happens every eight years with detailed self-study and site visits.
Pricing
Individual membership costs $199 annually. Program membership varies by size:
- BSW programs: $1,709-$5,454 annually
- MSW programs: $3,985-$8,010 annually
- Maximum combined dues: $12,000
Best for
Social work educators, students looking for accredited programs, and institutions will find CSWE membership valuable. It helps maintain high educational standards and provides professional development opportunities for faculty and staff.
California Chapter of the Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care (SSWLHC)
The Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care (SSWLHC) connects over 500 members who work to improve healthcare accessibility with a focus on psychosocial aspects of health and illness. The Northern California Chapter stands as one of the organization’s active regional communities.
Mission
SSWLHC serves as the premier organization for healthcare social workers that enables its members through evidence-based practice standards and strategic collaborations. The organization provides support for direct care social workers, advocates for social policy, and develops leadership skills. Their vision aims to establish SSWLHC as the leading professional organization for social workers in healthcare settings.
Key Programs
The SSWLHC’s Leadership Institute has become a popular program where social workers explore leadership in healthcare settings together. Members can access continuing education through webinars at no cost, while non-members pay a reduced fee of $25. A Distinguished Speakers Series will launch soon, featuring industry leaders in casual conversations with members.
Membership Benefits
Members get free publications, continuing education opportunities, and special rates on educational programs and insurance. The membership database provides national networking opportunities and round-the-clock website resources. Members can connect through the SSWLHC-Listserv, and mentorship programs help advance their careers.
SSWLHC in California
The Northern California Chapter has social workers from healthcare settings of all types throughout the region. Members enjoy discounted continuing education units and can join the Chapter Membership Google Group to connect with peers facing similar challenges.
Pricing
Membership categories include:
- Retired-In Transition: $85 annually
- Individual: $150 annually
- Associate Member: $200 annually
Groups of five or more members receive a 15% discount.
Best for
Healthcare social work professionals who want leadership development, networking opportunities, and specialized continuing education will find value in SSWLHC.
Join California Social Work Organizations
Professional social work organizations are vital stepping stones to advance your career in California. This piece highlights 12 outstanding organizations with benefits that match different specializations and career stages. These organizations create a resilient infrastructure of support for social workers throughout the state.
Each organization adds unique value to your professional experience. MHA and NAMI provide specialized resources for mental health advocacy. Healthcare-focused groups like AOSW and APOSW support specialized practice areas with targeted resources.
CalSWEC, CSWE, and the California Board of Behavioral Sciences maintain high practice standards through training, accreditation, and licensure. Leadership-focused organizations like CADD, NADD, and SSWLHC help shape tomorrow’s social work leaders.
Membership costs vary between organizations. Student rates start at $50 per year, while professional memberships can cost more than $200. Most organizations use tiered pricing based on career stage, making professional affiliation available whatever your career stage.
Membership benefits go well beyond networking. These organizations are a great way to get continuing education, advocacy platforms, research access, mentorship programs, and job connections that boost career growth. Many also offer discounted conference registrations, publications, and specialized training that would cost substantially more otherwise.
Your specific career goals, practice area, and professional needs should guide your choice of organization. You might want to join multiple organizations that complement your career’s different aspects. Consider one that focuses on your specialty area and another with broader reach like NASW-CA.
Professional affiliation turns your individual practice into part of a larger community. This community works to advance social work values and improve client outcomes across California. These connections will without doubt strengthen your practice, expand your knowledge, and create new opportunities throughout your career.