Frequently Asked Questions
What is a perinatal social worker?
A perinatal social worker is a social worker, with a BSW o,r more often, an MSW LCSW (Licensed Social Worker), who works in one of the following settings (see below) with women who are pregnant or parenting and with children, usually up to one year of age.
I am new in the field, how can you help me?
See the questions and answers below to answer your questions.
What are the benefits of membership?
They are multiple, not the least of which is networking at the national convention. They also include:
- The quarterly newsletter, THE FORUM, which has interesting and relevant articles about perinatal social work issues;
- A membership listserve;
- A directory of social workers who are members throughout the US and Canada; and
- Reduced fees to attend the annual conference which offers CEUs.
How do people get published in the FORUM?
Easy, write an article on a topic pertinent to perinatal social work and submit it. The editors are always seeking new material.
What settings do perinatal social workers work in?
Perinatal Social Workers work in the following settings:
- Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs)
- Prenatal Clinics
- Family Medicine Clinics
- Public Health Agencies
- Genetics and Infertility Clinics
- Hospitals
- Family Planning Clinics
- Pediatric Clinics
- Developmental Follow-up Centers
- Adoption Agencies
- Adolescent Pregnancy Programs
- Private Practice
Do I have to be doing perinatal social work to be a member?
Anyone with an interest in perinatal social work, and the goals and objectives, of the Association may become a member. See below on how to become a member.
Why should I try to go to the annual conference?
For all of the reasons listed below. In addition, it is a wonderful opportunity to get ideas for your practice without having to "reinvent the wheel".
What topics are discussed/presented at the annual conference?
The National Association of Perinatal Social Workers annual conference committee gathers a faculty with wide ranging expertise. Topics range across all aspects of the perinatal focus. These include infertility, high-risk pregnancy, post partum depression, social action, infant mental health, perinatal grief and loss; spirituality, maternal depression and mental illness, effects of substance abuse during pregnancy, substance abuse treatment in pregnancy, and many more. The membership has an opportunity each year to request topics to be offered at upcoming conferences.
How can I identify and locate members in my area?
Members can search for other members through napsw.com. Additionally, NAPSW is divided into 10 regions, with Liaisons who oversee State/Provincial Representatives. Any officer, or member of the Membership Committee can refer you to these individuals.
Do you have local chapters?
While NAPSW does not have local chapters, per se., there are multiple areas that have a local perinatal social worker group.
How can I ask a question about clinical situations/resources or consult with other members on complicated issues?
The Association has this web site (www.napsw.org), and a listserve where anyone can post questions. Additionally, any officer can refer you to a member with expertise in the area of your concern.
Does NAPSW have published standards like NASW?
Yes, they are listed on the NAPSW Code of Ethics and Standards page and can be requested for a small fee.
How do I become a member of NAPSW?
An application form is available online. Print the form and follow the instructions. Additionally, you may contact the membership committee if you have questions about the process. Contact information is:
Please send your name, address and requests to:
NAPSW Membership Chair
5652 Harold Place
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
