Transform Your Leadership in the Field of School Social Work

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2 hours ago
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Blog by: Detria Dixon, MSW, LSW, NCSSW

Engaging in the NCSSW certification process has been profoundly transformative. While I was already immersed in certain aspects of the work, the Practice Model provided a sense of validation as a school social worker. Furthermore, it brought to light areas that I had not previously considered, inspiring me to refine my practice to effectively demonstrate those aspects as well. The writing process felt akin to journaling about my daily activities and almost seemed effortless.   My infectious leadership skills has inspired others to contribute equally hard to ensure our students succeed. As I began to shine, my light gave others the opportunity to shine as well.  This certification has provided me with valuable opportunities, as I have been invited to facilitate professional development sessions for diverse stakeholders, including educators and community collaborators.  This initiative has motivated me to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, which I plan to apply for soon.

Interested in NCSSW?

School social workers have an opportunity to help shape the future of the field. Advanced certification for school social workers will make us more visible, viable and valued in an education setting where national advanced certification is recognized and rewarded. You have the opportunity to be the first in your district, or in your state, to demonstrate your advanced skills by earning a nationally recognized certificate and to use that certification to bring the profession of school social work to the level of other national certification programs, in contract negotiations and equitable compensation.

What are the requirements for applying to be a candidate for national certification?

Candidates must have:

1. Have an MSW from a CSWE accredited social work program.

2. At least 4 years post-MSW experience as a School Social Worker or SSW educator in higher education

3. Current active licensure or certification required in the state for a school social work position. Licensure as a Master's Level Social Worker will be considered in lieu of DOE licensure in state's in which there is no requirement for school social workers. This licensure will be considered in conjunction with the years of experience requirement.

4. Active SSWAA membership at the Full or Premier level

How do candidates apply for national certification?

Go to https://www.sswaa.org/nationalcertification scroll down the page and click on “Apply Register Today”.
Select “pay by invoice” and submit.

What do I need for the Application?

• Employer Verification (note: sample employment verification form is available)

• Current Resume

• Copy of your licenses/certifications

• Brief Bio (400 characters or less)

• Professional headshot

• Cover letter

Watch for a confirmation email which will contain a link to the application form. iii. Once your application has been reviewed and approved you will receive an email regarding approval and will be asked to pay the registration fee via invoice.

Detria Dixon is a certified school social worker with the Pittsburgh School District, where I have been employed for nearly 20 years and received a Distinguished rating in the 2023-2024 school year. I completed my undergraduate studies in criminal justice at Point Park University and my master of social work at the University of Pittsburgh. In addition, I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I obtained a certification in African Centered Social Work through the Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) where I learned the importance of infusing an Afrocentric perspective in my social work practice. I am a trained facilitator of Emotional Emancipation Circles (EEC) through Community Healing Network/Association of Black Psychologist (ABPsi) where we help participants build a new culture of emotional emancipation, healing, and wellness. In 2021, I received a national certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT). I am an awardee of the 2025 Social Worker Appreciation of Greatness Award (S.W.A.G.). S.W.A.G recognizes social workers in the Greater Pittsburgh Area who exemplify servant leadership through their commitment to promoting advocacy, social justice, generational healing and building stronger communities.