The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (the College) invites registrants to attend its virtual Educational Forum on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. EST.
What to Expect
This half-day virtual event is an excellent opportunity for registrants to stay connected with the College and gain valuable knowledge through the following agenda:
- College Update
- Panel Discussion: The Greatest Risk Requires the Greatest Competence – Private Practice and Psychotherapy
- Panel Discussion Question Period
In addition to a College update from Denitha Breau, Registrar and CEO, the Educational Forum will include a keynote panel discussion entitled The Greatest Risk Requires the Greatest Competence – Private Practice and Psychotherapy. The College’s Director of Professional Practice, Christina Van Sickle, MSW, RSW, will facilitate the expert panel which will explore what competencies are needed to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy, and why this competence is required before engaging in a counselling or mental health support private practice. The panel session will also provide insights to registrants on the different skills and resources required before beginning a private practice, including how to stay current in their practice.
The panelists represent a variety of perspectives and practice areas and include:
- Natalie Blake, MSW. RSW
- Cate Creede-Desmarais, PhD, CPCC, ACC
- Nikki Healey, MSW, RSW
- Bianca Stefina, CYCP, BA, RSSW, CCTS-A, CMEMIP-1
Registration Now Open!
Register now to see the schedule and learn more about the speakers.
For those who register for the Educational Forum, a video recording will be available to watch on-demand immediately following the live event.
Participation and the CCP
College registrants can use their attendance at the Educational Forum towards completing their Continuing Competence Program (CCP). The CCP ensures that social workers and social service workers are qualified, enhance their knowledge on an ongoing basis, and remain up to date in their practice throughout their careers.
For More Information
For more information on the 2025 Educational Forum, contact the College’s Communications Department at communications@ocswssw.org.