On May 2, 2025, the NSCSW held our virtual mini conference: Building Connections & Activating Hope. The intent of the professional development committee was to develop a collaborative learning experience that would reinforce relationality and critical hope among participants.

Design challenge

How can social workers activate critical hope in ourselves & others so we can create and sustain change?

The afternoon session invited members to delve deeper into the concepts that had been explored during the morning, and use digital whiteboards via the Canva application to co-create and share ideas. We had ten small groups who created interesting, playful, and thoughtful images and reflections. A few are shared below.

Many groups highlighted the importance of being active in applying anti-oppressive practices and unsettling social work. They expressed that critical hope requires ongoing reflection and action, that learning and unlearning were important, and a need to prioritize non-dominant ways of knowing and being in learning.

Attendees also discussed the importance of prioritizing self-care and joy in this work, while holding onto empathy and compassion for others. There were many who shared the importance of building relationships in professional networks, and with family and friends.

Our Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice are clear in the role of social workers engaging in socially just and critical social work practice. It is important that social workers take an active position resisting settler colonial and white supremacist ideologies, systems, and practices in our work and in ourselves.

Learning in practice

While the design challenge was ultimately a successful activity, it came with a few challenges. It was not known at the time of the conference that Canva allows a maximum number of contributors, so not everyone was able to use the application at the same time. Additionally, not all members were familiar with the application and the learning curve for using this resource was a barrier for some.

However, many attendees reported that the digital whiteboard was an interesting and engaging way to contribute to the discussions, and social workers from across Nova Scotia successfully shared critical thoughts, hopes, and reflections. Our participants at the mini-conference, as well as our members across the province, are individually and collectively working towards safe(R) social work practice.

In case you missed it

While the interactive activities could only be experienced live, the morning sessions were recorded and are available to watch on YouTube. If you were unable to join us for the entire session, you can catch up:

Staff members Tyler Colbourne and Bria Symonds set the stage for the day with opening remarks about critical hope and intersectionality, paradoxes of hope in times of despair, complexity, and decolonial frameworks. And a panel of NSCSW members at every stage of their careers, from student to retiree, in diverse areas of practice, were invited to share their thoughts on how their personal/professional context intersected with the themes of the conference. Panelists generously shared incredible reflections, grounded in socially just, anti-oppressive, and critical perspectives on social work practice.

In thanks

This conference was made possible through the incredible generosity of our members.

Looking ahead

Throughout this province we have thousands of social workers who chose, every single day, to have hope in their interactions with service users, agencies, communities, and society. We saw that throughout the day at our conference

The conversations among conference participants were grounded in socially just, intersectional, and critical social work perspectives. Dozens of attendees co-created a thoughtful and reflective space, deepening our analysis and understanding of critical hope and how it sustains change.

The success of the event and the feedback provided helps us at the NSCSW to better understand how we can support social workers in delivering safe(R) and ethical social work practice in Nova Scotia. We are grateful to all of the members who contributed to the planning, delivery, and evaluation of this event and we look forward to co-creating new and exciting learning engagements in the future.

We hope that next year’s conference can be in person, so our members can gather and fully celebrate everything they have accomplished together in the decade since the Nova Scotia Association of Social Workers was transformed into a College in 2016.

If you have additional feedback or thoughts on this conference or future professional development activities, please email Tyler Colbourne at [email protected].

The Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) is pleased to introduce our Ethical Consultation Service, designed to support members, social work employers and educators in navigating complex ethical dilemmas in their practice. This service provides confidential, structured guidance to help social workers align their decision-making with the NSCSW Code of Ethics and NSCSW Standards of Practice. 

Ethical consultations are available to: 

• Registered social workers and candidates in Nova Scotia 
• Social work supervisors or employers 
• Educators supporting social work students 

Why Use the Ethical Consultation Service? 

• Enhance professional practice by aligning with ethical standards. 
• Reduce risk by making informed ethical decisions. 
• Strengthen accountability to clients, colleagues, and the profession. 

How to Request an Ethical Consultation 

Step 1: Eligibility 

Ethical consultations are available to: 

• Registered social workers and candidates in Nova Scotia 
• Social work supervisors or employers of NS social workers 
• Educators supporting social work students in NS

Step 2: Submit a Request 

To request a consultation, send an email to [email protected] with the following information: 

• your name;
• contact information;
• eligibility information (e.g. member, employer, supervisor, educator); and
• a brief non-identifying description of the ethical concern.

Step 3: Scheduling & Process 

• Once your request is received, an NSCSW representative will contact within two business days to schedule a consultation. 
• Consultations are typically conducted via phone or video call. If you require accommodation, please let us know. 

Important Considerations 

• Consultations are informational and do not replace a member’s professional judgment or employer policies. 
• Guidance is provided based on the information shared and does not replace legal advice or employer policy guidance. 
• If an ethical issue involves a potential professional misconduct complaint, members may receive guidance on ethical responsibilities without interfering in regulatory investigations. 

This initiative reflects NSCSW’s commitment to supporting social workers in maintaining high ethical and professional standards. If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation, contact us at [email protected]. 

As the previous Associate Registrar, I wanted to take a moment to share my reflections on this vital role and encourage African Nova Scotian social workers to consider applying for the position, or to share the current job listing with colleagues who might be interested.

The Associate Registrar role is a unique opportunity to uphold and advance the integrity of the social work profession in Nova Scotia. At its core, this position is about supporting fair, transparent, and equity-informed regulatory practices. It involves working collaboratively across the College to ensure that registration, renewal, clinical specialization, and social work education are accessible, accountable, and aligned with the College’s commitment to social justice. It’s also about navigating the balance between regulatory responsibility and policy, ensuring that our practices serve the public while educating and guiding social work members.

This role has the unique potential to address systemic barriers by embedding Africentricity into the fabric of regulation. Africentricity, as a collective responsibility, draws on ancestral knowledge and prioritizes community well-being. As a Black social worker, I recognize that regulatory bodies have historically upheld Eurocentric norms, creating distrust in Black communities and disadvantaging racialized professionals. However, the NSCSW is intentionally reimagining its work through its Reparations policy, EDI approach, education, and accountability measures.

The Associate Registrar can play a pivotal role in fostering a regulatory environment where Africentric practice is not only recognized but affirmed. While the role involves overseeing several projects and engagements, there is always an opportunity to collaborate with community partners and other social work members to create meaningful change.

I hope the successful candidate brings a courageous, equity-driven approach to regulation—someone who understands the complexities of implementing new ways of thinking and doing, and who is ready to thrive in a high-level policy and administrative environment.

Internally, I hope they will collaborate to build a regulatory culture grounded in anti-oppression and continuous learning. Externally, I hope their work helps bridge the gap between the College and the diverse communities we serve, particularly those who have been historically marginalized. Ultimately, their impact should reflect a commitment to building trust and ensuring that social workers can practice in ways that uphold safer practices, cultural identities, lived experiences, and professional expertise.

If you are interested in this role or would like to learn more, Alec Stratford, Executive Director and Registrar, is available to connect with you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to him for more information.

This is an incredible opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the profession and the communities we serve. I encourage you to consider applying and being part of this transformative work.

Bria Symonds, RSW
NSCSW Candidacy & Clinical Specialist Consultant
formerly Associate Registrar

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia (hybrid or remote work available, with occasional provincial travel)  

Application Deadline: July 30th, 2025, at 5 p.m.

This is a designated position for African Nova Scotians, reflecting the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers’ (NSCSW) ongoing commitment to reparations, equity, diversity, and addressing historical inequities in the field of social work.

Are you passionate about advancing social work through leadership, equity, and community impact? The NSCSW is seeking an inspiring Associate Registrar to help drive meaningful change across the province and amplify African Nova Scotian voices within the profession.

Curious to know if this opportunity is right for you? We encourage all interested candidates to review the comprehensive Job Profile linked below for a detailed look at role responsibilities, experience required, and the many ways you can make a meaningful difference.

Why this role matters

The Associate Registrar is central to NSCSW’s mission—upholding professional standards, fostering Africentric and culturally responsive practices, and collaborating with communities and stakeholders. In this role, you’ll oversee the registration process, contribute to policy work that promotes equity and inclusion, and make a lasting impact on the profession and the communities we serve.

In this role, you will:

• Manage applications, assessments, and approvals, ensuring equitable access and Africentric principles are at the forefront.
• Collaborate with committees and community partners to strengthen the integrity of social work across Nova Scotia.
• Evaluate standards, guidelines, and specialist assessments with a strong focus on inclusion and cultural competence.
• Prepare meaningful reports and contribute to initiatives that grow the profession.

What we’re looking for

• Master’s degree in Social Work (required).
• Registered or eligible to register as an RSW in Nova Scotia.
• At least five years of social work experience with a strong commitment to adult education and Africentric practices.
• Knowledge of social work regulations, standards, and ethical codes.
• Skills in project management, advocacy, and community development.
• Proficient with technology for remote and collaborative work.

What’s in it for you?

Salary: $78,816 to $96,748  

Benefits: Defined pension and extended health benefits  

Flexible Work: Remote and province-wide travel  

Support: Progressive onboarding and professional growth opportunities  

If you are an African Nova Scotian social worker who is eager to lead with purpose, we strongly encourage you to apply.

Ready to learn more?

For full details—including core competencies, key accountabilities, and the transformative impact you can have—please review the complete job profile before submitting your application.

To apply:

Visit CareerBeacon to submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your experience and personality by 5 p.m. on July 30, 2025.

Join us in strengthening Nova Scotia’s social work community and shaping a more just, inclusive future.

As you may have heard, the Office of Addictions and Mental Health (OAMH) has been developing the Mood and Anxiety Insured Services Program: an integration of the public and private mental health and addictions care system intended to increase access to mood and anxiety care for Nova Scotians.

OAMH is now inviting applications for clinicians interested in providing services under this new program, including RSW Clinical Specialists. Practitioners who join this program will be matched with clients via Nova Scotia Health/IWK Provincial Intake, and will have access to practice support that includes community of practice sessions with peers.

Learn more or Apply

The Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) recognizes National Indigenous History Month in June, and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. NSCSW is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq, whose inherent rights were recognized in the Peace and Friendship Treaties. While Nova Scotia also commemorates Mi’kmaq History Month in October, June offers its own opportunities to reflect on the lives, cultures, stories and traditions of the first people of Mi’kma’ki, and First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities from sea to sea to sea, as well as the unique obligations of the social work profession regarding the TRC 94 Calls to Action.

Given the history, present, and future roles for social workers in addressing the harms of colonization, it is important we recognize National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day, while striving to move beyond recognition, towards reconciliation and resurgence. We call on social workers and helpers across Mi’kma’ki to engage in recognition, celebration, and support for Indigenous resurgence in June and through the year.

Our ongoing commitments to decolonization and Indigenization are reflected in our relationships and activities with our Indigenous colleagues and partners, including an upcoming session on Indigenous Ethics. It is the responsibility of all social workers to strive towards decolonial practices for better tomorrows. This can be done in your practices, in your community, and through your relationships.

Decolonizing, Indigenizing

Social Work has a historical and present-day relationship with settler colonization. Joseph Gone writes, “Mental health professionals are the missionaries for a new millennium” (Gone, 2008). Social work as a profession is complicit in multiple harms in the past, and social workers are always at risk of perpetuating colonial harms in present day practice. To move towards reconciliation, we must recognize the history of our profession, which is guided by legislation enacted through provincial systems of power, that are rooted in and directly connected to the harms of colonization. With this in mind, what does it mean for social workers to strive for decolonization and championing of Indigenous social work and helping practices?

In Mi’kma’ki, early roots of social work practices were deeply present in the community healers’ traditions. These healers, revered as Elders or Medicine People, possessed extensive knowledge of medicinal plants, spiritual practices, and holistic healing passed down through generations. Their practices showcased the Mi’kmaq people’s reliance on their healers for comprehensive well-being through natural remedies and spiritual guidance, emphasizing interconnectedness and balance within oneself, the environment, and the community past, present, and future.

Rebuilding our foundations

With nearly 3000 social workers engaged in practice across Nova Scotia, we have an incredible opportunity to further commit to decolonial practice and support for Indigenous resurgence and resistance. Beyond social work practice, we have Land Defenders and Water Protectors throughout Mi’kma’ki and across Turtle Island engaged in resistance and resurgence.

As social workers, the new Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice we will launch this year guide us towards respecting the status, rights, diversity and needs of Mi’kmaq, First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Peoples (Guiding Principle 1.5). Social workers must value the importance of community involvement, relational accountability, cultural humility, trauma-informed practices, and the integration of Indigenous ways of knowing and being in social work practice. Social works are called to champion social justice and to advocate for the rights of Mi’kmaw and Indigenous peoples to be free from racism, systemic racism, and discrimination (Guiding Principle 2.2).

Value 3: Pursuing Truth and Reconciliation guides social workers towards the pursuit of Truth and Reconciliation. To do this, social workers must uphold the values and principles of Reconciliation and decolonization (Guiding Principle 3.1) and acknowledge Indigenous world views in their practice (Guiding Principle 3.2).

Values in practice

We can recognize Indigenous Peoples and history across the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of social work practice, as guided by our upcoming Safe(R) Social Work Practice Framework.

At the micro level, we are guided to uphold individual professional conduct. This includes ensuring we live into our values and ethics and practice competently with respect for relational accountability, trauma-informed practice, and grounding our work in Mi’kma’ki.

At the mezzo level, we can collaborate and partner with Indigenous communities, bridge trust, and ensure Indigenous people, especially Mi’kmaq community members are represented and supported in social work practice.

At the macro level, all social workers must advocate against racism and towards justice, while also striving for holistic health approaches.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action outlined TRC education that is necessary for all those working in public service, education, health care and child welfare. Members may pursue formal training related to these TRC recommendations, or informal activities designed to build resilience, reconciliation, healing and understanding. All social workers in Nova Scotia are required to engage at minimum one hour of annual professional development grounded in principles of Truth and Reconciliation. However, we encourage you to do even more.

Opportunties for learning & relational action

Social workers across Nova Scotia have a role to play in recognizing National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day. Whether you are a settler or an Indigenous social worker, you can recognize these important moments through engaging in your local community activities, participating in professional development opportunities, and through reflexive practice.

Below are resources and opportunities for engagement in honor of National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day.

A book to read:

Living in Indigenous Sovereignty by Elizabeth Carlson-Manathara with Gladys Rowe

“Living in Indigenous Sovereignty lifts up the wisdom of Indigenous scholars, activists and knowledge keepers who speak pointedly to what they are asking of non-Indigenous people.”

Videos to watch:

Etuaptmumk: Two-eyed Seeing – Rebecca Marshall

“Etuaptmumk – Two-Eyed Seeing is explained by saying it refers to learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledges and ways of knowing … and learning to use both these eyes together, for the benefit of all.”

Mi’kmaw Culture & Heritage series

In 2022 and 2023, Gerald Gloade of Millbrook First Nation, an artist, educator, storyteller, naturalist, and Elder, offered a series of webinars to introduce non-Indigenous social workers to Mi’kmaw history, traditional knowledge, and current cultural context.

Upcoming professional development:

NSCSW Lunch and Learn (Webinar): Indigenous Ethics with Veronica Bernard

Indigenous Ethics come from beyond colonial ways of knowing and being and can be applied in social work and helping practices. This session will be grounded in Mi’kmaw teachings, spirituality, and practices and offer insights to how social workers and helpers can apply Indigenous ethics in their practices. This explores the questions:

• How might the ideas of time, sacred medicines, spirituality, and the Seven Sacred Teachings relate to ethical social work and helping practices?
• What are the ways we can move forward with both western methodologies and Indigenous methodologies towards greater ethical and equitable practices?

Community connection:

Participate in local events like the ones offered by the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre or your local libraries and community centres. Engage with local First Nations and participate in public events offered in community (this Mawio’mi etiquette primer might come in handy if you get the chance to attend one). You can also engage with The Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia Archives Collection of transcribed interviews with Mi’kmaq Elders by Dr. Trudy Sable.

National resources:

The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) recognizes that social workers’ responsibility to truth and reconciliation calls for continually deepening our knowledge, challenging colonial systems, and advocate for meaningful change.

Visit CASW’s Reconciliation Hub for resources including webinars, statements, and publications that center Indigenous voices and advance reconciliation.

Here’s a selection of CASW webinars that explore the role of social work in advancing truth, reconciliation and culturally grounded care for Indigenous Peoples: 

• Foundations for Reconciliation in Social Work  
• Bigidendan – “Release it from your Mind” 
• Two Spirit Knowledge 
• Pursuing Truth and Reconciliation / Valeur 3: Établir la vérité et la réconciliation 

Changing direction

Wherever you are in Nova Scotia, please strive to participate in community events and engage in learning that deepens your commitment to truth and reconciliation and decolonization. Advocate and work to shift policy, systems, and practices in support of decolonization and Indigenization. It isn’t enough to just recognize, we must move towards shifting resources and systems of power so that the colonial harms of the past and present do not become the harms of the future.

References

Sable, T. (n.d.). Transcribed Interviews: The Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia Archives Collection. Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre: Archives. Retrieved from https://www.mymnfc.com/transcribed-interviews

Gone, J. (2008). “So I Can Be Like a Whiteman’: The Cultural Psychology of Space and Place in American Indian Mental Health.” Culture and Psychology 14 : 369–99. https://doi.org/10.1177/1354067X08092639

We didn’t have any bylaw changes this year, but there were still some great updates! If you missed our AGM in May you can watch the livestream recording on our YouTube channel or read the highlights below.

Fee increase for 2026

The 2026 budget approved at the AGM included several key adjustments in response to the current economic climate. Notably, it introduced a modest 2.4% increase to registration and renewal fees, reflecting 2024 inflation rates. This increase is necessary to maintain the financial capacity and operational effectiveness of the College, ensuring we meet our regulatory obligations. The adjustment will take effect for the registration year that begins February 1, 2026, increasing the baseline active member registration fee from $465 to $476.

Council elections & appointments

We do have a vacancy remaining on council for the Northern region; members in that region who are interested in stepping forward for this role are encouraged to contact NSCSW staff.

New NSCSW Council member:

• Western Regional Representative: Alexandra Earle-Lambert, 1^st term

Uncontested returns to Council:

• Vice President: Michelle Ward, 2^nd term
• Treasurer: Kate Matheson, 3^rd term
• Central Regional Representative: Stephanie LeBlanc, 2^nd term
• Western Regional Representative: Iain Ford, 3^rd term
• Northern Regional Representative: April Munro-Wood, 2^nd term
• Eastern Regional Representative: Claire Sampson-MacDonald, 2^nd term
• Indigenous Representative: Holly Meuse, 2^nd term

Annual report

NSCSW council members presented the annual report. Themes included the growth of our membership, our successful transition from private practice registration to clinical specialist registration, the adaptation of the CASW Code of Ethics to create a new code and standards for Nova Scotia (to be implemented in 2025), and how our strategic plan is guiding and supporting proactive right-touch regulation in pursuit of safe(r) social work practice.

The Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) is steadfast in its commitment to developing and implementing an Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Reconciliation, and Accessibility (EDIRA) framework across all regulatory functions. This initiative is a pivotal step towards redressing historical and systemic harms caused by social work.

As we seek to transform the systems around us, we must also transform ourselves.

To promote meaningful collaboration and true representation, in 2025 we are engaging with partner organizations that serve (and are substantially led by) equity-deserving groups (Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, disability, newcomer, French, and 2SLGBTQIA+) to increase our understanding the unique cultural context and needs of these communities. Some partners are gathering perspectives from their communities themselves, while others have asked us to share public calls for focus groups.

Focus groups that include a public call for participants will be added to this post as they are scheduled.

Social workers are not eligible to join these focus groups (our members will have many other opportunities to contribute to this process in the coming months).

Open focus groups

• June 5 — African Nova Scotian (Online)
• June 13 — African Nova Scotian (New Glasgow)
• June 16 — African Nova Scotian (Halifax)
• June 25 — Disability (Halifax)

Some closed sessions have already been held. Additional sessions for other groups will be scheduled in spring and summer.

Spread the word

Sharing a link to this page is the best way to pass the invitation on to someone who is eligible to join these discussions.

Purpose

By engaging these equity-deserving communities in meaningful conversations that foster partnership, trust, and inclusivity, we aim to gain insight into further action we can take to improve ethical practices in social work regulation and service delivery.

The membership of the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers is growing, and we need more mentors to support our growing pool of candidates in the Candidacy Mentorship Program. We have many new graduates and transferring or returning social workers who are seeking mentorship from one of our many qualified, competent, and supportive social workers in Nova Scotia.

If you have ever thought about how you might want to contribute to the development of other social workers, this blog post describes the process of mentoring, highlights resources that are available to mentors, and shares key insights to what makes a strong mentor.  

Both candidacy and mentorship have purpose

The Candidacy Mentorship Program (CMP) provides secondary assessment and professional support for new, transferring, and returning social workers in Nova Scotia. Unlike standardized exams used in many other provinces and jurisdictions to evaluate social worker competencies, the CMP takes a dynamic and inclusive approach.

Research has consistently shown that formal standardized exams, such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam, often fail to adequately measure critical thinking, practical application, and ethical decision-making. These exams have been widely criticized for their validity and reliability issues, alongside evidence of significant racial disparities in pass rates, disproportionately impacting equity-deserving groups.

By contrast, for over 30 years the CMP has supported thousands of professionals in building their knowledge and navigating real-world complexities in the social work field. At the heart of the CMP are the mentors who provide personalized guidance, fostering growth in professional and ethical practices while prioritizing reconciliation, equity, and cultural competence. This approach addresses systemic challenges within the profession and aligns with the commitment to create a more inclusive and effective regulatory framework for social work in Canada. 

The new code of ethics launched by the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) in 2024 outlines the importance of mentorship in our profession:  

“Social workers contribute to the ongoing development of the social work profession and current and future social workers.

Context for Practice: Social workers in formal or informal supervisory, consultation, mentorship or in education roles strive toward excellence in the ongoing development of the profession and of current and future practitioners.”  

CASW Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice (2024)
Value 7: Providing Competent Professional Services
Guiding Principle 7.3

Mentorship is not just an opportunity for giving back, it is an ethical priority for all social workers. Our profession is enriched by social workers contributing to the development of other social workers. It also is an empowering experience for many mentors and allows you to develop your own practice. Mentors are also allowed to track and report up to 12 hours of mentorship per year as part of their informal professional development.  

In our Connection magazine issue from 2021 we interviewed Winnie Grant, who has been a mentor for over 15 years. She speaks to the power, importance, and value of mentoring candidates through our CMP.  

“I consider it my role to teach the skills that are required to be successful in the field, to teach them to fish…To build their confidence and develop their own approach based on the profession’s shared ethics.”

– Winnie Grant 

Many of our mentors report that the CMP is an enjoyable and enriching experience helping them to grow in their own practice and profession, while giving back to others. 

Preparing for mentorship

Candidates are required to complete 32 hours (maximum 2 hours per month) of mentorship with their mentors while engaged in the CMP. Many CMP relationships take place over a period of two years but the program can be completed in as little as 16 months.  

We have many resources available to potential mentors, and the first place to learn more is by reading the Mentor section on our CMP microsite.   

To qualify as a Mentor, social workers are required to: 

• Have completed candidacy and/or have been active as a Registered Social Worker (RSW) for a minimum of two-years and be approved by our Executive Director/Registrar or our Associate Registrar. 

• Have space, energy, and capacity to meet with their Candidates for at least 2 hours a month for the duration of the CMP and contribute to the development of learning goals and the assessment of the CMP for the SWC. 

There are no other prerequisites to be a Mentor, but we believe that the following competencies and attributes can be helpful: 

1. Personal Attributes: demonstrating effective communication and active listening; respect, patience, and a warm and positive attitude; believing in the potential of others; and demonstrating the willingness to take risks 

2. Modelling Excellence in Professional Practice: demonstrating a commitment to upholding equitable and ethical practice as guided the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice; critical thinking and analysis; conflict-resolution skills; situational leadership. 

3. Fostering an Effective Mentor/Candidate Relationship: Establishing trust and maintain confidentiality; relational accountability; being approachable and welcoming; supporting, encouraging, and offering a safe(R) relational space; providing critical reflection and feedback; being open to sharing your experiences and wisdom; collaborative mindset in development of goals, processes, and boundaries; celebrating achievements; allowing the candidate to make their own decisions. 

4. Fostering Growth: Applying a coaching approach to the CMP relationship; encouraging candidates identify their own strengths, gaps, and growth potential; helping the candidate to set realistic goals; role modeling reflective and reflexive practice.  

While mentoring requires an openness and supportive environment, it also requires honesty and courage.  

“I have expectations with the candidates: we need to have honest conversations, they need to be courageous, they need to be willing to grow and learn to reach their full potential.”

– Winnie Grant 

Mentors are also allowed to mentor more than one candidate at a time, and many mentors benefit from group mentoring arrangements. However, it is advised that mentors have no more than three candidates at one time.  

This is just a brief overview, and we recognize that the richness of the CMP comes from the unique lived experiences of our Mentors and SWCs, thoughtful and achievable learning goals centred on the Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice, and the relationship Mentors and SWCs develop throughout the course of the program. 

To learn more about the responsibilities of mentors, including reporting and assessment, read our section on mentor responsibilities.  

What does a typical mentorship meeting look like? 

Each CMP relationship is unique and specific to the needs, goals, and boundaries of the mentor and candidate. However, many mentors chose to meet with their in a two-hour virtual meeting, once a month.  

The mentorship meetings can look like this: 

• Relational check-in with questions like: 
  • How have you been since we last met?  
  • What is on your heart, mind, and spirit as we begin this meeting? 
  • Anything you are looking forward to discussing today? 

• A summary of the time since you last met: 
  • What stands out as an impactful moment or moments at your place of employment since we last met? 

• Going deeper: 
  • How do these moments relate to your learning goals?  

• Setting a date for the next meeting

• Relational check-out with questions like: 
  • What are you taking away from this conversation? 
  • What are you looking forward to right now? 

Many mentors include a 5–10-minute break during their CMP meetings. Mentors are also invited to share frameworks, resources, and educational content that has helped them in their career journey.  

“I often share memes, content from social media, infographics, or concepts that have helped me in my career. My mentor also did this during our mentorship. This is where I learned about concepts like the Overton Window. In my mentoring group I share things about systems theory, anti-oppressive practice, decolonial and unsettling social work practice, and more. I find it helps guide the conversations and often the resources help the candidates go deeper in their reflections related to their learning goals and employment experiences.”

– Tyler Colbourne, Professional Development Consultant

However you decide to hold and construct your meetings with your candidate, it is important to be relational, have fun, have clear expectations, and be consistent in your approach and availability. Being a mentor doesn’t mean you are the primary source of support for candidates, it means you are there to coach and support. The candidate is meant to drive the learning experience as much as possible.  

The NSCSW has mentor training available to mentors who would like additional knowledge and skill to support them in mentoring. It is not required for mentors to complete this training, but it is offered as a resource for those who would like to use it. This training also qualifies as formal professional development for those who engage with the resource.

The call to adventure

We have candidates right now who are looking for mentors. We often post announcements in our bi-weekly member newsletter from candidates who are searching for a mentor with practice experience, knowledge, and skill related to their learning goals. We are also seeing an increase in candidates from international communities and equity-deserving and oppressed groups. We would love to increase our pool of mentors to reflect the strengths, needs, experiences, and identities of these candidates. If you have ever considered becoming a mentor, now is the time to begin! 

Mentorship offers a way to support others and yourself in the development of professional practice knowledge, skills, and values. It is a rewarding experience and greatly contributes to the ethical and equitable provision and delivery of social work in Nova Scotia. While the CMP might seem like a big commitment, it is simpler and more relational than it often first appears.  

“I want to help my candidates understand that we are both members of the community and work on behalf of the community. There is a weight that we carry, and we can see it as a calling or a consequence.”

– Winnie Grant 

Next steps

If you want to become a mentor or you have questions about the CMP, please reach out to Tyler Colbourne, Professional Development Consultant, ([email protected]), or Bria Symonds, Associate Registrar ([email protected]). We look forward to hearing from you.