2026 Social Work Month Voices: Anneliese Moy, LCSW, LLC

As the NASW celebrates 70 years of advocacy and advancement, this upcoming Social Work Month we want to continue to collect stories from across the profession. Read Anneliese’s story and see how this year’s Social Work Month Theme, “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” resonates with them.

Anneliese Moy, LCSW, LLC

(She/Her)

Where did you get your degree?

Loyola University Chicago

In what ways are you involved with NASW IL?

Co-Chair of Monthly Clinician's Meeting

Member of Legislative Committee

Past Speaker for CEU event

How did you choose the Social Worker path? What inspired you?

After receiving my BA in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, I spent a year working with adults with developmental disabilities. That experience was pivotal—it deepened my understanding of the challenges they face and sparked a desire to expand my skills so I could make a greater impact in the lives of the people we serve.

Motivated by that commitment, I returned to school and earned my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Completing my MSW not only strengthened my clinical and advocacy skills, but also opened the door to advancing my career in a way that aligns with my values. I left the program with a clearer sense of purpose and a stronger foundation to support individuals, families, and communities more effectively.

What are some essential skills needed to be an effective Social Worker?

I try to stay adaptable in my work, adjusting to whatever a situation or client may need at the moment. Having structure helps me stay grounded, and I use it to keep myself organized and present. I’m intentional about setting healthy boundaries so I can show up fully for the people I support. I make it a priority to listen actively and without bias, because I want others to feel genuinely heard and understood. I’m also comfortable juggling multiple responsibilities at once, and I take pride in being able to multitask while still giving each task the attention it deserves.

What changes or innovations do you see coming to the Social Worker profession?

Since Covid, I’ve watched our profession gain a level of recognition that had been missing for far too long. The pandemic highlighted just how essential our work is, not only in supporting individuals and families through crises, but also in shaping the systems that impact their daily lives. As a result, our voices are being taken more seriously, and we’re seeing meaningful progress—bills are being introduced and passed that reflect the realities we’ve been advocating for over the years.

This shift has strengthened my commitment to the field. I want to continue contributing to that momentum by staying engaged, speaking up, and helping influence policies that promote fairness and accessibility. My hope is to play a role in making the communities we serve more equitable, more supportive, and ultimately more manageable for the people who rely on these systems every day.

Does the 2026 Social work month theme quote? Social workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.” resonate? Do you already integrate these in your work?

Yes, the 2026 Social Work Month theme “Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.” absolutely resonates with me. These three words capture the heart of why I entered this profession and how I approach my work every day. I already integrate these principles into my practice by uplifting clients through encouragement and strengths‑based support, defending their rights and dignity, and working toward transforming the systems that affect their lives. I also believe that meaningful change often requires us to sit with discomfort and address difficult issues directly. Because of that, I apply these themes not only with clients but also in my own self‑reflection and growth as a practitioner.

Words of wisdom for someone considering the social work profession?

Someone considering the social work profession should know that this work will change you in ways you don’t always expect. When I first started—after earning my BA and working with adults with developmental disabilities—I realized quickly that social work isn’t just a job. It asks you to stretch, to sit with discomfort, and to confront issues that many people prefer to avoid. Returning to school for my MSW deepened that understanding even more.

What I’ve learned along the way is that you don’t need to have all the answers. What matters is your willingness to listen without judgment, to show up with structure and boundaries, and to stay adaptable when things shift around you. This profession will challenge you, but it will also give you the chance to uplift people in meaningful ways, defend their dignity, and help transform the systems they navigate.

If you’re considering social work, go into it with an open heart and a realistic understanding that growth often comes from uncomfortable moments. But also know that the impact you can make—on individuals, families, and entire communities—is worth every bit of that effort.