2026 Social Work Month Voices: Holly Mareski, LCSW, CADC, CCTP

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 Holly’s story and see how this year’s Social Work Month Theme, “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” resonates with them.

Holly Mareski, LCSW, CADC, CCTP

(She/her)

Where did you get your degree(s)?

I graduated from Aurora University with a Masters in Social Work. I have an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in social work from Loyola University Chicago. I currently work as a full time Senior Primary Clinical Therapist for Compass Health Centers in their virtual partial hospitalization program for adults. I also work in private practice treating adolescents and adults with substance use disorders, mood disorders, history of trauma, etc. I also teach part time at Aurora University in the Social Work Department, graduate studies.

Current occupation/practice area

Mental health/substance use treatment

In what ways are you involved with NASW-IL?

I am the current Chair of the NASW-IL Chapter Ethics Committee. I was a member of the DEIAB committee for two years. I am stepping down from DEIAB to focus more on the CEC since becoming chair, along with my career. I plan to continue collaborating with the DEIAB on a broader level with the CEC.

How did you choose the social work path? What inspired you?

I was a pre-law student as an undergrad, heavily involved in advocacy and social justice. I began working in the mental health field as an undergraduate student, completing an internship at a domestic violence shelter, while working with individuals living with intellectual disabilities. I was drawn to the field of social work, as I worked so closely with social workers serving clients. I changed career paths and pursued a graduate degree in Social Work. I'm so glad I changed career paths because I can use my love for the law and apply it to social work, through advocacy and social justice, ethics, etc; while working as a clinician. I love my career, I would not have it any other way.

What are some of the essential skills needed to be an effective social worker?

Empathy, inclusivity, equality, diversity, cultural competence, and ethics.

What changes or innovations do you see coming to the social work profession?

More amazing social workers joining the profession. I also see a lot more barriers coming to services due to the current political climate. Social workers are needed now more than ever. People need a voice and social workers help be voices for so many who try ask for help but are not heard or overlooked.

Does the 2026 SW month theme "Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform." resonate to you? Is it already integrated in your work?

Yes, it means everything to me. It is essential to uplift those we serve, defend the vulnerable, and transform change (policies, advocacy, resources).

Words of wisdom for someone considering the SW profession?

You must be willing to accept the challenges that come your way and welcome change if it benefits the ones we serve, even if the change is difficult. When we are faced with changes that do not benefit the ones we serve, but instead harm them; its important to speak out and be a voice for the vulnerable. The road will not always be easy, you will face barriers while advocating for those we serve and feel defeated a times. As long as you never lose sight of why you are a social worker and the meaning behind the role, you will do well in the profession.

Anything else we should know about you or NASW-IL or social work?

As a social worker, I live by this quote: "Be the change you wish to see in the world" -Mahatma Gandhi