2026 Social Work Month Voices: Staci Knox, LCSW

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

Staci Knox, LCSW

(She/Her)

Where did you get your degree(s)?

State University of New York - Stony Brook BSW & MSW

Current occupation/practice area

Manager, LCSW, Psychological Services/Hospital Outpatient

In what ways are you involved with NASW-IL?

I am the current Southern District Chair for the Illinois Chapter of NASW

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

I was inspired to choose the social work path after I accepted a position as a Program Manager at a small non-profit who served undocumented individuals and assisted with access to health care. There was a very intelligent, wise and wonderful human being who was on staff at that time. This LCSW inspired, encouraged and guided me to begin the necessary education and supervision.

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

empathy, compassion, attention to detail, time management, communication skills (both verbal and written), the ability to set and maintain boundaries, multitask all while working within an ethical framework. Tenacity, discipline and the ability to manage complex managed payor and health systems are traits and skills that are essential as well.

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

Continued advancement with telehealth opportunities, increased economic parity for social work professionals, Nationwide licensing compacts.

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

Yes, As a manager of other social workers and mental health professionals, it is integral to uplift, defend and transform my team so it can ripple to their patients.

Words of wisdom for someone considering the SW profession?

It is a very challenging and rewarding profession. I believe, it is very important for those wishing to enter the field or newly in the field to explore and maintain their "why" before and when they start working to help manage expectations and help prevent burnout. The "why" will help guide them in their knowledge and experience base.