FROM CSCSW: Specific things therapists can do now
We are writing to acknowledge the ongoing national context of immigration enforcement activities and the significant impact these policies and actions continue to have on the communities we serve and represent. Federal violence, unlawful enforcement actions, and expanded authority for immigration officers have contributed to heightened fear, stress, family separation, loss of life and trauma among communities and their loved ones. We affirm that these reactions are normal and human in the face of real harm, and that responsibility lies with the policies and actions driving this fear, not with the communities living through it.
Although specific reports vary by location, many clinicians are already supporting individuals and families who are navigating fear of detention, enforcement actions, disruptions in daily life, and uncertainty about the future. These experiences can lead to increased anxiety, trauma responses, and interruption of vital services for clients, including students, parents, workers, and community members.
We recognize that this work can be emotionally demanding. Social workers and clinicians are often called upon to respond not only to direct clinical needs, but also to support clients through systems‑level stressors and community unrest. We want to reaffirm our solidarity with you and underscore that your well‑being and ethical practice matter deeply.
Below, you’ll find updated resources to assist you in supporting clients through immigration‑related challenges, including legal aid, “Know Your Rights” guidance, mental health support, and confidentiality best practices.
Confidentiality and Ethical Responsibilities
Protecting client confidentiality remains a cornerstone of ethical clinical practice, especially in contexts involving fear of enforcement. Please continue to follow applicable laws and professional standards, including:
California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA)
California Evidence Code Sections 1014 & 1017
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
For guidance on confidentiality and immigration contexts, see resources from the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
Legal, Community, and Support Resources
National Legal Assistance & “Know Your Rights”
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center —https://www.ilrc.org
• National Immigration Law Center —https://www.nilc.org
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) —https://www.aila.org
California‑Focused Resources
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles — https://www.lafla.org
Asian Americans Advancing Justice – LA —https://www.advancingjustice-la.org
CARECEN (Los Angeles) —https://carecencal.org
Bay Area Resources
Bay Area Legal Aid —https://baylegal.org
Asian Law Caucus —https://asianlawcaucus.org
Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services
Statewide Advocacy and Support
Immigrants Rising —https://immigrantsrising.org
California Immigrant Policy Center — https://www.caimmigrant.org
Education & Rapid Support
Know Your Rights materials and trainings through local advocacy organizations such as CHIRLA
Local rapid response networks in many counties providing urgent support and connection to legal aid
Legislative Advocacy Opportunities
Democracy works best when elected officials hear directly from their constituents. Making your voice heard matters. Taking action is one way to move through uncertainty and stay engaged.
Find your U.S. House of Representatives
(Your Congressperson):https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
Find your U.S. Senate (Your Senators): https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
Supporting Clients and Ourselves
During periods of heightened immigration enforcement or related fear:
Take extra care to protect client confidentiality.
Provide clients with “Know Your Rights” information and trusted legal referrals.
Maintain a list of local legal aid contacts and rapid response hotlines.
Encourage self‑care, peer consultation, and supervision to mitigate vicarious trauma and stress.
There is also an opportunity for temporary licensure in Minnesota to provide clinical support to communities in need. https://mn.gov/boards/social-work/applicants/temporary-license/
We remain grateful for the dedication you bring to supporting vulnerable individuals and families. Your work, often carried out in the midst of uncertainty and distress, has a profound impact. If you have questions or need additional resources, please reach out.
In solidarity,
Briana Fair
CSCSW Board President