Ethics & Artificial Intelligence in Social Work
Title:Ethics & Artificial Intelligence in Social Work
Date: Friday, February 13, 2026; 9:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Presenter: Ashley McSwain, LGSW, MSOD
Description: As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in mental health care—from documentation tools to clinical decision support—social workers must understand how AI intersects with ethical practice. This training explores the promises and risks of AI in social work settings, focusing on privacy, bias, professional judgment, boundaries, and compliance with state regulations. Participants will examine how AI tools can support practice while staying firmly grounded in ethical decision-making and COMAR requirements for client privacy, documentation, technology use, and professional conduct. Through case scenarios, discussion, and practical examples, social workers will gain clarity on what AI can and cannot do, how to ethically integrate it into practice, and how to protect clients from harm while using emerging technologies.
Codes & Regulations Covered:
COMAR: 10.42.03 – Standards of Practice for Social Workers; Client records & documentation (10.42.03.06)k; Confidentiality & release of information (10.42.03.07); Electronic records handling (10.42.03.05); Protection of client information across technology platforms
COMAR 10.42.01 – Code of Ethics for Social Workers; Competence with technology; Avoiding harm; Conflicts of interest; Client privacy and informed consent
COMAR 10.42.06 – Teletherapy Regulations; Use of technology in clinical practice; Protection of client confidentiality when using electronic tools
NASW Code: 1.01 Commitment to Clients; 1.03 Informed Consent; 1.07 Privacy & Confidentiality; 1.05 Cultural Competence & Humility; 1.04 Competence; 2.06 Referral for Services; 3.04 Client Records; 5.02 Evaluation & Research; 5.03 Performance Evaluation
Learning Objectives: By the end of this training participants will be able to:
1. Identify the benefits and ethical risks of integrating AI into mental health and social work practice.
2. Apply relevant NASW Code of Ethics standards to decisions involving AI tools.
3. Explain key COMAR regulations related to technology use, confidentiality, and documentation.
4. Demonstrate ethical decision-making skills through discussion and analysis of real-world AI
CE: 3 Cat I in Ethics
Please Note: This workshop qualifies for the Maryland BSWE 3-hour Ethics requirement for license renewal.
Please Note: This workshop meets 3 of the 6 CEUs required for License Renewal for the Delaware and DC Boards of Social Work.
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