NASW Social Work Talks EP 133: AI and Social Work
Dec 1, 2025
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Lauri Goldkind, a professor at Fordham and an expert in technology's role in social work, explores the intersection of AI and social work practice. She addresses the hesitance within the field to embrace technology, discussing the historical use of digital tools and the rise of chatbots for support. Lauri argues that AI can complement human therapists, highlighting research on chatbot effectiveness. Ethical considerations and gaps in training for social workers are also emphasized, paving the way for a future where technology and social work coalesce.
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Episode notes
Social Work At A Crossroads
- Social workers face a crossroads where AI can both harm and help practice, so engagement is unavoidable.
- Lauri Goldkind urges the profession to leverage AI's strengths while reducing its harms instead of rejecting it outright.
From Hotline Volunteer To Researcher
- Lauri Goldkind described her path from crisis hotline volunteer to MSW and later a PhD focused on research and administration.
- She explained this shift led her to value diverse social work roles that match different skill sets.
Tech Is Not New To Social Work
- Technology has long been part of social work (e.g., Hull House mapping resembles data visualization).
- Goldkind argues digital tools should become central, not peripheral, to social work practice.