Welcome to the NASW-NYS Western Division!

Join us in enhancing the profession, building strength, and advocating for the needs of social workers within Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Orleans, Niagara, and Wyoming counties.

We’re committed to creating community, advancing professional development, and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within our region. All members—new and long-standing—are encouraged to get involved and attend our upcoming meetings!

Meet Your Division Leader

Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R

Western Division Division Director

Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R, is a clinician, educator, and organizational leader with 20+ years across clinical, nonprofit, and academic settings. A CUNY alum (BSW, Lehman; MSW, Hunter), she began in direct practice supporting children, adolescents, and adults through trauma and life transitions. She later led programs at Westchester Jewish Community Services and the Jewish Board, and directed Neptune Family Services in Brooklyn, managing multidisciplinary teams and partnerships with city agencies. In 2011 she founded MA Therapy, LLC—now a multi-division group practice known for culturally responsive care, professional training, and wellness programs. Since 2017 Amira has taught at Columbia University School of Social Work (adult psychopathology; motivational interviewing) and completed MIT Sloan’s Leading Organizations and Change program. Rooted in both NYC and Western New York, her work centers on building strong systems and sustainable programs. As NASW-NYS Western Division Director, she advances member engagement, high-impact professional development, and collaborative advocacy.