In this episode of Therapists Unchained, host Sivie Suckerman, MA, LMHC, ACS, sits down with Jack Register, LCSW, LIASC, CCS, ICAADC, ICCS, a seasoned advocate and clinician with experience in public policy and systemic change. Together, they discuss Jack’s journey as a registered lobbyist at both the state and federal levels, unpacking the nuanced difference between advocacy and activism.

Jack shares how therapists and other mental health professionals can use their relational and communication skills to influence policy, shape legislation, and drive lasting change in the systems that impact their clients. The conversation also spotlights the work of the Mental Health Professionals Equity Alliance (MHPEA), which brings together professionals across disciplines to promote equity-centered, collaborative policy engagement in the mental health field.

Jack is a licensed clinical social worker and independent clinical addiction specialist licensed in multiples. Jack is also a clinical supervisor, adjunct professor, policy specialist, and community organizer. Jack is the Founder and Clinical Director of Catharsis Counseling Center. Jack is a PhD Candidate at the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University.

Jack has been in the field for over 20 years and combines knowledge of direct policy practice with clinical skills and helps to translate for policy makers what the life is of the average everyday clinician. Jack has received awards for advocacy as well as for being a professor. In 2007 social work today magazine named him one of today's most influential social workers. In 2019 other voices, a chamber of commerce program through the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, named Jack a change agent in the community.

Jack lives in Arizona with his partner and their fur children, the oldest of which, Belle is 30.

⚠️ Tiny audio gremlins alert! You may notice a bit of mic rustling and a soft ring in and out of this episode. If you are sensitive to noise like me, you might want to turn your volume down a smidge or not use headphones while listening to this episode.

This episode was produced and edited by Mckenna Paddock, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P.