Personal Statement

Deidre Hayes has been a licensed clinical social worker in New Orleans for over 20 years. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology from Loyola University of the South, a Masters in Social Work from Tulane University, and a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She has extensive experience with individuals and families, specializing in mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Her private practice specializes in custody evaluations and individual, children and family interventions. Dr. Hayes has been an integral part of many start-up initiatives including, Covenant House New Orleans, the New Orleans Drug and Mental Health Courts, and the New Orleans Family Justice Center. She currently serves on the leadership team for NHS Louisiana and is the clinical consultant for NHS’ New Orleans programs including the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams and the Coordinated System of Care (CSOC) wraparound initiative. She also provides clinical supervision and guidance for the dedicated NHS social workers who serve the most vulnerable members of the community. She serves as both supervisor and mentor for those seeking licensure. In addition, she has been a clinical consultant for the Federal Court Eastern District of Louisiana Reentry Program. Trainings provided include: Child Advocacy, Mental Health, Ethics, and Case Management.

For TSSW, Dr. Hayes is currently co-leading the Empowering Change Task Force, addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion within schools and facilitating connections between medical schools and inter-professional educational programs.