Social Work p.r.n. is a social work owned and operated company. Our office sites and franchise systems are coordinated by professional social workers who work on a daily basis building relationships with settings and social workers in the communities we serve. To learn more about our office personnel and our franchise system owners, check the following locations:

Corporate Office

Joan K. Upshaw, MSW, LSCSW
Owner & Clinical Director

Joan Upshaw has been a practicing social worker since 1971. She graduated with a BSW and a MSW from the School of Social Welfare, at the University of Kansas. She has a broad interest in all fields of practice. She has worked in health care, mental health, EAP and Managed Care, and private practice. Joan has taught at the graduate and undergraduate levels in social work. She has been a field instructor, a consultant and a direct service practitioner.

Joan is vitally interested in productivity in social work services. She believes that productivity combines both quality and quantity standards centered on sound outcome-based programming. Her other passion is facilitating dialogue about social work's future, continued relevance and opportunities for the profession.

Joan developed Social Work p.r.n. as a demonstration project for the profession. She believes that social work and business ideas make a great meld. She looked to build a social work business that could integrate professional values and serve as resource for social workers and for settings.

Joan is the mother of six adult children and many wonderful grandchildren. She lives with her husband in a Victorian home in a suburb of Kansas City. They also enjoy a home in Cottonwood, Arizona.

Joan can be reached in our Corporate office at 1-800-595-9648.

Barbara received a Bachelors of Arts in Spanish and Portuguese from the University of Texas at Austin. Before returning to social work graduate school at UT in Austin, Barbara served in the Peace Corps in Honduras and Paraguay. She has worked in the areas of mental health, health care, chemical dependency treatment, and EAP programming.

Barbara started with Social Work p.r.n. in 1995 as the Coordinator of our North Texas office. She has also worked on the development of services in Houston, Austin and San Antonio. Barbara currently serves as a Corporate Representative with Social Work p.r.n. In that role, she provides training and support to our social work management staff and to our franchise, and works with national setting accounts. In addition, Barbara serves as our national and international bilingual social work recruitment specialist.

Barbara is married, has one cat, and lives in Germantown, TN.

She can be reached at 901-759-4870 or by e-mail at barbara@socialworkprn.com.

Kim graduated from Baker University with a Bachelor's in Business Administration. Kim started with Social Work p.r.n. in 1991. She currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer, and is responsible for financial and managerial accounting duties such as payroll, invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable and financial forecasting. In addition, she serves as the Human Resource Manager for the corporation. She also manages purchasing and maintainence of computer and office equipment across all of our offices.

Kim came to Social Work p.r.n. with a diverse employment background that included banking, working in sales positions with several national companies, managing a health club, and training horses in the Quarter Horse Industry.

She lives in a lakeside home with her husband, three dogs, and an African grey parrot. They have a son who lives in St. Louis.

Kim can be reached at (800) 595-9648 x18 or by e-mail at kim@socialworkprn.com.

Sheri received a BSW from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and a MSW from Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois in Chicago. She originally joined Social Work p.r.n. as a member of the contract staff in the Kansas City area when she first moved there from Nebraska. Sheri has worked in a variety of settings including health care, mental health, chemical dependency, and EAP and managed care.

In 1994, she transitioned from being part of our contract staff to the Coordinator of the Kansas City office.

Sheri lives in a suburb of Kansas City, with her husband, Kevin, daughter, Madison Jean and son, Riley Patrick.

Sheri can be reached by phone at (913) 648-2984 x 13 or by e-mail at sheri@socialworkprn.com.

Rashmi has a BS in Accounting from Bombay University in India. She has several years of experience in Accounting and 15+ years of experience in Mortgage Business in India and the United States.

Rashmi began as an Accounting Assistant position with Social Work p.r.n. in April 2000. She currently serves as the Accounting Manager. She lives in Overland Park, Kansas with her husband and daughter, Ishani.

"Rashmi can be reached in our Corporate Office at (800) 595-9648 x21 or by e-mail at rashmi@socialworkprn.com.

Stephanie joined Social Work p.r.n. in 1998 as receptionist/ office support. She now serves as the Administrative Assistant and Franchise Secretary for the Corporate Office. Stephanie performs many clerical tasks, works on special projects. She previously worked in an Adult Day Care Program as an Activities Coordinator.

She is very active in the youth program at her church and with her children's school activities. Stephanie and her four children live in Kansas City, Missouri.

Stephanie can be reached in our Corporate Office at (800) 595-9648 or by e-mail at stephanie@socialworkprn.com.

Leigh Ann comes to Social Work p.r.n. from Lexington, Kentucky where she went to the University of Kentucky for a BA in Political Science. Leigh Ann enjoys being active in volunteer work and advocacy programs in her area.

She recently got engaged and lives in Olathe, Kansas with her fiancé Derek and her boxer puppy, Gracey. They enjoy spending their time outdoors, at the lake and fishing.

Leigh Ann can be reached by phone at (913) 648-2984 x 17 or by e-mail at leighann@socialworkprn.com.

Jacque joined Social Work prn after staying home and operating an in home daycare business while her children, Mindy and Mikey were young. In addition, she has customer service and office administration experience from previous employments. Most recently, she has worked in the Eudora School District as a para-professional with the Special Education Department at the high school.

Jacque and her husband recently purchased an old farmhouse in the country. Her new “hobby” is working on the house in addition to gardening.

Jacque serves as Payroll Administrator in the corporate office and can be reached at (800) 595-9648 x22 or by e-mail at jacque@socialworkprn.com.

Debra has a BSW and MSW from Temple University. She moved to Atlanta in 1987 as a new MSW graduate. She has worked as a medical social worker at Henry General Hospital and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. Debra has also served as a social work consultant in the past with Project Impact, a juvenile diversion program.

Debra started with Social Work p.r.n. in the position of Atlanta Coordinator in January 1997. She's worked hard to build a thriving business in our Atlanta office.

Debra is a divorced mother of one son, Salim (Saleem) Gordon.

To reach Debra in the Atlanta office, call (770) 934-6222 or e-mail her at dbrownswprn@bellsouth.net.

Glenda received her BSW from Southern University in New Orleans in 1998. She then moved to Atlanta to pursue a graduate social work degree. Shortly after her arrival in Atlanta, she was referred to Social Work p.r.n. Glenda credits Social Work p.r.n. for creating a new workforce vision for her. She was proud to accomplish her life long college goal and graduated with a MSW from Clark Atlanta University in 2000.

Glenda serves as an Atlanta Assistant Coordinator in the Atlanta office where she develops and supports our practice in child welfare. Glenda can be reached in our Atlanta office at (770) 934-6222 or by e-mail at gjohnsonswprn@bellsouth.net.

Marlene moved to Atlanta in September 2000 and began working for Social Work p.r.n. shortly after. She works as the Administrative Assistant in our busy office. Marlene hails from Philadelphia. She now resides in Atlanta with her husband and sons.

Marlene can be reached in our Atlanta office at (770) 934-6222 or by e-mail at mbaileyswprn@bellsouth.net.

Janan received a BA degree in Psychology from Smith College and MA degree from University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration. She has worked in hospital settings most of her career and most recently was Director of the Care Management Department at a Maryland hospital. While living in Tehran, Iran several years ago, Janan taught in the Master's degree program at the Tehran School of Social Work.

Janan lives near Annapolis, MD with her husband and her Golden Retriever "Lucy". She has two adult daughters, Liz and Jane. In her spare time, Janan enjoys boating on the Chesapeake Bay and gardening.

Janan serves as the coordinator for our Baltimore Washington office, and can be reached at (410) 685-9101 or by email at janan@socialworkprn.com.

Our Boston office is under the new franchised ownership of Margaret and Arni Swanson.
They can be reached at: boston@socialworkprn.com or 781-235-0366 (phone) 781-235-2058 (fax)

Anne Schmidt, LCSW
Chicago Coordinator

Anne Wright Schmidt is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago and a BA in History and Religion from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana.

Anne’s social work experience has been varied, with experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, as well as pediatric medical social work. Her particular interest has been in child welfare. Most recently she developed a successful adoption program. Anne has done extensive training of clients as well as other professionals.

Anne is a native of St. Louis who has lived in the Chicago area for many years. She currently lives in Oak Park, where she has a private practice working with children, adolescents, adults and families, and where she enjoys family, friends and a variety of activities.

As the Coordinator for the five county Chicago area, Anne visits hospitals, behavioral healthcare programs, long-term care facilities, community agencies, and all organizations that might have staffing needs for social workers. She regularly attends association meetings, networks with social work schools, and plans continuing education workshops.

Anne can be contacted at (708) 383-2251 or by e-mail at anne@socialworkprn.com.

Jessica joined Social Work p.r.n. in July 2006 as support for the Chicago coordinator and networking coordinator. She has a BA from the University of Illinois at Chicago in English, and is pursuing a master’s degree in Social Work. Jessica’s past experiences include working as a college advisor. She enjoys crocheting, reading and spending time with her family and friends. Jessica lives in Oak Park with her fiancée and daughter.

To reach Jessica, call the Chicago office at (708) 383-2251 or e-mail her at jessica@socialworkprn.com.

Mark received his BSW from Stephen F. Austin State University and his MSW from the University of Houston. He has worked as a Medical Social Worker, in Adoption and Foster Care, and as a Therapist. Mark previously worked as a manager, medical school worker, and a social work consultant for home health agencies throughout Texas. He is also currently working as a therapist specializing in gay & lesbian issues. Mark is a native Texan and has lived in Houston, Dallas, East Texas, and Central Texas. He is single, has 2 cats, and lives in downtown Houston. Mark started with Social Work p.r.n. in August of 1998 as the Houston Coordinator.

Mark enjoys working with social workers and agencies from all concentrations of social work practice.

In the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, Mark can be reached at (972) 488-0708 or by e-mail at mark@socialworkprn.com.

The Denver office is covered by Margaret Craig in our St. Louis Office. For more information, please contact Margaret at (314) 963-3155.

Mark received his BSW from Stephen F. Austin State University and his MSW from the University of Houston. He has worked as a Medical Social Worker, in Adoption and Foster Care, and as a Therapist. Mark previously worked as a manager, medical school worker, and a social work consultant for home health agencies throughout Texas. He is also currently working as a therapist specializing in gay & lesbian issues. Mark is a native Texan and has lived in Houston, Dallas, East Texas, and Central Texas. He is single, has 2 cats, and lives in downtown Houston. Mark started with Social Work p.r.n. in August of 1998 as the Houston Coordinator.

Mark enjoys working with social workers and agencies from all concentrations of social work practice.

In the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, Mark can be reached at (972) 488-0708 or by e-mail at mark@socialworkprn.com.

Beckie received a BSW from Central Missouri State University in 2003, and a MSW from the University of Kansas in 2006. Beckie joined Social Work p.r.n. in 2003, and currently serves as the Kansas City Staffing Coordinator.

Beckie can be reached at 800-595-9648 x12 or by e-mail at beckie@socialworkprn.com.

Arni and Margaret are both natives of Vermont and attended the University of Vermont. The New Hampshire - Vermont Franchise is unique in that it is the first rural application of the Social Work p.r.n. model. Margaret has over 15 years' professional experience serving individuals in school, health care and home based settings. She holds a Bachelors degree in Social Work from Rivier College in Nashua, NH and a Masters of Social Work from Boston University. Arni has a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Vermont and over 20 years experience in Operations and Program Management. He previously owned and operated a successful small company. Margaret and Arni have two grown children and two dogs. Margaret's involvement in Beagle Rescue means there is usually a foster dog at home as well. For more information about available services or employment opportunities in the New Hampshire/Vermont area please contact Margaret or Arni at(978) 649-6883 or email at mswanson@socialworkprn.com or aswanson@socialworkprn.com

Social Work p.r.n. serves the entire state of New Jersey (Outside of Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, and Salem counties, which are served by our Philadelphia Franchise System).

Before getting her MSW, Linda R. Blank worked as an Activities Therapist for 12 years at St. Clares Adult Medical Day Care.

In 2002, Linda graduated from Rutgers University School of Social Work and received her MSW & shortly after received her LSW. Linda's first social work job was as a lead clinician for a therapeutic Nursery where she worked with children with both behavioral and emotional problems. Her next experience was Social Service Director and Activity Director for Merry Heart Nursing Home in Boonton Twp, a 131 bed long term, residential & sub acute facility.

Presently, Linda resides in Rockaway, N.J. She has 2 long- haired Chihuahuas named Stanley and Albert.

Linda is thrilled to be working for Social Work p.r.n. and can be reached in our New Jersey Office at 973-509-9300 or by e-mail at linda@socialworkprn.com.

New York Office serving the New York Metropolitan area including the five boroughs, Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Nassau and Suffolk Counties. For more information call 212-267-2914 or 914-637-0442 or visit us at socialworkprn.com.

Nathalie received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Howard University School of Arts and Sciences. She decided to pursue a Master of Social Work degree while volunteering at an area hospital. She recognized the essential role the social worker played in ensuring quality care in the health care setting. She later graduated from Howard University School of Social Work. Her professional experience ranges from child and family to mostly working with the critically ill in the nursing home setting.

Nathalie can be reached in our New York Office at (914) 637-0442 or by e-mail at nathalie@socialworkprn.com.

Rob Plotkin, MSW, LSW is the franchise owner of Social Work p.r.n. - Philadelphia. Rob was awarded Social Work p.r.n.'s first franchise system in 1997. His territory covers the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan area stretching into parts of Delaware and New Jersey.

Rob believes that owning a social work business fits wonderfully for him. "I've discovered that I'm using more of my clinical skills now," he states, "than when I was in [quote] direct practice." Part of Rob's intrigue in owning a franchise system, was to meld his entrepreneurial spirit with his professional social work values. "Those values provide the structure" he notes, "and without the structure, business decisions could be made that are incompatible with what I see would be a good corporate citizen." Rob cites that Social Work p.r.n. has a reputation in Philadelphia, as an agency that can be counted on to provide quality professional social work services.

Rob graduated with a MSW from Temple University's School of Social Work Administration and with a MBA from Drexel University's Executive MBA program.

Rob is married and has five children.

Rob keeps busy working on the on-going development of the Philadelphia system. He has a large job, both building relationships with social workers and settings in the area. Rob territory includes Bucks, Philadelphia, Chester, Montgomery and Delaware in Pennsylvania; Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer and Salem in New Jersey; and New Castle county in Delaware.

For more information about available services or employment opportunities in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area visit his web site address at swprn.com or contact Rob at (215) 641-2311.

Alan has always loved the idea of combining social work principles with good business practices in an effort to increase the level of care social workers can provide. He believes that Social Work PRN gives its affiliates a unique opportunity to experience a variety of social work fields. He also believes that Social Work PRN is making leaps and bounds in advancing the professionalism of social work by promoting and elevating the work done by social workers in all their fields of practice.

Alan received a BS in human development and a minor in business management from Brigham Young University and his MSW from Arizona State University. Alan's social work experience includes work with adolescents in residential treatment, case management in behavioral health and he is trained in and practices Multi Systemic Therapy.

Alan was introduced to the social work field by his wife Tiesha, who has taken a break from work to raise their three wonderful children. Their children are Connor (6), Jemma (4), and Kaylen (3). In the little spare time they have, their family enjoys camping, dressing up as princesses, playing with their pet turtle and watching hockey.

Cesar Madrigal, a Chicago native, originally worked as an affiliate at the Social Work p.r.n. office in Chicago, IL. Cesar has his MSW from Aurora University, and holds a Master's and Doctorate degree in Business Administration from California Southern University. He is currently working on a Masters in Public Administration. Cesar also trained in film making at the University of Southern California Film School. Cesar co-wrote the popular Social Work Skills Demonstrated Textbook, and has a background is in Mental Health counseling and Administration as well as teaching Social Work and Business at the University level. In 2005, he moved to South Florida. He has a wonderful son named Wyatt. Cesar's hobbies include playing guitar, international cinema and enjoying Chicago sports teams. Cesar serves as the coordinator for our Florida office, and can be reached at (954) 987-5100 or by email at cesar@socialworkprn.com.

Margaret has a BSW and MSW from the University of Kansas, and over 20 years experience in the fields of health care and mental health. Prior to joining Social Work p.r.n., she worked for Hyland Behavioral Health System as Clinical Supervisor for Outpatient Psychiatric Services. Margaret lives in Webster Groves, Missouri, with her husband, Charles, her daughter, Sarah, and son, Sam Houston, and Ginger, their golden retriever.

She joined Social Work p.r.n. in 1993 as the Coordinator of the St. Louis office. After several years of working in the St. Louis community, Margaret is now enjoying the exciting growth of that office.

Margaret can be reached at (314) 963-3155 or by e-mail at margaret@socialworkprn.com.

Mary joined Social Work p.r.n. in November 1999 as an Administrative Assistant. She supports the growing St. Louis office in a variety of clerical roles as well as helping Margaret with special projects. Mary's background includes previous work at an elder outreach program. She is active in her community and volunteers in her daughter's school music program. Mary and her husband, Lynn, and their two daughters live in St. Louis County and enjoy boating at the Lake of the Ozarks.

To reach Mary, call (314) 963-3155 or e-mail her at mary@socialworkprn.com.

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