TOP 100 MAGAZINE

Kathryn Dixon, MSW, LMSW, LCSW

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Kathryn Dixon, MSW, LMSW, LCSW, has devoted over three decades to social work, advocating for social justice and community safety. A trailblazer in forensic social work, she is a second-generation social worker, recognized in Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare, Who’s Who in America, and as a recipient of the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award. Kathryn’s passion for social work began early, inspired by her adoptive mother, whose professional journals sparked her thirst for knowledge. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in justice studies from the University of New Hampshire and later completed her master’s in social work, focusing on social policy and administration, at Fordham University. Her career spans roles in county and state government, nonprofit and for-profit sectors in New Jersey and New York.

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In 2007, Kathryn founded Interstate F.A.C.T.S., LLC, providing expert services for court-involved individuals and families. Life can change in a moment and social workers are here to help. As an adjunct professor, she helps prepare and supervises graduate students for future forensic social work. She is currently at Seton Hall Law School’s Center for Social Justice.  Kathryn has also served in leadership positions with the National Association of Social Workers, including as former NJ vice president and is presently serving as a representative to the NASW Delegate Assembly. Her advocacy extends beyond her profession. Kathryn was appointed to serve on the NJ Governor’s Anti-Bullying Task Force.

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Kathryn is a thought leader, authoring articles and guesting on podcasts like The Suffering Podcast: The Suffering of Secrets, episode 200, discussing resilience, self-care, and navigating the myriad of life’s social challenges. She also serves as a mental health consultant for the MobileTraumaUnit.org, supporting law enforcement and first responders with mental preparedness and support.

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We spoke with Kathryn about the Care & Safety Initiative and her groundbreaking work.

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Kathryn, you’re very familiar with dangerous situations and crises, both personally and as a social worker helping people navigate trauma throughout your career. Do you think this planted the seed for the Care & Safety Initiative (CSI)?

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Absolutely. My first job in 1988 was in child protective services, visiting dangerous neighborhoods in NYC during the AIDS crisis and crack cocaine epidemic. I faced threats like being chased by dogs and shot at, which were terrifying but also eye-opening. After major events like Columbine and 9/11, I began rethinking how we approach trauma care. The increasing frequency of violent incidents, coupled with the rise of cybercrimes, highlighted the need for practical, accessible solutions, which ultimately led to developing CSI.

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What inspired you to launch the Care & Safety Initiative (CSI)?

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The growing number of violent incidents motivated the creation of CSI. A longtime friend and colleague, Mark—an EMT and fire captain—shared my frustration about the lack of effective solutions. We knew people needed skills to respond to dangerous situations before help arrives. As violence escalated in workplaces, schools, and public spaces, Kathryn and a team of colleagues launched the Care & Safety Initiative (CSI). This program teaches organizations and employees life-saving skills for responding to workplace attacks and natural disasters, empowering them to protect themselves until professional help arrives. The initiative focuses on practical, actionable tactics tailored to each organization’s environment. With seed funding from GLSEN.org , we created a program for nonprofits, offering it at a low cost. The response from participants during the launch in 2024 provided the confirmation of the program’s need and high demand. We ask for profit organizations to pay a full fee so each team of ten finances the essential gear for the non-profits paying a minimal stipend.

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Your CSI programs are unique in teaching the practical application of critical tactics designed specifically for each organization’s environment. Can you give us an overview of what participants learn?

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In a crisis, instinctual reactions like fight, flight, or freeze may not be the best choices. CSI shifts participants from reacting emotionally to responding intentionally. We teach them how to assess situations, make informed decisions, and prioritize safety. The program includes practical skills like escape tactics, securing safe areas, and performing lifesaving bleeding control, all aimed at keeping people calm and effective in emergencies.

 

The CSI Program includes key components tailored to each group. Can you explain them?

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We work with each group to identify high-risk areas and potential threats. We emphasize awareness, helping participants understand their environment and recognize early warning signs. We also cover de-escalation techniques, nonviolent self-defense, and how to handle injuries. Recognizing the emotional impact of traumatic events, we provide guidance on psychological well-being and post-incident resilience. Our emergency response plans are tailored to each organization’s unique needs, equipping participants with the tools to stay calm and minimize harm.

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With interest in the Care & Safety Initiative rapidly growing across the country, will you be expanding it further?

Yes, we’re expanding rapidly as current events continue to unfold. One goal is to offer the program as a semester-long course in colleges and to develop a continuing education component for social workers, emergency responders, teachers, lawyers, public figures, C-suite professionals and their families, who regularly face high-risk situations. Our mission is to prepare as many people as possible to handle crises effectively and enhance safety.

Kathryn Dixon’s unwavering dedication to social justice and safety is transforming the social work field and fostering resilience and preparing communities through the Care & Safety Initiative. 

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Kathryn Dixon, MSW, LMSW, LCSW
Founder and Owner, Interstate F.A.C.T.S., LLC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynadixon/