Kimberly Warmsley

Kimberly Warmsley is a passionate and transformative leader, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and a steadfast advocate for social justice deeply rooted in the heart of Stockton, California. Raised in the vibrant and often overlooked neighborhood of South Stockton, where diversity meets historical marginalization, Kimberly's upbringing shaped her life's work. Her journey reflects a profound commitment to lifting those most in need, driven by the belief that community, resilience, and advocacy are the foundation of true healing and social change. Her dedication to social justice is not just a profession, but a personal mission that inspires those around her.

Her path to higher education began at San Joaquin Delta College, where she earned multiple Associate of Arts degrees in Public Safety, Business Administration, and Sociology before earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Sociology from California State University, Stanislaus. Kimberly's academic journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge, deeply rooted in her desire to create meaningful impact for others.

As a trauma-informed practitioner and medical social worker, Kimberly has extensive experience addressing mental health challenges, trauma, grief and loss, abuse, and co-occurring disorders. Throughout her career, she has worked with individuals experiencing emotional distress and trauma, ensuring they receive care grounded in unconditional acceptance and dignity. As the founder of Kimberly Warmsley's Therapeutic and Trauma Services, she continues to provide personalized care to those in need, offering a safe space for healing and growth.

Kimberly's influence extends beyond the therapy room. In 2021, she made history when elected to the Stockton City Council, representing District 6. Her tenure as councilmember and Vice Mayor was marked by her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of her constituents, advocating for health equity, job creation, and revitalizing local infrastructure. As a policymaker, Kimberly has always been driven by a deep sense of purpose to bridge the gaps in access and opportunity, particularly for marginalized communities.

In 2024, Kimberly was appointed Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers, California Chapter (NASW-CA), where she continues to shape the future of social work in California. In this role, she amplifies her advocacy for social justice, mental health, and transformative leadership. As a policy influencer, Kimberly has led numerous historic social justice movements, including the country's first guaranteed income study, the transformative Healthy Communities Initiative, and the Stockton Status of Women Report. Her tireless efforts have ensured that equity, inclusion, and opportunity remain central to policy decision-making, especially for BIPOC communities during times of crisis.

Kimberly's work is deeply personal. Growing up in one of the most impoverished communities in her county, she has lived the challenges she now works to overcome. As a survivor, a clinician, and a professional, she has turned her experiences into strategies that empower others. In every role she takes on, Kimberly champions the belief that every person, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to thrive in a just and equitable world. Her personal journey adds a layer of empathy to her advocacy work, making her a relatable figure in the community.

As the former Executive Director of NASW-CA, Kimberly shared her vision with social workers across the state, vowing to transform the profession into a more inclusive and effective force for change. She led with a collaborative, innovative spirit and relentlessly focuses on results. "We are living in critical times," she says, "and mental health and wellness require real solutions. We can and will create a fair, just, and equitable world for all." Kimberly recently, began a new social work professional association, known as Elevating Social Work: A New Era of Justice and Liberation: The Professional Association for Transformative Social Work. The mission is simple, to cultivate a powerful and justice-rooted social work profession that disrupts systemic oppression, repairs historical harm, and builds liberated futures. Through radical education, advocacy, research, and leadership development, we elevate social work as a force for collective care, truth, and transformation.

Kimberly Warmsley's journey is one of strength, compassion, and tireless advocacy, reflecting her unwavering belief that with collective effort, we can build stronger, healthier communities where every person can heal, grow, and flourish. Her work stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the potential for positive change.