“My work as a social worker over the past 27 years has been emotionally, mentally, and spiritually rewarding. It has been an honor to serve others as they have had the courage to choose and embrace a life with less stress and more humor.”
Rita holds a Master’s degree in social work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work and an undergraduate degree from John Carroll University.
During her professional career Rita has worked in non-profit organizations, academia and the healthcare industry including oncology social work. She served cancer patients and staff as a social worker in outpatient, community-based cancer treatment clinics. In this capacity, she provided emotional and spiritual support, raised money, conducted research, organized educational and social events and offered numerous classes on self-care, meditation and breath work.
Eager to inspire change in organizations, Rita leads her company, Turning Point Services, Ltd., where she researches, writes, consults, and speaks on topics which professionally and personally support individuals. Rita Abdallah is a nationally acclaimed speaker in the fields of cancer wellness, joy, stress reduction and self-care.
Author of “Nurturing Spirit through Complementary CancerCare” for the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Rita also co-authored several clinical oncology articles. Rita is published in Elephant Journal .
What does it mean to be a licensed and credentialed professional?
What is an LISW-S?
In Ohio, Licensed Independent Social Workers with Supervision Designation (LISW-S) meet these requirements:
- Two full years and 3,000 hours of work experience under the supervision of another LISW-S
- Pass an exam
- One year post licensure experience as an LISW
- Obtain 30 board-approved continuing education credit hours
What is an ACSW?
The Academy of Certified Social Workers meet these requirements:
- Current NASW membership
- Master’s degree in social work from a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Two years of postgraduate social work employment and professional supervision by an MSW credentialed supervisor
- Professional evaluations that validate their knowledge, understanding, and application of social work principles and values from an MSW supervisor and two social work colleagues
- 20 hours of relevant continuing education, and
- Adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics and NASW Standards for Continuing Professional Education, and are subject to the NASW adjudication process
Sources: Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist Board; National Association of Social Workers
National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Ohio Chapter 2020 Statewide Outstanding Service Award
National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Ohio Chapter 2020 Region 3 Outstanding Service Award
Journey of Hope Charlotte Tletski Golden Dove Award Excellence in Cancer Services
National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Ohio Chapter Exceptional Commitment to Social Work Profession
The State of Ohio Senate Honoring Rita Abdallah for Superb Attainment
Cleveland State University Outstanding Continuing Education Presenter
University Hospitals Distinction in Serving Patients and Loved Ones
Mercy Health Lorain Hospital Service Excellence Award Recognition for High-Quality Patient Care
Cleveland State University Women Who Make Difference Distinguished Contributions in Academia
Humor at Work Everybody Loves Them Award
Ohio House of Representatives Exemplary Dedication to the Poor and Underserved
Outstanding Service as a Jesuit Volunteer
Best Life Coaches in Cleveland