Social Worker and TIES Mentor Celebrates Huge Achievement

A big achievement and honour for TIES Clinical Social Work Supervisor and mentor Lateef Habib.

Habib, who helps train Master of Social Work (MSW) practicum students in the TIES Healthy Minds Counselling Program, has been elected as a Council Member for the Alberta College of Social Workers.

“I was pleasantly surprised,” he says. “I feel so honoured and privileged to represent social workers in the spirit of governance.”

“I truly, really believe in collaboration, respect and information sharing. It’s an absolute privilege.”

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Habib began his career in the “helping field” 25 years ago. He says he knew early on he wanted to make a difference.

“I believe in magic,” he says. “Not the kind from fairy tales, but the kind that happens when people feel seen, supported and empowered to grow. Then miracles can happen.”

His work has spanned community, acute care, private and public sector, outpatient, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Day Hospital and again, teaching.

With years of experience in mental health, addictions and trauma work, he now specializes in supporting individuals on their journeys for leading and change.

“My commitment to helping individuals navigate their struggles and reclaim their lives is nothing short of inspiring,” he says.

“It is my purpose and passion in life. I offer guidance, empathy, and unwavering support to those battling some of life’s toughest challenges.”  

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TIES Healthy Minds Coordinator Jisha Mariam Philip says Habib’s recognition is “well-deserved” adding the organization is “honoured” to have him as part of the team.

“Lateef Habib has been an invaluable mentor to our social work students, who deeply appreciate his warmth, guidance, and expertise,” Philip says.

Philip adds not only does Habib supervise students who then provide individual counselling to clients, his dedication also helps shape the next generation of social workers.

“He meets students at their individual stages of learning, providing the support and guidance they need to grow,” she says. “By fostering a supportive and empowering environment, he helps them develop critical thinking skills, ethical practice, and a client-centred approach.”

Other notable achievements

Lateef Habib is an Assistant Professor (Teaching) as well as Faculty Field Instructor at the University of Calgary (U of C) Faculty of Social Work. In 2022, he received the U of C’s Student Supervision, Mentorship and Support Teaching Excellence Award.

In 2023, he received the Alberta Health Services (AHS) CARES Award. 

Lateef has served as a Board of Director for Social Work Association of Alberta (SWAA).

He is also the Co-Chair of the Alberta's for Health Research Collaborative Council.

More about the Council

The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) is the College's Board of Directors and is comprised of regulated members on the general registry and members of the public.

The council makes important decisions that shape the regulation of social work and promote public safety.

It is appointed by the Government of Alberta.

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