I received my undergraduate degree in public health, and both my master's degree (MSW) and doctor of social work degree (DSW) from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. Since I started my career in the field of public health, I have always been passionate about challenging the systems that our clients engage with on every level, micro to macro. I have spent most of my career working with individuals who have experienced trauma, in the form of interpersonal violence, abuse, or loss and in both medical systems and community settings. I enjoy presenting at local and national conferences in the areas of human trafficking, sexual health education, and complex trauma. I also work in private practice with adolescents around self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual health, and healthy relationships.
My teaching philosophy is in line with my clinical practice in regard to meeting students where they are when they come into the program. I encourage students to find their passion, and to find their place in the field. I emphasize a relational approach when engaging with both clients and client systems. Social work was built on grassroots efforts and advocacy. I hope to always encourage students to never stop advocating and working for efforts that are important to them as individuals.
Domestic minor sex trafficking, complex trauma, trauma-informed care, helping clients gain access to mental health services, crisis intervention, and sexual health and education.
Clinical Assistant Professor Karie McGuire authored the introduction to this newsletter winter edition for GAHTS, an organization of scholars dedicated to supporting better futures for survivors of human trafficking.