Jennifer Murphy

Jennifer Murphy is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington, specializing in adolescent mental health service utilization and school-based interventions. Her research examines longitudinal impacts of mental health services, school social work practices, and interprofessional collaboration in educational settings.

Education:

• PhD in Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University (2023)
• MS in Disaster Resilience Leadership Studies, Tulane University (2016)
• MSW in Social Work, Tulane University (2015)
• BS in Sociology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (2014)

Dr. Murphy's research focuses on critical intersections of child/adolescent mental health, service utilization patterns, and school-based interventions. Her work employs mixed-methods approaches to investigate barriers to mental health access, the role of school social workers, and impacts of adverse childhood experiences. Current projects examine longitudinal service utilization trajectories, campus food insecurity, and refugee mental health.

Her publication trends reveal strong emphasis on adolescent mental health service systems (60%), school-based interventions (25%), and methodological innovation in mixed-methods research (15%). Recent work increasingly incorporates cross-cultural perspectives and pandemic-related service adaptations.

Scientific Awards:

• Hans Falk Dissertation Award Scholarship, VCU School of Social Work (2022)
• RAACE Fellowship, VCU School of Social Work (2020)

Dr. Murphy serves as thesis committee member for four Master's students and teaches graduate courses in social policy, research methods, and school social work. She actively reviews for journals including Journal of School Health and Children & Schools, while contributing to university committees on mental health and academic policy. Her professional service extends to the School Social Work Association of America and Society for Social Work and Research.