Roni Berger

Roni Berger, PhD, is a Professor at Adelphi University's School of Social Work with over 30 years of academic experience. Her research focuses on trauma in cross-cultural contexts, immigrant/refugee experiences, and posttraumatic growth. She holds clinical credentials as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NYS) and Clinical Family Therapist (AAMFT).

Education includes:

• Ph.D. from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (1994)
• Psychotherapy certification from Tel Aviv University (1977)
• MSW and BSW from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (1974, 1969)

Her research examines how sociopolitical environments shape trauma responses across diverse populations including immigrants, refugees, and religious communities. Current investigations explore cultural mediators of posttraumatic growth, trauma-informed pedagogy, and qualitative methodologies for marginalized groups.

Publication analysis reveals consistent focus on: cultural competence in trauma care, immigrant mental health interventions, innovative qualitative methodologies, and social work education reform. Recent work addresses pandemic-related pedagogical challenges and cross-cultural manifestations of psychological distress.

Awards include:

• Two Fulbright Awards (Hong Kong 2007, Tel Aviv 2011)
• President Research Award (2004)
• NATO Science for Peace sponsorship (2012)

Notable advising includes chairing 20+ dissertations on trauma, cultural identity, and marginalized populations. Secured multiple grants including from Fulbright, NATO, and Adelphi University for studies on cultural trauma and community resilience. Leads international educational initiatives in Israel, Ghana, Nepal, and Hong Kong.

Directs global trauma education programs, including intensive courses in Israel examining Holocaust intergenerational trauma, security stress, and immigrant experiences. Developed cross-university collaborations in Australia and Hong Kong to advance trauma-informed curriculum development.