Virginia J. Zecchini

Virginia J. Zecchini is a Clinical Assistant Professor (Social Work) at Yale School of Medicine’s Child Study Center. She holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Connecticut. With nearly 30 years of experience, she specializes in home-based mental health services for children and families at high risk of psychiatric placement, focusing on strengthening familial relationships and parental mentalization.

Education & Training:

• MSc, Columbia University, Social Work
• BA, University of Connecticut, Psychology
• AA, Orange County Community College, Liberal Arts

Professional Roles:

• Program Director of Intensive In-Home Children and Adolescent Psychiatric Services (IICAPS)
• Co-Chair (6 years) of the Equity and Inclusion Committee
• Member of the Social Work Fellowship Advisory Committee

Research & Clinical Focus: Trauma-informed care, family dynamics impacting mental health, and culturally responsive therapy. Her work emphasizes bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural clinical practice across home, school, and community settings.

Affiliations: Yale Medicine, Yale Child Study Center. Recognized for long-term service contributions in 2022.