Ashley Austin

Dr. Ashley Austin serves as a Full Professor at Barry University's School of Mental Health Counseling and Social Work, where she is internationally recognized for her expertise in trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirmative care with over 25 years of clinical, educational, and research experience. Her work spans national and international contexts as a keynote speaker, trainer, and consultant advancing trauma-responsive interventions for marginalized populations.

Her research focuses on integrating EMDR therapy with mindfulness and somatic approaches to address complex trauma, identity-based harm, and systemic oppression, particularly for LGBTQ+ communities. She pioneers trauma-responsive pedagogy in higher education, developing inclusive curricula and faculty training programs that emphasize neurobiological frameworks and student empowerment.

Dr. Austin's scholarly contributions include over 50 peer-reviewed publications featured in journals like the Journal of Interpersonal Violence and Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, recognized by the American Psychological Association.

Her distinguished service includes:

• Ally Award from the TransLatin@ Coalition
• Barry University’s Outstanding Faculty Award

She secures significant research grants supporting trauma and LGBTQ+ health initiatives while co-leading the university's Trauma Responsive Webinar Series and collaborating with community organizations including SOGIE Center, HopeLab, Our Fund, and Equality Florida through projects like Colors of Trans Expression and Transgender Day of Remembrance and Resilience.