Julie Tennille

Julie Tennille is an Associate Professor at West Chester University in the College of Education and Social Work. With a PhD in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania and an MSW from Temple University, she focuses on Motivational Interviewing (MI), intimacy/sexuality in mental health recovery, HIV prevention, and field education models.

• Degrees: PhD (Social Welfare, University of Pennsylvania), MSW (Temple University), BS (Psychology, York College of Pennsylvania)

Her research emphasizes community-based MI implementation, building social work leadership in integrated healthcare, and addressing systemic barriers to intimacy for individuals with mental health conditions. She co-developed the FIELD model (Field Instructors Extending EBP Learning in Dyads) to enhance workforce competence.

Julie’s publications (2011–2016) span journals like Social Work in Public Health and Sexuality and Disability, with a focus on HIV prevention, recovery-oriented practices, and pedagogical innovation. Current projects include grant-funded MI sustainability studies and HIV risk assessment tool development.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Emerging Practice-Research Scholar Award (2014)
  • Herman Levin Scholarship (2010-11, 2012-13)

She actively collaborates with the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion and trains healthcare professionals in MI techniques through workshops and continuing education programs.