Kendal Holtrop

Kendal Holtrop is an associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Michigan State University (MSU), within the College of Social Sciences. She holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Psychology, all from MSU. Previously, she served on the faculty at Florida State University before returning to MSU in 2017. Dr. Holtrop is a licensed marriage and family therapist and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, emphasizing clinical practice alongside academic roles.

Her research focuses on expanding access to evidence-based parenting interventions for underserved populations, particularly addressing mental health disparities. She adapts interventions for community settings and examines parenting practices to improve family processes. Key projects include telehealth delivery of parenting programs, cultural adaptation for Latino families, and strategies to support homeless families. Dr. Holtrop has received funding through the CHIPS fellowship (2015–2016) and holds editorial roles at the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy and Family Process.

Her work integrates implementation science, qualitative analysis, and community partnerships. Recent publications emphasize DEI initiatives in mental health services, antiracist resistance in child development, and telehealth efficacy. She advocates for culturally competent interventions and has piloted programs for parents aging out of foster care and homeless families. Dr. Holtrop collaborates with the Couple & Family Therapy Clinic and Child Development Laboratory at MSU, bridging research and clinical practice.