Kris Varjas

Kris Varjas is an Associate Dean for Research and Doctoral Studies and a Professor in the School Psychology program at the Georgia State University (GSU) College of Education & Human Development. Her work focuses on school climate, bullying prevention, LGBTQ+ youth well-being, and trauma-informed care. She holds a Psy.D. from the University at Albany (2003) and prior degrees including an M.S.W. (1993) and B.A. (1991).

Her research investigates bullying dynamics, cyberbullying, and mental health interventions in educational settings. She advocates for inclusive strategies for gender and sexually diverse youth and has developed tools like the Cultural Humility Scale for Students. Varjas emphasizes educator well-being and teacher-student relationships as foundational to positive school environments.

Varjas collaborates with GSU's research centers, including the Center for Research on School Climate and the Ken Matheny Center for the Study of Stress, Trauma, and Resilience. She actively advises doctoral students in school psychology and promotes professional development through trauma-informed training programs.

Her recent work explores systemic interventions in alternative education and juvenile justice contexts. She emphasizes global perspectives in school psychology, particularly in South African township schools and Sri Lankan adolescent programs.