Laura Dryjanska

Dr. Laura Dryjanska is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Asbury University. She holds a PhD in Social Representations and Communication from Sapienza University of Rome (2012). Her work focuses on human trafficking prevention, modern slavery, and migrant resilience, with interdisciplinary collaborations involving psychology, public health, and social justice advocacy.

Dr. Dryjanska is actively involved in the American Psychological Association (APA), serving in Divisions 1, 9, 14, and 52. She has developed specialized courses on human trafficking for both undergraduate and graduate students, emphasizing advocacy and practical intervention strategies. Her research explores topics like acculturation processes among migrants, pandemic impacts on global health disparities, and the role of spirituality in mental health resilience.

Notable awards include the APA Div. 1 Citizen Psychologist Award (2020) and Fellow status in APA Divisions 1 and 9. She has presented at major conferences such as the APA Annual Convention and the International Congress of Psychology, addressing issues ranging from trafficking victim support to healthcare ethics during crises.

Professional activities include chairing the “Big Tent” initiative of the Alliance for Work and Organizational Psychology and contributing to global health initiatives like the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force. Her work bridges academic research with real-world advocacy, aiming to empower vulnerable populations through psychological frameworks.