معرفی
Mari Alschuler is an Associate Professor of Social Work at Youngstown State University (YSU) since 2013, with over 30 years of clinical social work experience in New York City and South Florida. She holds a Ph.D. in Leadership and Education from Barry University (2012), alongside advanced degrees in creative writing, counseling psychology, and organizational psychology. Dr. Alschuler is a licensed clinical social worker, credentialed poetry therapist, and published author in creative fields. Her academic roles include teaching advanced clinical practice, field education, LGBTQ+ social work, and military social work courses. She leads initiatives on veteran student success, mindfulness in social work training, and Buddhist-informed practice methods.
Education:
- Ph.D., Leadership and Education, Barry University, 2012
- M.Ed., Counseling Psychology, Teachers College Columbia University, 1987
- M.A., Organizational Psychology, Teachers College Columbia University, 1986
- M.F.A., Creative Writing/Poetry, Columbia University, 1982
- B.A., Semiotics, Brown University, 1980
Research Focus: Dr. Alschuler’s work bridges clinical practice and social justice, emphasizing marginalized populations. Key areas include:
- Educational equity for military veterans
- Mindfulness integration in field instruction
- Therapeutic uses of creative arts (poetry therapy, journaling)
- Cultural competence in social work education
- Buddhist principles in clinical practice
Awards/Honors:
- NASW-OH Lifetime Achievement Award (2023)
- IFBPT Public Service Award (2023)
- YSU Campus Leadership Diversity Award (2015)
Teaching & Service: She created YSU’s LGBTQ+ social work elective and developed a nationally recognized curricular guide for military social work. Professional roles include psychotherapy practice, editorial board memberships (Routledge, Council on Social Work Education), and community leadership in social justice advocacy. Current projects involve exploring mindfulness-based interventions for anxiety disorders and Buddhist ethics in clinical supervision.
Labs/Initiatives: Leads YSU’s creative arts therapies program within the MSW curriculum, integrating poetry therapy and mindfulness practices. Collaborates with local organizations to improve veteran student retention and community mental health services.
