Seraina Caviezel Schmitz

Seraina Caviezel Schmitz is a Lecturer and Project Manager at the Lucerne School of Social Work (HSLU SA), part of the Institute for Social Work and Law. She holds a Licentiate in Philosophy (Psychology) from the University of Bern and advanced degrees in Neuropsychology and Higher Education Pedagogy from the Universities of Zurich and Lucerne. Her work focuses on social perception, equity, violence prevention, and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Education:

• 2003-2009: Licentiate in Philosophy (Psychology), University of Bern
• 2013-2016: Diploma in Advanced Studies in Neuropsychology, University of Zurich
• 2016-2019: Certificate of Advanced Studies in Higher Education Pedagogy, Lucerne School of Social Work

Research Interests: Dr. Caviezel Schmitz explores social perception and stereotyping, accessibility in education, violence prevention strategies, and the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities within criminal justice systems. Her work emphasizes equity, particularly for marginalized groups.

Recent Research Trends: Her publications between 2020-2025 highlight pandemic-related studies on family violence, parental burnout, and accessible support systems for vulnerable populations. She also evaluates therapeutic programs for sex offenders with intellectual disabilities and digital tools for education.

Grants and Projects:

• Lead multiple projects on violence prevention, including the 'Halt Gewalt' pilot program and the INA exhibition evaluation
• Recipient of grants from Swiss disability offices and cantonal justice departments

Labs/Teams: Active in the Institute's interdisciplinary teams addressing social work pedagogy and forensic psychology. Co-developed the E-Tutor program for student support.