Shannon Chavez-Korell

Shannon Chavez-Korell, Ph.D., LP, is an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology in the Division of Theoretical and Behavioral Foundations at Wayne State University's College of Education. She also serves as the Director of Clinical Training in Counseling Psychology, where she oversees program development, evaluation, and accreditation for both Master’s and Ph.D. programs. Dr. Chavez-Korell teaches graduate courses in multicultural psychology, group psychotherapy, and clinical practicum, and advises doctoral students in Counseling Psychology.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Pennsylvania State University
• Licensed Psychologist, State of Michigan

Her research centers on multicultural and community-based psychological issues, particularly focusing on racial and ethnic identity development among Latinx, American Indian, and African American populations. She investigates poverty-related stress, cultural adaptations of mental health interventions, and historical loss and trauma in American Indian communities. Another major focus is the mental health and social-emotional needs of returning citizens post-incarceration, including Post-Incarceration Syndrome. Her work often employs community-based participatory research and emphasizes social justice and resilience.

Dr. Chavez-Korell's recent publications reflect a consistent trajectory in identity development, cultural competence, and mental health equity. Her articles explore ethnic identity patterns among Latino and Black populations, interventions for underserved elders, and affirmative approaches to transgender mental health. The research spans gerontology, school psychology, clinical training, and public policy implications, demonstrating interdisciplinary breadth grounded in counseling psychology.

Scientific Awards:

• Leadership Institute for Women in Psychology, Certificate of Recognition (APA, 2022)
• Outstanding Contribution of the Year, Division 17, APA (2015)
• Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee Future Leader Award (2013)

Dr. Chavez-Korell has been a principal or co-principal investigator on multiple funded grants, including a $1.2 million SAMHSA grant for 'Un Nuevo Amanecer' and several university-based seed grants focused on poverty, incarceration, and cultural well-being. She actively mentors students and integrates community engagement into her research, notably through partnerships with Chance for Life and urban American Indian organizations. She has served as a treatment fidelity consultant and overseen cultural adaptations of evidence-based treatments in community settings.

She is involved in interdisciplinary research teams, such as the 'Acts of Belonging' project with arts, engineering, and community partners, highlighting her transdisciplinary approach. Her leadership extends to professional organizations, including the National Latinx Psychological Association and Division 17 of the APA, where she contributes to training guidelines and diversity initiatives.