Welcome! I am Dr. S. Lavi Wilson, a dedicated social worker, licensed therapist, clinical supervisor, and mental health equity scholar with over 15 years of clinical practice and a decade of experience in higher education. My passion lies in preparing future social workers, advancing research, and championing social justice.

Through my work, I integrate mental health advocacy, generative AI, anti-oppressive practices, and technology to foster inclusive and equitable environments. My commitment is to empower individuals, uplift communities, and transform systems through innovative teaching, impactful research, and compassionate practice.

Explore my journey, achievements, and the services I offer as an educator, consultant, and scholar-practitioner.

Foundation and Principles: My teaching philosophy is grounded in social work principles such as empowerment, strength-based perspectives, and person-in-environment frameworks. With a background in clinical practice, I integrate anti-oppressive theory, critical race theory, and systems theory to promote equity and social justice, fostering an inclusive learning environment. I model ethical, culturally aware practices, encouraging students to expand their skills across various social contexts.

Pedagogical Approach: I apply Knowles' Theory of Andragogy to adult education, focusing on self-concept, experience, readiness, learning orientation, and motivation. I inform students of educational standards and emphasize skill transferability. Classroom activities connect students' experiences with theoretical knowledge, fostering practical application and critical analysis of systemic issues.

Fostering a Dynamic Learning Environment: I employ strategies that encourage professional growth and self-reflection. By adapting to student feedback and fostering co-creation in learning, I model flexibility and accountability. Open communication and collaboration inspire students to push their learning boundaries.

Innovative Teaching Practices: Innovative assignments, such as Social Media Advocacy Campaigns and Telehealth Simulations, engage students in real-world applications. These practices enhance understanding of digital advocacy and remote service delivery, preparing students for contemporary social work challenges.

Critical Thinking and Diverse Resources: I cultivate critical thinking through diverse resources and reflective assignments, providing flexibility and engagement. Students are evaluated through active participation and assignments, with opportunities for extra credit to deepen their learning.

Assessment and Evaluation: Structured assessments using Student Reflection Instruments (SRIs) and rubrics ensure alignment with competencies, fostering ethical behavior and social justice engagement. This approach supports student growth and readiness for professional social work practice.

Continuous Improvement and Student Engagement: Feedback surveys and personalized communication enhance course content and student engagement, creating a supportive learning community.

Professional Growth and Development: I strive for professional advancement by integrating diverse learning styles and bridging research with practice. My commitment to diversity and inclusion, coupled with technological proficiency, enhances my teaching effectiveness.

With an academic and professional career rooted in excellence and innovation, I have dedicated myself to social work education, research, and mentorship across various institutions. My expertise spans curriculum development, field education, and evidence-based practice, with a strong commitment to preparing future social workers for the complexities of the profession. Through my roles at multiple universities, I have engaged in interdisciplinary collaboration, contributed to curriculum enhancement, and fostered student success in both online and in-person learning environments.

With an academic and professional career rooted in excellence and innovation, I have served in roles such as:

My scholarship is grounded in the exploration of social justice, mental health, and cultural identity within Black communities. I aim to illuminate the complexities of African-centered activism and its impact on modern social work and mental health practices.

As a clinician with a robust background in social work, education, and psychology, my approach to clinical supervision is informed by my diverse educational and professional experiences. With a Doctor of Social Work focusing on Clinical Practice and Leadership from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. I approach supervision from a collaborative framework to help supervisees grow in their professional life, ultimately enhancing their ability to serve clients effectively. This involves assisting mental health interns in clearly developing their professional identity, with a focus on exploring and developing their individual therapeutic orientation, style, and professional identity.