Micki Washburn: Graduate College of Social Work - University of Houston
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Micki Washburn

micki-washburn1.jpg

Research Scientist

mewashbu@central.uh.edu 
Room: Social Work Building, Room 315
Phone: 713-743-0319

Center for Drug and Social Policy Research

Personal Statement

I believe that research, practice, policy, and advocacy are all important aspects of social work.  Today’s social workers must develop and utilize skill sets from all four of these areas to adequately address the many important social issues facing us today.

My clinical mental health practice experience working with the diverse individuals and families in the greater Houston area has informed my research focusing on addressing health disparities in historically underserved communities. As the leader of the Virtual Reality Clinical Research lab, I explore how technology can be used to increase the acceptability, availability, and efficacy of community based mental health and substance abuse interventions.  Our current projects include a study exploring the use of virtual reality cue exposure therapy (VRCET) to address heroin misuse and HIV/Hepatitis C risk in Mexican American men and women, as well as a study investigating the use of virtual environments to decrease social anxiety in retuning combat veterans.

Education

PhD, Social Work, University of Houston
MA, Clinical Psychology, University of Houston Clear Lake
BA, Psychology, Rice University

Licenses & Certifications

2015 – Licensed Master Social Worker – Texas
2011 – Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor – Texas
2009 – Nationally Certified Counselor – National Board of Certified Counselors
2006 – Licensed Professional Counselor - Texas

Courses Taught

  • SOCW 6305 – Research and Knowledge Building for Social Work Practice
  • SOCW 7305 – Evaluation of Social Work Practice
  • SOCW 7397 – Social Work with LGBTQ+ Communities
  • SOCW 7324 – Clinical Applications of the DSM in Social Work

Research Interests

Health disparities related to mental health and substance use in historically underserved communities, mental health of child welfare involved youth, applications of technology in behavioral health assessment and treatment, mindfulness based clinical intervention research, social policy related to SOGIE.