John Keesler
- Ph.D., MSW, LMSW
- Associate Professor
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IU Bloomington
Contact
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(812) 855-2580
- jkeesler@iu.edu
About
John M. Keesler, PhD, LMSW is an assistant professor in the School of Social Work at Indiana University Bloomington. He is originally from Buffalo, NY, and currently resides in Southern Indiana. He has more than 10 years practice experience in intellectual/developmental disabilities, with an emphasis on behavioral health.
Education
PhD
Emphasis/Major: Social Welfare2016 - University at Buffalo
Dissertation: An Evaluation of Individual and Organizational Factors in Predicting Professional Quality of Life among Direct Support Professionals in Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services
MSW
Emphasis/Major: Social Work2009 - University at Buffalo
BA
Emphasis/Major: Psychology1999 - Buffalo State College
Research Interests
John M. Keesler conducts community-based research focusing on adversity/trauma, trauma-informed care, and quality of life, with an emphasis on these substantive areas in intellectual/developmental disability service organizations.
Teaching Interests
John M. Keesler has taught multiple courses, including practice and research, across the social work curriculum. He is most interested in creating opportunities to augment students' experiences through community-based service learning projects.
Awards and Honors
- 2024 Student Award
2024 - American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - Distinguished PhD Alumni Award
2022 - University at Buffalo School of Social Work - Top Cited Article 2020-2021
2022 - Wiley - Disability Manuscript Award
2022 - Council on Social Work Education - Steven Reiss Research Award
2021 - National Association for the Dually Diagnosed - AHEC Partnership Matters Award
2020 - Indiana Area Health Education Center Network - AAIDD Early Career Scholarship
2020 - American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - AAIDD Student/Early Career Professional Scholarship
2019 - American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - Training Fellow
2017 - Alcohol and Other Drugs Education Program for Social Work Faculty Boston University, NIH/NIAAA
Publications
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Keesler, J. M., & Wilkerson, D. A. (2024). Advancing Mental Health for Rural Hoosiers through University-Community Partnerships and Digital Social Work Practice Grant.
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Keesler, J. M., Wu, W., Presnell, J., & Fukui, S. (2024). Trauma-Informed Climate Scale-10 and Attitudes Related to Trauma-Informed Care-10: An Examination of Scale Psychometrics Using Data from Disability Service Providers. Disability and Health Journal. Published. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dhjo.2024.101583
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Keesler, J. M., Wilkerson, D. A., White, K., & Dickinson, S. (2023). Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on Social Work Students. Advances in Social Work. Published.
COVID-19 had a profound impact on teaching and learning at academic institutions across the globe. This study examined the experiences of social work students (n = 884) during the pandemic and their associated level of burnout. Using a mixed methods approach, data from an online survey within a school of social work at a large Midwestern university were examined using stepwise regression and thematic analysis. Student demographics, academic characteristics, and experiences with COVID-19 were examined as predictors of burnout. Resilience was tested as a moderator of the association between COVID-19 experiences and burnout. Regression models accounted for 34.3% to 45.5% of variance across three domains of burnout (i.e., exhaustion, cynicism, and professional/academic efficacy), with COVID-related experiences accounting for most of the variance. Although resilience had a significant main effect, the interactions of resilience and COVID-19 experiences were not significant. Quantitative results were illuminated by thematic analysis of the qualitative data from which emerged four major themes: online teaching pedagogy, impact of COVID-19, transition of teaching and learning, and affective domains of learning. Engaging in humanistic education is discussed as a possible approach to circumvent burnout, bolster student resilience, and encourage academic success.
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Keesler, J. M., Purcell, A. S., & Thomas-Giyer, J. (2023). Advancing Trauma-Informed Care in Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services - A Pilot Study of a Digital Training with Direct Service Providers. Journal of Applied Research In Intellectual Disabilities. Published.
Background:As trauma-informed care advances in the service delivery system forpeople with intellectual and developmental disabilities, additional resources areneeded to foster staff development. This article describes the development and pilotevaluation of a digital training on trauma-informed care among direct service pro-viders (DSPs) in the disability service industry.Method:Following an AB design, a mixed methods approach was used to analysethe responses of 24 DSPs to an online survey at baseline and at follow-up.Results:The training was associated with increased staff knowledge in some domainsand greater alignment with trauma-informed care. Staff expressed a strong likelihoodof using trauma-informed care in practice and identified organisational assets andbarriers to implementation.Conclusions:Digital trainings can facilitate staff development and the advancementof trauma-informed care. Although additional efforts are warranted, this study fills agap in the literature regarding staff training and trauma-informed care.
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Brown, J. R., & Keesler, J. M. (2023). Creating a digital school safety service: A pathway from traditional analog practice to digital innovation with technology.
Brown, J.R., & Keesler, J.M. (In press). Creating a digital school safety service: A pathway from traditional analog practice to digital innovation with technology. In Wilkerson, D.A., & O’Sullivan, L. (Eds.). Social work in an online world. Washington, D.C., NASW Press.
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McNally, P., Irvine, M., Taggart, L., Shevlin, M., & Keesler, J. M. (2022). Exploring the knowledge base of trauma and trauma informed care of staff working in community residential accommodation for adults with an intellectual disability . Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. Published. https://doi.org/10.1111/jar.13002
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Presnell, J., Keesler, J. M., & Thomas-Giyer, J. (2022). Assessing alignment between intellectual and developmental disability service providers and trauma-informed care: an exploratory study . Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 60(5), 951-368. https://doi.org/10.1352/1934-9556-60.5.351
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are disproportionately impacted by potentially traumatic experiences; however, organizations serving this population have lagged in their integration of trauma-informed care (TIC). Trauma-informed care is a systemwide response to the pervasiveness of trauma that frequently requires an organizational shift rooted in staff training. Using an online statewide survey, the present study examined beliefs and training among IDD service providers. Responses from 288 service providers suggested some alignment among beliefs and staff training content with TIC principles. Although the findings indicate a foundation for TIC, intentional efforts are needed for IDD agencies to fully embrace TIC.
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Burkhardt, T., Daugherty, L., Keesler, J. M., Neubaum, B., & Watkins, I. (2022). Creative Arts for Vets - The CAV Book. Indiana University Bloomington.
This book integrates creative arts and psychoeducation to promote health and wellbeing among Veterans.
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Thomas-Giyer, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). An Exploration of Maternal Adversity and Childhood Outcomes in Low-Income Rural Families. Child Abuse and Neglect, 111. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104817
Research has linked maternal adversity to poorer childhood outcomes, with a frequent focus on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among urban women. The current study expands this area of inquiry by exploring ACEs and trauma among low-income mothers, and outcomes for their children, in the rural Midwest. A convenient sample of 140 women (mean age = 28.8 years old; 58% high school education or lower) from local Head Start programming responded to the survey comprised of multiple measures, including: the Adverse Childhood Events (ACE) measure, the Brief Trauma Questionnaire (BTQ), the Brief Attachment Scale (BAS-16), and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 1.5-5). One in five women experienced at least one ACE while 31.5% had an ACE score of 4 or more. Further, 47.8% had experienced at least 1 traumatic event. ACE scores were unrelated to childhood outcomes. Maternal sexual trauma was significantly related with childhood attention problems and reactivity. Harmonious attachment mediated these relationships with models accounting for 11-35% of variance in childhood outcomes. The findings suggest the importance of identifying types of adversity and perception of adversity, in addition to cumulative adversity. Differences in current findings from previous studies may be attributable to the multi-generational approach of Head Start.
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Keesler, J. M., & Presnell, J. (2021). Research-Centered Service Learning:MSW Student Reflections on Interviewing Incarcerated Individuals. Journal of Social Work Education. Published.
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). Promoting Satisfaction and Reducing Fatigue: Understanding the Impact of Trauma-informed Organizational Culture on Psychological Wellness among DSPs. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. Published. https://doi.org/DOI:10.1111/jar.12715
Background: Organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are challenged with maintaining a viable workforce of direct support professionals (DSPs). Amid multiple factors, organizational culture based on trauma-informed care may promote DSP retention through increased satisfaction and decreased fatigue. Method: An online survey was used to gather data from DSPs (n = 380) across seven agencies and two online social media groups. Data were analyzed using stepwise regression to identify the relationship between trauma-informed organizational culture and professional quality of life (i.e. satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress). Results: Trauma-informed organizational culture was associated with increased DSP psychological wellness. Regression models explained 7.3% - 40.5% of the variance in professional quality of life. Conclusions: Although trauma-informed initiatives have lagged in IDD services, this study provides preliminary evidence to bolster its justification, highlighting it as a possible partial response to the current workforce challenges.
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Keesler, J. M., & Fukui, S. (2020). Factor Structure of the Professional Quality of Life Scale among Direct Support Professionals: Factorial Validity and Scale Reliability . Journal of Intellectual Disability Research. Published. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jir.12766
Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide critical support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). DSPs may experience both contentment and struggles with their work. Thus, understanding their holistic work experiences is important. The Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale assesses multiple domains of work experiences (i.e., compassion satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress). Although it has been used extensively in research among helping professions, it has rarely been used with DSPs. This study examined the factor structure of the ProQOL using secondary data from 495 DSPs. Using confirmatory factor analysis, we confirmed the content validity of the ProQOL with the three-factor solution. In the validation process, some modifications were suggested to the model, which also improved the scale reliability. The current study provides initial evidence of the content validity of the ProQOL when used with DSPs, as well as recommendations for subsequent improvement and future research.
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). Trauma-Specific Treatment for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Review of the Literature from 2008-2018. Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities. Published. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jppi.12347
BackgroundIndividuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are at increased risk for adverse experiences and developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, trauma and PTSD in this population are frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Despite the availability of multiple types of trauma‐specific treatments for the general population, there is a gap in understanding these collective interventions within the IDD literature.
Specific AimsThe aim of this article was to conduct a review of the peer‐reviewed literature on trauma‐specific treatment and IDD published from 2008 to 2018.
MethodA systematic search of online databases was conducted using Academic Search Premier, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, and Social Work Abstracts. A quality appraisal was conducted on the studies included in the review.
FindingsTwelve articles described four types of trauma‐specific treatments: child–parent psychotherapy, exposure therapy, trauma‐focused cognitive behavior therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. All studies demonstrated that the interventions were well tolerated and associated with improvement in trauma symptoms. Eight studies demonstrated sustained improvement at follow‐up, ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years.
DiscussionResearch on trauma‐specific treatments among individuals with IDD continues to present with methodological limitations yet provides considerations for future practice and a foundation for future research. -
Keesler, J. M. (2020). From the DSP perspective: Exploring the use of practices that align with trauma-informed care in organizations serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 58(3), 208-220. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1352/1934-9556-58.3.208
Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a system-wide approach that emphasizes organizational practices based upon principles of safety, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and trustworthiness. It is intended to influence an entire organization, with implications for clients and the workforce. The present study explored the extent to which IDD organizations utilize practices that align with TIC with their DSP workforce. Through an online survey, 380 DSPs (84% women; 82% white) responded to a trauma-informed organizational culture measure. Results demonstrated variability across items and significant differences between TIC principles with safety most strongly scored, and collaboration least strongly scored. Perception of organizational practices differed by ethnicity, with non-white DSPs having more favorable responses. Current practices with DSPs align with TIC, however, increased attention through explicit trauma-informed initiatives is warranted.
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Troxel, J. (2020). They care for others, but what about themselves? Understanding selfcare among DSPs’ and its relationship to professional quality of life . Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Published.
Direct support professionals (DSPs) are integral to organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), however, burnout and turnover are significant concerns. As organizations struggle, additional strategies are needed to foster and maintain a viable workforce. The present study explores selfcare among 153 DSPs, the relationship between selfcare and professional quality of life (ProQOL), and resilience as a mediating factor. Results indicate that DSPs engage in a range of selfcare behaviors that contribute to their ProQOL. Further, resilience mediates the relationship between selfcare and ProQOL, with selfcare and resilience accounting for 12% to 28% of variability in ProQOL. The promotion of selfcare among DSPs is discussed as a viable option for organizations to strengthen their workforce.
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Keesler, J. M., Brault, E., Powell, J., & Johnston, H. (2020). If We Can Feel Like We Have Purpose and We Belong” - Exploring the Experiences of Drug-Involved Individuals in a Rural Jail. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly. Published. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1080/07347324.2020.1765712
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Brown, J. R., Keesler, J. M., Karikari, I., & Kausch, M. (2020). School Principals Putting Bullying Policy to Practice. Journal of Interpersonal Violence. Published. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260520914553
Each state has bullying statutes that influence district requirements and principal responsibilities when investigating bullying. However, the investigative process for incidents of bullying can be compromised by lack of clarity regarding what constitutesbullying. The present study uses a purposeful sample that explores the experiences of nine principals from urban schools (i.e. kindergarten –8thgrade) across two focus groups. A thematic analysis approach was used to examine principals’ perceptions of how state and district level policies were initially received, and how they are currently informing and guiding their practices. Results indicate that principals rely upon state statutes and district policies to guide their investigative approaches. The benefits of a clear definition of bullying are highlighted. Education, schoolwide interventions, and support from others within the school environment are integral to principals’ efforts to ensure school safety. Despite progress attributable to state statutes, additional efforts are needed to promote consistent understanding of bullying and facilitate school safety.
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Keesler, J. M., Tucker, M., Terrell, B., Shipman, K., & Osborne, R. (2020). Two Schools, One Rural County: Exploring Adverse Childhood Experiences Among School-Aged Youth. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment, & Trauma. Published. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2020.1747130
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are significant predictors of poorer health outcomes in adulthood. Despite extensive research on ACEs, there is a lack of inquiry and evidence regarding the prevalence of ACEs in rural communities. Using secondary data analysis, the current study examined the prevalence of ACEs among 682 youth in 7th through 12th grade in one midwestern rural county. Data were collected directly from students using a standardized approach as part of a broader county initiative to become trauma-informed. Among the youth, 51.9% indicated parental separation/divorce, 27.3% reported household mental illness, and 27.3% experienced incarceration of a household member. Further, 27.8% of youth had an ACE score of 4 or higher. Results indicate that students experienced elevated levels of adversity compared to other population-based and rural studies. This study demonstrates the feasibility of collecting data directly from youth and the importance of considering potential differences between rural and urban settings, as well as differences within rural settings.
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Keesler, J. M. (2019). Understanding emergent social workers’ experiences and attitudes toward people with psychiatric, physical and developmental disabilities. Journal of Social Work Education. Published. https://doi.org/doi: 10.1080/10437797.2019.1661916
Social workers are instrumental in the lives of many people with disabilities, yet despite a strong foundation for this relationship, there is a dearth of research exploring the experiences and attitudes of social worker students toward people with disabilities. To bridge this gap, the current study surveyed graduate social work students to: understand the influence of different attributes on student responses to people with disabilities, identify variability in student attitudes toward people with different disabilities, and identify factors that predict student attitudes toward people with disabilities. Results from 212 student respondents indicated that their self-identified level of knowledge differed by disability type and significantly predicted attitudes across disability types. In addition, gender differences emerged with men having more negative attitudes than women toward people with disabilities. This study provides preliminary evidence suggesting the importance of disability type and the need for further dialogue and focus on disabilities in the profession.
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Keesler, john M. (2018). Adverse childhood experiences among direct support professionals . Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 56(2), 119-132. https://doi.org/doi.org/10.1352/1934-9556-56.2.119
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Keesler, J. M., & Isham, C. (2017). Integrating trauma-informed care with developmental disability services: An initial conceptualization and preliminary assessment . Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities. Published. https://doi.org/10.1111/jppi.12206
Background - Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a systems-focused philosophy of service delivery based upon principles of choice, collaboration, empowerment, safety and trustworthiness that recognizes the pervasive impact of trauma across the human experience. In a grassroots effort, one organization developed an innovative, trauma-informed day program to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who were recently deinstitutionalized. Specific Aims - The present study is intended to provide an initial conceptualization and preliminary assessment of TIC within IDD services in order to understand its impact among individuals and staff. The study sought to answer the following questions: Has the program’s culture been stable over time? How have individuals’ behaviors changed over time? What have been the experiences of the program’s staff members with TIC? Method - Through a mixed methods design, secondary data analysis and semi-structured staff interviews were used to assess the impact of TIC. Findings - Findings revealed an initial strong presence of choice, collaboration, empowerment, safety and trustworthiness within the program’s culture, with non-significant changes at follow-up. Significant reductions were noted in overall challenging behavior, aggression and PRN medication usage; while non-significant changes were noted in physical interventions with the exception of “other” interventions (i.e. least restrictive) which significantly increased. Three major categories emerged from the qualitative data (making a difference, recognizing progress and compromising factors), illuminating staff satisfaction with work experiences, individuals’ progress, and factors that challenged fidelity to TIC. Discussion - The study provides a preliminary conceptualization and evidence for the efficacy of the integration of TIC into IDD services despite methodological limitations and concerns regarding the use of physical interventions. Directions for future research are presented.
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Keesler, john M., Green, S., & Nochajski, T. (2017). Creating a trauma-informed community through university-community partnerships: An institute agenda . Advances in Social Work., 18(1), 39-52.
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Presnell, J., Keesler, J. M., Curd, J., & Carroll, D. Promoting Justice for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Strategies for Advancing Anti-Oppressive Social Work Education and Practice . Journal of Sociology and Social Welfare. Accepted.
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Keesler, J. M., Johnston, H., Simon, J., Anthony, T., Barnhart, M., Bartlett, M., Delong, J., Galloway, S., Kilpatrick, M., Laucella, J., Moreland, H., Ryan, G., & Shannon, V. Behavioral Health in Rural America: Understanding Citizen Perceptions and Willingness to Respond to Community Needs. Contemporary Rural Social Work Journal, 10(1), 1-19. View Publication For Behavioral Health in Rural America: Understanding Citizen Perceptions and Willingness to Respond to Community Needs
Purpose: Rural communities continue to be challenged by stigma and a lack of resources for mental health and substance use. A bottom-up strategy may be important in creating a viable culturally-sensitive approach to address rural community needs. The present study seeks to understand the perceptions of community members in a Midwest rural community regarding treatment accessibility and their willingness to engage in efforts to address the community’s mental health and substance use needs. Method: Data was used from a survey that was created for the community through a university-community partnership. Findings: Data from 1,303 respondents indicate the influence of various intrapersonal and systemic factors on treatment-seeking behavior. Many community members indicated their willingness to support initiatives to address the community’s needs around mental health. Some differences in perceptions and willingness to support community efforts were associated with respondents’ gender and income. Conclusion: A bottom-up approach can provide an understanding of community members’ perceptions and be useful in developing community-wide responses that engage citizens as part of the solution.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. Community inclusion for people with intellectual and development disabilities: a call to action for social work. Advances in Social Work. Published.
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Keesler, J. M., McCoy, P., & Wiltz, J. Trauma-specific treatment among individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities: a case series with Progressive Counting . British Journal of Learning Disabilities. Published. https://doi.org/DOI:10.1111/bld.12456
Presentations
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Keesler, J. M. (2024). How to Talk About Trauma Informed Care, Faith, and Spirituality. American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
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Keesler, J. M. (2024). Research Translation and Dissemination. IU Center for Rural Engagement.
Discussed and explored various strategies I have used for the dissemination of community-based research.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2023). “People are able to work, and if they want to work…do everything possible to help them”: Advancing workforce inclusion through the experience of Direct Support Professionals. American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities , Pittsburgh.
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Presnell, J., Carroll, D., Curd, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2023). From Education to Practice: Promoting Justice for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. CSWE, Atlanta, GA.
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Keesler, J. M., & Presnell, J. (2023). From Research to Practice: Applying Trauma-Informed Care to Daily Interactions.
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Funk, K., Keesler, J. M., Wilkerson, D. A., Presnell, J., & Deck, C. K. (2023). Because You Matter: Increasing access to wellbeing support for rural communities.
Funk, K., Keesler, J., Wilkerson, D., Presnell, J., & Deck, C. (2023, September 21). Because
You Matter: Increasing access to wellbeing support for rural communities. Digital
Inclusion Policy and Research Conference 2023. Liverpool, UK, Virtual Presentation.
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Keesler, J. M. (2023). When Bad Things Happen to Good Kids. Families Forever, , IN.
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Keesler, J. M. (2023). ACEs Training. AHEC.
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Keesler, J. M., Presnell, J., Wilkerson, D. A., Funk, K., & Deck, C. K. (2023). Because You Matter: Digital Social Work Practice through Rural Libraries. IU.
Mental health is an important factor that contributes to overall quality of life. In rural communities, stigma and and access to care can be significant barriers. Through Because You Matter, the School of Social Work, in collaboration with the Center for Rural Engagement, has partnered with rural libraries to bridge this gap. This presentation will describe and discuss this collaborative effort to leverage collective resources to provide free help rural Hoosiers.
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Burkhardt, T., & Keesler, J. M. (2023). Responding to the Invisible: Addressing Veteran Needs through Collaboration and Creativity. University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, IN.
Indiana ranks #14 in the United States for highest Veteran population. This presentation will describe the invisible wounds of Veterans and explore several strategies (i.e., digital training, interprofessional practice, and arts-based activities) we have used to increase student/practitioner awareness and foster wellness among those who have served.
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Johnston, J. D., Newton, A. D., O’Dell, S., Keesler, J. M., Burkhardt, T., & Schlegel, W. M. (2022). Leveraging Rural Community and Academic Institutional Partnerships to Improve Healthcare Access and Health Literacy.
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Curd, J., Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2022). Disability, Intersectionality and the Necessity of Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice. National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter.
Those with intellectual and developmental disabilities have increased vulnerabilities to experiencing potentially traumatic events and are disproportionately impacted by abuse, neglect, and violence across systems. Understanding the experiences of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the social justice issues faced by this group, especially as it relates to accessing evidence-based, culturally sensitive support, is critical to social work practice. Supported with evidence from multiple studies on trauma and disability carried out by the presenters, this presentation focuses on a call to action for social worker to align their practice with a trauma-informed approach. One specific study shares the resilience narratives of 14 autistic women and implications for social work practice. Seeking to amplify the voices of those with intellectual and disabilities, the presenters provide an overview of trauma-informed care and tools social workers can use in their practice. Highlighting the role of intersectionality (e.g., as it pertains to race, gender, socioeconomic status, etc.) in the context of disability oppression and trauma, attendees are challenged to evaluate their own practice and identify ways in which they can become trauma-informed practitioners.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). Lawrence County Coalition Against Domestic Violence Survey Results.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). First Responder Wellness, Burnout, & Selfcare. Lawrence and Orange Counties Crisis Intervention Team, Bedford, IN.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). Trauma, PTSD, and Trauma-Informed Care. Lawrence and Orange Counties Crisis Intervention Team, Bedford, IN.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). Cultural Humility and Mental Health. NAMI, Bedford, IN.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). Living in Violent Communities: The Trauma and The Care. IU School of Public Health.
Presented on trauma, types of trauma, impact of trauma, and resilience as part of an online seminar for Juneteenth Health Series.
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Keesler, J. M., Mitchell, T., Mankowski, R., & Burkhardt, T. (2022). Partnerships for Facilitating Rural Health Care Access. IU.
This roundtable presentation/discussion identified replicable strategies for community members to increase access to rural health care. Strategies were based on the inter-professional health fair coordinated by the CRE in Washington County.
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Keesler, J. M. (2022). ACEs, and Data, and Lives, Oh My!. THRIVE Orange County, Paoli, IN.
Presented at the organization’s first conference. The presentation was based on secondary data analysis of adverse childhood experiences among youth in the county schools.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2022). Providers’ Perspectives on Trauma, IDD, and Trauma-Informed Care. Indiana ABC - Behavioral Consultants, , IN.
Overview:
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are disproportionately impacted by trauma yet continue to be left out of the trauma narrative. Informed by an exploratory study on trauma and trauma-informed care among disability providers, this presentation prompts critical dialogue on shifting toward trauma-informed disability services.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will be able to define trauma and trauma-informed care in the context of disability services and understand the value of trauma-informed services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who disproportionately experience traumatic events.
2. Participants will be able to identify the barriers to implementing trauma-informed care within the current state of disability services and strategies to overcome these.
3. Participants will be able to identify the importance of providing trauma-informed behavioral support and strategies for supporting their teams in becoming more trauma-informed.
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Brown, S., Keesler, J. M., & Presnell, J. (2022). Promoting Healthy Systems through Trauma-Informed Care: The Implementation of a Learning Collaborative among Organizations for People with Developmental Disabilities in the United States. University of Toronto.
The presentation will discuss an ongoing learning collaboration among organizations across that United States. It focuses on the integration of trauma-informed care with service delivery for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). It’s Time: A Critical Conversation about Trauma and Disability Services. Council on Social Work Education, Orlando, FL United States.
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Brown, S., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). Learnings from a Trauma-Informed Care Learning Collaborative for IDD Organizations. National Association for the Dually DIagnosed.
This presentation described the first trauma-informed care learning collaborative among IDD organizations. Preliminary findings and lessons learned were discussed.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). Finding the Pulse: Where Are Indiana Providers with Trauma-Informed Care and Disability Services?. NASW Indiana.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). An exploratory study of trauma and trauma-informed care among disability providers. American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
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Thomas-Giyer, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). Addressing Adversity in Rural Communities: The Effects of Maternal Trauma on Childhood Outcomes. IU Center for Rural Engagement.
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Keesler, J. M. (2021). "If We Can Feel like We Have Purpose and We Belong" - Exploring the Experiences of Drug-Involved Individuals in a Rural Jail. Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR).
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2021). Exploring the Relationship Among Disability, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Health. Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR).
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Keesler, J. M., & Fukui, S. (2021). Factor Structure of the Professional Quality of Life Scale Among Direct Support Professionals: Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR.
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Dennis, S. R., Keesler, J. M., & Gregory, V. L. (2021). Student wellness supports in PK-12 education settings: a mixed-methods survey project. Society for Social Work and Research.
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). Mental Health and Substance Use in Lawrence County. Indiana Rural Health Association.
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Presnell, J., & Keesler, J. M. (2020). Community Inclusion for Individuals with Development Disabilities: Where is Social Work?. Council on Social Work Education.
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). Recognizing and responding to adversity across the human experience. INARF.
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keesler, john M., Purcell, A. S., Thomas-Giyer, J., & Struewing, M. (2020). Trauma-Informed Care: An Online Community Resource. Indiana University.
This presentation highlighted trauma and trauma-informed care as well as our efforts to create a free online training in trauma-informed care for the community. We discussed our interdisciplinary collaboration within the university and community.
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Keesler, J. M., Presnell, J., & Thomas-Giyer, J. (2020). Identifying What Matters: Factors Associated with Retention and Recruitment According to DSPs at 2 and 4+ Years of Employment. American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Pittsburgh, PA United States.
Organizations supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD) rely heavily on their workforce of direct support professionals (DSP). However, they continue to struggle with DSP recruitment and retention given high rates of burnout and turnover, as well as competing employment opportunities. To better understand the factors important for retention, as well as challenges and future recommendations, the present study explored and compared the experiences of 35 DSPs at one midwestern, nonprofit organization who were employed for two years and four or more years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with DSPs over the phone or in-person. DSPs were queried regarding factors that led them to stay at the organization, the impact of DSP turnover on their work, recommendations for DSP recruitment and retention, and what they needed to continue their employment at the agency. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify and summarize DSP responses according to the duration of their employment (i.e. 2 years or 4+ years). Preliminary findings were then compared for trends in similarities and differences. Collectively, DSPs acknowledged the common value in supporting individuals with IDD and having supportive team members. When queried about needs to stay in their current position, DSPs employed for two years identified the need for increased support from leadership at the program sites. Notably, DSPs who were employed four or more years identified the need for strong, supportive relationships with both individuals with IDD and other employees. Regarding financial compensation for their work, DSPs employed two years expressed concerns with the rate of pay, but DSPs who were employed for four or more years were less concerned about the rate of pay for their job satisfaction. When asked about what they thought lead other DSPs to stay in their positions, DSPs collectively acknowledged satisfaction and sense of worth inherent in their work. In addition, DSPs who were employed for four or more years also acknowledged the value of supportive leadership and flexible supervisors. Although data analysis is ongoing, the results suggest some commonalities and differences in what DSPs need and value. Although the fundamental nature of DSP work lends to intrinsic reward and equitable pay is valued, DSPs acknowledged the importance of relationships with individuals, other DSPs, and leadership. Interviews highlighted the importance of collegiality and teamwork among DSPs, as well as support, empowerment, and choice provided by leadership. Collectively, DSPs identified the importance of transparency beginning with the very first encounter between the agency and DSPs: the interview. Despite limitations associated with qualitative research, this study suggests that the needs of DSPs may vary according to their employment history and thus suggest the importance of more tailored approaches within organizations rather than “one size fits all.”
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). ACEs, and Data, and Lives, Oh My! - Orange County Rises to The Challenge. THRIVE Orange County, Orleans, IN United States.
This presentation will focus on the importance of communities identifying and responding to high levels of adversity among their citizens. It will encompass collaborative work between community members and me. It will identify strategies that employers and other community members can implement to promote community quality of life.
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Keesler, J. M. (2020). Recognizing and Responding to Adversity Across the Human Experience. Indiana Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Indianapolis, IN United States.
Adversity is common across the human experience and may be one factor that unites directs support professionals with the people with IDD they serve. This presentation will explore the impact of adversity in both domains. It will integrate research from multiple studies and provide strategies to promote quality of life for both staff and clients.
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Keesler, J. M., Wiltz, J., & McCoy, P. (2019). A pilot study of Progressive Counting: exploring its efficacy as trauma treatment for individuals with IDD. Indiana Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (INARF), Indianapolis, IN United States.
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Keesler, J. M. (2019). Integrating jail research in the social work classroom: Reflections from MSW students.
The opioid epidemic in the United States (U.S.) has resulted in increased attention to mental health andsubstance use across communities, yet, rural communities remain underrepresented. Although urban areasmay experience a greater burden based upon population density, rural communities are often challenged byunique factors such as lack of resources, few treatment options, pervasive stigma, and intergenerationaladversity/adverse childhood experiences (Dyck, Tiessen, & Lee, 2013; Edmond, Alteraris, & Roman, 2015;Schofield, Donnellan, Merrick, Ports, Klevens, & Leeb, 2018). For people in rural areas, distance to treatmentfacilities and quality of treatment have been identified as significant factors in their likelihood to seek treatment(Young, Grant, & Tyler, 2015). In addition, in contrast to urban dwellers, people in rural areas have higherodds of reporting stigma as the cause of unmet mental health needs (Alang, 2015; Lang & Rosenberg, 2017).Such factors are coupled with the impact of intergenerational adversity among parents and their children, andthe association between early life adversity and subsequent substance use (Schofield et al., 2018; Stein,Conti, Kenney, Anderson, Flori, Risi, & Bailey, 2017).Within the broader context of mental health and substance use in rural communities is a subgroup of peoplewho are incarcerated. Although there is a dearth of research exploring the experiences and needs of people injails in rural America, preliminary research has suggested high rates of mental illness and significantrelationships between mental illness, drug use, and other risky behavior (Staton-Tindall, Harp, Minieri, Oser,Webster, Havens, & Leukefeld, 2015). Further, exploratory research has noted various structural and personalissues for offenders returning from jail, including lack of financial resources, lack of motivation, and challengeswith mental illness (Ward & Merlo, 2015). Although collaboration between systems (e.g. providers, clients,families, clergy) has been recommended as part of the broader solution for mental health and substance usein rural communities (Robinson, Springer & Bischoff, 2012; Sullivan et al., 2014), there is a critical need foradditional research among the incarcerated given the potential for jails to provide education, prevention, andtreatment (Staton-Tinall et al., 2015).Twenty-three students from a research class conducted interviews with inmates in a rural jail. Inmates werecomprised of individuals who had current drug-related charges or who had been convicted for drug-relatedactivity. Interviews queried inmates regarding their quality of life prior to incarceration, their plans for thefuture, and what supports they needed to be successful for the future. Students completed individual reflectionsafterwards. This presentation will explore the experiences through the lens of MSW students in aprogram with a practice area of mental health and addictions.Community-based research, although it presents with challenges, provides rich experiences for students as ittranslates classroom content into actual experience. Further, research can be an opportunity to augmentstudents’ learning by deepening the focus on the practice area and by bridging the gap between research andpractice.
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Keesler, J. M., & Johnston, H. (2019). Understanding community attitudes and experiences - a foundation to responding to rural mental health. Indiana Rural Health Association, French Lick, IN United States.
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Brown, J. R., Keesler, J. M., & Wilkerson, D. A. (2019). Using technology with students and their parents to help identify aspects of bullying. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Dublin, Ireland.
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Keesler, J. M. (2019). They care for others, but what about themselves? Understanding selfcare among DSPs? and its relationship to professional quality of life.
Direct support professionals are the “most costly and valuable resource” for organizations as the foundation for service delivery to individuals with IDD (Devereux et al., 2009, p.561). The importance of DSPs is exemplified in the breadth and depth of their expanding responsibilities, from supporting individuals’ health and safety, to helping them become active community participants (Bogenschutz et al., 2014; Hewitt & Larson, 2007). Given the scope of their work, stress and burnout are common among DSPs and present a significant risk to the quality of services for individuals (Chung & Harding, 2009; Devereux et al., 2009; Lernihan & Sweeney, 2010). However, selfcare may be a counter-response to the challenges of direct support work.
Selfcare is the practice of behaviors that promote well-being and counter work-related stress among the helping professions (Lee & Miller, 2013). Selfcare ensures that the fundamental needs of a person are met, such as food and sleep, and enables one’ ability to respond to conflict, overcome challenges, and cope more effectively with stress (Barker, 2010). With the impact of burnout among DSPs well-cited, selfcare is a “critical issue” as organizations seek new ways to foster employee retention amid growing demands to do more with less (Lee & Miller, 2013, p.96). As a correlate of selfcare, resilience is a dynamic and multidimensional construct, influenced by individual, biological, cognitive and interpersonal factors, that refers to the adaptive ability to withstand adversity and stress (Foureur et al., 2013; Poole et al., 2017; Rees et al., 2016). It buffers the effects of stressful situations and lends to the experience of positive emotions amid adversity (Masten, 2001; Poole et al., 2017).
Although the broader literature indicates a significant relationship between selfcare and increased job satisfaction and decreased burnout (Butler et al., 2017), the discussion of selfcare, resilience, and professional quality of life (i.e. satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress (Stamm, 2010), has largely been absent from the IDD research. To bridge this gap, DSPs (n=153) from a not-for-profit organization in the Midwest participated in an online survey regarding selfcare behaviors, resilience, and professional quality of life. On average, DSPs engaged in 25 selfcare behaviors, with the greatest percentage of behaviors within a spiritual domain. Selfcare behaviors directly related to the workplace, such as taking time off when sick and getting supervision, occurred far less often. Although 80% of DSPs experienced some degree of satisfaction, approximately one-quarter expressed concerns related to burnout or secondary traumatic stress. Selfcare behaviors predicted professional quality of life, with the relationship mediated by resilience. Selfcare and resilience accounted for 28% of variance in compassion satisfaction and in burnout, and 12% in secondary traumatic stress.
Although direct support work will likely always present challenges, increased selfcare can help DSPs to better cope with challenges as they arise, and increased resilience can provide DSPs with a different lens through which to interpret stress. As organizations continue to struggle with DSP retention, the integration of selfcare into routine training and organizational culture may be part of a lasting solution.
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Keesler, J. M. (2019). Trauma and Trauma-informed Care. Brazil United Pentecostal Church, Terre Haute, IN United States.
Provided a training for 12 individuals who are beginning a faith-based intervention group for children and adults with substance abuse
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Keesler, J. M. (2019). Trauma and Trauma-informed Care. Live Well Lawrence County, Bedford, IN United States.
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Keesler, J. M., & Thomas-Giyer, J. (2019). Trauma-informed care: understanding and responding to trauma. Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement, French Lick, IN.
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Keesler, J. M., & Chacko, T. (2018). Vietnam Veterans 50 years later: “This is all that we know…This is how I have been living…”. Society for Social Work Research, Washington DC, United States.
This poster presentation focused on the lasting impact of trauma among aging Veterans and the importance of responding with trauma-informed care.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). Trauma-informed care: understanding and responding to trauma. Indiana Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (INARF), Indianapolis, IN United States.
This presentation will focus on the integration of trauma-informed care (TIC) in organizations serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). First, a justification for using TIC will be given, including: understanding adversity for individuals with I/DD, defining trauma, and exploring the implications of common practices. Then, TIC will be defined and its integration in I/DD services will be described.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). Lawrence County Community Survey of Mental Health & Addictions.
The presentation provided an overview of a year-long project with Lawrence County, IN which began as part of Sustaining Hoosier Communities and has been funded by Center for Rural Engagement.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). Is adversity at the core of their addiction?. Year, Bedford, IN United States.
This presentation was to raise awareness regarding adversity and addiction for parents of individuals who are struggling with addictions in Lawrence County.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). Resilience. Lawrence County Systems of Care, Bedford, IN United States.
A community screening of Resilience reached more than 60 community people, including teachers, service providers, and families. It focused on adverse childhood experiences, early intervention, and building individual and community resilience. I facilitated a discussion and collected/presented data from the group regarding their ACE scores.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). The impact of adverse childhood experiences on addiction. Year, Bedford, IN United States.
This is the 2nd annual Recovery Day that is focused on supporting and connecting residents of Lawrence County. The purpose is to increase awareness, provide education, and promote recovery from addiction.
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Keesler, J. M. (2018). Mental Health & Addictions in Lawrence County, IN. Year, BEDFORD, IN United States.
A presentation and discussion of findings from the county-wide survey on citizens’ attitudes and experiences with mental health and addictions.
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Keesler, J. M., Wiltz, J., & McCoy, P. (2018). Trauma treatment for individuals with IDD. NADD, Seattle, WA.
This presentation was a collaboration with community partners from Milestones, the mental health division of Stone Gate Arc in Bloomington. The presentation was based upon our implementation and evaluation of an innovative trauma treatment. This is a pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment for people with IDD.
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Brown, J. R., Karikari, I., & Keesler, J. M. (2018). Chasing the wind: principals pursuing reports of bullying.
This poster presented findings from a qualitative study with principals to understand their process in creating safe schools and responding to incidents of bullying.
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Keesler, J. M., & Nisley, D. (2017). The lost connection of social work and disabilities: exploring MSW student experiences. Council on Social Work Education , Washington DC, United States.
This presentation focused on research that was conducted among MSW students to explore experiences and attitudes toward people with different types of disabilities.
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Keesler, J. M. (2017). Adverse childhood experiences and professional quality of life among direct support professionals. Society for Social Work Research, New Orleans, LA United States.
Contract Fellowship Grants
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Lawrence County Trauma-Informed Care Initiative
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
Stone Belt Trauma-Informed Care Initiative
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
Pilot Trauma-Informed Care Learning Collaborative for Intellectual and Developmental Disability(IDD) Organizations
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
Assessment of Student Wellness in Mitchell Schools
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
Student Wellness
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
North Lawrence Community Schools Trauma-informed Care Training and Evaluation
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
Online Training in Trauma-informed Care
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler
Co-PD/PI: Alexander Purcell -
Indiana Rural Opioid Consortium - Implementation Grant
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): Hannah Maxey
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): Kassandra Botts
Supporting Personnel: Andrea Janota
Supporting Personnel: Katherine Pope
Supporting Personnel: Kerry Thomson
Supporting Personnel: Joan Duwve
Supporting Personnel: John Keesler -
Indiana public school districts’ student wellness practices and supports
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): Sheila Dennis
Co-PD/PI: John Keesler
Co-PD/PI: James Brown
Co-PD/PI: Virgil Gregory -
JCITR Translational Research Pilot Grant Program
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): James Brown
Co-PD/PI: John Keesler -
Sustaining Hoosier Communities Lawrence County
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
An Assessment of Progressive Counting for Trauma Resolution among Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Program Director (PD)/Principal Investigator (PI): John Keesler -
The Alcohol and Other Drugs Education Program (ADEP) for Social Work Faculty -Training Fellow
John Keesler
Institutional Services
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Committee Member
2022 - Future of Graduate Education Task Force - Health & Wellness Working Group -
Other
2018 - Center for Rural Engagement -
Committee Member
2017 - Council on Student Affairs -
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
2017 - IU Bloomington SSW MSWThe IUB MSW program developed a mentoring program for students. Faculty are assigned particular students to provide mentorship to during the academic year according to student need and request. -
Committee Member
2017 - IU SSW Mental Health and Addictions Curriculum SubcommitteeWork with other IUSSW faculty members who teach coursework in the mental health and addictions practice area; to revise course syllabi as part of the re-accreditation process. -
Attendee, Academic Ceremony/Event
2017 - IU Bloomington SSW MSW graduation ceremonyAttended and assisted at MSW graduation ceremonies (2017, 2018) -
Attendee, Academic Ceremony/Event
2017 - University Graduation CeremoniesAttend the IU Bloomington undergraduate (2017) and graduate (2018) ceremonies -
Committee Member
2017 - IU SSW MSW Committeeserve as a committee member for the MSW curriculum committee -
Committee Member
2016 - Faculty SenateRegular attendance at monthly school-wide faculty meetings -
Committee Member
2022 - Search and Screen Committee (MSW Field Coordinator)Member of the search and screen committee for IUB MSW field coordinator position -
Committee Member
2022 - Search and Screen Committee (BSW Coordinators)Serve on search and screen committee for BSW coordinator and BSW/MSW coordinator positions -
Attendee, Academic Ceremony/Event
IUB SSWparticipated in IUB SSW graduation ceremony -
Attendee, Academic Ceremony/Event
IUB Graduate Commencement Exercises -
Other
Interprofessional Practice and Education SeriesOn behalf of the Indiana University School of Education and the Interprofessional Practice and Education Center, we’re excited to announce the spring workshops for the Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) Certificate Series.
The primary purpose of the program is to foster the development of interprofessionalism among participants. Each academic year, there will be four workshops. Two in the fall semester and two in the spring. To earn the certification of completion, participants must complete three of four workshops.
For the spring 2022 semester, we will be offering the following workshops:
Trauma Informed Care Workshop, Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022, IU School of Education, 7:00-8:30. The session will be led by John M. Keesler, Pd.D., LMSW, IU School of Social Work and Alex Purcell, MPH, IU School of Public Health-Bloomington. This workshop will introduce participants to trauma and trauma-informed care. Attendees will gain an understanding of the underlying principles of trauma-informed care and engage in small group activities to demonstrate their application in diverse settings. -
Committee Member
2019 - Search Committee for Associate Dean for Research & Faculty DevelopmentParticipate on the search committee for an associate dean; review CVs; and make recommendations to the committee chair -
Committee Member
2019 - IUSSW Strategic Plan Work Group: Community and Global EngagementCollaborate with other IU SSW faculty/staff to assist with the Dean's strategic planning development. -
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
2019 - Social Work Association for Graduate Students (SWAGS)Responsible for being the faculty mentor for the student organization. -
Other
2016 - IU SSWAssist with review of student applications for the BSW & MSW degree programs -
Other
IUPUI First Generation Celebration CommitteeContributed a personal video to campus messaging about first generation students -
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
2019 - Graduate Independent Research ProjectSupervise a graduate-level independent research project -
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
IU Center for Rural EngagementProvided a presentation for the Center for Rural Engagement to highlight a collaborative effort between social work and nursing students to provide home-based support to vulnerable citizens in Orange County. -
Committee Member
2017 - Autism Research CollaborationThis is a committee of faculty from across the IU Bloomington campus who conduct research in the area of autism spectrum disorders. -
Other
IU Center for Rural EngagementI served as a panelist with colleagues from nursing and pharmacy to discuss addictions and recovery as part of a community discussion in Lawrence County IN. -
Other
2019 - IUB SSWDeveloped and administered a MSW program survey from themes identified by the students. The survey was used to assess student experiences in the Bloomington program. Data was analyzed to assist with program development. -
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Student Orientation -
Other
Center for Rural EngagementTo engage with other persons involved with research in rural communities; to share project information and ideas to improve data and its impact in rural communities. -
Other
2018 - Indiana Institute on Disability and CommunityGrant reviewer for the IIDC Lifespan Collaborative Research Grant -
Attendee, Academic Ceremony/Event
2017 - IU Bloomington SSW undergraduate graduation ceremony -
Committee Chair
2023 - Student Appeals CommitteeChair the student appeal committee to determine the best path forward for a doctoral student. -
Committee Member
2023 - Dean's Search Committee (IUSSW)Actively participate in the search committee for the next IUSSW dean -
Committee Chair
2023 - MSW Curriculum CommitteeI co-chair the MSW Curriculum Committee with Virgil Gregory. -
Committee Member
2023 - IU Center for Interprofessional Education and Practice Rural Certificate CommitteeTo develop and deliver a rural IPE certificate training; to advance student understanding of rural culture and rural practice
Licensure
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LMSW
Indiana
Media Appearance
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Workshops provide better understanding of military culture to improve veteran care
2023 - News at IU
Read the Story Workshops provide better understanding of military culture to improve veteran care -
Because You Matter with Dr. John Keesler and Dr. David Wilkerson
2023 - Upper Midwest Telehealth Resource Center
Read the Story Because You Matter with Dr. John Keesler and Dr. David Wilkerson -
Knowledge and Understanding to Protect Children on Social Media
2023 - WBIW
Read the Story Knowledge and Understanding to Protect Children on Social Media -
New book expands access to arts-based wellness for U.S. veterans across the world
2023 - News at IU
Read the Story New book expands access to arts-based wellness for U.S. veterans across the world -
Stakeholders hear update on Lawrence County projects, investments
2023 - Southern Indiana Business Report
Read the Story Stakeholders hear update on Lawrence County projects, investments -
Free mental health services expanded in rural communities through state, IU partnership
2022 - IU
Read the Story Free mental health services expanded in rural communities through state, IU partnership -
Indiana partners with IU to offer telehealth counseling in rural areas
2022 - Fox59
Read the Story Indiana partners with IU to offer telehealth counseling in rural areas -
MCS students participate in voluntary wellness report
2022 - Times Mail
Read the Story MCS students participate in voluntary wellness report -
Nurturing a caring community: Stone Belt implements IU trauma-informed care certificate program
2022 - Center for Rural Engagement
Read the Story Nurturing a caring community: Stone Belt implements IU trauma-informed care certificate program -
Faculty expert team for pilot trauma-informed care learning collaborative for IDD organizations.
2021 - PACES Connection
Read the Story Faculty expert team for pilot trauma-informed care learning collaborative for IDD organizations. -
Collaborative coalition taking steps to confront domestic violence in Lawrence County
2021 - Times Mail
Read the Story Collaborative coalition taking steps to confront domestic violence in Lawrence County -
NLCS students participate in wellness assessment of exposure to disruptive experiences
2021 - Times Mail
Read the Story NLCS students participate in wellness assessment of exposure to disruptive experiences -
Orange County ACEs data to help rural communities nationwide.
2020 - Paoli News-Republican
Read the Story Orange County ACEs data to help rural communities nationwide. -
From a mental health professional: A holistic approach to substance abuse
2020 - Times Mail -
Commentary: COVID-19 brings changes to all.
2020 - Times Mail -
Restoring dignity and hope to the homeless
2020 - Times Mail -
Carnegie Classification recognizes IU's outstanding community engagement efforts
2020 - News at IU Bloomington
Read the Story Carnegie Classification recognizes IU's outstanding community engagement efforts -
Commentary: New year, new you? Or somewhere in between?
2020 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: New year, new you? Or somewhere in between? -
Happy and healthy
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Happy and healthy -
Understanding Mental Health and Its Impact on You
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Understanding Mental Health and Its Impact on You -
When bad things happen to good people
2019 - Times Mail -
From shame to hope, understanding addiction
2019 - Times Mail -
Column: 'When I was your age': A story of resilience
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Column: 'When I was your age': A story of resilience -
Commentary: Comfort and joy amid the holidays
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: Comfort and joy amid the holidays -
IU School of Social Work, Hoosier Uplands partner to eradicate stigma with community series
2019 - IUB Center for Rural Engagement
Read the Story IU School of Social Work, Hoosier Uplands partner to eradicate stigma with community series -
Commentary: Open doors and open hearts: New opportunities for youth in crisis
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: Open doors and open hearts: New opportunities for youth in crisis -
Addiction, recovery topics of panel discussion
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Addiction, recovery topics of panel discussion -
Commentary: Violence in our times
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: Violence in our times -
Changes in seasons can bring changes in moods
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Changes in seasons can bring changes in moods -
Commentary: Answering the call — the toll of helping others
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: Answering the call — the toll of helping others -
Commentary: Finding the value in differences
2019 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Commentary: Finding the value in differences -
Series to shed light on mental health, addictions
2018 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Series to shed light on mental health, addictions -
Understanding Community Attitudes Toward Mental Health: Keys To Impacting Child Wellness
2018 - WBIW
Read the Story Understanding Community Attitudes Toward Mental Health: Keys To Impacting Child Wellness -
SPOTLIGHTS Knowledge is health: Addressing addiction and mental illness in rural Indiana
2018 - The IU Rural Report; Center for Rural Engagement
Read the Story SPOTLIGHTS Knowledge is health: Addressing addiction and mental illness in rural Indiana -
Focusing on childhood trauma
2018 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Focusing on childhood trauma -
Goal of survey is to yield vital data, insight
2018 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Goal of survey is to yield vital data, insight -
Today's AAIDD Journal Highlight is from the April 2018 issue of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - Adverse Childhood Experiences Among Direct Support Professionals
2018 - American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Read the Story Today's AAIDD Journal Highlight is from the April 2018 issue of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - Adverse Childhood Experiences Among Direct Support Professionals -
IU Center for Rural Engagement program 'celebrates a new beginning'
2018 - Indiana Daily Student
Read the Story IU Center for Rural Engagement program 'celebrates a new beginning' -
From the Desk: Sustaining Hoosier Communities director shares about partnership with Lawrence County
2018 - News at IU Bloomington
Read the Story From the Desk: Sustaining Hoosier Communities director shares about partnership with Lawrence County -
Responding to the Addictions Crisis Grand Challenge Update
2018 -
Read the Story Responding to the Addictions Crisis Grand Challenge Update -
Knowledge is health: Addressing addiction and mental illness in rural Indiana
2018 - Center for Rural Engagement
Read the Story Knowledge is health: Addressing addiction and mental illness in rural Indiana -
Survey: Resources Lacking to Treat Addiction
2018 - Times-Mail
Read the Story Survey: Resources Lacking to Treat Addiction -
Deborah Corn Foster Care
2017 - Deborah Corn Foster Care/Facebook
Read the Story Deborah Corn Foster Care -
Social Work Students Help Combat Addiction In Lawrence County As Part Of IU Initiative
2017 - WBIW
Read the Story Social Work Students Help Combat Addiction In Lawrence County As Part Of IU Initiative -
Social work students help combat addiction in Lawrence County as part of IU initiative
2017 - News at IU: Health and Wellness
Read the Story Social work students help combat addiction in Lawrence County as part of IU initiative -
IU professor partners with Milestones for trauma training
2017 - Touchstone (Stone Belt)
Read the Story IU professor partners with Milestones for trauma training -
PC Research Grant Awarded
2017 - trauma institute and child trauma institute
Read the Story PC Research Grant Awarded
Memberships
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Society for Social Work Research
2012 to Present -
Council on Social Work Education
2012 to Present -
American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
2011 to Present -
National Association for the Dually Diagnosed
2011 to Present
Professional Services
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2023 to Present - BMC PsychiatryConduct peer reviews of manuscripts for the journal
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Reviewer, Conference Paper
2023 to 2023 - Council on Social Work EducationReviewed and scored 20 presentation proposals for Council on Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting 2023.
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Other
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External Reviewer
2022 to 2022 - Addis Abba University, EthiopiaServed as external reviewer for doctoral dissertation and dissertation defense.
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2020 to Present - Child Abuse and NeglectPeer-review of scholarly journal
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2020 to Present - Research in Developmental DisabilitiesProvide peer-review of scholarly articles
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2020 to Present - Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities -
Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2020 to Present - Societies -
Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2018 to Present - Journal of Mental Health Research in Intellectual DisabilitiesReview a manuscript on trauma and intellectual disabilities
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2018 to 2018 - Journal of Human Rights and Social Work -
Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2017 to Present - Advances In Social WorkI provided a third review of an article on behalf of Karen Allen, who was a guest editor.
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2017 to 2017 - Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilityengage in the peer-review process of scholarly articles
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2016 to 2016 - Journal of Psychiatry and Mental Healthpeer-review for journal article; Journal of Psychiatry and Mental Health
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2015 to Present - Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual DisabilitiesEngage in the peer-review process of scholarly articles (2015, 2017)
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Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
2014 to 2014 - Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities -
Reviewer, Ad Hoc Reviewer
to 2022 - University at Buffalo School of Social WorkServed as manuscript reviewer for the University at Buffalo School of Social Work Nochajski Award for doctoral students.
Public Services
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Committee Member
2021 to Present - Lawrence County Coalition Against Domestic ViolenceCollaborate with group of community stakeholders to address the problem of domestic violence in Lawrence County
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Board Member
2020 to Present - Families ForeverThe organization provides support to people in recovery as well as workforce development for people with histories of substance use and criminal justice involvement.
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Board Member
2020 to 2021 - Lawrence County Bedford Men's Shelter -
Other
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Consultant
2019 to Present - THRIVE Orange CountyTHRIVE Orange County is a grassroots community organization that seeks to create a trauma-informed community. I have consulted with them on survey development and data analysis.
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Volunteer
2019 to 2021 - Lawrence County Bedford Men's Warming ShelterProvide occasional support to the clients of the shelter.
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Board Member
2018 to 2021 - Agape Home for ChildrenParticipate as a board member in the development of a transitional home to support children and youth who are involved in the Department of Children Services.
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Guest Speaker
2018 to 2018 - Lawrence County Systems of Care & Southern Indiana PediatricsPresented to nurses and medical staff on the implications of adverse childhood experiences and the importance of screening families
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Guest Speaker
2018 to 2018 - Lawrence County Systems of Care, Bedford, INI was invited to present on adverse childhood experiences and trauma-informed care to a community group of teachers, mental health providers, and social service workers.
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Guest Speaker
2018 to 2018 - Monroe County Systems of Care, Bloomington, IN.I was a panelist to facilitate discussion and respond to questions regarding childhood adversity and resilience. It was for a community screening of the movie "Resilience".
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Participant
2018 to Present - Lawrence County Systems of Care, Bedford, INParticipate in a monthly committee meetings to discuss further development of SOC and future events around trauma and mental health.
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Guest Speaker
2017 to 2017 - Debra Corn Foster Care , Loogootee, INProvided an inservice for foster care parents and agency personnel, entitled "Fostering children and youth with histories of adversity and trauma: Creating safe and supportive environments in which to grow and heal."
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Other
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Consultant
2017 to 2017 - PeopleWorks (Ohio)Met for two days with the CEO of PeopleWorks, an organization serving individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. We discussed direct support professionals and trauma-informed care.
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Guest Speaker
to 2017 - Recovery DayI presented at Recovery Day, a local community event, on adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and addiction.
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Guest Speaker
to 2018 - Parents of Addicted Loved OnesPresent on adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and addiction to a local support group for parents with children who have addictions
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Guest Speaker
to 2018 - Lawrence County Systems of Care, Bedford, INFacilitate a discussion at a community screening of Resilience - a movie focusing on adversity and resilience in youth
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Other
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Consultant
to 2018 - Springville Elementary School, Lawrence County, INI consulted with the school principal and his leadership team on efforts to become trauma-informed.
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Guest Speaker
to 2018 - Recovery Day 2.0I presented on adverse childhood experiences and addiction
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Guest Speaker
to 2018 - Indiana Youth InstituteCreate and deliver a presentation that utilizes findings from the Lawrence County survey completed through Sustaining Hoosier Community Initiative to understand the implications for children's wellness
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Guest Speaker
to 2018 - Parents of Addicted Loved Ones -
Other
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Participant in committee meeting to discuss trauma-informed care
to 2019 - Southern Indiana Community Health CareTo meet with leadership team at SICHC about helping Orange County to become a trauma-informed community
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Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Lawrence County Sheriff's Department & First RespondersProvide training to officers and first responders on trauma and trauma-informed care
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Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Lawrence County First RespondersProvide training to police officers and other first responders on trauma and trauma-informed care
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Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Four-County Regional Coalition, Center for Rural EngagementDeliver a presentation to members of a rural 4-county coalition on trauma and trauma-informed care
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Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Faces of ACEsDeliver presentation on adversity/trauma in the workforce, entitled: It’s not only clients: Recognizing and responding to adversity in the workforce.
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Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Bedford Rotary Club -
Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Deborah Corn Foster CarePresented with an MSW student to foster care families on: Trauma, attachment, and growth.
This was part of their annual training requirements for state licensure -
Guest Speaker
to 2019 - Brazil United Pentecostal ChurchI presented on trauma and trauma-informed care to members of the faith community as they were developing a recovery group.
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Guest Speaker
to 2020 - Lawrence County Bedford Men's ShelterCreated and delivered a training on homelessness, substance abuse, trauma and mental illness for the volunteers at the shelter. Training was then uploaded to YouTube for their ongoing use.
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Guest Speaker
to 2022 - Families ForeverI served as a presenter on trauma during an evening community event on recovery.
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Guest Speaker
to 2022 - Victory in the Village/United Pentecostal Church of Brazil -
Guest Speaker
to 2022 - IU Health Community Health and Kiwanis Club of South-Central Indiana
Trainings
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Training Fellow
2017 to 2017 - Alcohol and Other Drugs Education Program for Social Work Faculty Boston University, NIH/NIAAA, Boston, MA, United StatesThis opportunity provided training for social work faculty on substance use and recommendations for teaching in this substance area.