As a clinical social worker, Charlene has provided counseling, suicide, and substance abuse
prevention services to American Indian communities in the southwest for over ten years. Her
practice experience informs her dissertation that explores how American Indian Behavioral
Health organizations adapt evidence-based treatments. This research aims to ensure cultural relevancy is included in treatment services for underserved communities. In addition, she has worked with tribal behavioral health organizations to apply for state and federal funding to enrich their workforce through organizational development and continuing education and training.

Since 2007, Charlene has given trainings and guest lectures on culturally based services for
American Indian clients. She provides clinical supervision to MSW students seeking licensure
and has been a field consultant. Her research focus is to enhance behavioral health systems that serve Indigenous communities.

Research Interests:
Culturally adapted interventions
Evidence-based treatments for Indigenous communities
Workforce development strategies for rural communities
Behavioral health program development