Shonda Berry is a doctoral candidate in the Doctor of Social Work program at University of Kentucky. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Shonda brings a wealth of experience assisting individuals and families as they navigate complex emotional and psychological challenges. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, a Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership from Hofstra University, and a Master of Social Work Degree from the State University of New York at Albany.
Shonda currently works with the U.S Department of Defense as an Employee Assistance Program Coordinator, where she helps employees manage mental health concerns, substance use issues, and interpersonal conflicts, while also promoting employee well-being and productivity. As the founder and Clinical Director of Serenity Works Therapy, LCSW, P.LL.C., Shonda specializes in trauma-informed therapeutic approaches to address issues such as abuse, neglect, attachment wounds, and generational trauma.
A champion for equity, Shonda is deeply committed to social justice and works closely with local organizations to advocate for policies that address the root causes of inequality. She currently serves as the President of the Association of Black Social Workers- University of Kentucky Chapter.
Shonda’s research interests include the development of treatment modalities centered on the intersectionality of race and disability, intergenerational trauma in Black families, and investigating social determinants of health and disparities in social outcomes among diverse populations. Shonda’s Capstone Project is entitled Strengthening Roots: An Examination of the Impact of Culturally Adapted Autism Services for Black Families.