Lauren is a doctoral candidate in the College of Social Work at Florida State University. Her research interests include disparities in access to care among underserved populations. Lauren’s experiences as a licensed clinical social worker and research assistant, both globally and locally, inform her focus on bridging gaps in mental health services. She is particularly interested in addressing the needs of those affected by structural injustices, especially at the intersection of complex trauma and health. 

AREAS OF FOCUS

• Im/migration and human rights
• Mental health
• Access to healthcare

EDUCATION

• MSW, 2010, University of Southern California; Mental Health
• BA, 2006, University of Vermont; Psychology

PUBLICATION

Boel-Studt, S., Schelbe, L., Deichen Hanson, M., & Tobia, L. (2018). Increasing youth engagement in residential group care: A mixed methods pilot study of a youth-guided incentive program. Child and Youth Care Forum.

Boel-Studt, S., & Tobia, L. (2016) A review of current trends, research, and recommendations for strengthening the evidence-base and quality of residential group care. Residential Treatment for Children and Youth.

Tobia, L. (2016). Exposure to violence and conflict: Exploring predictors of unauthorized migration to the U.S. Global Social Welfare.