Shanika Wilson

Dr. Shanika Lavi Wilson is an accomplished academic, clinician, and social justice advocate with over 15 years of clinical practice experience and a decade in higher education. As an associate professor of Social Work at North Carolina Central University, Dr. Wilson is dedicated to shaping the next generation of social workers through innovative teaching and mentorship.

Dr. Wilson holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut-Storrs, a Master of Science in Social Work (M.S.S.W.) with a concentration in Mental Health and Substance Abuse from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) in Clinical Practice and Leadership from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Global Higher Education at the University of Pennsylvania, further enhancing her expertise in educational leadership.

A licensed therapist and clinical supervisor, Dr. Wilson specializes in mental health equity, implicit bias, racial trauma, and the integration of spirituality into mental health care for African Americans. Her research interests include exploring the use of generative AI to reduce bias in diagnosing mental health symptoms among Black women. As a published author and principal investigator, Dr. Wilson contributes to the discourse on social justice advocacy, anti-oppressive practices, and mental health disparities.

Dr. Wilson is recognized for her innovative approach to curriculum development and her commitment to integrating technology into social work education. She employs AI avatars for training and engages students in meaningful research that addresses real-world challenges. Her work exemplifies her dedication to empowering students, clients, and communities through holistic well-being and social justice.