Dr. Michele Kelly

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of the Tulane University School of Social Work. After successfully defending my thesis on the experiences of refugee youth from the conflicts in the Sudan, I received a Ph.D. in Family and Child Sciences from Louisiana State University.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Prior to our marriage, my husband requested asylum in the U.S. It was a time of uncertainty and tremendous anxiety for us. Our concerns were for his safety and that we remain together. Often, we felt helpless and thought there was little we could do during this process.

Because of this, my practice is focused on conducting forensic evaluations with empathy and clear communication. With my background, I’m able to understand the needs and difficulties facing immigrants.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

• Clinical Social Worker
  
  I have 30 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings conducting evaluations and providing psychotherapy to diverse groups of children, families, and women dealing with issues of child abuse, domestic violence, political unrest, migration, and trauma. At Catholic Charities in New Orleans, I was the manager of the Refugee Resettlement Program.

  
  

• University Professor 

  
  I have been a faculty member at several universities. Most recently I was the coordinator of the Social Work program at the Lebanese American University in Beirut where I also taught in the program as well as in the Gender Studies and Migration Studies Programs. Specific courses I taught were Gender-Based Violence and Trauma. I have been invited as a lecturer and presented papers in Finland, Germany, Ireland, Jordan, Lebanon, and the U.S. on issues of refugee children and youth.

  
  

• Immigration Forensic Evaluator 
  
  Over the years, I have conducted numerous immigration forensic evaluations and appeared in various courts as an expert witness. I recently received training from the Immigration Evaluation Training Institute in Fairfax, VA. I am also certified in Forensic Social Work through the National Organization of Forensic Social Work.