Joy Rodriguez

Contributing Faculty
College of Social and Behavioral Health
Barbara Solomon School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)

Dr. Rodriguez holds a Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science, along with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE). Her research focuses on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, and resilience.
With extensive experience across multiple fields—including substance abuse, child welfare, eating disorders, and mental health—Dr. Rodriguez brings a deep understanding of clinical and systemic challenges. She is currently employed at Veterans Affairs, where she applies her expertise to support veterans' well-being.
In addition to her professional practice, Dr. Rodriguez has been teaching college-level courses since 2018, contributing to the education and training of future social work and mental health professionals.

Education

BSW, Mississippi State University

MSW, Florida State University

PhD, Mississippi State University

Presentations

Rodriguez, J. (2018). Positive Parenting Practices . Mississippi Association of Family and Consumer Sciences

Rodriguez, J. (2022). ● Empathy and cultural involvements as pathways to resilience in the face of adverse childhood experiences among Native American Indians.