- Department of Psychology; Clinical Psychology
- Email: jeniskariveragalarza@uri.edu
Major Professor: Nicole Weiss, PhD
Lab: STRESS Lab
Biography
Jeniska Rivera Galarza, M.A., is an aspiring clinical psychologist and psychology researcher whose work focuses on trauma and mental health disparities among marginalized and underserved communities. She graduated with her BA in Psychology and MA in Psychological Sciences from Rutgers University-Camden. Jeniska’s work has been published in journals such as the Journal of Interpersonal Violence and Psychological Trauma and presented at national conferences, including the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS). Her work has been recognized with numerous honors and awards, including the Ralph Bunche Distinguished Graduate Award and the Rutgers University Graduate Student Leadership Award. Through her research, teaching, and clinical experience, Jeniska is committed to advancing evidence-based mental health care and improving outcomes for marginalized and underserved communities.
Research
Jeniska’s research examines the relationship of traumatic experiences across the life span (e.g., ACEs and IPV) to mental health and substance use among marginalized and underserved communities (e.g., individuals from minoritized racial and ethnic groups and unhoused adults).