Kelly O'Malley

Areas of Expertise

• Women and children, including postpartum women navigating the emotional and psychological transitions of motherhood.
• Trained facilitator of the Incredible Years evidence-based parenting groups, supporting families in building strong, nurturing relationships.
• Trauma-informed care, culturally responsive work with refugees and immigrants, compassionate acculturation and adjustment support.

Education

• B.S. in social work, Salve Regina University (1986)
• M.S. in social work, Rhode Island College (1996)

View My CV

What's My Why?

Graduating from Salve in 1986 with a degree in social work was the foundation of a deeply fulfilling career dedicated to advocacy, service and clinical practice. Returning now as an instructor in the very department that shaped my professional path feels like coming home. It is both an honor and a privilege to guide the next generation of social workers, sharing not only the knowledge I have gained but also the real-world experiences that have shaped my understanding of the field. As an educator, I aspire to instill in my students a love for learning, critical thinking and self-inquiry. I believe that students of the 21st century need more than content knowledge - they must also develop an awareness of the social problems currently plaguing our world, a strong commitment to social justice, and a desire to be active participants in the mission of our university: promoting a just and harmonious society. I see teaching as a tool for social justice and am committed to helping students critically engage with the world around them. By fostering reflexivity and self-awareness, I hope to empower future social workers to understand their role in creating meaningful change and advocating for a more equitable society. Being back at Salve is more than just a professional milestone - it is a full-circle moment that reaffirms my dedication to the field of social work and higher education. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the department that first inspired me, and to support students in their journey to become the next leaders in the field.

Professional Experience

I have had the privilege of working in a variety of practice settings, including public schools, public health centers and my own private practice. Each of these environments has allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges individuals and families face, particularly those from marginalized communities. I have worked closely with larger systems such as the Department of Children, Youth and Families, the Department of Elderly Affairs and the Department of Human Services, advocating for policies and interventions that best serve the needs of vulnerable populations. My particular passion and expertise lies in working with women, children, immigrants and refugees - populations that often experience systemic barriers to accessing resources and support. It has been a profound privilege to walk alongside my clients in their healing journeys, witnessing their resilience and strength as they navigate life’s challenges.