Dr. Susan Hess

Biography

Susie Hess, MSW, LCSW-IL, is an associate teaching professor in practicum education at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. She is a transnational speaker and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma-informed care and healing-centered engagement. Her work focuses on promoting healing and resilience in communities affected by violence, including survivors of intimate partner violence and incarceration. Hess is actively involved in multiple organizations, serving as the co-founder of Trauma Informed LA and a faculty advisor for Unchained Scholars and the Jewish Student Affinity Group. She also co-hosts the 'Stories Matter Podcast.' Hess’s educational background includes a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, earned in 1993, and a Bachelor’s degree from Scripps College in 1991. Her professional experience encompasses social services, education, and wellness sectors, where she is dedicated to advocating for vulnerable populations.

Research Interests