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Morgan Cooley, PhD, LCSW

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Morgan Cooley, PhD, LCSW, is a Professor in the Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University and a licensed clinical social worker whose scholarship focuses on improving outcomes for children, youth, and families impacted by the child welfare system. Her research examines the mental and behavioral health of youth in foster care, foster caregiver well-being and effectiveness, and strategies that strengthen family relationships through meaningful engagement and shared parenting among birth parents, foster caregivers, and child welfare professionals. She is particularly committed to advancing policies and practices that uphold parents' rights while promoting child safety, permanency, and well-being. Dr. Cooley's work integrates implementation science, mixed-methods research, and community-engaged partnerships to develop and evaluate evidence-informed interventions and approaches that support children, families, and the professionals who serve them.

Dr. Cooley is also recognized for her leadership in workforce development and training for child welfare and allied service professionals. She has led and collaborated on numerous state-funded and federally funded initiatives designed to strengthen the knowledge, skills, and resilience of foster caregivers, child welfare practitioners, behavioral health providers, and interdisciplinary service professionals. Her scholarship spans trauma-informed care, foster parent training and support, professional quality of life, youth transitions from foster care, and implementation of evidence-based practices across child-serving systems. Through research, education, and technical assistance, Dr. Cooley works to bridge the gap between science and practice, equipping organizations and professionals with practical tools to improve outcomes for children and families.