Assoc Prof Dr. Meltem Oral | Social Work | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. of Atatürk University Faculty of Letters Department of Psychology, Turkey.

Dr. Meltem Oral is an accomplished Associate Professor at Atatürk University, specializing in psychology and social work. She holds a Ph.D. from Hacettepe University, focusing on interpersonal psychotherapy and its impact on major depressive disorder. Her academic journey includes a Master’s in Social Work and a Bachelor’s in English and Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Oral’s research covers various aspects of mental health, including social media addiction, psychological resilience, and burnout. She has led several funded projects and has published extensively in notable journals. Her work includes practical applications in clinical settings and academic contributions through books and book chapters. With certifications in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Dr. Oral combines her clinical expertise with a strong research background to advance understanding in her field.

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Scopus Profile

Education

Meltem Oral, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW, has an extensive educational background. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy degree from Hacettepe University’s Graduate School of Social Sciences in June 2016, with a dissertation focusing on the impact of group interpersonal psychotherapy on psychosocial functioning in female patients with Major Depressive Disorder. Prior to her Ph.D., she completed a Master of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago in June 2001. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology, also from the University of Illinois at Chicago, completed in May 1996. This solid educational foundation has equipped Dr. Oral with a profound understanding of social work and psychology, which she has applied extensively in both research and clinical practice throughout her career.

Professional Experience

Dr. Meltem Oral has a robust professional background with extensive experience in clinical and research settings. From 2004 to 2017, she served as a Clinical Social Worker at Atatürk University Research Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry, where she provided psychotherapy and case management. Prior to that, she worked as a Case Manager at MacNeal Hospital, focusing on psychiatric care from 2001 to 2004. Dr. Oral also has a rich research background, having served as a Research Assistant at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare’s Center on Outcomes, Research and Education, and at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center’s Department of Psychosocial Oncology between 1996 and 2001. Her diverse roles have equipped her with a deep understanding of clinical social work, research methodologies, and the complexities of mental health care.

Research Interest

Dr. Meltem Oral’s research interests predominantly focus on the intersection of mental health and psychosocial support systems, with a particular emphasis on therapeutic interventions and their impacts on various populations. Her work explores the effectiveness of group interpersonal psychotherapy for managing major depressive disorders and addresses the role of psychological resilience in academic settings. Dr. Oral’s research also delves into the psychosocial effects of social media addiction and its interplay with social anxiety and phubbing behavior among students. Additionally, she investigates social work practices and challenges, especially within geriatric care and rural settings. Her projects often integrate multidisciplinary approaches to enhance the well-being of marginalized groups, including the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Through her research, Dr. Oral aims to advance understanding of therapeutic and support mechanisms, contributing to improved mental health outcomes and social service practices.

Research Skills

Dr. Meltem Oral demonstrates a comprehensive set of research skills essential for advancing knowledge in psychology and social work. Her expertise spans various methodologies, including quantitative and qualitative research, as evidenced by her diverse projects and publications. Dr. Oral excels in designing and conducting studies, such as her investigations into social media addiction and phubbing behavior, and the impact of group interpersonal psychotherapy on burnout. She is adept at utilizing advanced statistical techniques and data analysis to draw meaningful conclusions from complex data sets. Her ability to integrate interdisciplinary approaches is highlighted in her work on psychosocial problems, academic achievement, and resilience. Dr. Oral’s research is also distinguished by her focus on practical applications, such as improving mental health services and social work practices. Her contributions are further supported by her experience in publishing, presenting at international conferences, and leading research teams.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Meltem Oral has garnered significant recognition for her impactful contributions in social work and psychology. Her research on group interpersonal therapy and psychosocial functioning has been published in esteemed journals such as the International Journal of Older People Nursing and the Journal of Community Psychology. Dr. Oral’s work has been acknowledged in numerous international conferences, including the International Social Work Congress and the International Scientific Studies Congress. Her commitment to advancing clinical practices and improving mental health outcomes has earned her various accolades, including certificates in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Family Counseling. Additionally, her leadership in projects like the Ecosystem-Based Home Care Services for Older Adults, supported by TÜBİTAK, underscores her innovative approach in addressing societal challenges. Dr. Oral’s contributions reflect her dedication to enhancing both academic and practical aspects of social work and psychology.

Conclusion

Dr. Meltem Oral is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her diverse and impactful research, extensive publication record, leadership in significant projects, and rich professional experience make her a strong contender. To further enhance her candidacy, she could focus on increasing the citation impact of her research, exploring interdisciplinary studies, expanding international collaborations, and securing additional funding. Overall, Dr. Oral’s contributions to the field of psychology and social work are notable, and she is well-positioned for recognition as a leading researcher.

Publications Top Notes

The Effectiveness of Group Interpersonal Therapy on Burnout Among Long-Term Care Workers
- Authors: Oral, M., Karakurt, N.
- Year: 2024
A Different Approach for Protruding Earlobe Correction—Modified Fish-tail Technique
- Authors: Sert, B., Oral, M.A., Turan, O., Uyar, I.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 1
Geriatric competency and attitudes toward older adults among Turkish undergraduate social work students
- Authors: Oral, M., Kılıç, C., Yıldırım, B.
- Year: 2024
The impact of psychological hardiness on intolerance of uncertainty in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Authors: Oral, M., Karakurt, N.
- Year: 2022
- Citations: 9
Evaluation of the relationship between burnout and psychological symptoms among staff working with individuals with disabilities and elderly
- Authors: Oral, M., Karakurt, N.
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 2
Knowledge and Awareness of Guidance Counselors About Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and Specific Learning Disability
- Authors: Oral, M., Karakurt, N.
- Year: 2020
Effectiveness of Group Interpersonal Psychotherapy Among Women with Major Depression in Turkey
- Authors: Oral, M., Tuncay, T.
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 2
The effects of breast reduction on sexual activity
- Authors: Oral, M.A., Aslan, C., Tuzuner, M., Capkinoglu, F.B.K., Gulpek, D.
- Year: 2018
- Citations: 1
Earthquake experience and preparedness in Turkey
- Authors: Oral, M., Yenel, A., Oral, E., Aydin, N., Aydin, N.
- Year: 2015
- Citations: 37
Neurocognitive functioning in young high-risk offspring having a parent with bipolar I disorder
- Authors: Deveci, E., Ozan, E., Kirpinar, I., Aydin, N., Öztürk, A.
- Year: 2013
- Citations: 11

Assist Prof Dr. Edson Chipalo | Social Work Award | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Lewis University, United States

Dr. Edson Chipalo is a Social Work Faculty member at Lewis University, Romeoville, IL, specializing in human behavior, social work practice, and research methods. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work from the University of Alabama, School of Social Work, a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University, Columbia School of Social Work, and Bachelor of Science in Social Work from The College of Saint Rose. Dr. Chipalo has extensive experience in teaching and research, having served as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Alabama and as a Social Work Instructor at the University of Alabama. He is committed to advancing the field of social work through his teaching and research endeavors.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Assist Prof Dr Edson Chipalo is an accomplished professional with a strong background in social work. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work at the University of Alabama, School of Social Work in Tuscaloosa, AL, graduating with a remarkable GPA of 4.0 in May 2023. Prior to this, Dr Chipalo earned his Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University, Columbia School of Social Work in New York, NY, where he demonstrated exceptional academic performance with a GPA of 3.93, graduating in May 2018. Dr Chipalo’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, which he completed with the highest honors of Summa Cum Laude at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY, from August 2015 to May 2017. He laid the foundation for his academic pursuits with an Associate of Science in Human Services from Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, MA, where he achieved a perfect GPA of 4.0, graduating in May 2015. Dr Chipalo’s educational achievements reflect his commitment to excellence and his dedication to advancing the field of social work.

Research Experience:

From November 2019 to July 2022, Dr. Edson Chipalo served as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Alabama, School of Social Work in Tuscaloosa, AL. In this role, he was responsible for various research activities, including data collection, survey and interview administration, data analysis, and manuscript writing. Dr. Chipalo also contributed to literature reviews and final manuscripts for projects funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), under the supervision of Principal Investigator Hee Lee. Additionally, he provided support for research on child mental health in Ugandan schools, led by Principal Investigator Catherine Carlson, and contributed to research on substance use, led by Principal Investigator Lewis Lee. Prior to this, from September 2017 to May 2018, Dr. Chipalo worked as a Program Evaluation Research Intern at the English Speaking Union of the United States (ESU) in New York, NY. During this internship, he was involved in designing survey instruments for research and program evaluation focused on English as a Second Language (ESL) students. He also collected data, managed databases, performed descriptive and statistical data analysis, and wrote reports on the performance of students. This experience provided Dr. Chipalo with valuable skills in research methodology and data analysis, enhancing his ability to contribute effectively to research projects in the field of social work.

Teaching Experience:

Since Fall 2022, Dr. Edson Chipalo has been a dedicated member of the faculty at Lewis University, Romeoville, IL, serving as a Social Work Faculty in the Department of Social Work. In this role, Dr. Chipalo teaches a range of graduate and undergraduate courses, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of social work principles and practices. For graduate students, Dr. Chipalo teaches courses such as SCWK 502 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I, SCWK 501 Foundation Practice with Individuals and Families, SCWK 630 Substance Use Disorders & Treatment, SCWK 609 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, SCWK 508 Research in Social Work, SCWK 506 Foundation Practice with Groups/Organizations/Communities, and SCWK 604 Evaluation Research. These courses cover a variety of essential topics in social work, including human behavior, practice with individuals and families, substance use disorders, cognitive-behavioral therapy, research methods, and evaluation. For undergraduate students, Dr. Chipalo teaches courses including SCWK 250 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I, SCWK 251 Psychopathology, and SCWK 312 Loss and Mourning. These courses provide students with a foundational understanding of human behavior, psychopathology, and the process of grieving and coping with loss.

Publications:

Does perceived ageism widen the digital divide? And does it vary by gender?
- Authors: EY Choi, Y Kim, E Chipalo, HY Lee
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 86
Is trauma focused-cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) effective in reducing trauma symptoms among traumatized refugee children? A systematic review
- Author: E Chipalo
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 21
Exposure to Violence and Other Characteristics Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Students in Nyarugusu Refugee Camp, Tanzania
- Author: E Chipalo
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 3
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Self-Reported Sexually Transmitted Infections among Adolescents and Young Adults in Zimbabwe
- Author: E Chipalo
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 1
The Prevalence and Association of Adverse Childhood Experiences with Suicide Risk Behaviors among Adolescents and Youth in Zimbabwe
- Authors: E Chipalo, H Jeung
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 1
Factors Associated with Receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Among Newly Resettled Refugees in the United States
- Authors: E Chipalo, Z Suntai, S Mwima
- Year: 2022
- Citations: 1
Effectiveness of support groups for caregivers of traumatic brain injury survivors
- Authors: Z Suntai, NL Smith, E Chipalo, K Kubanga, C Won
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 1
Parental Involvement in Children’s Education in the United States: Evidence from Annual Survey of Refugees
- Author: E Chipalo
- Year: 2024
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Mental Distress Among Adolescents and Youth in Zimbabwe
- Author: E Chipalo
- Year: 2024
Differentials in Male Circumcision Prevalence, HIV/AIDS Knowledge and Behavioral Prevention Practices Among Men in Nigeria
- Authors: IO Odii, E Chipalo
- Year: 2024

Publications Top Notes

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