Diedra Hopes | SIU

Social Work, Non-Tenure Track Faculty

Diedra Hopes earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2015 from the University of Oklahoma and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration, with an anticipated graduation in 2026. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, with diverse clinical expertise spanning both micro- and macro-level practice.

At the micro level, Diedra specializes in adolescent and young adult psychotherapy, child welfare residential care, and medical social work. She has also developed macro-level experience in youth services, crisis intervention, and crisis stabilization. Diedra began her clinical practice in Oklahoma, where she completed certification as a Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) provider. She has provided therapy to children and engaged in family therapy, working with both parents and young children. Her additional areas of focus include grief, bereavement, and end-of-life care.

In academia, Diedra began teaching as an Adjunct Faculty member in January 2019 and transitioned to a full-time position in August 2021. As an instructor in the social work field, her mission is to equip future social workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in clinical social work practice.

EDUCATION:

University of Oklahoma
Master of Social Work, MSW – 2015