Stephen Vinson
- Position: Assistant Professor Clinical Practice
- Department: Department of Social Work
- Office Location: Building 85, Room 142
- svinson@uwf.edu
- Campus: 850.474.2124
Biography
Dr. Stephen A. Vinson is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Practice in the Social Work department. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from the University of West Florida and completed his doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Florida State University. His doctoral research focused on the experiences of high school Black males in predominantly White schools, exploring their perspectives on mental health and well-being.
Dr. Vinson has presented research on various aspects of the male experience, including self-authorship and the identity of Black males, all with a focus on mental health. His presentations have examined the mental health understanding, perspectives, and specific challenges faced by Black males, as well as related issues.
He began his career in higher education as a student success coach with the TRiO program, supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. He later held several roles at the University of West Florida, including instructor, academic advisor, and orientation liaison. His experience also includes directing youth programming, where he worked to enhance the mental, emotional, and academic development of children.
In addition to his academic career, Dr. Vinson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both Florida and Texas. His practice is dedicated to assisting children, teens, adults, and couples with challenges such as parenting difficulties, divorce, separation, ADHD, anger, anxiety, and trauma, with a particular emphasis on improving the mental health of Black males.