Sireen Irsheid-Puentes, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Dr. Sireen Irsheid-Puentes, PhD, LCSW, MSW, is an Assistant Professor at New York University’s Silver School of Social Work and a Faculty Affiliate at NYU Steinhardt. A critical race scholar, she specializes in research on race, racism, mental health, and education, with a particular focus on structural trauma, the school-to-prison pipeline, and health equity. Her work bridges rigorous academic research with practical interventions aimed at improving the well-being of youth and marginalized communities.
In addition to her academic role, Dr. Irsheid-Puentes serves as Director of Mental Health at Klinic Kids, where she leads initiatives bringing mental wellness to children across the tri-state area through innovative programs that integrate sports, therapy, and resilience-building. She is also the CEO of SERENITY LCSW PLLC, providing mental health therapy and consulting services that center equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive care. Her professional experience includes postdoctoral research on juvenile justice, education, and mental health, as well as hands-on work as a high school social worker supporting students in underserved communities.
Throughout her career, Dr. Irsheid-Puentes has combined scholarship, advocacy, and community engagement to advance mental health access and educational equity. Her research has been published in leading journals, and she has received recognition as a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Research Scholar. Committed to empowering youth and fostering systemic change, she continues to translate her expertise into meaningful action, ensuring that young people are seen, heard, and equipped with the tools to thrive.
• Reiki Healing Certification, Level 1 and Level 2
• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certification, 2013
• The University of Chicago - PhD
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of my core values, the unwavering support of my mother and family, and my faith, which has guided me throughout my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from Pharrell Williams, who told me to do what I love and find a way to get paid for it.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to find your community and surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Don’t be afraid to reach out for guidance, and always prioritize self-care along the way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, one of the biggest opportunities in my field is the ability to build strong networks and engage in meaningful classroom interactions. At the same time, a significant challenge we’re facing is the reduction of available grants, which can limit resources and support for programs and initiatives.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, community, faith, and consistency.
Locations
New York University
Mount Vernon, NY 10550