New Faculty Spotlight: To the Beat of Her Own Drum

When not slaying the drums in her mother’s church band, Atensia Earp Bowen, MSW, is passionate about working in her community and helping people with challenging situations. Most recently, she served as a school social worker within the Broward County School district, providing an array of services to children and families. Now, she joins FAU as a new instructor for the Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of  Social Work in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice.

In 2006, Bowen earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Limestone College in Columbia, S.C. Later, she received her master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina in 2010. She plans to begin doctorate degree work soon.

At FAU, Bowen teaches a range of courses, from global perspectives in social services to the profession of social work. Along with education, Bowen said she also has a “passion for problem solving and finding ways to promote healthy living for all people.” 

Here’s a look at what Bowen said about her journey to FAU:

Once you begin your doctorate program, what research will you focus on?

I’m interested in researching mental health and trauma associated with chronic and terminal illnesses.   

Why do you have an interest in this field?

During my time in the social work field, I spent many years working with individuals affected by HIV and AIDS, including those diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, as well as their family members. While working with this population of people, and others with diverse challenges, such as trauma, depression and substance misuse, I had the opportunity to provide case management services, individual, family and group counseling, harm reduction skills and other services.

This work piqued my interest in the relationship between chronic and terminal illnesses and mental health, and the impact on individuals and families. It also led me to pursue reasons for the disproportionate ratio of individuals and families who seek mental health treatment.

What do you want people to know about this topic and hope to accomplish?

I hope to identify the root causes of mental illness and identify the most common trends among individuals who suffer with different forms of chronic and terminal illnesses. It is not uncommon to see mental health issues, which stem from trauma. Without seeking treatment, individuals often lack coping skills, and turn to substance abuse and other risky behaviors. 

Do you have any advice for becoming a researcher in your field?

The main piece of advice I can provide for becoming a researcher in my field is to have a passion for the cause.   As social workers, it is our ethical responsibility to provide competent services and fight for social justice by increasing our knowledge base. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and recognize trends throughout your practice.

Where do you see your research focus in the future?

I see my research potentially determining risk factors and optimizing effective mental health treatments for those who have been affected by COVID-19, cancer, diabetes and other chronic illnesses and terminal disorders.

What is an interesting fact that people at FAU may not know about you?

I lead a very active life in which I participate in a variety of hobbies and community events. I enjoy writing, watching movies, listening to music, traveling and spending time with my family. My greatest passion is staying involved in community events and raising community awareness about different topics to include youth mental health. I also have a passion for problem solving and finding ways to promote healthy living for all people. I cannot leave out the fact that I love to play the drums at my mother’s church when I go to visit my family in South Carolina.