Simmons College

Associate Professor of Practice

B.A.S.W., University of New Hampshire
M.S.W., University of Denver
Ph.D., Simmons College

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My affiliation with Simmons began in 2006 when I entered the doctoral program at the School of Social Work. I have 15 years of clinical experience, most of which was with adolescents and adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Prior to teaching full-time at Simmons, I was the project director of an NIH-funded clinical trial focused on testing the efficacy of combining behavioral family counseling and naltrexone medication for opioid dependent adults. I continue to hold an appointment as a Clinical Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

My research and clinical interests include the human-animal bond, LGBT aging, addiction treatment, HIV/AIDS, and co-occurring disorders.

I strive to create a learning experience that is student-centered, innovative, and that helps students develop the competencies necessary for a rewarding and effective career in social work.

Courses Taught:

Social Work Practice I
Evidence-Based Practice with Substance Use Disorders
Social Work Research
Social Work Policy & Services

Presentations:

Frost, A. K. & Putney, J. M. (November, 2009). Blended Learning: Impact on Student Learning, Competencies and Face-to-Face Teaching. Poster presented at the Council on Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting, San Antonio, TX.