Perry Firth

Grad Project Assistant, Project on Family Homelessness

Perry Firth is a research assistant with a focus on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She is a master’s student in Seattle University’s Community Counseling program. She joins us with a research background in trauma, Prolonged Exposure therapy, PTSD, sexual assault, child abuse and substance use. Her interest in PTSD has led to independent research on trauma which has been presented at national conferences.

Perry’s research and clinical background will serve her well as a project assistant, and will position her to illuminate and clarify the many issues associated with family homelessness.

Additional experience includes almost two years volunteering as a phone worker with the Crisis Line of King County. This has given her insight into the emotional burden produced by homelessness and poverty, as well as the frustration caused by lack of resources. She has become adept at connecting with people in emotional distress and with navigating delicate subjects. Her training includes crisis and suicide management, active listening and other therapeutic techniques.

Perry is committed to approaching mental health struggles through a social justice lens, and is excited by the opportunity the Project on Family Homelessness provides to use her research, writing, and mental health training. She has a special interest in anxiety disorders, adolescence, and issues that disproportionately impact women.