Raya Shelashka, Ph.D.

Associate Research Scientist

Raya’s research focuses on developmental and relational trauma, trauma-informed care, and resilience among children and families facing adversity. She uses quantitative, qualitative, and observational methods to examine how trauma and chronic stress shape caregiver functioning, family relationships, and parenting practices, as well as how relational interventions such as TBRI® can strengthen children, families, and systems of care.

She has a particular research interest in families affected by war and displacement, including how war-related adversity influences caregiver mental health, parenting, and resilience. Raya also leads KPICD’s Global Learning Initiative, creating opportunities to listen to and learn from TBRI® Practitioners and partners across the global community. This work aims to strengthen relationships, shared learning, and locally led capacity for sustainable TBRI® implementation.