Maria Theresa Carrington, MSW, LICSW, CST

Visiting Instructor and Director, MSW & BSW Practicum Programs

she/her/hers

I love teaching PLU students because it gives me the unique opportunity to witness the next generation of social workers. I am deeply enthusiastic about nurturing their compassion, fostering critical thinking, and equipping them with the tools to create positive, meaningful change.

Phone: 253-535-7859

Email: carrington@plu.edu

Office Location: Xavier Hall - 110

Office Hours: (On Campus) Tue: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (On Campus) Thu: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Curriculum Vitae: View my CV

  • Professional
  • Biography
  • Why PLU?
  • Personal

Additional Titles/Roles

  • Field Coordinator

Areas of Emphasis or Expertise

  • Aging
  • Sexual Health

Professional Memberships/Organizations

Biography

Maria Carrington earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University and obtained her master of Social Work from Boston College. Maria also completed the University of Michigan’s post-graduate certification in Sex Therapy and is also certified as a sex Therapist with the American Association of Sexual Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. Maria Carrington has a private practice that focuses on sexual health in University Place, Washington. Maria has worked in the areas of aging, veterans, substance abuse, hospital social work, and general mental health. Maria has worked as a adjunct professor at Lewis and Clark College and Antioch University.

Why PLU?

What do you like about teaching PLU students?
I love teaching PLU students because it gives me the unique opportunity to witness the next generation of social workers. I am deeply enthusiastic about nurturing their compassion, fostering critical thinking, and equipping them with the tools to create positive, meaningful change in individuals and communities. The diverse perspectives they bring to the classroom, coupled with the constant learning and building of relationships, make this work both intellectually stimulating and emotionally fulfilling.

My role as a practicum coordinator brings me immense satisfaction as it allows me to foster relationships with various facets of our community and play a pivotal role in our students’ social work education. Connecting with different organizations, agencies, and professionals across the community strengthens the ties between our academic program and the real-world social work landscape. The most fulfilling aspect of this role is guiding students through their practicum experiences—the hands-on, real-world application of their social work knowledge. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth, see them make a tangible impact, and know that I’ve played a part in their journey towards becoming social workers.

Interests

  • I am involved with the Filipino Community of Seattle and various Community Development Organizations. Other than my community volunteer work, I enjoy playing golf, grilling on the BBQ and working on my classic Mustang.