Cynthia G. S. Franklin, Ph.D.

Dr. Cynthia Franklin, PhD, LCSW-S, LMFT, is a leading authority in clinical social work and mental health, with a distinguished career dedicated to advancing evidence-based interventions, particularly Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). As a researcher, educator, and practitioner, she has played a pivotal role in the development and application of SFBT in various settings, including schools, mental health clinics, and family therapy practices. 

 Franklin serves as the Director of External Relations and the Stiernberg/Spencer Family Professor in Mental Health at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin. Franklin holds a courtesy appointment in the Department of Psychiatry at the Dell Medical School.Her work focuses on integrating SFBT into clinical practice to improve mental health outcomes efficiently and effectively. With an extensive body of research, she has published numerous books, peer-reviewed articles, and practice guidelines that have helped shape the field.  

In addition to her academic contributions, Franklin is a sought-after speaker, trainer, and consultant, working with clinicians, educators, and policymakers to implement solution-focused approaches in schools and mental health programs worldwide. She has been instrumental in demonstrating how SFBT can be a powerful, strengths-based intervention that fosters resilience and positive change in individuals, families, and communities. 

Franklin’s expertise has earned her leadership roles in professional organizations, editorial boards, and national initiatives focused on mental health innovation. Since 2013, she has served as the editor-in-chief of the Encyclopedia of Social Work for Oxford University Press. Franklin was named as one of the 100 most influential contemporary social work faculty in recognition of the impact her more than 200 publications have had on the field. Franklin was honored with the Gary Lee Shaffer award for academic contributions to the field of school social work and was also inducted into the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare. 

Franklin received the designation “Social Work Pioneer” from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) for her unique dedication and commitment to improve social and human conditions. She was also selected by the University of Texas at Austin as a Longhorn Legend. She is further the recipient of the NASW Texas Chapter’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her lifelong dedication to advancing social work practice. She remains deeply committed to educating the next generation of social workers and mental health professionals, ensuring that solution-focused brief therapy continues to evolve and make a lasting impact in the field.