ºÚÁÏÍø

Professor Wakako Masuno is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with many years of experience in clinical practice, social services leadership, and higher education. Originally from Japan, she is a proud double alumna of California State University, Long Beach’s School of Social Work (BASW and MSW). Professor Wakako Masuno bring both a global perspective and a deep connection to the ºÚÁÏÍø community. She began her career as a psychiatric social worker at an inpatient psychiatric facility in Los Angeles County, advancing into leadership roles including Clinical Team Lead and Director of Social Services. In these roles, Professor Masuno supervised multidisciplinary teams, provided clinical supervision, developed and implemented evidence-based programs such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills group. She collaborated with courts, county agencies, and community organizations to improve lives of clients she served. Currently serving as Practicum Education Consultant, she supports BASW and MSW students by overseeing practicum placements, teaching seminar classes, and providing trainings for community partners. Professor Masuno is recognized for expertise in crisis intervention, recovery-oriented practice, and bridging practice with practicum education to prepare the next generation of social workers. She is committed to advancing clinical excellence, student success, and community engagement in social work.