Erika Settles, LMSW, Permanency Training Coordinator

Erika Settles, LMSW, serves as a Permanency Training Coordinator with the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing (TXICFW), where she develops and facilitates training and learning opportunities for child welfare professionals, caregivers, and community partners. Her work is grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins with connection, reflection, and honoring the experiences of those most impacted by the systems around them.

With more than 12 years of experience in child welfare, Erika brings a deep understanding of the complex experiences of children, youth, families, caregivers, and the professionals who support them. Her approach to training and facilitation is informed by trauma-responsive practice and a commitment to centering youth and family voice, self-determination, and cultural connections.
In addition to her work at TXICFW, Erika provides clinical services as a therapist. Her clinical work further informs her understanding of trauma, relationships, identity, and the ways individuals and families navigate systems and experiences that shape their lives.

Erika holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Houston and a Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. She is also Dare to Lead™ trained.

erika.settles@austin.utexas.edu