#influencingthelonghornlife

[healthyhorns]

Healthy Eating During the Holidays: Tips for UT Austin Students

The holiday season is a time for celebration, connection and, of course, food. While it’s easy to get swept away by festive treats and meals with friends and family, maintaining healthy eating habits is important for both your physical and mental well-being. Here are some valuable tips from Jennifer Barnoud and Marissa Buckley, both Registered Dietitians at University Health Services, to help you enjoy holiday treats while maintaining a balanced approach to your eating habits.

Jennifer Barnoud and Marissa Buckley, Registered Dietitians at University Health Services

1. Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods

Instead of thinking about what you need to eliminate from your diet, focus on including nutrient-dense foods. Incorporate dark leafy greens, colorful vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and fish into your meals.

Salad with dark leafy greens, colorful vegetables and nuts. 2. Balance Tradition with Health

Holiday meals are often rich in tradition, and it’s possible to enjoy them while making healthier choices. Aim to include all food groups: a source of carbohydrates, a protein and fill half your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables. Consider opting for fruit-based desserts or waiting a bit before enjoying sweets if you’re feeling full. If you choose a sweet treat as a snack, pair it with some dairy or a handful of nuts for added nutrients. 

3. Healthy Snacks for Gatherings

Make smart choices at holiday gatherings by bringing along or just enjoying healthy snacks. Fruit and veggie platters are excellent for ensuring you get those essential nutrients. A mix of nuts can provide fiber, healthy fats, and protein to keep you satisfied. Enhance your snack spread with dips like hummus or nut butter, and consider adding a trail mix that combines sweet and salty elements—think nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and even crackers with cheese.

4. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating can truly transform your holiday meals. Take pauses during your meals to check in with how you’re feeling—both physically and emotionally. Appreciate the love and effort that went into preparing the food, savor each bite and allow yourself to stop when you feel comfortably full. Food is a beautiful way to connect with others, so focus on gratitude for the moments shared over the table. 

To enhance this experience, consider grounding yourself with a few deep breaths before eating. It’s easy to get carried away with appetizers or snacks while standing by the table, but taking the time to plate your snacks and meals encourages you to pause and reflect on your hunger and fullness.

5. Manage Holiday Stress

The holidays can bring stress, especially around food. Remember, one meal won’t determine your health. Take a step back and look at your overall eating patterns to gain perspective. Prioritize time for joyful activities, adequate rest and nourishing meals without sacrificing time with family and friends. Planning ahead can help manage tricky situations—like taking a short walk if you feel tense or reaching out to supportive friends when you need a little extra encouragement. 

6. Foods to Boost Mood and Energy

Certain foods can enhance your mood and energy during the holidays. Focus on incorporating nutrient-dense options like whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables to support both body and mind.

Roasted chicken, a lean protein option. 7. Keep Eating Habits Consistent 

During the holiday season, it's essential to keep your eating habits consistent. Many people mistakenly “save up” calories for a single large meal, which can lead to lower blood sugar levels and feelings of irritability, lethargy or even overeating. Instead, aim to eat meals or snacks every 2-4 hours. This approach will help maintain your energy levels and allow you to fully enjoy the festivities without discomfort. 

8. Stay Active

Incorporating physical activity into your holiday plans can be a fun way to stay active! Consider joining a turkey trot with friends or family, or opt for a leisurely walk, yoga session, or light strength exercises to keep moving. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to take a break from your usual routine—your body deserves some downtime, too. Staying active can significantly reduce stress and aid digestion, making your holiday experience even more enjoyable. 

9. Easy Healthy Holiday Recipes

Looking for inspiration? Check out the UT-affiliated healthy holiday cookbook for easy recipes that fit your nutritional goals without sacrificing flavor. Also, see this great article in the Daily Texan with information on recipes for finger foods.

10. Handling Peer Pressure

Navigating peer pressure around holiday eating can be tricky. Practice saying "No, thank you" when offered food you’re not interested in. If you’re in a situation where saying no might be difficult, try expressing gratitude and suggesting to share the dish later. If conversations turn to dieting or weight, redirect the discussion to topics you enjoy. 

11. Resources for Support

UT Austin offers numerous resources for students seeking support around nutrition and mental well-being. Attend the Holiday Edition of the Mindful & Intuitive Eating Nutrition Workshop for practical tips. For more personalized guidance, consider connecting with a counselor at the Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) or a registered dietitian at University Health Services (UHS). TimelyCare provides 24/7 virtual access to counseling, ensuring you can receive support whenever you need it most. The CMHC also features the Mindful Eating Team, which offers counseling groups and one-on-one support for students seeking guidance on their relationship with food and movement. 

Additionally, here’s what one student had to say about their experience with UHS nutrition services:  

“Working with Jennifer has profoundly transformed my relationship with food, my body, and myself. Our conversations have provided a safe space for me to explore and unpack my beliefs and behaviors without judgment. Through our collaboration, I’ve learned to embrace and nurture my body and self as a powerful act of self-love and advocacy. I am incredibly grateful for Jennifer’s intentional presence and dedication to her students. Her work is essential, impactful, and truly valued!”

Erika Garcia-Villatoro, PhD and registered dietitian meeting with a student.

12. Acknowledging Different Experiences

The holidays can bring mixed feelings for many. Remember, you’re not alone in your experiences. It’s perfectly okay to set boundaries, practice self-compassion, and take the time you need to care for yourself during this season.

- Laura Kinch, Associate Director, Communication and Marketing, Healthyhorns

[utcampuslifeupdate]

Finals Events

Hey #Longhorns! As we enter this last week of class, take some time to let off some steam and prepare for your finals by checking out the fun things we have lined up for you 🤘

Enjoy a wide variety of events with movement-based activities, giveaways, free breakfast tacos and popsicles, live music, and so much more! Check out the schedule and don’t miss out:

bit.ly/FinalsEventsCalendar

[healthyhorns]

Meet Ben Lara: A Champion for Healthyhorns

Meet Benjamin “Ben” Lara, the Assistant Director for Materials Management at Healthyhorns, which encompasses University Health Services, the Counseling and Mental Health Center, the Longhorn Wellness Center, and Joint/Shared Services. With two decades of dedicated service, Ben is instrumental in ensuring the seamless operation of this vital organization. His expertise and commitment help to create an environment where student health and wellness can thrive.

Ben in his office, Fall 2024.

The Backbone of Operations In his role, Ben oversees the purchasing and contracting of essential materials, supplies, equipment, and services critical to the operations of University Health Services and the Counseling and Mental Health Center.

UHS, a 45,000 square-foot accredited medical facility, is home to over 100 healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering comprehensive healthcare and public health services that enhance the well-being of students at the University of Texas at Austin.

"Ben excels in his role and is well-loved for his warm smile and cheerful demeanor. He consistently responds promptly to departmental requests and fosters strong relationships not only with Healthyhorns staff but also with numerous vendors in the community who supply UHS. These connections are vital for ensuring that UHS operates smoothly and that our departments receive the products they need in a timely manner." - Renee Mathews, RN, Director, Nursing Services, University Health Services

The Counseling and Mental Health Center, an accredited mental health clinic spanning 17,000 square feet, is committed to supporting students through a variety of services, including assessments, counseling, psychiatry and well-being programs. Ben plays a key role in ensuring that the nearly 100 full-time staff members have the resources they need to achieve their mission: to provide quality mental healthcare that supports students’ academic success.

“CMHC relies heavily on Ben and his team's expertise for every decision we make. They are truly the foundation of our operations at CMHC and Healthyhorns. From managing purchasing, travel, and professional development to overseeing relocations, surplus, and space redesigns, Ben and his team are integral to everything we see and experience in our offices.” - Michelle Rivera, Assistant to the CMHC Executive Director & Senior Associate Director, CMHC Office Manager

Ben and his team have worked on several key projects over the years, including setting up UHS's first outreach clinic in Gregory Gym. This clinic provided STI testing and nurse consultation services to students in a second, accessible location on campus. His team played a crucial role in preparing the space, which opened in Fall 2023 and has served hundreds of students, many of whom were new to UHS services. This initiative not only improved access to care but also raised awareness about the range of services offered by UHS.

Additionally, Ben and his team play a vital role in the UHS flu vaccination clinics, overseeing the ordering and timely delivery of flu and, this year, COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring they are properly stored for use. Over his 20 years at UHS, these clinics have vaccinated hundreds of thousands of students, faculty and staff.

A Passionate Texan Ben’s deep-rooted connection to Texas and the University of Texas community fuels his commitment to his work. Growing up in Texas instilled in him a love for the university’s rich traditions and school spirit, symbolized by the iconic Burnt Orange color. This passion translates into his daily responsibilities and interactions with students and colleagues alike.

"Ben and his team are the cornerstone of UHS, tirelessly supporting our operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly. His unwavering willingness to help, combined with his infectious smile, not only simplifies our tasks but also enhances our work environment. Ben exemplifies great leadership. His ability to listen and show genuine kindness has a profound impact on team morale and productivity. It's rare to find such a powerful blend of expertise and empathy. If only every workplace had someone like Ben!" - Norma Arima, RN, Assistant Director, Allergy, Immunization and Travel Clinic, University Health Services

Ben Lara being honored with his 10-Year Service Award.

Cherished Connections Over the years, his office has transformed into a shrine of Longhorn memorabilia, a collection that has flourished during his 20 years at UT Austin. As a dedicated Longhorn fan, he has amassed a variety of items, including special pieces gifted by cherished friends, colleagues and connections across campus.

Ben's office in the Student Services Building.

Two items in his office of personal significance to Ben—given to him by close friends Darlene Mitchell and Janet Bensman—represent his passion for memorabilia and the deep friendships he has cultivated over the years.

A 1998 Texas Football poster commemorating former Longhorn coach Mack Brown's first year, featuring an image of the construction of the upper deck of the stadium. This special piece was a gift to Ben from former CMHC employee Janet Bensman and her daughter.

A cherished Longhorn figurine gifted to Ben by Darlene Mitchell, a longtime Healthyhorns staff member and former building manager of the Student Services Building.

Sharing stories behind these cherished pieces not only sparks conversations with colleagues but also highlights the importance of personal connections in the workplace.

As Traci Barrera, Associate Director, Ticket Sales and Services for Intercollegiate Athletics at UT puts it, “He truly embodies the spirit of a loyal and proud Texas fan.”

Signed football for Ben from Earl Campbell, a former professional football player celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Campbell played college football at the University of Texas, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1977.

Another memorable highlight of Ben’s journey was his participation in a video testimonial for football season tickets. Selected for the presentation, he showcased not just his loyalty as a Texas fan, but also the incredible work happening within Healthyhorns. “There’s so much wonderful work happening here every day, but it always comes back to the students,” he shared. “Their passion and resilience bring out the best in us.”

Ben and his family before a Longhorn game.

Community Commitment Ben understands that hard work is a necessity, especially when driven by a strong purpose. Under his leadership, the Materials Management team has engaged in various community-building activities, including cooking and providing breakfast for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House and Dell Children’s Hospital. These experiences foster camaraderie among team members and strengthen their commitment to serving others.

A Legacy of Service Ben Lara exemplifies dedication, leadership, and community spirit at Healthyhorns. His contributions help create a supportive environment for students and staff alike, and his commitment to excellence ensures that these departments continue to grow. With each passing year, Ben not only supports the operations of the organization but also strengthens the connections that bind the UT community together.

- Laura Kinch, Associate Director, Communication and Marketing, Healthyhorns

[healthyhorns]

Longhorn Wellness Center and University Housing and Dining Collaborate to Enhance Well-Being in Residence Halls

This summer, the Longhorn Wellness Center (LWC) and University Housing and Dining (UHD) teamed up to bring well-being elements into the UHD residence hall showrooms. 

Angelique Karditzas is a Health Promotion Coordinator at the LWC and leads initiatives on sleep and rest and co-leads the Longhorn Wellness Peer Educator program. 

Annalisa Trevino, Residential Housing Manager for UHD, focuses on recruiting prospective residents and educating students and parents about the housing application and contract processes.  

Karditzas and Trevino were introduced by their supervisors in order to showcase campus resources within the UHD residence hall showrooms. 

“We have always had showrooms in our different residential spaces,” Trevino said. “Students and parents can view the showroom space in Jester East during the campus walking tours hosted by Texas Tour Guides through the Office of Admissions. We’ve recently expanded our tours to include a North and South campus route, allowing visitors to see additional showrooms in Kinsolving and San Jacinto.” 

Trevino noted that collaborating with the LWC has been a great way to strengthen connections with students and parents during their campus visits. 

“Sometimes it can be hard to know or find out about all the great work that’s being done across the various departments here on campus,” Trevino said. “By partnering with the LWC to highlight wellness offerings and incorporating subtle cues in our showrooms, we make it easier for students to find these programs without having to search for them.”  

Karditzas said she wanted to provide things in the showrooms that would empower students to focus on their overall well-being. 

“Placing items in the showrooms like yoga mats, weights, and sneakers will hopefully cue a student toward movement,” Karditzas said. “Not only is movement great for their overall health, but it has also been researched to improve sleep. Other LWC and Healthyhorns specific items like sleep kits, gratitude journals, fidgets and t-shirts are simple things that students are able to obtain on campus that help in creating a lifestyle that supports their well-being.” 

Trevino said through this process, she has enjoyed learning more about the student resources offered through Healthyhorns departments.  

“I am a huge advocate of being able to showcase the great work our campus partners do,” Trevino said. “I know that our students all have different needs and interests, so this growing partnership between UHD and the LWC makes me feel more equipped to help connect students to resources they can greatly benefit from.” 

Karditzas said she is excited for students and parents to see the showrooms and hopes it makes an impact on them.  

“As students filter through during campus and housing tours, they will all have exposure to the set-up of the residence hall showrooms,” Karditzas said. “I think this will show them how much folks at UT care about their well-being before they even start their first class on campus.” 

To learn more about the Longhorn Wellness Center and its programs, visit https://healthyhorns.utexas.edu/lwc/index.html. Prospective students can sign up for a Housing Tour and information session via the Office of Admissions website: https://bealonghorn.admissions.utexas.edu/portal/housing. 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

[healthyhorns]

Healthyhorns Staff Features: Justin Carter 

Justin Carter (he/him) is the Longhorn Wellness Center’s Suicide Prevention Coordinator and co-instructs the Longhorn SHARE Project peer support academic course. 

Carter joined the Healthyhorns team in 2021. He earned his bachelor of science in social work at The Ohio State University, which had been his dream school since he was in fifth grade. 

“When I finally got accepted to the school, it was like a dream come true,” Carter said. “I even got to play football while I was there, which was all I wanted to do at the time.”  

Carter said attending The Ohio State University was a dream come true and propelled him forward as he figured out his career path. 

“I wanted to work with folks with anxiety and depression, but I didn't know exactly what that meant yet,” Carter said. “I started looking around at internship opportunities and I completed many different training modules centered around domestic violence and social justice. That is what really woke my mind up and pushed me to get into the sphere of social work.”  

Carter wanted to make a bigger impact, not just on mental health, but in society as a whole. 

“I became fascinated with the topic of men, masculinity and empowering men to promote nonviolence,” Carter said, “and that is where my passion really started to develop.” 

As a junior at The Ohio State University, Carter began a part-time staff position at the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, working as the Engaging Men Program Coordinator. He developed statewide initiatives to engage men in domestic violence prevention. 

After graduation, Carter continued his work with the Ohio Domestic Violence Network and became a nationally recognized member in his field. Two years later, Carter accepted a position at The University of Texas at Austin with the Office of the Dean of Students Student Emergency Services unit as the Outreach and Prevention Coordinator.

After a few years, Carter applied to work in the Longhorn Wellness Center as the Suicide Prevention Coordinator and was accepted into the Lyndon B Johnson School of Public Affairs master's program. 

“When I started in my role at the LWC, I primarily focused on all things mental health and suicide prevention-related,” Carter said. “I ran the Mental Health Ambassadors program and through that, one of our students brought a mental health point-of-view back to their Greek organization. Their Greek organization adopted a mental health chair into their larger national organizational structure. Now, every chapter in that organization across the country has to have a mental health chair because of the work started by one of the students in the Mental Health Ambassadors program.” 

Carter has also facilitated suicide prevention trainings across campus for faculty, staff and students.  

“This workshop provides students, faculty and staff with experiential training focused on building knowledge, awareness and skills concerning college student suicide,” Carter said. “These trainings have been a big success because a lot of folks on campus were saying ‘We want to do this stuff, but we just don't have the time to schedule it.’ We were able to figure out how to take the training to them, so they could be in their space and receive the same workshop.” 

Carter is now working with a team of stakeholders across campus to adapt Campus Connect, a suicide prevention train- the trainer model from Syracuse University, to UT Austin’s campus. This new training will be piloted in Fall 2024 with facilitators trained all across UT.  

Carter also co-instructs the Longhorn SHARE Project three semester academic course. The Longhorn SHARE Project is a peer-support program within the Longhorn Wellness Center. 

“I now co-teach in that peer support space with my colleague Adrian Lancaster,” Carter said. “Teaching them and watching their eyes light up to things reminds me of how I was as an undergrad. I gave a presentation centered around masculinity and got to listen to our students say things like, ‘My friends say those things,’ ‘My friends do those things,’ ‘I want to be the person that changes that.” It truly warmed my heart.” 

Carter said one of the most rewarding parts of his job is working with students and being a mentor.  

“Back when I was an intern, I just remember wanting somebody to give me a chance and to teach me. Now, I get to do that for my students,” Carter said. “I get to see them grow into the people they want to be.” 

Carter hopes the connections he is making with his students will last a lifetime, the way his connections with his mentors did. 

“I've gone to every graduation of every student I have ever worked with,” Carter said. “I go because I want to see them cross the stage and open the door to do the things they have set goals to do. I get weepy every time, but to me, it is so important to show up for our students. They won’t forget it.” 

Carter recently graduated earning a Masters of Public Affairs degree. He said he plans to continue his education and hopes to purse a doctorate degree in the near future. 

Learn more about the Longhorn Wellness Center by visiting healthyhorns.utexas.edu/lwc or by stopping by the office to visit in person. The space is home to a plethora of well-being resources and an open workspace. 

Student Services Building 

100 West Dean Keeton Street, 1.106 

512-475-8252 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

[healthyhorns]

Center for Students in Recovery Celebrates 20th Anniversary, Moves to New Campus Location 

The Center for Students in Recovery (CSR) is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, having been established in 2004. CSR also recently relocated to the Student Services Building. 

Initially founded under University Health Services, CSR began by providing small, support-group style meetings in borrowed classrooms around campus. CSR’s initial plan provided activities founded on the principle of peer-to-peer recovery support and the successful practice of connecting individuals in recovery to support one another outside of a clinical setting.  

It quickly became evident that CSR needed its own space to effectively provide support. CSR relies on several key components to encourage a well-rounded recovery experience: working a program of recovery, social engagement and service. To integrate these components, CSR moved into the basement of the Steve Hicks School of Social Work in 2009. 

Based on the success of CSR at UT Austin in 2012, the UT System Office of Academic Affairs secured funding to establish Centers for Students in Recovery at all academic institutions within the UT System, making it the first system in the nation to broadly support such an initiative.  

Within the first two years of the expansion effort, many campuses had a dedicated staff member overseeing a small but growing collegiate recovery center, complete with weekly meetings and a social media presence. In January 2014, CSR moved into Bellmont Hall, further enhancing its mission of creating and sustaining a thriving community through programming and outreach. 

CSR welcomed its current director, Lilly Ettinger, in July 2022. Prior to joining CSR, Ettinger served as the director of the Beauchamp Addiction Recovery Center at Baylor University.  

As someone in recovery, Ettinger has been involved in collegiate recovery since 2011, beginning her work in the field as a graduate student. She has held various roles at Baylor University, including, founding student, graduate student, support specialist, program coordinator, and director for the recovery program. In 2020, she received the National Collegiate Recovery Staff Member of the Year Award from the Association for Recovery in Higher Education, where she also serves on the advisory board and co-wrote ethical guidelines for collegiate recovery staff. 

"We know that alcohol and substance use are incredibly common reasons for why people end up leaving college without a degree,” Ettinger said. “Collegiate Recovery supports students being able to return to an environment that is otherwise not socially accommodating to students who have struggled with addiction.” 

Ettinger noted that students in recovery face unique challenges when returning to campus, including managing a class schedule, work responsibilities, and prioritizing their recovery supports.  

“Collegiate recovery programs like CSR support that in an effective way,” Ettinger said. “We bridge the gap between academic and recovery support, provide the environment for social support, and increase belonging not only among our students, but also among their peers.” 

This summer, as CSR continued to celebrated its 20th anniversary, they moved to its new home in the Student Services Building (2.106C). This move places CSR alongside Healthyhorns, SHIFT and many other wellness adjacent departments and programs. 

  “We’ve got a cozy new location, and we’re excited about what it means for us,” Ettinger said. “The new location is allowing us to host two after-hours meetings this fall for the first time in a long part of CSR’s history. We’re hopeful that being a bit more central to campus, and in a space known for focusing on wellness, will make it easier for students to drop in between classes and make the center more of a home base.” 

Richie King is the senior program coordinator at CSR. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Gender Studies at the University of Texas at Austin and is currently pursuing an MSSW at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. At CSR, Richie is responsible for community outreach and providing peer support to students in recovery and those seeking recovery. He specializes in program development and management, event planning and community building. 

King emphasizes that while CSR is primarily a recovery space, it also supports students with loved ones struggling with addiction, who are sober for mental health or religious reasons and anyone in recovery for any reason. 

“Dealing with any of these facets of recovery can be challenging no matter your age,” King said. “Pursuing a degree at such an academically rigorous institution on top of dealing with that is particularly difficult and takes incredible resilience, and that is why we are so passionate about what CSR provides.” 

King said being in the new CSR location at the Student Services Building (SSB) is helping to lay the groundwork for more collaboration with other programs. 

“We are looking forward to more close collaboration with other entities within the SSB, such as Longhorn TIES and Disability and Access, in addition to continuing the work we do with others in the building,” King said. “We are also excited about the possibility to host after-hours movie nights and tailgating events in the CSR main meeting room.” 

Both Ettinger and King agree that even after 20 years CSR remains vigilant in their efforts to help students and to let those students stay in control of their own recovery processes.  

“We offer professional recovery support through certified peer recovery support specialists, sober social events, recovery meetings of all different pathways, scholarships, volunteering opportunities, and ways to get plugged into the larger Austin recovery community,” Ettinger said. “We aren’t here to tell people what meetings to go to, what classes to take, what they have to do. We are here to help students find the resources and create the social network they can use to make their own success.” 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

[healthyhorns]

Psychology Interns at the Counseling and Mental Health Center Discuss Their Future Plans

Four psychology interns are near conclusion of their one-year internship at the Counseling and Mental Health Center and are preparing to move forward in their careers. 

The Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) carefully selects psychology interns from across the U.S. and Canada through a rigorous application process, which involves applicants sharing their relevant experiences and aspirations.   

The center boasts the nation’s longest-accredited university counseling center-based internship, the CMHC earned accreditation from the American Psychological Association in 1966.    

Mark Zentner, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist and Associate Director for Psychology Training, explained that a selection committee reviews around 120 applications and conducts interviews.  

“After the interviews, the committee creates a ranked list, which is submitted to the national match agency,” Zentner said. “About a month later, we find out who our four interns will be for the upcoming year."  

Zentner said following their internship, interns typically pursue one of three paths:  working in a university counseling center as a staff member or postdoc, entering a professorship position, or joining a private practice.    

“In order to become licensed in Texas, the interns must complete a year of supervised clinical work and pass both a national licensing exam and a state jurisprudence exam after they finish their internship year,” Zentner said.

Dea Radovancevic, Halin Chung, Han Na Lee, and Lauren Jennings began their internships in August 2023. After one year of serving students at CMHC, they are starting the next chapter of their psychology careers.

Radovancevic completed her undergraduate degree in advertising, radio, television and film, and initially pursued a career in public relations.

“I was at a point where I felt that public relations was on the back end of things,” Radovancevic said. “I wanted more direct human interaction, and that led me to psychology.”

Radovancevic then earned her postbaccalaureate in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University before coming back to UT Austin to earn her doctorate degree in counseling psychology.

“I was a practicum student at CMHC for a few years,” Radovancevic said. “After that I knew I wanted to do my internship at a college counseling center. I was very fortunate to stay at CMHC.”

Radovancevic said that during her time as an intern she worked with many clinician mentors at CMHC and provided both individual and group counseling, which has allowed her to focus on many facets of mental health.

“I helped co-lead an acceptance and commitment therapy group for anxiety and/or panic and drop-in yoga group for law students,” Radovancevic said. “I have really been given the opportunity to engage in the experiences I hoped for during this internship.”

Radovancevic said through this internship she has learned that she enjoys working with a team.

“I learned that I really enjoy the collaboration and teamwork aspect of working on a team from my time helping the crisis team at CMHC,” Radovancevic said. “This year has taught me that I truly love the team dynamic.”

Radovancevic said her journey at CMHC has been progressive in many ways and feels bittersweet as she prepares to leave.

“It has been pretty cool to observe my own growth within the same center,” Radovancevic said. “This place has been my community for a few years. I have built many relationships and have truly gotten to know the people here. This experience has really provided me the opportunity to learn what I want to do moving forward and what kind of clinician I want to be.”

Radovancevic plans to continue her career at Williamsburg Therapy Group in Austin, providing counseling for adults and couples.

Chung earned her bachelor’s degree in French language and literature with a double major in sociology and her master’s degree in educational counseling in South Korea before moving to the United States to attend the University of Iowa as part of the counseling psychology PhD program.

“I applied to many internship opportunities across the United States and CMHC was one of them,” Chung said. “I thought geographically it was cool because Austin seemed like a fun area, but I really liked the emphasis on training and education that this internship offers.” 

Chung said once she arrived and the internship began, she was grateful for the focused experience she was getting to be part of. 

“I was excited to immerse myself in the fast pace,” Chung said. “Since then, I’ve had a ton of learning opportunities, worked with the crisis team and learned more about short-term individual counseling.” 

Chung said she expected to learn an immense amount but was not expecting to gain a community within the CMHC. 

“Not only the people on the training committee, but also every staff member I encounter treat us with respect,” Chung said. “I oftentimes felt less like an intern and more like a colleague. Especially in the challenging times, there has been a sense of ‘we’re in this together.’” 

Chung said working with clients with diverse experiences, backgrounds and identities has been rewarding for her throughout this internship. 

“I’ve had opportunities to work with clients who do not necessarily share similar life experiences with me,” Chung said. “It is so valuable to build a connection with these students and it has helped me have a greater sense of humility because I've been able to reflect on my own values and biases.” 

Once she is done with this internship, Chung will start as an assistant professor of counseling psychology at New Mexico State University. 

“I look forward to continuing to support students as they learn and grow,” Chung said. “I am glad I will still be in the position where I can nudge them to reach their full potential.” 

Lee completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology with minors in music business and statistics and computer science at Anderson University in Indiana. She said during her undergrad experience, she was able to create her own independent research study and was inspired by her undergraduate advisor continue to pursue her growth in psychology. 

“Everything came together to help me with doing research for my masters,” Lee said. “I was initially interested in neuropsychology, so I went to Cleveland State University and was part of a clinical psychology program with an emphasis on neuroscience. I did a year-long internship under neuropsychologists." 

  Lee went on to earn her PhD at Loyola University in Chicago in May of 2023 just before she began her internship at the Counseling and Mental Health Center.  

“Throughout my time in this internship I have learned how much I enjoy working with students and how much I love mentoring,” Lee said. “I think that's where I get a lot of joy and meaning out of this work. When I teach and provide students with mentorship, I feel like I am personally benefiting so much and giving back like the wonderful mentors that I’ve had in my life.” 

Lee said her mentors at the Counseling and Mental Health Center have helped her as she focused on developing skills focused on sustaining relationships with clients. 

“Their leadership and mentoring have stood out to me because they are always checking in and making sure things are going well,” Lee said. “They have taught me a lot about maintaining relationships with clients.”   

Lee said she has recently been hired at Iowa State University as an assistant professor in the counseling and psychology department. 

“For the next couple of years, my goal is to continue teaching, researching and mentoring,” Lee said. “My long-term goal is to develop a center where I can increase more accessibility for students.” 

Jennings attended the University of Colorado Boulder where she completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology. She then attended graduate school at The Wright Institute at Berkeley where she was a part of the clinical psychology program. 

“I have been interested in psychology since I was in 7th grade,” Jennings said. “I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted to be like a marriage and family therapist, which is certainly an interesting career choice for a 7th grader.” 

Jennings said throughout her educational career she has known she wants to help people in a counseling capacity.  

“The part of this internship that I have enjoyed the most is the use of self-model that is really ingrained in the work here,” Jennings said. “Our trainers prioritize humanity in the work we are doing. They encourage us to our own personal experiences, our emotions and our identities to influence our work with students.” 

Jennings said she has really enjoyed working with students since being an intern at CMHC.  

“There are a lot of emotions that come with being a student,” Jennings said. “I've have appreciated being able to sit with clients and talk with them about how they're navigating all these new and different feelings and emotions that accompany this very developmental time in their lives. Beyond that, I feel like we are really seeing the students who need us most, and that feels great.” 

Jennings said during her time at CMHC she worked on a crisis team and co-led the Navigating Complicated Family Dynamics trauma group. 

“The experiences that I've had at CMHC have helped develop me into a more well-rounded clinician,” Jennings said. “I have grown more confident, and it is because there is such a wealth of knowledge within our specialty areas, our wide variety of colleagues, and our wonderful trainers.” 

In all, the psychology interns' journey at the Counseling and Mental Health Center has been a transformative experience, leaving them well-prepared and inspired to make a positive impact as they step into the next chapter of their careers in the field of psychology. 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Healthyhorns Staff Features: Tara Cutler, PA-C 

Tara Cutler (she/her/hers) is a physician assistant in the General Medicine clinic at University Health Services. 

Cutler has worked at University Health Services since September of 2006. Before becoming part of the Healthyhorns team, Cutler received her bachelor of science degree in biology from Idaho State University in 2001. She went on to graduate with a masters in health sciences from Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania in 2003. She began her career in internal medicine in Las Vegas in 2004.  

“I had a couple of friends who lived in Austin that I had visited a few times,” Cutler said. “I heard about a job opening at UHS in the General Medicine clinic and the rest is history. I applied, got the job and started working here in September of 2006.” 

Cutler said she knew from a young age that she wanted to work in the medical field because she always wanted to help others. 

“I had a sports physical in high school by a physician assistant (PA) and that is when I decided to be one,” Cutler said. “I had never heard of a PA, but my visit with him was very informative and marked the start of my journey.” 

Cutler said after that experience in high school, she knew that she wanted to pursue a career as a PA. She said once she started at UHS, she knew she was going to enjoy working with students, just like the impactful PA had worked with her when she was around her patients age. 

“I enjoy having students as my patients because I can interact with them on different levels,” Cutler said. “Not only am I helping them with their health and well-being, but also helping them as they pursue their academic endeavors. It feels really nice to be able to ensure they are healthy as they are in this incredibly formative journey.” 

Cutler explained that she believes the services at UHS are important for many reasons, particularly for their low cost and easy access. 

“It is important for students to have access to a healthcare clinic on campus because helping the ‘whole student’ is our focus,” Cutler said. “I am proud to provide care to students at a reasonable cost so our students don’t have additional worries, and I love that we are right here where students are. They don’t have to go far to receive quality care.” 

Having worked with students for nearly 20 years, Cutler finds the best part of her job is the supportive environment filled with like-minded staff dedicated to student care.  

“One of the many reasons I have stayed of at UHS for as long as I have is because of the wonderful providers and staff we have in Healthyhorns,” Cutler said. “They are all so smart, extremely kind, caring and compassionate. Their number one priority is to take care of our students.” 

Cutler said she wants students to remember that their time at UT Austin is a crucial chapter in their lives. 

“Don’t let a bad grade deter you from doing what you want to do and becoming who you want to become,” Cutler said. “Speaking from experience, the road to success is challenging and there are often a few detours, but believing in yourself and having the motivation to succeed can make all the difference.” 

Learn more about UHS at healthyhorns.utexas.edu or by visiting us in person in the Student Services Building, 100 West Dean Keeton Street, 1-3 Floors.  

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Mural Unveiled at University Health Services Gynecology Clinic

Two students from the College of Fine Art collaborated with the staff at the UHS Gynecology Clinic to illustrate, design and paint a mural on a central wall in the clinic. The mural represents and celebrates the UT Austin community. 

Gabriella Carvelli, an art history major with minors in Italian, archaeology, and business and Josiah Brown, a studio art major, started the process of creating the mural during the Spring 2023 term after learning about the opportunity from one of their instructors. From there, the two met with representatives from the UHS administrative team and Gynecology Clinic, and pitched their ideas and inspiration. 

“We met through one of our professors, Megan Hildebrandt, who told us about this opportunity at the end of the Spring semester in 2023,” Brown explained. “During that following summer, we started a Google Document with all of our different ideas and narrowed them down from there.” 

The pair ended up creating sketches for five different mural ideas and collaborated with the UHS Gynecology Clinic to choose the final design. 

Amy Graf, CNM, APRN, Department Chief of the UHS Gynecology Clinic and Sheila Mahon, RN-OB, Assistant Director or Nursing in the UHS Gynecology Clinic both worked closely with the two student artists. Mahon said they had just taken down decorative quilts that were hanging on the walls and were looking for something to fill the blank slate. 

“I mentioned my idea for a mural to leadership,” Mahon said, “and they reached out to the College of Fine Arts.” 

Graf said working with the students was a pleasure from the very start, and she was impressed with their professionalism. 

“Sheila coordinated supplies and reimbursements, and the students worked around our clinic schedule,” Graf said. “It seemed like they got a lot done on weekends, and it made Mondays more fun to see how much they’d accomplished.” 

Carvelli said she and Brown wanted the mural to pay homage to all Longhorns and the city of Austin. 

“Thematically, we wanted the mural to be welcoming and familiar for the UT Austin community,” Carvelli said. “As a student of art history, I was deeply interested in exploring the role of women in artmaking practices throughout time, which inspired my fascination with recapturing toile, a 17th century French textile design, and subverting it in mural format.” 

During the winter break of 2023, Carvelli and Brown explored campus and Austin, taking photos of the landscapes, people and landmarks along the way, using the things they captured as inspiration for the details in the mural. 

“After we sketched these scenes, we interspersed some flora and fauna local to Austin and this area of Texas, such as crepe myrtle, Texas sage, and squirrels,” Brown said. “The style of our mural really gave us the opportunity for little vignettes of student life, which felt like it would honor our vision and the direction the Gynecology Clinic staff wanted to go in.” 

After several weeks of sketching and painting, the artists revealed the mural at a celebration event this spring. The pair said they are grateful for the learning experiences along the way and getting to create something that they hope will bring joy and warmth to others. 

“Opportunities like this really help open doors for the future,” Carvelli said. “To create a mural like this helped to connect me to my community on campus,” Carvelli said. “I have no doubt that this experience will open doors for the future." 

Brown said this experience was different from the things he learns in his classes. 

“I learned how to take something to a client and go back-and-forth on an idea,” Brown said. “In class we are typically given a prompt and go from there, but gaining the experience of collaboration with a client was very educational.” 

The pair said that neither of them have ever created anything on a scale this large, so they are thankful for this opportunity. 

“It was really cool to be able to do something like this that other people can enjoy,” Carvelli said. “I hope it brings joy and happiness to passersby for years to come.” 

Graf expressed the sincere gratitude of University Health Services for the hard work put in by the artists and the lasting impact their mural will have on Longhorns. 

“I hear students and staff praising the mural every day as they pass by,” Graf said. “What used to be a 10 second walk down the hallway has turned into a three-minute journey because there is always something new to discover. Not only is it relevant to our students’ lives, but also the craftsmanship is stunning. We want folks to feel comfortable and welcomed, and if they look hard enough, they will see an image of themselves portrayed in these vignettes because having student created art helps send that message.” 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Celebrating a UHS Student Employee’s Graduation and Journey at University Health Services 

 Braydon Demasters, a longtime student employee at University Health Services (UHS), graduated on May 11 with a bachelor's of science degree in biology after serving in various roles at UHS for two years. 

Demasters joined UHS in the summer of 2022 as the Patient Education Management intern through the Texas Leadership Education and Development (Texas LEAD) summer internship program. 

“During my first internship role at UHS, I worked under Sheila Mahon in the Gynecology clinic,” Demasters said. “In that role, I went through all of the patient handouts and paperwork so that I could update the content when needed. This served as a really good introduction into all that University Health Services offered.” 

Demasters said he worked in the UHS administrative office, where he began building strong professional relationships with the staff. As his summer internship was coming to a close, the administrative team recognized his potential and offered him a position as a student assistant, allowing him to continue his journey with UHS.  

“I was thrilled to be invited to stay on,” Demasters said. “I worked as a student assistant for my entire junior year and I really enjoyed all of the people I was working with.” 

In the summer of 2023, Demasters worked with Renee Mathews, Director of Nursing Services at UHS, to create the Accreditation Optimization internship role. 

“We had just gone through the accreditation renewal process with Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care,” Demasters explained, “so I was given the task of organizing and categorizing all of the feedback we had received from that process.” 

Renee Mathews was one of Demaster’s supervisors while he was in the Accreditation Optimization internship role. She said from the start she knew he was going to be able to handle whatever they threw at him. 

“We learned pretty early on how capable he is,” Mathews said. “He is able to capture what we need quickly and eloquently and he has remarkable attention to detail which helps his ability to handle high-level work.” 

After Demasters finished up his second summer internship, he returned to his role as student assistant to the UHS administrative staff.  

“By this point, I was gaining more confidence in my work and was able to take more initiative,” Demasters said. “It was nice to collaborate with other areas in UHS to help in whatever ways I could.” 

Despite taking on various roles during his time at UHS, Demasters said that the experience has given him an immense appreciation for the exceptional level of care provided by the UHS team, from the providers to the nurses and the support staff.  

“Before my time at UHS, I didn’t realize the huge amount of work it takes to serve the student body at UT in this capacity,” Demasters said. “But I noticed very early on the amount of dedication that the folks at UHS have.” 

Demasters said he has always encouraged others to be proactive about their health, but since his involvement at UHS, this commitment has become even more of a priority. 

“Being a student at such a large institution can sometimes make you feel detached and like you are just a number,” Demasters said, “but the people at UHS are truly willing to give you a very personalized experience. It has been so rewarding to have this experience and to witness the amount of work and care UHS puts into their jobs. They want students to be able to feel their best and do their best, and it is amazing to see.” 

Mathews said she enjoys having students in the office so they can learn, grow and develop new skills. 

“Students are always willing to take on a project and devote their time to it,” Mathews said. “I do love to watch them grow. We work so closely with them so we are able to see their interactions improve in a professional setting on top of all the knowledge they are getting from doing their day-to-day tasks.” 

Demasters said he plans to take a gap year after graduation, but knows he wants to pursue a career in optometry. 

“This job has helped me solidify my love of working with patients and helping them advocate for their healthcare,” Demasters said. “I know the skills and things I have learned while working here will follow me into the future and one day into my career.” 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Center for Students in Recovery Student Technician Receives National Award 

In April, the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE) announced their annual Collegiate Recovery Awards. These awards recognize ARHE staff and student member efforts and daily work as they seek to improve the lives of students in recovery. 

The ARHE is the only association dedicated to exclusively representing collegiate recovery programs and communities. It also advocates for the faculty and staff who support these programs and the students who are part of them. 

This year Ellie Morris, a student technician at the Center for Students in Recovery (CSR), was named Collegiate Recovery Student of the Year. This prestigious award honors an undergraduate or graduate student who has displayed excellence in academics and leadership in the field, exceeding the usual expectations of work/study responsibilities. 

Director for the Center for Students in Recovery Lilly Ettinger said that award nominations open up in February each year. She knew early on that she wanted to nominate Ellie for Collegiate Recovery Student of the Year.  

“Generally, you pick a student who has been outstanding, who shows up, and who has the respect of their peers,” Lilly said. “After I knew we were going to nominate Ellie, we began getting nomination letters ready from myself, other staff, and students.” 

Lilly said it was easy to write about Ellie and her accomplishments, both personally and academically, because Ellie’s journey was worth celebrating. 

Ellie’s began pursuing her undergraduate degree in biology in the fall of 2017. 

“At the time, it probably appeared as though I had it all together,” Ellie said. “It seemed like I was handling myself well.” 

Ellie said early on in her collegiate career, she could feel internally that she was hiding her struggles with substance use.  

“That is how I had learned to survive,” Ellie said. “It became progressively more difficult when it started to affect my grades and my mental health.” 

At the start of the pandemic, Ellie said she experienced a sharp decline in her mental health and it got much worse due to isolation. She had just moved into her own apartment by herself and was often alone.  

“I didn’t have a reason to hide it anymore,” Ellie said. “Things really started accelerating at that point. People began to notice that I was making very irresponsible choices. My relationships with friends and family were all rather tumultuous. My grades were slipping.” 

Ellie reflected on this difficult time saying that one thing that she will always remember are the professors who reached out to check on her, making sure she was okay. 

“People clearly noticed,” Ellie said. “I didn’t respond at the time, but looking back it means a lot to know that they had my best interest at heart and were genuinely concerned.” 

Ellie medically withdrew from classes after Spring Break in 2022, after already reducing her course load to part-time earlier that semester.  

“It was time to address that my mental health needed attention,” Ellie said. “After being sober for two weeks, I noticed a complete change inside me. It was at that time that I realized the connection between my mental health and substance use." 

After living at home and being sober for a year, Ellie decided to come back to UT Austin and finish up her degree.  

“In my heart and in my gut, I knew this was something I needed to see through,” Ellie said. “In the summer of 2023, I discovered the Center for Students in Recovery website and connected with Lilly. She was so welcoming and helped me learn more about the services and resources they offered. My parents and I felt a lot more comfortable knowing there would be a support system in place for me when I returned.” 

On the first day of classes in August of 2023, Ellie went to the CSR for the first time. By the end of August, she was hired on as a student technician.  

CSR Program Coordinator Richie King said Ellie has gone above and beyond as a student employee and has even taken on the role of an officer for the CSR student organization, Students for Recovery. 

“Ellie has definitely worn many hats,” Richie said. “From checking students in when they come into CSR, to leading meetings, to being someone that provides an openness to student peers and is there for them in many ways.” 

Ellie said she has been open about her experiences and shares her story with students who come into the CSR. She hopes that by doing so, they can connect and release the shame that is often associated with substance use. 

“This is all part of my story and it has made me stronger,” Ellie said. “I like to be really open with students so that they can see that they aren’t alone.” 

Lilly expressed her immense gratitude to Ellie for her outstanding leadership throughout her time at the CSR.  

“I am so proud of Ellie,” Lilly said. “It's so scary to come back to college in recovery, especially to the same college everything went down at. She didn't just like, survive it, she thrived and helped to create and foster an environment where other students can thrive as well.” 

After all her hard work both personally and academically, Ellie finished her degree and graduated this spring with a bachelor's of science degree in biology. 

Ellie plans to attend the 15th Annual Collegiate Recovery Conference in San Diego this summer where she can accept her award in person. She said she plans to bring her family, along with her mentors Lilly and Richie, to celebrate the occasion. 

“It feels really good to be recognized and celebrated,” Ellie said. “I am honestly so proud of myself and how I have changed, and I owe it all to the CSR. I could not have done any of this without them.” 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Counseling and Mental Health Center Social Work Interns Complete Internship, Prepare for Next Chapter 

Four interns from the Steve Hicks School of Social Work joined the CMHC at the start of fall 2023 semester and are now preparing to take the next steps in their careers once their one-year internship is complete. 

“When the interns start at the beginning of August, they arrive starry-eyed and anxious,” Alicia Garces, associate director of social work training program at the Counseling and Mental Health Center, said. “The fact that they have been accepted and invited into this role is a big deal.” 

Garces and a team of her colleagues begin recruitment for the following school year beginning in the spring when they meet with students from the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Interns are then selected from the pool of applicants and serve from fall to the end of the spring.  

This internship model involves a phased approach: interns undergo training in August, transition to half-time social work roles in the fall, and conclude with full-time commitments in the spring. 

Garces said that the interns “jump right in” as they start their training and prepare to see clients for the first time. 

“We spend the month of August helping them learn about the training side of our program,” Garces said. “They get training time with all clinicians in our specific areas so that by the time August is over they have a good sense of our culture and then they start providing services to clients.” 

At the start of the fall semester, when interns are transitioning into their half-time roles, they work with clinicians at CMHC who sit in with them as supervisors during their sessions. 

“When they come in, they are brand new,” Garces said. “They are in their second year at the School of Social Work, but they are new to this model. It is so encouraging to watch them as they grow and learn.” 

Since August the four interns have completed their required hours of training as they worked with licensed CMHC clinicians to meet and connect with their own set of clients. 

Now, as the semester draws to a close, Seth Nowlin, Em Manning, Reagan Leibovitz, and Pilar Ciria reflect on their experiences and the paths that led them here. 

Nowlin completed their undergraduate degree in anthropology and religious studies from Texas State University. 

“I really enjoyed those disciplines and in a lot of ways I feel like they still inform me in some ways today, but I did not end up working in anthropology after I graduated,” Nowlin said. “I also decided not to go back to graduate school right away either.” 

After a decade in another career, Nowlin aspired for change. Inspiration struck while working with their own therapist, igniting a passion to pursue a career as a clinical social worker. 

“I was very motivated to move into clinical social work,” Nowlin said. “It was really important to me to go to school at UT Austin because I've been in this area since 2007. I think it felt so important to me to be from the place that I worked to have a little bit of familiarity and time with the different populations to truly know the place itself." 

Nowlin was accepted to start at the UT Austin School of Social Work in 2022. Their first placement was at Catholic Charities of Central Texas, primarily assisting veterans with financial assistance. Additionally, they facilitated a coping strategies skills class at the Travis County Correctional Complex. 

Nowlin credits their previous experiences for setting them up for success in their current role as a social work intern at CMHC. 

“While this has been one of the most challenging, growth-oriented phases of my life, I know I am getting so much from this experience,” Nowlin said. “I love our cohort and I'm so grateful for the other three people that are here with me." 

Nowlin expressed their gratitude for getting hands-on experience from multiple specialties. 

“I am part of the Mindful Eating Team and the Voices Against Violence team, so I'm meeting with clients that are kind of presenting those key issues,” Nowlin said. “You can just imagine a lot of clients don't fit into neat, tidy categories - life isn't like that. It’s nice to have a generalist, robust awareness and set of skills so that I can meet people where they're at and adapt with them through the clinical processes.” 

Em Manning attended Southwestern University in Georgetown, where they earned an undergraduate degree in feminist studies. Following graduation, Manning gained experience working at Planned Parenthood as a health center assistant. Much like their fellow intern Nowlin, Manning spent nearly a decade outside of the social work field before pursuing studies at the UT Austin School of Social Work. 

“I have always been interested in social justice, and I thought about going to school directly after undergrad for social work, but wanted a break to get some experience in the real world,” Manning said. “I'm honestly so glad I did.” 

In 2022, Manning was accepted to the School of Social Work in 2022 and spent their first placement as a social work intern at Atkins Early College High School, focusing on student support services. Manning found this experience invaluable, working closely with students as they navigated their paths toward the future.  

“It has been really awesome to transition from that first internship where I was working with high school juniors and seniors to here, where I am mostly working with college freshmen, so I felt like I kind of moved with them, even though I work with different clients,” Manning said. “I think a lot of the things that students are struggling with have common threads that come up like adjustment, academic stress, identity development, and things that happen when you’re a young adult.” 

Manning said they have grown and learned through their time at CMHC and are excited to see what their future holds as they apply the knowledge they’ve gained. 

“I truly can't imagine a better place to be, to be honest,” Manning said. “I feel so much gratitude for being in this placement. I really feel like people have invested in us here and that feels incredible.” 

Reagan Leibovitz attended Georgetown University in Washington D.C. majoring in psychology. Through her time as an undergraduate student, Leibovitz volunteered for the national crisis text line and provided peer support on campus, immersing herself in mental health advocacy.  

Additionally, Leibovitz also minored in education, inquiry and justice, which impacted her decision to pursue social work. Right after completing her undergraduate degree, Leibovitz applied and was accepted into the graduate program at the UT Austin School of Social Work. 

“When I started the social work program, it just felt so in alignment with my values and what I was looking for so the transition was pretty easy,” Leibovitz said. “There are the ups and downs and the stresses of being a grad student, but there is a deep sense of meaning and fulfillment that I’ve been getting out of this experience.” 

Leibovitz reflected on her initial placement during her first year in the social work program, which was at Catholic Charities Counseling Center. This experience solidified her interest in counseling and clinical spaces. 

“This second placement at CMHC has been amazing,” Leibovitz said. “What stands out to me day to day is that I'm always working with people who are so passionate about the work that they're doing and also passionate about helping us interns through the training process.” 

Leibovitz expressed the joy she feels when she helps young adults at UT is unmatched. 

 "It's such a unique, interesting time for students in terms of them transitioning away from home and having independence for the first time, so I think that just kind of holding space for both is one reason why I enjoy working with college students,” Leibovitz said. "To hear what students are dealing with, and to watch them persist and continue in spite of that, and to maybe even find meaning through the growth that they're experiencing is really inspiring to me." 

Leibovitz said she felt so much gratitude toward the clinicians she has worked with and learned from at CMHC. She believes this experience will serve her well as she moves towards obtaining her clinical social worker licensure. 

Pilar Ciria began her secondary educational journey at El Paso Community College before transferring to UT Austin to pursue her undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders. Following this, she earned her master’s degree in speech-language pathology and then started her career at the Austin Independent School District.  

“After I started working for Austin ISD, I always felt very interested in more of the emotional components of things and the different needs of the kids,” Ciria said. “There were so many layers to it. I wanted to do more and also help provide more emotional support as they're learning new things and navigating so much. So, when talking to my own therapist, he mentioned that it sounded like I really wanted to do what he does.” 

After being accepted into the UT Austin School of Social Work, Ciria began working towards her goal of being a licensed clinical social worker.  

“Last year, I was working with Cap City Kids for my first placement,” Ciria said. “It felt familiar because I was still working with kids, which is something I am passionate about. It was overall a wonderful experience and allowed me to also connect parents to resources as well as provide support.” 

Ciria said she was excited and nervous to start her second placement at CMHC.  

“I'd never worked with young adults and I had heard a lot about the Counseling and Mental Health Center,” Ciria said. “I knew this opportunity would be a starting point to transition into something that really could change my life.” 

Ciria said her time as an intern at CMHC has been beneficial, inspiring and full of growth.  

“I love working with the students,” Ciria said. "I get to help them through the complexity of what they are navigating and they can tell me how they're feeling so we have discussions about those feelings.” 

Ciria said it has been nice to be able to connect with students on campus and that her days as an undergraduate and master's student at UT have helped her journey. 

“It has been interesting to remember what my own story was like when I was a student, and just seeing what students are going through now and their own challenges just gives me a different perspective,” Ciria said. “When I get to hear their stories, it feels like such a privilege to personally learn from their experiences and help them also learn from their experiences.” 

Ciria said she is excited to see what is next for her career path once her internship is over. She explained that she looks forward to taking away a new approach to working with clients. 

“One thing I’ve learned to do is instead of me leading and guiding and wanting to ‘tell’ a student what to do, I’ve started to ask them to tell me where they want to go and reassure them that I'll go behind them and we'll figure it out together.” 

Ciria said she feels an immense amount of gratitude as her internship comes to a close. 

“I'm just very grateful for this opportunity and the support that I’ve had as I learned to do new things,” Ciria said. “Just being able to talk to other clinicians that have experience and learn from them and the other interns has been amazing.” 

This cohort of social work interns will conclude their internship on the final class day this semester. 

“We’ve had such a wonderful year,” Garces said. “They have been working so hard and it is nice to see that they are witnessing their recognition of the value and rewards of their hard work.” 

At the recruitment interviews for the 2024-2025 social work intern cohort, the current interns were given the opportunity to speak with the candidates.  

“To hear them speak so proudly about their experiences made me feel so proud,” Garces said. “It was so wonderful. They themselves were in that same room just a year ago hearing about the social work internship at the Counseling and Mental Health Center.”  

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Healthyhorns Staff Features: Ginny Maril

Ginny Maril (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Psychologist and the Director of Clinical Services at the Counseling and Mental Health Center.

Ginny joined the Healthyhorns team in 2019, after serving as director of the counseling center at California Lutheran University. Prior to that, Ginny attended Texas Woman's University where she earned her PhD in counseling psychology.

“Raised in a military family, I lived in a few different places,” Ginny said. “Austin was always my favorite stop we made and I've always held UT very close to my heart, so when the clinical director position became available, I had to take a shot. It was time to come home.”

Through her years working in college mental health, Ginny said she has always strived to do whatever she could make sure the students on her campus were taken care of.

“I truly believe a college education changes people's lives,” Ginny said. “I chose to work in college mental health for that reason - to help students who may need mental health support in order to successfully navigate and graduate with a degree that will better their lives.”

Ginny said she admires college students’ resilience and their hard working spirits. She said that through her work she feels grateful to be the person that helps students shed light on the positive aspects of their lives.

“College students are the best,” Ginny said. “So much may have happened by the time they get to college, but now they get the chance to plot their own course and start to shape the life they want to live. Sometimes it’s even a life they never imagined could happen for them.”

Ginny said through her work with students, she has learned to make sure that when they leave an appointment with her they remember one thing, “Life doesn't make sense yet, but it will. Just keep going.”

Learn more about the Counseling and Mental Health Center by visiting cmhc.utexas.edu or by calling the office at 512-471-3515, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. to set up a brief assessment appointment.

Counseling and Mental Health Center

Student Services Building

100 West Dean Keeton Street

512-471-3515

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

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Healthyhorns Staff Features: Sam Rodriguez

Sam Rodriguez (she/her/hers) is the Bystander Intervention and BeVOCAL Program Coordinator at the Longhorn Wellness Center. 

Sam joined the Healthyhorns team back in July of 2023, coming from the UT Austin Office of Admissions. Before working in admissions, Sam received a bachelor of science in psychology from The University of Central Florida and a master of science in curriculum and instruction from Florida International University. She then worked as a behavioral therapist for children with autism and various learning differences. 

Before her time in Austin, Sam’s primary focus was creating a community for women of color and making the outdoors more inclusive and accessible. Sam served as a trip leader for Outdoor Adventure at UCF and led trips going caving, hiking, bioluminescent kayaking, surfing and more. Sam said she has always had a passion for learning and challenging her innate behaviors, beliefs and actions. 

Sam said that her interactions with UT Admissions and prospective students fueled her passion for cultivating environments that prioritize both academic development and holistic personal growth. She said she was drawn to building support systems that address the unique challenges faced by students. 

“I truly wanted to create a well-rounded educational experience that not only equips students with academic knowledge but also empowers them to thrive personally and culturally,” Sam said. “This passion led me to my place in the Longhorn Wellness Center promoting student well-being.” 

Sam explained that bystander intervention and BeVOCAL are about creating communities where people look out for each other, and help change the campus culture.  

“Initiatives such as BeVOCAL provide strategies to address these various forms of harm and cultivate a culture of care and responsibility,” Sam said. “Students need bystander intervention initiatives to prevent harm, promote safety, change social norms and build community.” 

Sam said working with students is exciting and rewarding, and one of her favorite parts of her role at the Longhorn Wellness Center. 

"Each and every student I work with brings a unique perspective and an overflowing amount of ambition to grow,” Sam said. “I personally love working within an educational system because of the robust mentorship opportunities and the ability to empower students to advocate for themselves, discover who they are and find that love for learning. I always like to remind my students, and students we come across through our work on campus, that they have the power to change ideas, cultures, practices, beliefs, laws, systems and institutions. They are deserving of love, celebration and inclusion.” 

If you are interested in learning more about the Longhorn Wellness Center, bystander intervention and BeVOCAL, visit healthyhorns.utexas.edu/lwc or by stop by the office to visit in person. The space is home to a plethora of well-being resources and an open workspace. 

Student Services Building 

100 West Dean Keeton Street, 1.106 

Monday – Friday (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) 

512-475-8252 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

[healthyhorns]

Healthyhorns Staff Features: James Butler

James Butler (he/him/his) is the Mindfulness Campus Coordinator at the Longhorn Wellness Center where he oversees the mindful UT program and mindful initiatives across campus. 

James joined the Healthyhorns team over two years ago coming from Austin Independent School District where he worked teaching mostly pre-kindergarten and kindergarten. James also worked in Namibia for a year where he taught high school English and math. 

“I'm an educator at my core and have been in education since 2002,” James said. “In my role here at UT, I’m the mindfulness campus coordinator, and I also co-host the annual Mindfulness Summit, teach a mindful UT created course, ‘Foundations of Stress Management’, and oversee the Nature Rx program.” 

James explained that when he learned of the opportunity to take on a new career with college age students, he didn’t hesitate. 

“The opportunity to work with college students through mindfulness was an opportunity that spoke to me because I first started exploring my own mental health when I was in college,” James said. “My university didn't have a wellness center or much in the way of counseling or mental health and well-being programming, and I really could have benefited from that.” 

James said that the work he typically does with students revolves around them not being sure they have enough time to practice mindfulness, or that they even know how. He said in his role, he is always looking for new ways to show students how practicing mindfulness is simple. 

“My main goals are to show that mindfulness can be done anytime, anywhere, anyhow, and can be woven into daily routines that already exist such as morning or bedtime routines,” James said. “I want to make sure students know that there is not one right way to practice mindfulness. This isn't a one size fits all situation.” 

James said he aims to make sure students focus on the many different ways they can work mindfulness into their lives by practicing being present in situations through art, music, nature, movement, breathing, connections and more. 

“I want students to get into the habit of practicing mindfulness in a way that works for them and want to provide ways that they can more easily access these strategies when stressful times arise,” James said. “Having access to resources that allow our students to be more present, during the awesome times and the not so awesome times, is incredibly important for their overall experience at UT Austin, and also, for life beyond UT.” 

James said working with students every day is the best part of his job. He loves that he gets to teach and learn at the same time. 

“I have a lot of ideas, strategies and experiences that can be valuable, but so do students,” James said. “I love being able to learn and grow alongside students in my role. I have a platform where I'm able to share wisdom gained from students with other students across this large university.” 

James believes that our students, and his former groups of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, have inspired him by showing up with curiosity, honesty and enthusiasm. 

“Working in this field wasn't in my natural path or professional progression,” James said, “but mental health is really important to me, as I have a long history with dealing with my own mental health diagnoses of depression, anxiety and PTSD. I am really glad that I'm here and getting to share mindfulness strategies as a way to support college students' mental health and overall well-being.” 

James said that wants students to discover that with curiosity comes discomfort and from discomfort comes growth.  

“It's important to note that the distinction between discomfort and feeling unsafe,” James said. “I'm talking about the discomfort that comes from trying something new or unfamiliar like meditating, putting your phone away for extended periods of time, meeting new people, reaching out for help in any capacity, etc. There is great growth that can be found in and after those moments of discomfort if we're able to sit with them, curious about what's arising.” 

James said that he hopes students remember this: “You're not alone in whatever it is you're experiencing. We're here for you. You got this.” 

If you are interested in learning more about the Longhorn Wellness Center and mindful UT, visit healthyhorns.utexas.edu/lwc or by stop by the office to visit in person. The space is home to a plethora of well-being resources and an open workspace. 

Student Services Building 

100 West Dean Keeton Street, 1.106 

Monday – Friday (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) 

512-475-8252 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator

[healthyhorns]

Healthyhorns Staff Features: Danielle Sirles, PhD 

Danielle Sirles, PhD (she/her/hers) is a licensed psychologist and the assistant group coordinator at the Counseling and Mental Health Center. 

Dr. Sirles joined the Counseling and Mental Health Center in the summer of 2021. She received her bachelor's degrees in psychology and sociology from Texas Lutheran University, her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and her doctorate in counseling psychology from Texas Tech University. Before her time at the Counseling and Mental Health Center, Dr. Sirles worked at other university counseling centers in Texas and Michigan. 

Dr. Sirles has spent her entire career in university counseling and is very passionate about finding ways to make mental healthcare accessible and relatable to students from different backgrounds.  

“Clinically, I enjoy working with students dealing with relationship concerns, rebuilding their confidence and self-esteem, helping them heal from trauma, and teaching them how to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety,” Dr. Sirles said. “At CMHC, I offer individual therapy, group therapy, crisis appointments, and I serve on our training committee where I provide supervision to therapists-in-training.” 

Dr. Sirles said she specifically chose to work with college students because she wanted to help people as they navigate major life transitions.  

“I’m truly passionate about helping students that are just starting college, graduate school, or  professional programs,” Dr. Sirles said. “It is almost always a big change for folks! Working in this specific field affords me the opportunity to share the best evidence-based practices that can help students settle in to change and learn how to be successful in a new campus, professional, or personal environment.” 

Dr. Sirles is working to meet students where they are and help them realize that they have someone to help them. 

“For me, it’s all about figuring out how to take the next steps together,” Dr. Sirles said. “Most often, students come to counseling with a wide variety of concerns. These issues are often related to complex relationships, identity development and exploration, navigating specific mental health diagnoses like anxiety and depression, existential dilemmas, coping with trauma, adjusting to changes, and many other concerns. I want them to know that if it’s a concern to them, it’s a concern to me.” 

Dr. Sirles said that one of the best parts of her job is working with students. 

“I love how students lean into the uncertainties and excitement of new experiences,” Dr. Sirles said. “It takes a lot of courage for anyone to pursue higher levels of education, and I’m constantly in awe and inspired by students’ bravery, resilience and accomplishments.” 

Dr. Sirles said she encourages students to reach out for support if they think they need it.  

“Oftentimes, students worry that their concerns aren’t ‘big enough,’ or they feel like they should wait until their problems reach a certain level of difficulty to ask for help,” Dr. Sirles said. “However, the sooner we address our problems, the sooner we can get on the road towards feeling better. If you’re considering getting help, take this as your personal invitation to reach out to CMHC. We’re truly here to help!” 

Danielle Sirles, PhD (she/her/hers) is a licensed psychologist at the Counseling and Mental Health Center, where she serves as a psychologist and assistant group coordinator. 

Dr. Sirles joined the Counseling and Mental Health Center in the summer of 2021. She received her bachelor's degrees in psychology and sociology from Texas Lutheran University, her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and her doctorate in counseling psychology from Texas Tech University. Before her time at the Counseling and Mental Health Center, Dr. Sirles worked at other university counseling centers in Texas and Michigan. 

Dr. Sirles has spent her entire career in university counseling and is very passionate about finding ways to make mental healthcare accessible and relatable to students from different backgrounds.  

“Clinically, I enjoy working with students dealing with relationship concerns, rebuilding their confidence and self-esteem, helping them heal from trauma, and teaching them how to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety,” Dr. Sirles said. “At CMHC, I offer individual therapy, group therapy, crisis appointments, and I serve on our training committee where I provide supervision to therapists-in-training.” 

Dr. Sirles said she specifically chose to work with college students because she wanted to help people as they navigate major life transitions.  

“I’m truly passionate about helping students that are just starting college, graduate school, or  professional programs,” Dr. Sirles said. “It is almost always a big change for folks! Working in this specific field affords me the opportunity to share the best evidence-based practices that can help students settle in to change and learn how to be successful in a new campus, professional, or personal environment.” 

Dr. Sirles is working to meet students where they are and help them realize that they have someone to help them. 

“For me, it’s all about figuring out how to take the next steps together,” Dr. Sirles said. “Most often, students come to counseling with a wide variety of concerns. These issues are often related to complex relationships, identity development and exploration, navigating specific mental health diagnoses like anxiety and depression, existential dilemmas, coping with trauma, adjusting to changes, and many other concerns. I want them to know that if it’s a concern to them, it’s a concern to me.” 

Dr. Sirles said that one of the best parts of her job is working with students. 

“I love how students lean into the uncertainties and excitement of new experiences,” Dr. Sirles said. “It takes a lot of courage for anyone to pursue higher levels of education, and I’m constantly in awe and inspired by students’ bravery, resilience and accomplishments.” 

Dr. Sirles said she encourages students to reach out for support if they think they need it.  

“Oftentimes, students worry that their concerns aren’t ‘big enough,’ or they feel like they should wait until their problems reach a certain level of difficulty to ask for help,” Dr. Sirles said. “However, the sooner we address our problems, the sooner we can get on the road towards feeling better. If you’re considering getting help, take this as your personal invitation to reach out to CMHC. We’re truly here to help!” 

Learn more about the Counseling and Mental Health Center by visiting cmhc.utexas.edu or by calling the office at 512-471-3515, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. to set up a brief assessment appointment. 

Counseling and Mental Health Center 

Student Services Building 

100 West Dean Keeton Street, 5th Floor 

512-471-3515 

-Erin Garcia, Healthyhorns Outreach and Social Media Coordinator