Luci MacNamara joined Bryn Mawr in August 2023 as the Counseling Services Director In her Staff Spotlight, MacNamara talks about her role at the College.
When did you start at Bryn Mawr and where were you prior to your arrival?
I started my position as Bryn Mawr's Counseling Services Director in August 2023. Prior to this role, I was director of Counseling and Psychological Services at Cabrini University and before that, a staff psychologist at Villanova University for several years.
What got you interested in the work you do?
College is a rich developmental time for each individual; a time to explore our identities, gain greater awareness of ourselves and our relationships, and think about how to shape our futures. I love working with college students during this pivotal time in their lives. Notably, it can also be a difficult period in life due to so many transitions and societal pressures. As Counseling Director, I'm passionate about leading a team of clinicians who are attuned to students' needs and can support their holistic development during this critical time. My first taste of college counseling was as a trainee early in my graduate degree; by the time I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology, I had completed three years of clinical training at various counseling centers, which really cemented my career goals.
What would you like more students to know about Counseling Services?
Counseling at Bryn Mawr is free, confidential, and easily accessible. Interested students can come in to Counseling Services for a brief assessment during our triage hours (Monday - Friday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-4 p.m.) and talk to a counselor for 20-30 minutes. Based on the outcome of this assessment, students may be scheduled with a counselor for an intake and ongoing therapy, may be referred to outside services, or the student may return for a brief check-in with the triage counselor to follow up. Students do not need to know what they need before meeting with a triage counselor; that is something that can be figured out during the brief assessment.
What do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies?
I have two young kids, so most of my time outside of work is spent with them; playing with legos, riding bikes, and reading are some of my favorite family activities. As far as hobbies, I have danced my entire life and still enjoy taking ballet class once a week. When time allows, I love exploring new hiking trails as well!
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