Avery Cook is a clinical social worker and the Director of CAPS. Originally from North Carolina, they received their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Davidson College and their Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) with a Concentration in Mental Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Avery enjoys working with students on a variety of issues including crisis work, adjustment, anxiety, depression, substance abuse as well as issues related to LGB clients, gender identity, and gender expression. In working with clients, they take an eclectic approach, utilizing a variety of approaches based on what best meets the needs of the clients. Outside of CAPS, Avery enjoys being outside, either hiking or biking, reading, and time with family and friends.

Kyle Alexander is a clinical social worker at CAPS. Originally from Rochester, NY, Kyle received his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology and Sociology from Fordham University in New York City and his Master’s of Social Work (M.S.W.) from Nazareth College in Rochester, New York. His professional interests include working with the LGBTQIA+ community, sexual and gender identity, men’s issues, HIV/AIDS, transitions, relationships, and anxiety.  Kyle operates heavily from psychodynamic, interpersonal, and dialectical behavior therapy frameworks. Outside of CAPS, Kyle likes going to concerts, drinking good coffee, discovering new music, and brunch.

Ardith Burkes is a licensed clinical social worker and works with students at the Eshelman School of Pharmacy as part of the CAPS Embedded Counselor Program. She received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill. After working for several years managing sexual violence crisis programs at the Orange County Rape Crisis Center, she returned to UNC Chapel Hill to earn her Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Public Health (MPH) in Maternal and Child Health. She also has a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University.

Since completing her graduate degrees in 2007, Ardith has pursued two simultaneous career paths. She has worked as the Associate Director and Grants Director at Compass Center in Chapel Hill. Compass Center provides relationship violence crisis intervention and group support, career and financial counseling, violence prevention education, and youth sexual health education. She has also worked with the community as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice delivering individual and group psychotherapy to adults.

Ardith uses a variety of therapeutic approaches based on what best meets someone’s needs and comfort and draws from modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and crisis intervention and stabilization techniques.

Ardith has a strong interest in increasing accessibility to mental health and wellness care so that more people, of all identities and backgrounds, have a space to process life’s challenges and learn skills to navigate them.

Outside of work, Ardith enjoys spending mindful quality time with family and friends, cooking, reading, traveling, savoring a good cup of coffee or tea, and relishing in moments of quiet and calm.

Dr. Elizabeth Christensen is a psychologist at CAPS. Originally from Baltimore, MD, she received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology from Kenyon College and her Master in Science (M.S.) and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. Dr. Christensen specializes in group and individual psychotherapy with students experience a wide range of concerns, with a particular interest in working with students around issues of identity development, trauma, interpersonal/relationships issues, body image, depressed mood, and life transitions. Dr. Christensen uses an eclectic approach that relies heavily on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance and is tailored to meet the individual needs of each student.  Outside CAPS, she enjoys painting, playing volleyball, traveling and watching documentary films.

Susan Chung is a licensed clinical social worker at CAPS and is part of the Multicultural Health Program (MCHP). Ms. Chung is originally from Taiwan and moved to California when she was 12. Ms. Chung obtained her Bachelor of Arts (B.A) in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine in 2006, continuing her education and receiving a master's degree in Public Health - Health Education and Promotion from the University of Southern California in 2009. After working as an outreach coordinator to raise mental health awareness in the Asian community in Oakland, CA for two years, she decided to pursue her master's degree in Social Work from New York University in 2014 to become a clinician who can provide counseling to people in need.

Since her graduation in 2014, Ms. Chung has created two career paths for herself. One path is to work closely with survivors of violent crime, such as human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence as an advocate and case manager. Another path is to focus on adolescents and young adults at various outpatient settings in providing mental health counseling. After a long soul-searching journey, Ms. Chung has decided to dedicate herself full time as a student counselor at UNC.

Besides her work, Ms. Chung enjoys spending time with her family, enjoying coffee and bubble tea, watching college football, and writing stories – in fact, she wrote a novel about her college experience as a 1.5 generation immigrant. The goals of the novel are to help herself to remember her young days when she is 80-year-old and to invite readers to understand the struggles, the fun and the viewpoint of a 1.5 gen college student.

Todd Colucci is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at CAPS.  Originally from New York, Todd received his Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.) from Regis College in Weston, MA. His professional interests include medication management of mood disorder, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis. Todd also has a Bachelor of Arts in History (B.A.) from the University of Richmond. Outside of CAPS, he enjoys traveling, sports, reading, and spending time with his family and dogs.

Sophia (she/her/they/them) is a clinical social worker and a part of the Multicultural Health Program at CAPS. Originally from Chapel Hill, NC, Sophia received a Bachelor of Arts from Duke University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago. Sophia’s professional interests include, LGBTQ+ community, identity and intersectionality, HIV/AIDS, first-generation immigrant experiences, trauma and survivorship, relationships, and transitions. Sophia uses an integrative approach to psychotherapy informed by interpersonal, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, harm reduction, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive perspectives. Outside of CAPS, Sophia enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and cooking.

Dave DeVito is a clinical social worker and the Bounce Back Coordinator at CAPS. Originally from Orange County, CA, Dave received his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English from Duke University and his Master's of Social Work (M.S.W.) at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Dave has an interest in a wide range of presenting concerns and populations (including couples). He has more extensive experience working with students who are contending with symptoms of depression and anxiety, have experienced loss, or are facing a challenging transition in their life. Dave uses a variety of approaches with students including cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal models. He is strongly influenced by post-structural therapies including solution focused and narrative therapy. Outside of CAPS, Dave enjoys watching sports, spending time with my partner, cat and friends, grilling, and gardening.

Tierra Durant is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). Tierra earned her Bachelor's in Social Work from North Carolina Central University and her Master's in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Tierra enjoys working with students from diverse backgrounds around a variety of issues including anxiety, adjustments and transitions, relationships, self-image, and academic stresses. Tierra also has professional interest in first generation college students, cultural identity, and emerging adulthood. Tierra uses an eclectic approach drawing from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, and solution focused therapeutic frameworks, as well as attachment theory, and strengths based perspectives. Outside of CAPS Tierra enjoys quality time with family and friends, traveling, painting and drawing, and listening to music. 

Carolyn Ebeling is the CAPS embedded counselor for the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media. They received a bachelor's degree in English from UNC and a master's of social work from UNC’s School of Social Work. Their professional interests include working with issues surrounding the LGBTQIA+ community, family of origin challenges, relationships and life transitions, among many others. Carolyn strives to create a warm and non-judgmental space for students to explore their thoughts and feelings. They are passionate about anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices and believe that intersectional identities are an essential part of therapeutic work. Their work is informed by dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strengths-based and trauma-informed practices.

Dr. Raisa El-Kurdi is a Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner with CAPS and a residency preceptor for the PGY1 Community-based pharmacy residents with Campus Health. Originally from Northern Virginia, Dr. El-Kurdi received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and received her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore School Of Pharmacy. She completed her PGY-1 residency with the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy and Campus Health in Chapel Hill, NC. Dr. El-Kurdi specializes in drug therapy management and her professional interests include drug therapy management, pharmacogenetics, and immunizations. Outside of CAPS, she enjoys traveling, reading, baking, spa days, coffee and time with family and friends.

Daphne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker a part of the Multicultural Health Program. Originally from Mt. Vernon, New York, Daphne grew up in Connecticut for most of her life. Daphne received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Hartford where she also played Division 1 basketball and went on to obtain her Masters in Social Work from UCONN.

Daphne began working with adolescents and young adults in diverse settings such as residential, inpatient and schools helping them find acceptance of themselves and improve their mental health. Her professional interests include anxiety, LGBTQIA+, relationships, identity and emotional freedom. Daphne uses a holistic and interpersonal approach to assist the clients she serves.

In Daphne’s free time she enjoys being submerged in nature, meditation and watching documentaries. Daphne considers herself a “foodie”, enjoys cooking, traveling and exploring new cultures.

Stephanie Hoover provides therapy services to students at the Gillings School of Global Public Health as part of the CAPS Embedded Counselor Program. She received her bachelors of arts in sociology/anthropology and Spanish from Denison University. Her PhD in counseling psychology is from University of Utah, and her doctoral internship was completed at University of Central Florida. In addition to Stephanie’s experience in university counseling settings, Stephanie has been psychology/counseling faculty and worked at a research center.

Stephanie’s counseling interests include life changes, multicultural and LGBQTIA+ identity development, relationship and family concerns. Stephanie supports clients’ growth and healing from a place of radical acceptance, non-judgment, and cultural humility.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys relaxing with her senior dog, cooking, running, yoga, spiritual practices, and time with family and friends.

Wendy Kadens is a clinical social worker at CAPS, Originally from New York City, she received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Vassar College, her Masters in Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Columbia University, and her Master's of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Wendy's professional interests include adjustment and resilience, grief and loss, and chronic illness. According to Wendy, her approach adjusts to meet the needs and perspectives of the student that she works with. She combines aspects of mindfulness, acceptance, and exploration of how we come to be who we are. Outside CAPS, she enjoys cooking and eating, time with her family, and being a professional homebody/staycationer.

Dr. Ilana Krakauer is a psychologist and the Assistant Coordinator of Training for the Doctoral Internship at CAPS. Dr. Krakauer received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) of Psychology from Haverford College and her Master of Arts (M.A.) as well as her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in women's and gender studies from the University of Missouri - St. Louis. Dr. Krakauer specializes in psychotherapy with students experiencing a wide range of concerns, with particular experience and interest in working with students around issues of identity, relationships, and life transitions (including coming out as LGBTQ, transition to parenthood, and moving between cultures). She also serves on CAPS’ training committee to implement our pre-doctoral internship in Clinical Psychology and other training programs and provides clinical supervision and training in this capacity.

Dr. Alexis Leca is a psychologist at CAPS. Originally from Fayetteville, NC, she received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She graduated with her Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from William James College near Boston, MA.

Dr. Leca's professional interests include multiculturalism and identity, first-generation college students, LGBTQIA+ community, sexual assault and relationship violence, anxiety, depression, grief, and military families. She uses an integrative approach to meet the unique needs of each student, drawing from interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, expressive arts, and strength-based models.

Outside of CAPS, Dr. Leca enjoys going to the beach, watching movies/TV, karaoke, traveling, concerts, drawing, and spending time with family and friends. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Danielle Oliveira Weidner is a licensed social worker (LSW) and licensed clinical social worker associate (LSCWA). Danielle earned her B.A. in English and Journalism from Montclair State University. She received her Master of Social Work from Montclair State. Her professional interests include challenging family dynamics, complex relationships between mothers and daughters, personality disorders, body image and eating concerns, and the impact of divorce on children. Danielle's approach to therapy has been impacted by psycho-dynamic frameworks, person centered approaches, ecological systems theory, strengths-based perspective, and behavioral therapies. Outside of CAPS, Danielle enjoys camping, gardening, music festivals, watching movies, and weightlifting.

Maya is a rescue puppy being trained to be a therapy dog with Off Leash K9 Training. Depending on the need, Maya can sit with a client and provide comfort, or she can provide pressure if someone is feeling anxious or stressed. Maya works with Avery Cook, the Director for CAPS.

When Cook adopted Maya, she recognized Maya's good temperament and thought she'd do well as a therapy dog.

Maya began her training in fall 2016 and has been working at CAPS beginning spring semester 2017.

Elizabeth McIntyre is a clinical social worker and a referral coordinator. Originally from Chapel Hill, NC, she received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from Appalachian State University and her Master's of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Elizabeth's professional interests include transitions, first-year students, international students and those presenting with sex/relationship concerns. Elizabeth uses an relational and eclectic approach to meet the differing needs of each client, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and interpersonal models.

Outside CAPS, Elizabeth enjoys hiking, laughter yoga, traveling and playing with her dog. Elizabeth is a self-proclaimed foodie.

Janie Cole earned her B.A. in Sociology and Women’s Studies from Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC. She received her Master of Social Work from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her professional interests include relationship concerns, identity development, needs specific to the LGBTQQIA+ community, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Janie’s approach to therapy has been impacted by feminist, critical race and queer theory. Her work is informed by a dialectical-behavioral framework and she often incorporates expressive arts and journaling techniques into sessions. When working with students, Janie has a person-centered and strengths-based perspective in order to meet each client’s unique set of needs.  Outside of CAPS, Janie enjoys spending time baking, reading and connecting with loved ones. She also delights in going paddle boarding or getting out to the woods for a camping trip.

Misha is a clinical psychologist at CAPS. She also completed her doctorate and M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL, and received her B.S. in Health Sciences and Psychology from the University of Miami. Misha aims to build collaborative and meaningful relationships with clients by providing an accepting and empathic space. She works with clients using an integrative approach grounded in a relational psychodynamic framework, meaning that she focuses on both my clients’ relationships and her relationship with clients. She also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral and emotion-focused therapy. Additionally, she always keeps in mind any multicultural aspects or identities that are important to her clients. Misha’s professional interests include working with clients from a South Asian background and with individuals who have a history of trauma. Outside of CAPS, Misha enjoys swimming, kickboxing, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

Dr. Leslie Montana is a psychiatrist at CAPS. Originally from New Haven, CT, she grew up in Chapel Hill and has since relocated to Carrboro. Dr. Montana received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in French and Spanish at Emory University and her MPH (Maternal and Child Health) and MD degrees at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. She completed her residency at UNC Hospitals. Dr. Montana believes in taking a holistic approach to healing, including but not limited to medication management, with the aim of finding balance in life. Outside CAPS, she enjoys spending time with her family, international travel, and cooking.

Tiffani Paul is a licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSWA). Tiffani earned her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology from Clemson University and obtained her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of Georgia. Her professional interests include anxiety, stress, college adjustment, relationship concerns (platonic, romantic, and/or familial), and working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds. Tiffani utilizes a person-centered and strengths-based approach and seeks to meet the individual needs of each student. She draws techniques from different modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Outside of CAPS, Tiffani enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, watching tv/movies, painting, trying different restaurants, and going to the gym.

Originally from:  Matthew is Originally from the Gainesville, FL.

Professional/Educational Background: He has a MSN in Psychiatric Nursing and experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in private practice and clinical research.  He has worked as an RN in in-patient psychiatric wards, crisis stabilization, ECT, and medical-surgical floors.  He has also worked with University of Florida's Arts and Medicine, providing sex ed in public schools. He has a BS in Nursing and a BA in Anthropology.

Favorite Book/Movie: He enjoys all of the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy series.

Hobbies/Sports:  Matthew enjoys cooking, being outside, mountain biking, movies, games, and scuba diving.

Interesting Facts: He once rode a motorcycle around southern Africa and he enjoys the topic of Men’s Work.

Melissa Saunders is a clinical social worker and the Assistant Director for Clinical Services at CAPS. Originally from Virginia, she grew up in Chapel Hill and received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music from Yale University, her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Virginia, and her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) with a concentration in mental health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  Melissa’s professional interests include emerging adulthood, ADHD, crisis work, complex trauma, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction.  She enjoys working with students around a variety of issues, including adjustment and transition, anxiety, career/life goals, depression, grief/loss, identity, interpersonal problems, substance abuse, and trauma. Melissa uses an eclectic approach in working with students, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, interpersonal, and other traditions to meet the unique needs of each of her clients.  Outside of CAPS, she enjoys music, dancing, hiking, gardening, spending time with family and friends, and parenting her teenage Australian Shepherd.

Dr. Erinn Scott is a licensed psychologist at CAPS. Originally from Ohio, she received her Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from Ohio University. She also has a Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Community Counseling and a Masters of Psychology (Psy.M.) from Wright State University. Dr. Scott graduated with her Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from Wright State University’s School of Professional Psychology in 2013.

Prior to joining CAPS, Dr. Scott has worked within a variety of settings including community mental health, inpatient, and educational. Her professional interests include student adjustment, anxiety, depression, gender identity, cultural identity, and women’s issues. Dr. Scott uses interpersonal and biopsychosocial approaches to meet client needs.

In her free time Dr. Scott enjoys spending time with her husband and young daughter, reading, shopping, and volunteering.

Zoe Silverman received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the George Washington University and her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of Michigan. As a therapist, Zoe strives to empower her clients by focusing on their strengths and resilience. She also acknowledges how culture can inform perceptions of mental health, so she embraces intersectional identities as an essential part of her practice. In her spare time, Zoe enjoys practicing yoga and being outside. In non-COVID times, Zoe is an avid improv comedy player with experience from the Second City in Chicago, Washington Improv Theater, and Pointless Brewery and Theatre.

Ayauna Sumpter is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate a part of the Multicultural Health Program. Originally from Durham, North Carolina, Ayauna received her Bachelor of Social Work from East Carolina University and her Master of Social Work from North Carolina Central University. Ayauna has spent many years supporting adolescents, young adults and families in various settings such as public schools, mental health and substance abuse crisis centers and private practice spaces. Ayauna’s professional interests include working with the LGBTQIA+ community, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship concerns as well as highlighting the importance of a body mind approach. She believes in cultivating safe spaces for under served communities with hopes of providing accessible and acceptable mental health support to those individuals. Outside of CAPS Ayauna enjoys nature walks with family and friends, exploring new bookstores, coffee shops and restaurants. 

Tora Taylor-Glover is a clinical social worker and works with students at the Carolina Law School as part of the CAPS Embedded Counselor Program. Originally from Thomasville, North Carolina she received her B.A. in Sociology from UNC Chapel Hill, and her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from North Carolina State University. Tora enjoys working with a variety of populations and presenting concerns including trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety. As a social worker, she has strong interest in increasing access for historically and systemically underrepresented populations and encouraging generational healing. Tora uses a variety of approaches with students including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive, behavioral, crisis intervention, and interpersonal models. Outside of CAPS, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, listening to music (primarily Prince), watching sports, and having quiet reflection time.

Dr. Anthony Teasdale is a psychologist at CAPS.  Prior to arriving at CAPS, he was a staff psychologist in Counseling & Wellness Services at Wright State University in Dayton, OH.  Originally from Mt. Vernon, NY, he received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology, with a minor in African-America Studies, from The University of North Carolina at Wilmington.  He received a Master of Arts (M.A.) and a Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling Psychology from The University of Maryland at College Park.  Dr. Teasdale practices from a use of self, interpersonal process, eclectic approach and believes in a focus on strengths and bringing creativity into therapy. His professional interests include group therapy, identity development, self-compassion, diversity and multicultural issues, supervision and training, career development, and working with college student populations.  Outside CAPS, Dr. Teasdale enjoys watching sports (especially the LA Lakers), being with family and friends, movies (especially Star Wars), playing tennis (badly), and travel (having been to 61 countries and all 50 U.S. states).

Ché Wells is originally from Des Moines, IA. Ché has many years of managerial experience and has received awards for her distinction, leadership, and teamwork over the years. Outside of work she enjoys the comforts of her own home with family, watching tv, traveling, thinking she can sing, dancing, and trying new foods. Ché finds working with the CAPS team to be rewarding through colleague and student interactions.

Marie Willis is an administrative support associate in CAPS. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, she attended North Carolina A&T State University and received her Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) in Business Administration from Elon University. Outside of CAPS, Marie enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, church activities, cooking, crafts, traveling and meeting new people.

Dr. Mil Witt is a psychologist, the interim assistant coordinator for psychology training, and the psychology practicum coordinator at CAPS. She serves on the CAPS training committee and provides training and clinical supervision to M.A. and doctoral-level trainees. Originally from New York, Dr. Witt received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Hunter College and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the City University of New York. Dr. Witt's professional interests include working with anxiety, adjustment/life transitions, cultural identity, academic achievement, crisis intervention, training and supervision, and spirituality. Passionate about working with students both individually and in groups, Dr. Witt uses an integrated approach to therapy, infusing multicultural, interpersonal, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral interventions into her work. She also enjoys incorporating creativity, therapeutic writing, and mindfulness meditation practices when working collaboratively with students. On campus, Dr. Witt is a member of the Carolina Black Caucus and a former member of the Mindful UNC steering committee. She is also a certified teacher and trainer with the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults (formerly Koru Mindfulness). Outside CAPS, Dr. Witt enjoys tennis, dancing, musicals, crocheting, the beach, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Benjamin Joly is a Doctoral Psychology Intern at CAPS for the 2023-2024 academic year. Born and raised in Boston, MA, Ben received his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI and his Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles, CA. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology and is preparing for graduation in May of 2024. Ben has received training experience in intensive outpatient, community mental health, and private practice settings, and has a passion for working with marginalized communities. Working from cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and strengths-based approaches, Ben cares greatly about reducing both general and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health treatment and helping every client to more efficiently recognize their own resilience and authenticity. His professional interests include concerns of sexual orientation and gender identity expression (LGBTQ+ community), men and masculinity, adjustments and transitions of life, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. In his free time, Ben enjoys hanging in the sun with friends and family (especially at the beach!), binging reality TV shows and comedy/action movies, and cheering on the New England Patriots.

Emily Stephen is a doctoral psychology intern at CAPS. Originally from Washington, D.C., Emily received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with high distinction from the University of Virginia and a Masters in Counseling Psychology and Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. She also received an M.Psy from George Washington University, where she is a Clinical Psychology doctoral candidate in the Psy.D. program. Emily enjoys working with students on a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and family of origin issues, as well as individuals with trauma histories, relationship concerns, and identity issues.  Emily uses an integrative and individualized approach to her work, incorporating elements from psychodynamic, multicultural, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and relational frameworks. Emily has experience in a variety of contexts, including college counseling, community mental health, school, and private practice settings. Outside of CAPS, Emily enjoys watching movies and documentaries, playing pickleball or tennis, and spending time with her family, friends, and dog.

Rachel Stough is a psychology doctoral intern at CAPS. She received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology from Vassar College and her Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Promotion and Health Education from The University of Texas School of Public Health. Presently, she is completing her doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from Point Park University.

Rachel aims to create a nonjudgmental and collaborative space for clients to make meaning of their experiences. She uses an integrative approach, grounded in feminist and relational psychodynamic theories, to help clients reflect on their social context and life history and empower their sense of agency in shaping their lives. Rachel also has an interest in somatic techniques that guide clients in exploring how their bodies carry their life experiences, particularly trauma.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys being outdoors, window shopping, and spending time with her husband, son, and two pups.

Cagil Torgal Aksoy is a doctoral psychology intern at CAPS. Originally from Turkiye, she earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from Bilkent University, followed by her Master’s (M.S.) in Family Psychology from the Middle East Technical University (METU). Currently, she is in the process of completing her doctorate (Ph.D.) in Counseling Psychology at the University of Florida. Cagil has received clinical training in various settings, including university counseling centers, medical specialty clinics, and inpatient and outpatient psychology facilities. Cagil employs an integrative approach when working with clients. Drawing from humanistic, and multicultural theories, she incorporates acceptance and commitment (ACT) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT). Her professional interests includes anxiety-related issues, depression, trauma, ADHD, interpersonal concerns, and navigating life transitions. She is also passionate about working with international students, addressing the unique challenges of transitioning to a different culture. Outside of CAPS, Cagil enjoys dancing, spending time outdoors, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends.

• Preferred name: Julie
• Joined Campus Health: September 2023
• Professional/Educational Background: I studied English and creative writing in undergrad before deciding to pursue a career in Mental Health. I began my Ph. D at Washington University in St. Louis before transferring to UNC.
• Originally from: Philadelphia
• Family: I grew up with my mom, dad, and older brother. I also have two older cousins I’m very close with (we call each other sister-cousins).
• Hobbies: I love to run, bike, and generally be outside. I grew up in a family full of chefs, so I also love anything food related.
• Pets: I have a two-year-old cat named Skinky.
• Work influence: My friend Bernadette. She was an accomplished poet and survivor. Her approach to life and connection with nature continues to inspire me!
• Work-related accomplishment: Transferring to UNC in the middle of grad school! It’s been a big change, but a great growth opportunity.
• One thing most people don’t know about you: I write poetry and sometimes share it!
• Email: [email protected]

A.R. Ditesheim is a clinical social work intern at CAPS. Originally from Charlotte, NC, A.R. earned their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Human Service Studies as well as Women and Gender Studies from Elon University. Currently, they are earning their Master of Social Work (MSW) from UNC- Chapel Hill. They enjoy working with students from diverse backgrounds around issues including anxiety, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, learning differences, and those navigating sexuality and gender identity. A.R. uses an integrative approach informed by person- centered, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based perspectives. They draw techniques from narrative therapy, acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Outside of CAPS, A.R. enjoys spending time with their loved ones, finding good coffee shops, watching TV, and traveling.

Bella Schaefer is the Behavioral Health Consultant at Campus Health. She is originally from Wisconsin and earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A) degree in psychology and counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Currently she is in her final year at the UNC-Chapel Hill’s Master of Social Work program. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across different levels of behavioral healthcare e.g., in-home, intensive outpatient (IOP), and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Her practicum last year was at UNC Beacon working with survivors of interpersonal violence (IPV). She enjoys working with adolescents and emerging adults who have anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders. Bella utilizes an integrated approach rooted in anti-oppressive framework and a strengths-based perspective. Her therapeutic style utilizes techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).  Her role as a Behavioral Health Consultant is to collaboratively work with students to support them with behavioral health concerns and to help develop practical knowledge and skills to promote physical and emotional health. She is able to meet with students one on one to provide brief psychotherapy and/or assist students in referral coordination. 

Outside of working at Campus Health, she likes to hike, travel, try new coffee shops, and spend time with friends.  

To meet with Bella, go to the healthy heels portal and send a web message to Dr. Chai with Attn: Bella-Schaefer-in the subject line or call her office number 919-445-4216 to set up an appointment.