Lincoln University Welcomes New Counseling Staff To Support Student Well-Being

Lincoln University is expanding its student mental health services with new and returning staff members joining the Student Health and Well-Being Counseling Center. Under the leadership of Dr. Lisa Joyner, executive director for health and well-being, the center continues its commitment to providing high-quality mental health support for students.

Joining the team is Chrystala J. Smith, M.Ed., LPC-S, who has returned to Lincoln University as the assistant director of counseling services. Smith, an alumna of Lincoln University, has extensive experience in mental health counseling, including work at Burrell Behavioral Health, Preferred Family Healthcare and St. Mary’s Hospital. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for trauma. Currently pursuing a doctorate in counselor education and supervision at Grand Canyon University, Smith’s research focuses on the experiences of Black women doctoral students and the impact of faculty-adviser relationships.

Dr. Ayanna Shivers, PLPC, is a provisionally licensed counselor and assistant professor with the School of Education, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate students. With more than 20 years of counseling experience, Shivers holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Oklahoma, a Master of Education in counseling from The Citadel and a Doctor of Philosophy in education from the University of Southern Mississippi. She utilizes a humanistic approach and is passionate about helping individuals recognize and achieve their full potential. Dr. Shivers is under the supervison of Dr. Rhonda Wood (license no. 2008001532).

Additionally, three counselors-in-training have joined the team:

• Diana Cauldwell, a new counselor-in-training, brings experience in individual and group counseling for children, adolescents and adults. She is particularly interested in stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management and psychological adjustment challenges.
• Anita Cole, a new counselor-in-training, focuses on trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management and career and life planning. She is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for students navigating life’s challenges.
• Jeromia Riley, a new counselor-in-training, is pursuing an education specialist degree in clinical mental health counseling and has experience working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals and student-athletes. Riley uses cognitive behavioral and person-centered therapy techniques to help clients develop resilience and effective coping strategies.

The counselors-in-training are under the supervision of Chrystala Smith (license no. 2017042232).

To introduce the new and returning staff and create a welcoming environment for students, the Counseling Center is hosting “Cones and Conversations” on Feb. 25. This event offers students an opportunity to meet the team in a relaxed setting while enjoying ice cream and learning about available mental health resources.

Joyner emphasized the importance of expanding counseling services at Lincoln University. “Mental health plays a crucial role in student success, and our team members bring a wealth of experience and passion for supporting students through their college journey.”

Students are encouraged to visit the Student Health and Well-Being Counseling Center to learn more about available services and upcoming events.

For more information, visit Lincoln University’s website or contact the Counseling Center directly. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.