Meet Our Staff
COUNSELING & PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES (CAPS)
CAPS provides training opportunities for psychology interns and practicum students in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and social work. These interns and practicum students practice under the supervision of a licensed clinician.
Biographical Info
Dr. Arial Treankler joined the CAPS staff in 2013 and is the associate director of clinical services for CAPS. She earned a double BA in Psychology and Sociology: Law, Crime, and Deviance, a Masters in Counseling Psychology, and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. In addition to these educational activities, she also has various experiences at NAIA and Division I levels in applied sport psychology – an internship at Wichita State University and a post-doctoral residency at the University of California – Davis. Dr. Treankler (Dr. T.) is a Clinical Sport Psychologist trained as a clinical generalist, who also offers specialty clinical and performance enhancement services at regional, conference, and national levels. Other areas of interest include identity development, the challenges of adjustment, trauma, interpersonal concerns, men’s and women’s issues, anger, disordered eating, and stress management. She utilizes a variety of techniques in order to help students reach their maximum potential in a variety of areas, i.e. academic, athletic, personal.
Title: Associate Director of Clinical Services
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I am happiest being around family, friends, and puppies! I gain energy from being active, enjoying nature and supporting others.
What I do for Self-Care: Strange, I know, but yardwork is my self-care. There’s something satisfying about working hard and seeing beautiful results, plus I get to be outside with my pup.
Biographical Info
Jennifer Hester is a licensed clinical social worker who joined the CAPS staff as the lead mental health professional in 2015. She earned a BA in Psychology, with a minor in Family Studies, from Berry College and a Master’s of Social Work from UGA. She has a pre-doctorate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. Additionally, she is certified in QPR Gatekeeper Training for Suicide Prevention and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Mrs. Hester has previous experience in psychiatric hospitals, emergency rooms, and private practice working with adults experiencing couples/marital concerns as well as experience in crisis stabilization programs for children/adolescents and outpatient/community mental health treatment for adults with severe and persistent mental illness and/or substance-related disorders. Her areas of interest include marriage/couples/relationship issues, family of origin, spiritual concerns, trauma, and crisis intervention.
Title: Associate Director of Outreach & Collaboration
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Favorite Quote: “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.” – John Wesley
What I do for Self-Care: Above all, spending time with my 2 children is where I find the most joy. Also, being outdoors is incredibly grounding and restorative for me; I love hiking and fishing as well as just sitting still in nature. Exercising and maintaining a regular sleep schedule are also essential for me.
Biographical Info
Dr. Sandrine Bosshardt joined the CAPS staff in 2012 and is the Associate Director of Training. Originally from the Netherlands, she received her PhD in Psychology from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Dr. Bosshardt’s areas of interest include training and supervision, family-of-origin related concerns, developmental/identity issues, LGBTQ, interpersonal/relationship concerns, and social justice.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Favorite Quote: “There is freedom waiting for you, On the breezes of the sky, And you ask ‘What if I fall?’ Oh but my darling, What if you fly?” ~e.h
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: Spending time with friends and family makes me happiest. My family is far away, so when I spend time in The Netherlands, I make sure it’s all quality time! I also love the smell, sound, and feel of the ocean. I love to travel. Music (listening to and making music) is super important to me. And last, but certainly not least, animals are the healers of all souls!
Biographical Info
Dr. Shannon M Bowles holds a BA with distinction in Sociology and an MEd in Counselor Education with an emphasis in student affairs practice in higher education from the University of Virginia. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at Appalachian State University’s Counseling & Psychological Services Center and her post-doctoral fellowship at Georgia State University’s Counseling & Testing Center. Dr. Bowles earned her PhD in Counseling Psychology at West Virginia University, has been licensed as a psychologist in the state of Georgia since 2009, and joined CAPS staff in 2010. Her areas of interest include student affairs administration; the first-generation college student experience; psychotherapy for family of origin concerns; alcohol and other drug assessment, treatment, and recovery in the college student population; and working with sexual and gender diverse individuals. Dr. Bowles is a World Professional Association for Transgender Health certified provider.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
What Led Me to Become a Therapist: My process definitely was not linear. A combination of personal and academic experiences over time led me to the pursuit of a career as a psychologist.
What I do for Self-Care: My partner and I schedule periodic road trips.
Biographical Info
Hank is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, joining the CAPS staff in September 2023. Prior to his employment with CAPS he worked in a variety of settings including community behavioral health, private practice, and school-based mental health serving children and adolescents. An alumnus of the University of Georgia, Hank obtained degrees in Psychology and Exercise & Sports Science in 2017 before returning in 2018-19 to pursue additional education in Studio Art. He completed his Masters studies at Drexel University in Philadelphia and obtained a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy in 2021. Hank approaches the therapy space from a client-centered perspective, utilizing interventions and strategies that are informed by a variety of theoretical frameworks to best meet his clients’ needs.
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I enjoy being an artist, primarily working to create functional ceramic wares, and spending time with family and friends.
Biographical Info
Elizabeth Cheely is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who joined the CAPS staff in 2012. She earned a BS degree in Psychology and MSW from the University of Georgia. Ms. Cheely has past experience in working with clients with developmental disabilities, child welfare, and trauma survivors. Ms. Cheely’s approach is to create a compassionate and client centered environment that encourages personal growth and positive change. Her special areas of interest include self-esteem, adjustment, trauma, and family of origin and relationship issues. Liz also serves as an embedded clinician at the College of Veterinary Medicine and is part of the AAVMC’s Veterinary Mental Health Professionals (VMHP); a specialized group focused on vet med wellbeing.
Completed Dawg Ally and/or Global Ally programs. This additional training helps ensure health equity for all patients and clients by promoting diversity, inclusion, and belonging in healthcare.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
What I Like Most About UGA and the Surrounding Community: I love that Athens is a small town but also has so many opportunities. Athens has good food, music, sports, outdoor activities, etc. so I can always find something interesting and exciting to do. As a UGA graduate I have lived in Athens for quite a while now and feel lucky to call it home!
What I do for Self-Care: For self-care I enjoy reading, crocheting, baking, being with my family and friends, and Georgia football (Go Dawgs!)
Biographical Info
Dr. Al Clarke has been with the health center since September 1996. He received his PhD from Georgia State University. His current clinical interests include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), supervision, adjustment and stress disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse, and mindfulness.
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
Favorite Quote: In my therapy work with students, I appreciate the words of Ram Dass to “Be Here Now” and the initial words of the Serenity Prayer written by Dr. Reinhold Niebur, “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: When not working at CAPS, I enjoy spending time with family and friends and outdoor activities including hiking, bicycling, running, swimming and playing golf.
Biographical Info
Tricia Coghlan is a licensed clinical social worker who joined the CAPS staff in 2010. Ms. Coghlan earned a BS in Sociology from Georgia Southern University and a MSW from University of Georgia. She is a generalist practitioner specializing in treating adjustment, eating disorders and body image, LGBTQ+ issues and trauma (sexual, emotional, physical, and religious). Ms. Coghlan is certified in Religious Trauma Studies through the Global Center for Religious Research. She works collaboratively with students who wish to integrate their faith/spirituality in a way that aligns with their values. Ms. Coghlan practices from a trauma-informed perspective.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Favorite Quote: “We can do hard things.” – Glennon Doyle
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I love spending time with my family and friends when I’m not at work. I also enjoy being outdoors, reading, and playing with my dog.
Biographical Info
Sarah Comito, a Licensed Master Social Worker, joined CAPS in June 2023 after earning her Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Georgia in May 2023. In her role as a Case Manager, Sarah connects students to mental health resources and provides individual therapy. Sarah is dedicated to supporting students dealing with general and social anxiety, as well as assisting them in exploring identity, self-esteem, interpersonal, and relational concerns. Her focus on accessibility and outreach is evident in her efforts to ensure students have access to necessary mental health resources.
Sarah’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is demonstrated through her completion of the Dawg Ally program, promoting health equity for all students.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Favorite quote: “We’re all just walking each other home.” – Ram Dass
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I am happiest spending time with my dog and cat, trying out new restaurants with my partner, spending time with family and friends, and traveling to new places.
Biographical Info
Hannah Craswell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who joined the CAPS staff in 2019. She earned a BS degree in Psychology and MSW from the University of Georgia. Hannah serves as the Lead Behavioral Health Care Manager within the Gold Clinic, collaborating with other providers to offer comprehensive mental health care. She has prior experience in college mental health and in community nonprofit, working with adults and families experiencing housing instability and chronic disease. Hannah utilizes a variety of approaches: cognitive-behavioral, acceptance and commitment, and solution-focused therapies.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: My family and I do activities together, like playing card games at dinner or, lately, going to UGA athletic events!
What I do for Self-Care: My self-care involves activities that help me to be present and to reduce stress: cooking for my family, reading on my lunch breaks, and walking outside.
Biographical Info
Title: Behavioral Health Care Manager, Green Clinic
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
Favorite Quote: “No matter where you go, there you are.” – Buckaroo Banzai
What I do for Self-Care: Martial Arts Training (Krav Maga, Filipino Kyusho); Reading – mostly things that are NOT related to therapy or self-improvement because that gets overwhelming; Artwork- iron-on T-shirt stuff, glue gun projects, and random fabulous things; Exercise in general, including lifting weights, calisthenics, very slow jogging (trudging); Numismatics and exonumia; and Cooking.
Biographical Info
Dr. Jeffrey Dunkerley II joined the CAPS staff in 2023 as a staff psychologist. He earned a BS in Psychology and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. He has specialized training in treating OCD and anxiety related disorders through Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Other areas of interest include identity development, trauma, challenges of adjustment, interpersonal concerns, family of origin concerns, social justice, and stress management. He utilizes a variety of techniques to empower students in order for them to reach achieve their goals and thrive.
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I am happiest playing with my dog, cycling, playing or watching soccer, reading, and hanging out with friends.
What I do for Self-Care: Cycling for several hours has always helped me reset and provides me the opportunity to get outside and explore the surrounding areas.
Biographical Info
Title: Psychologist
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Personal Motto: Be honest, be kind, and be true to yourself.
Favorite Quotes: It’s hard to pick one. Here’s two of my favorite quotes that I think pair well together. The first I learned about through a former client; the quote is by Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” The second is by Brené Brown, “Perfection is not the same thing as striving to be our best. Perfectionism is not about healthy achievement and growth; it’s a shield.”
Biographical Info
Title: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Favorite Quote: “Things don’t really get solved. They come together and they fall apart. Then they come together again and fall apart again. It’s just like that. The healing comes from letting there be room for all of this to happen: room for grief, for relief, for misery, for joy.” – Pema Chodron
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: When I’m not working, I’m happiest being outside, playing with my dogs, and catching up with friends and family who live far away. I’m almost always working on a creative project of some kind, usually with mixed results. And I love working on puzzles. Puzzles are so underrated.
Biographical Info
Dr. Ellen House is a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist at CAPS and is an Assistant Professor at the AU/UGA Medical Partnership. She received her undergraduate and medical degrees at Yale University and then completed her adult and child psychiatry training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospitals where she was affiliated with Harvard Medical School. She joins CAPS after being on faculty at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine where she was the Department of Psychiatry’s Master Clinical Teacher.
Title: Staff Psychiatrist
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Personal Motto: “There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” – Fred Rogers
Favorite Quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Biographical Info
Dr. Jessica (Jessi) Langley is a Staff Psychologist and Group Coordinator with CAPS. She holds a BS in Experimental Psychology from The University of South Carolina Upstate and a MA in Clinical Psychology from The Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Dr. Langley completed her pre-doctoral internship in Health Service Psychology at Florida State University in the University Counseling Center. She earned her PsyD in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She completed her Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at The University of Georgia in CAPS. Dr. Langley’s professional areas of interest include (1) general adjustment for traditional age, undergraduate students, (2) group therapy, (3) access/triage care, (4) social anxiety, (5) training/supervision, and (6) outreach.
Completed Dawg Ally and/or Global Ally programs. This additional training helps ensure health equity for all patients and clients by promoting diversity, inclusion, and belonging in healthcare.
Biographical Info
Ebonie is a licensed professional counselor with an extensive background in multiple mental health settings. She attended Georgia State University before obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2011 and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2018, both from Argosy University. Before joining UGA in 2023, Ebonie worked as a mental health assessor in the emergency department of a local hospital, and in private practice. Her areas of interest include trauma, mood disorders, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and communication. She primarily incorporates techniques from CBT, reality therapy, ACT, person-centered, and motivational interviewing. Ebonie believes in collaborating with clients to maximize the therapeutic experience. Ebonie is a Georgia native and mother of a daughter. She enjoys bowling, music, comedy shows and binge-watching tv in her free time.
Biographical Info
Curtis Murray is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and became a member of the CAPS team in November of 2023. He studied psychology at Salisbury University and later achieved his Master’s of Social Work with the University of Maryland. Curtis’ clinical experiences and passions include marriage and family restoration, relationship concerns, severe mental illness, personality disorders, gender specific societal concerns, identity concerns and more.
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
Favorite Quote: It gets easier. Every day it gets a little easier. But you gotta do it every day —that’s the hard part. But it does get easier.
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I like to experience the good. Good music, good food, good workouts, good people. I just like to be immersed in things that make me feel good.
Biographical Info
I became a psychiatric nurse to help bring quality of life to someone who is suffering. I am passionate about advocating for the students and their needs.
Completed Dawg Ally and/or Global Ally programs. This additional training helps ensure health equity for all patients and clients by promoting diversity, inclusion, and belonging in healthcare.
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Personal Motto: “Practice gratitude”
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: I love spending time with my family and pets.
Biographical Info
Vincent Perris Oyagha is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor that joined the CAPS staff in November 2023. Prior to his employment with CAPS he worked in private practice, community mental health, and school based mental health serving individuals from all walks of life. Perris obtained a Bachelors Degree of Science in Psychology from the University of Georgia in 2018, later pursuing a Master’s Degree in 2020 and graduating with a masters of Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia Southern University in 2022. Perris uses a variety of eclectic approaches that are derived from theoretical frameworks that best meet clients’ needs. He seeks to establish trust by developing a strong counselor-client relationship while showing support and acceptance.
My Pronouns: He/His/Him
What I enjoy doing when I am not working: I enjoy spending time with family, taking walks/jogging outside, writing songs and playing guitar, listening to music, and going fishing at the lake.
If you could choose any superpower what would you choose: The ability to speak things into existence.
Biographical Info
Laura Patton is a licensed Master of Social Work, joining CAPS in 2023. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ursinus College (Pennsylvania) in 2008. Laura obtained an M.S. degree in Health Care Administration in 2015 from King’s College (Pennsylvania), while working as the Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach at the college. Ultimately, she changed career paths from coaching to social work, and she earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2022. Laura is currently working on acquiring her licensure in clinical social work. Her areas of interest include emerging adulthood, LGBTQIA+, dialectical behavioral therapy, anxiety/depression, self-esteem, and interpersonal conflict.
Biographical Info
Title: Case Manager
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
Favorite Quote: “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that, within me, there lay an invincible summer.” – Albert Camus
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: When I’m not working, I am happiest spending time outdoors with my family.
Biographical Info
Dr. Austin Shedden joined the CAPS staff in 2011. He earned a BS in counseling and an MA in marriage and family therapy/family counseling from Johnson Bible College in Tennessee. He continued his studies at Argosy University in Atlanta where he earned a MA and PsyD in clinical psychology. His practicum experience includes working in college counseling centers, in private practice and at Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital. He completed a predoctoral internship at The College of William and Mary Counseling Center in Williamsburg, VA. He also worked at an alcohol and drug treatment facility. Dr. Shedden’s areas of interest include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family of origin issues, substance use issues, training/supervision and multicultural issues.
Title: Psychologist
My Pronouns: He/Him/His
Personal Motto: Be purposeful in what you do and remember to show yourself kindness and compassion along the way.
What I do for Self-Care: I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I value relationships and meaningful connection with others. I’m also a huge sports fan and enjoy attending sporting events.
Biographical Info
Title: Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Practitioner
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio: Comprehensive experience of 20+ years in mental health, with a focus on person-centered approach to treatment. Fluency in assessment and development of age-appropriate plan of care using both holistic and medicinal interventions. Dedicated to advocacy for both adult and pediatric patients. Sensitivity to and extensive training in domestic violence and emotional trauma. Passionate about providing care to diverse populations.
Favorite Quote: “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” – Thomas Fuller
What I am Happiest Doing Outside of Work: Spending time with my family, advocating for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities, watching Netflix.
Biographical Info
Stevie Stigler, LPC, NCC is a board certified Licensed Professional Counselor who joined CAPS in 2013. Her education and professional background give her a unique and effective approach to counseling. She works to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. She has experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with diverse backgrounds and a variety of concerns. Stevie has training in integrative, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness therapy. Her clinical interests include, stress management, depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, interpersonal problems, self-esteem, LGBT, career development, life planning, and issues related to cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity. Stevie’s approach to counseling is compassionate and non-judgmental; she strives to create an environment where you feel supported and empowered.
Stevie serves as a part-time embedded therapist at the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and is currently the Coordinator of the CAPS/Vet Med Counseling Services. She also serves as a Committee Lead over program development with the AAVMC’s Veterinary Mental Health Professionals (VMHP); a specialized group focused on vet med wellbeing.
In addition to her license, she holds a premier certification as a board certified member of the National Board of Certified Counselors and is a member of the American Counseling Association.
Title: Licensed Professional Counselor, Vet Met Coordinator
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Personal Motto: Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you’ve always imaged.
Favorite Quote: “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis