In February 2021, RISD welcomed its new Director of Counseling and Psychological Services Deborah Levans to our community. Prior to joining RISD, she worked at Lesley University in Associate Director and Interim Director positions, and also worked in the College Counseling Centers at Harvard and Hult International Business School.
“I was drawn to RISD for many reasons including the commitments thoughtfully laid out in the SEI plan,” shared Deborah. “The importance of health and wellness has become significantly more visible in this past year, so I’m looking forward to partnering with students, staff, and faculty in integrating more aspects of health and wellness into the RISD experience. I’m excited to see where these partnerships will lead, especially in such a creative, innovative community.”
When asked what she enjoys most about her work, Deborah noted that, “Therapy holds the potential of being incredibly transformative, providing a particular window into both the suffering and fortitude of students. I am passionate about contributing to open, inclusive environments where students can be supported in moving through the many challenges that they face.”