Wellness Center
Meet Our Staff
Get to know the Rollins College Wellness Center staff.
Connie Briscoe, PhD
Executive Director of Campus Health and Wellness
Connie (she/her/hers) holds a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Connie enjoys collaborating with the campus community to promote wellness and foster a safe, caring, supportive and healthy Rollins community. When not at work, Connie enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, and spending time connecting with nature and the environment around her.
Ashley N. Williams, MPH, CCHW
Director of Health Promotions
Ashley (she/her/hers) is a licensed Community Health Worker passionate about health equity and bridging the gap between community, business, and public health entities. Before joining the Wellness Team, Ashley had a variety of professions, allowing her to see all spectrums of public health, from disease prevention to behavioral improvements of populations. In her free time, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, eating food, listening to music, and serving communities with her sorority sisters (Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.) Ashley looks forward to working with the Rollins Community to promote the nine dimensions of Wellness across campus and beyond.
Denise B. Snyder, M.S.N., ARNP-BC
Director of Health Services, Nurse Practitioner
Denise (she/her/hers) is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with previous experience in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Retail Clinic Management. She completed her undergraduate Nursing degree at Florida State University (2001) and her Masters of Science in Nursing at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio (2007). She is passionate about the integration of health and wellness in the lives of the Rollins student. She joined the Rollins Wellness team in 2013.
Renée N. Treviranus, M.S.W., LCSW, CAP, QCS
Director of CAPS | Substance Misuse Coordinator
Renée (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She holds her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She utilizes an eclectic approach in therapy including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing. Has experience working with individuals, couples and groups. She has worked with multiple populations including substance abuse/recovery, mental health counseling, Traumatic Brain Injury, as well as Anger/Stress Management. In Addition, she has worked with potential issues faced by LGBTQ+ and military veteran’s transitioning to civilian environment.
Will Rentz, M.S.N., ARNP-BC
Nurse Practitioner
Will (he/him/his) holds an Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of South Florida. His nursing experience includes CVS MinuteClinic, Polk County Department of Health: Infectious Disease, and Select Specialty Hospital, where he was a House Supervisor in Critical Care. He has been married for over 40 years and has a daughter in grad school, and a son who works in I.T.
Leena Shah, M.S.N., APRN, NP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Leena (she/her/hers) is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Her experience includes three years as an NP in primary and urgent care. Her passion is to provide the highest quality of care to her patients while developing trusting relationships. Having been born and raised in central Florida, Leena lives an active and well balanced lifestyle. She enjoys cooking, outdoor activities, watching marvel movies, college sports and most importantly spending time with her son, husband and dog.
Michelle Bellemore, M.S.N., ARNP, NP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Michelle (she/her/hers) is a board certified family nurse practitioner at the Wellness Center. She received both her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing ('03) and her Master's of Science in Nursing ('11) from the University of Florida. She has previous nursing experience including working as a Registered Nurse in Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and most recently spent the past 10 years in family medicine at a local community health center for underserved communities. She is passionate about educating individuals to equip them with the knowledge to become better advocates for their own health. She is married with 1 teenage son, and is also an avid sports fan of all sports, especially college football (Go Gators!).
Amanda Sanders, MSN-MPH, APRN-BC
Nurse Practitioner
Amanda (she/her/hers) is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She comes to Rollins with over 10 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate nursing degree from Clemson University and remains an avid Clemson fan. She earned dual Master of Nursing and Master of Public Health degrees from Emory University. Amanda aims to provide compassionate care to students while providing health education and empowering students to make healthy lifestyle choices. When not at work, Amanda enjoys baking, traveling, and spending time with her husband, three children, and dog, Rosie.
Jemma Phillipus-Hodge, B.A.
Business Operations Coordinator
Jemma (she/her/hers) has a B.A. in Social & Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Ashford University. She has over ten years of medical office experience, which allows her to have a comprehensive understanding of the integrated services of the Wellness Center. Jemma’s enthusiasm, people-oriented character and dedication to problem solving, helps her to serve our college community with proficient customer service, customer relations, and office administration. Jemma is also currently completing her Master's in Human Resources. In her spare time, she loves reading, traveling and spending quality time with her daughter, family and friends.
Rachel Hughes
Administrative Assistant
Rachel (she/her/hers) is originally from Live Oak, Florida. Her mission is to provide students with a compassionate, welcoming introduction to the Wellness Center. Before joining the Wellness Team, Rachel worked as a pre-school teacher at St. Michael's Episcopal Preschool for 8 years and before that was a graphic designer for 5 years. She also has 3 wonderful kids who she loves to spend time with.
Davey Olsen, M.A., LMHC
Personal Counselor/ Mental Health Outreach Coordinator
Davey (she/her/hers) is a full-time personal counselor at the Rollins Wellness Center and serves as the Outreach and Suicide Prevention Coordinator. She holds a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. Davey utilizes collaborative, person-centered therapy while applying a multicultural and social justice perspective. She has experience working with clients on a variety of issues including identity development, adjustment concerns, stress and anxiety management, family concerns, and personal growth. Davey incorporates various theories and techniques individualized to best meet the needs of each individual she works with. She is particularly passionate about utilizing creative interventions and mindfulness practice. In her free time, Davey enjoys adventuring outdoors and exploring new places with her dog son, Bo.
Stacey Lopez, LCSW, M.S.W.
Multicultural Counselor
Stacey (she/her/hers) is a bilingual (English & Spanish), bicultural licensed clinical social worker. She earned a Masters of Social Work from the University of Saint Joseph and earned a Bachelor of Educational Studies, with a minor in Community Action Studies from Trinity College. Stacey has extensive experience working with youth, young adults, and adults in various clinical, community-based, and education settings. She is passionate about intersectionality, personal and community healing, and mental health treatment. Stacey believes that people thrive and heal when: their strengths are recognized; they experience a strong sense of belonging; and they play an active role in facilitating personal and social change. Areas of clinical interest include cultural competence and cultural humility in counseling, identity development, life adjustment concerns, stress management and anxiety, depression, trauma, and family and relationships concerns. She is LGBTQ+ affirming and is personally and professionally committed to racial and social justice. Additionally, Stacey serves as a liaison for the Wellness Center to help promote and advance initiatives and efforts related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging on campus. Outside of counseling, she enjoys cooking with others, traveling, group fitness, public art and music events, and local libraries.
Lauren Lundin, M.A., Ed.M, NCC
Personal Counselor
Lauren (she/her/hers) is a part-time personal counselor at Rollins Wellness Center. She obtained her Master’s Degrees, in the field of Psychological Counseling, from Columbia University - Teachers College. Through an eclectic approach, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy, Lauren has supported individuals of all life experiences and backgrounds. She has lived and worked internationally and is passionate about Cross-Cultural awareness. Lauren supports individuals and groups in such areas as transition and adjustment, self-esteem, stress, cultural identity challenges, work or academic conflict and family and peer conflict. When Lauren is not counseling, she is most likely enjoying a cup of coffee, exercising or traveling the globe.
Matthew Houff, M.A., RMHCI
Personal Counselor
Matthew (he/him/his) is currently a part-time counselor at the Wellness Center. He earned his Bachelor’s in Education at the University of Virginia and his Master’s in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He has experiences working with clients of all ages using a collaborative, humanistic, person-centered approach. Matthew knows that every client is different so he is enthusiastic about incorporating various theories and techniques individualized to best meet the needs of each person. Matthew has experience with clients living with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse. In his spare time, he enjoys indoor rock climbing and cooking.
Valeria Taibi-Briz, M.S., RMHCI
Personal Counselor
Valeria (she/her/hers) is a part-time CAPS counselor at the Wellness Center. She earned her Masters in Counseling Psychology from Florida International University and is currently a Registered Mental Health Intern. She has worked primarily with children and adolescents in play and expressive arts therapy techniques and has experience in working with people who have depression and anxiety. She is passionate about working with students who are in this transitory period of their lives that can often times be scary yet exciting. She hopes to aid students in not only learning to process their emotions in adaptive ways but also exploring their values and finding ways to navigate early adulthood. In her down time, Valeria enjoys kickboxing, sewing, gardening, going to theme parks, and spending time with her dog Captain.
Elizabeth "Lizzy" Ariza, B.M.
Personal Counselor
Elizabeth "Lizzy" (she/her/hers) is a part-time CAPS counselor at the Wellness Center. Lizzy holds a Bachelors of Music degree in vocal performance and is earning a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College. Lizzy is passionate about creating a safe place for students to grow and heal. She works with a variety of issues including stress management, identity development, adjustment challenges, grief and loss, and relationship concerns. Lizzy has worked as a classical singer and music instructor. She has also spent time volunteering inside jails and participating in medical outreach locally and abroad. Lizzy enjoys cooking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and diving with her two kids.
Breahannah Hilaire, M.A., LMHC
Personal Counselor
Breahannah (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a part-time personal counselor at Rollins Wellness Center. She completed her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College, is a Nationally Certified Counselor, and holds certificates in Clinical Hypnosis and University and College Counseling. Brea has expertise in working with juvenile offenders, students in the college settings, and adults in underserved communities. Her clinical experience informs her research interests which center around enacting positive change in populations affected by trauma, suicide, and crisis. In addition to her counselor role, she enjoys teaching graduate students. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision program at the University of Central Florida.
April Reed, M.S., Ed.S., RMHCI
Personal Counselor
April (she/her/hers) is a part-time counselor and a Registered Mental Health Clinical Intern. She is currently a doctoral student at University of Central Florida in the Criminal Justice program and has an Ed.S. degree in Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University. She is a graduate of Rollins College where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She has a passion for working with college students who are struggling with substance use, recovery, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and communication issues. April is married with seven stepchildren and a pet turtle named Luna. She enjoys being outdoors, hiking, playing music, arts and crafts, and game nights with her family.
Sari Freeman
Clinical Social Work Intern
Sari (she/her/hers) is Master of Social Work Student at the University of Central Florida. Sari received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Florida State University. While serving as a generalist intern, she has had experience facilitating skills based groups such as social, vocational, and independent living skills. She has also had experience in connecting clients to community resources. She is comfortable working with age groups ranging from teenagers to adults clients. Sari is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment to assist her clients in overcoming life’s challenges. During her free time, she enjoys time with friends and family, going to the beach, music, and playing softball.
Jana Helms
Graduate Counseling Intern
Jana (she/her/hers) is in her final year of the Clinical Mental Health Master’s Program at Rollins College. She has a bachelor's degree in Interpersonal Communication from UCF and a Master of Liberal Studies from Rollins College. She presently is pursuing a certificate in Family Relationship Therapy and takes an integrative, person-centered approach to her counseling style, using a multicultural and social justice lens. Outside of counseling, Jana enjoys spending time traveling, theme-parking, doing 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles and all things reality TV. She likes a good challenge and spending time with her family, including her two pups, Chewie and Maz.
Brandi Givargidze
Graduate Counseling Intern
Brandi (she/her/hers) is a third-year graduate student receiving her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College with an added certificate in Family and Relationship Therapy. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Health Services Administration from the University of Central Florida. Brandi has worked as a Graduate Assistant for the Cornell Counseling Clinic and a Teacher’s Assistant for her program’s Addictive Disorders course. Brandi incorporates a systemic approach to counseling that factors in interpersonal relationships, behavior patterns, and life choices. She is interested in helping individuals with emerging adulthood, identity development, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and other concerns. Brandi holds a special interest in the LGBTQ+ community and working from a multicultural perspective. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones and exploring the Orlando community.
Primavera Almanzar
Graduate Counseling Intern
Primavera (she/her/hers/ella) is a Graduate Counseling Intern at the Wellness Center and a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student at Rollins. Go Tars! She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from University of Central Florida. She is a bilingual (English & Spanish) first-generation Latina. Her counseling approach is humanistic, holistic and person-centered. She views her clients as the experts in their own lives, as a "whole person" and works with them collaboratively, focusing on all areas of their identity and wellness. She believes establishing equilibrium between our mind, body and spirit allows us to nourish ourselves and flourish into the healthiest greatest version of ourselves. Primavera utilizes this holistic approach with a multicultural lens acknowledging the intersectionality of her own and her client's identities, understanding that our cultural background, personal experiences, who we are and how we identify impacts us in all areas of our lives. Primavera is LGBTQIAA+ Affirming and Open Relationships and Non-Monogamy Affirming. "I want all my clients to know that I support each of you and accept you for who you are. Being affirmative means that I treat my clients and all people with the dignity, respect, and affirmation they deserve; because you are admirable and are worthy just the way you are! I am your ally! I will sit with you, and I hope to be a true source of support and empowerment through what you are facing." Outside of the counseling space Primavera is a foodie, enjoys traveling, reading and writing poetry, learning new languages and spending time with family and friends.
Elijah George, B.S.
Graduate Counseling Intern
Eli (he/him/his) is a Graduate Counseling Intern and previously served as our Substance Misuse Graduate Assistant. He also interned at Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), a non-profit organization that assisted children and families with getting proper resources such as early childhood education and health care assistance. He graduated from UCF with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and is currently in his first year of his Master’s Program for Clinical Psychology at UCF. He is passionate about mental health and making sure everyone is heard and understood. Eli also loves to stay active and play sports like basketball, soccer, tennis, and football.
Amanda Castoire
Substance Misuse Graduate Assistant
Amanda (she/her/hers) is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling with an Advanced Study in Play and Creativity at Stetson University. As a graduate student, Amanda brings a wealth of knowledge that allows her to provide compassionate and culturally competent student-centered care. Her studies have inspired an interest in Humanistic, Constructionist, and Systemic counseling theories that inform a person-centered, solution-focused, and anti-oppressive lens. Amanda comes to Rollins with five years of experience in Higher Education/Student Affairs, where she refined her acumen for assisting and retaining historically marginalized, underserved, and underrepresented student populations. By building affirming and authentic relationships, Amanda developed a deep understanding of student needs and leveraged her professional role to advocate for institutional justice, equity, access, and belonging. Amanda earned a B.A. in Anthropology from Rollins College where she found a passion for cultural relativism and historical particularism.
Kayla Thompson
Social Media Specialist
Kayla (she/her/hers) is responsible for representing the Rollins Wellness Center and Wellness Ambassadors through social media. Kayla is currently a student at Rollins working toward a Bachelor's degree in Communications. During her free time, Kayla enjoys cuddling up with her dog and reading a good book. Also, enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Alex Newcomb, B.S.
Wellness Outreach Graduate Assistant
Alex (she/her/hers) is a second year graduate currently earning her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida with a certificate in behavioral forensics. She is passionate about spreading awareness about mental health and wellness. Alex enjoys spending time with her black cat named Sokka, painting, and playing piano.
Sendy Sejourné
Health Promotions Intern
Sendy (she/her/hers) is a senior majoring in Health Services Leadership and Management minoring in Communications and African-American Studies. As someone vocal about the disparities that exist within healthcare, having the opportunity to promote health and wellness is why she became a Wellness Ambassador. Outside of school, she is a volunteer for the Mental Health Association of Central Florida and an avid museum-goer.
Jacky Mata
Health Promotions Intern
Jacky (she/her/hers) is a senior majoring in Communication. Jacky also serves as our Wellness Senator for Student Government Association. Jacky is a lover of music and enjoys going to concerts in her free time. In addition, Jacky is a big fan of art, specifically painting, and has been to four different countries.
Tatiana Cifuentes
Social Work Generalist
Tatiana (she/her/hers) is a Master of Social Work Student at the University of Central Florida. Tatiana received her Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology at UCF. She is passionate about mental health advocacy and serving others in the community. Tatiana has experience connecting clients with resources in their community. During her free time, Tatiana enjoys spending time with loved ones, being in nature, and doing arts and crafts.
Adriana Torres, B.S.
Clinical Resource Coordinator
Adriana "Adri" (she/her/hers) is the Clinical Resource Coordinator at the Wellness Center, and will be helping students who are looking for different resources within the community. She received her Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and she is now in her first year of the Clinical Psychology Master’s program to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. In her free time, she likes to read, take naps with her dog Lucky, and go to Universal Studios. Her favorite holiday is Halloween, so she loves going to Halloween Horror Nights every year.
Dantéa
Certified Therapy Animal
Dantéa (she/her/hers) is a Certified Therapy dog. She is an 8 year old Boston Terrier securing her certification through Therapy Dogs International. Dantéa enjoys working with individuals, groups and participating in outreach events. In her free time, she enjoys spending time in the water, sunbathing and introducing herself to new reptiles. She also has a little sister, DJ, who is currently following in her big sis' footsteps as a therapy dog in training.