Graduate Student Alumni Spotlight

Counseling Psychology MA

Katy ManganellaStudent Name:  Katy Manganella, MA

Program: Master's in Counseling Psychology (now the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program)

Graduated: 2011

Employer: Austin Family Counseling

Position: Therapist

What attracted you to this field?

For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to the psychology field and the helping profession. I knew I wanted to be fulfilled by the work I did and have a large need to contribute to something larger than myself. This field is the only one I have been interested in or passionate about.

Why did you choose to attend UT Tyler?

I chose UT Tyler because of the credible degree program and the psychology department's reputation for producing successful mental health professionals. I was also attracted to UT Tyler's small class sizes which give you the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with your professors. I knew, because I had also gone to undergrad here, that the program allowed you to make it what you wanted. For example, I was very interested in social psychology research and through the program, had the opportunity to be quite involved in that. This field always felt obvious for me.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

First, the relationships I built with my professors and fellow students. The program allowed me to build my professional network and now, the same people I went to class with are my colleagues. I also really enjoyed the research component. I was able to make the program what I needed it to be and I was able to seek out my own individual interests and passions. Lastly, I have felt really prepared in the field, which I know started from a solid foundation at UT Tyler. 

What are your career aspirations?

To continue doing what I'm doing! I love being in private practice as a therapist. 

What's your work experience?

Shortly after I graduated, I moved to New York City where I worked in the homeless service system. I started in a men's shelter in East Brooklyn and later in a housing program in the South Bronx for folks who had experienced chronic homelessness and had a severe and persistent mental illness. I eventually came back to Texas and continued working in the homeless service field in Austin. After a few years, I shifted into private practice as a therapist. I currently work at a group private practice where I provide therapy to adults and teens.

Do you have any advice to pass along to other students interested in this program?

Take advantage of your time in the program. If there is a topic you're interested in, seek it out. Build strong, authentic relationships with the other students because they'll become part of your professional network after graduation.

Find out more about Psychology and Counseling

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