33 S. Ninth Street
Suite 230
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Student Counseling Center Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For counseling, health services, and support group information at Jefferson
Off Campus: 215-955-HELP (4357)
The Shrink Space
A referral website for connection to off-campus community mental health care providers.
The Student Counseling Center staff are located at 33 S. Ninth Street, Suite 230 (Second Floor), Philadelphia, PA 19107.
SCC Front Desk: 215-503-2817 | SCC Fax: 215-503-5867
James Hagenbaugh, PsyD
Director, Student Counseling Center
Staff Psychologist & Clinical Coordinator
Clinical Associate Professor, SKMC Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior
Jamie (He/Him), is a Psy.D., licensed psychologist, certified threat manager, and Clinical Associate Professor. He has been working at the Student Counseling Center since 2016 and became the Director in 2023. He received his undergraduate degree in communications from the State University of New York at Oswego. Then obtained his Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology and Human Behavior along with his doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in psychological assessment from Chestnut Hill College.
Jamie has worked in collegiate mental health for over 15 years. Prior to his work at Thomas Jefferson University, Jamie was a college counseling center director at Immaculata University. He is interested in Threat Assessment, The impact of Shame on individuals, and psychodynamic therapy.
When Jamie is not working, he enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, watching baseball, or cooking.
Michael (Gus) Culbertson, LSW
Staff Counselor and Care Management Coordinator
Gus Culbertson, LCSW (he/him/his) has been working with the SCC since 2021. He earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Trinity College Dublin in Ireland and went on to receive his Master of Social Service (MSW-Equivalent) from Bryn Mawr College.
He has worked for a number of years to understand the unique challenges faced by young adults, medical and health science students & professionals, and front-line workers. He specializes in working with life transitions, unhelpful self-expectations, procrastination, grief, depression, anxiety and identity concerns. Many of those he works with want to learn how to engage intentionally with the range of emotions, communicate effectively with others, decrease stress, incorporate mindful/spiritual practices and explore differing perspectives. His approach is tailored to you and is rooted in a values-based, emotion-focused, and mindful practice.
Outside of work, you will likely find Gus out in nature hiking, biking, camping, reading, practicing Kung fu and/or meditating.
Grace Kinkler, LCSW
Staff Counselor
Grace Kinkler (she, her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked at the SCC since January 2025. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in International Affairs from Northeastern University and a Master of Social Work degree from University of Pennsylvania. Grace feels honored to be able to collaborate with the students at Jefferson to work toward their wellness goals.
Grace has experience working in community settings with children, teens, adults, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. She employs a holistic, client-centered, strengths-based, and relational approach to her work--assisting clients in tapping into their innate wisdom and goodness. She is currently enrolled in Gestalt Therapy Institute of Philadelphia’s three-year training program and has past training in Contextual Family therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
When she is not working with students at the SCC, Grace loves hobbies! Some of these include arts and crafts, leisurely bike rides, playing field hockey, and hanging with her very cool cats, Wilbur and Little Louis. She looks forward to working with you.
Samantha Ruiz, LCSW
Staff Counselor
Samantha believes therapy is a safe nonjudgmental space to share your story. In our work together, we will create a trusting relationship where you can feel heard and supported while exploring your feelings and experiences. Her focus is to reflect on your experiences, develop coping skills to manage stressors, and gain insight to assist in the healing process. Her approach to therapy is relational, as well as using solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and mindfulness, while maintaining a culturally appropriate lens.
Samantha's focus areas include, but are not limited to: Anxiety; Depression; ADHD; Trauma; LGBTQIA+ Affirming
Lucy Unsihuay, LSW
Staff Counselor
Care Management Coordinator
Lucy (she/her/hers) joined SCC in January 2025. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance with a minor in International Business from Pennsylvania State University. Lucy then went on to earn a Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration from Florida State University.
Before joining the SCC full-time, Lucy gained valuable experience as an intern with the team, where she developed expertise in supporting Jefferson students through stress, anxiety, and significant life transitions. She uses an integrative therapeutic approach to tailor therapy to each student’s unique needs. Lucy also has experience working with individuals within the criminal justice system, providing guidance and support during their reentry into society. Lucy is deeply passionate about connecting individuals with the resources they need to improve their overall wellbeing and foster a sense of community and belonging.
Her prior career in auditing, where she served as Co-Leader of the Multicultural Employee Network Group and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leader, further strengthened her ability to engage with diverse populations and promote inclusive, supportive environments.
Outside of her professional work, Lucy enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and her cat, Delilah. She is also an avid runner, reader, concert-goer, and traveler.
Destiny Reyes
Administrative Assistant
Destiny (she/her) is the Administrative Assistant for the Center City Student Counseling Center. Before joining Jefferson she worked as a personal assistant to several surgeons ensuring patients get the utmost care.
As the warm voice on the department phone line, Destiny helps to connect students with counselors and is available to answer any questions you might have about our services.
Outside of the office Destiny loves traveling and can often be found with a camera and coffee in hand.