Student Counseling Center

Robin Russo, LCSW

Director of Student Well Being

Valentina Contessa

I am your Counseling Center and Panther's Pantry Representative. I graduated from the Palm Beach State College Human Services program and have a background in Early Childhood Education and Special Needs. My special interests include suicide prevention, human trafficking awareness, LGBTQ+ allyship, and sexual assault & domestic violence recovery. I am trained in Mental Health First Aid. As an advocate for mental health, I encourage college students to seek counseling and explore what resources they have available to them. I am fluent in both English and Spanish.

Katherine Alberto

My name is Katherine Alberto and I am a current graduate student at Florida Atlantic University. Although you may have heard this line previously, I truly believe that I didn't find social work, instead, it found me. I have always had a passion to help those around me and being able to bridge any and all gaps. For as long as I remember, I always said I wanted to work with the younger population, however, as time goes on and I meet other individuals, I am now open to working with all ages!

Kyle Dinschel

I am a graduate student at Florida Atlantic University's social work program. Often people ask me "are you sure you want to be a social worker?" to which I respond "I've never been more sure of anything in my life. " I spent time as a volunteer crisis counselor after finishing my BA in psychology at FAU, and my experience lead me to where I am now. Recognizing the dignity and worth of all people and advocating to improve the quality of their lives is an initiative that has always been near and dear to my heart. My areas of interest include trauma, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and psychodrama. I'm happy to be apart of the Palm Beach State College Counseling team.

Vernal "Sammy" Lightbourn

I received my Bachelor’s in Baking and Pastry Arts/Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University in North Miami and I am currently in my last year at Florida Atlantic University working to receive my Masters in Social Work. I was raised in the Turks and Caicos Islands by a Turks Island father and a Haitian mother. I come from a large family and I love meeting the needs of others and guiding them through their thoughts for their potential choices. My previous internship was at the Public Defender’s Office in West Palm Beach, Florida, where I was able to visit and assist clients suffering from mental health issues by establishing a treatment plan for their release from jail. I also worked with juvenile adolescents from ages 11-17 to provide resources and encouragement to complete their court-ordered sanctions for early release from probation. My friends, family, and colleagues describe me as a calm, collective person and a good listener who makes them feel safe and comfortable to talk to.

Janet Madri-Flores

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University. I am currently pursuing my Master's Degree in Social Work and look forward to helping people realize their own value. I am a graduate of Palm Beach State College, earning my AA and AS degree in Human Services. I have had the wonderful experience of interning at the FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, where I worked with some amazing families. Mindfulness and Intentional Motivation are areas of interest for me. I am happy to be back on campus, interning at The Center for Student Wellbeing.

Nathan Sheddy

I recently earned my Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University (FAU), and am currently in pursuit of a Masters Degree in Social Work from FAU. Prior to transferring to FAU, I was a proud Palm Beach State College Panther, obtaining my Associates transfer degree in 2018.

My previous internship with the Coalition for Independent Living Options, provided me the opportunity to educate clients about their options and facilitate their access to independent living resources. I am a Veteran of the United States Navy and am passionate about combining that experience with my education in Social Work. I hope to facilitate positive transitions for Veterans returning to “Civilian Life” and empower those who want to pursue a degree in higher education. 

 Love Toussaint

I am currently in the advanced standing MSW program at FAU. My hobbies consist of church activities, spending time with family and friends, and binge watching my favorite shows. I am currently working as a case manager at the Achievement Center for Children and Families where I connect families with needed resources to elevate their current situations. I have been working in the case management field since 2016. I'd like to think of myself as a lifelong learner, I am an open minded individual who is always ready to learn and gain new insight. I am excited to intern at PBSC where I completed my AA, AS and BA degree. Very proud alumna!

I am currently a student here at Palm Beach State College, majoring in Psychology. Working for the Counseling Center/ Panther's Pantry has allowed my passion of helping people shine through. I look forward to being able to help you with your needs. I have a passion for helping kids and those who may have difficulty helping themselves. My job has allowed me to achieve this. While in high school I was able to obtain certification in early childhood education as well as in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. When I am not being a full-time student, an employee, and a mother some of my interests are dancing, singing, and going roller skating. I like to try new things and styles such as the color of my hair. My favorite color is blue but when you may see me, my hair may be purple or pink or a different color. My goal right now is to achieve my Bachelor's in General Psychology and go on to becoming a clinical psychologist. My vision is to have my daughter Krismoshel and my family by my side as I go through my journey of success.