Meet Dr. Lupe Herrera, a postdoctoral fellow who works in the UC Irvine Counseling Center. Herrera serves as a liaison between UCI Athletics and the UCI Counseling Center.
The UCI Counseling Center is committed to delivering quality services that help students achieve optimal mental health for academic success, personal growth, and increased capacity to cope with the stresses of being a university student. The Counseling Center also provides training and learning opportunities to prepare future leaders in mental health and other service-oriented positions.
Get to know Dr. Lupe in our latest staff spotlight.
| Dr. Lupe Herrera |
| Postdoctoral Fellow |
| 6 months at UCI |
| Point Loma Nazarene University, BA in Community Psychology; Biola University, MA and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology |
How did you get started in the profession and what brought you to UCI?
I actually started off undergrad at PLNU as a bio-chemistry major. This decision was mainly based on my love for the show CSI. However, during the first semester at PLNU I realized biology and chemistry were not for me. I eventually ended up meeting with an academic counselor who encouraged me to take a career exam. Psychology was at the top of my list, so I enrolled in introductory classes and instantly loved the field of psychology. I changed my major to psychology and went straight to graduate school after I graduated from PLNU.
My clinical rotations have included Biola University Counseling Center, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, and Whittier College Counseling Center. I completed my internship at Long Beach State Counseling and Psychological Services. These rotations highlighted for me an interest and passion in the provision of mental health services to college students, specifically students of marginalized identities and student-athletes. This interest of mine stemmed from my own personal experiences and experiences as a former student-athlete (women's soccer -PLNU). I was attracted to a position here at UCI because of the opportunity to work with a diverse student population, diverse staff members, and student-athletes.
Can you explain the services you and your office provide and your involvement with the athletics department?
The UCI Counseling Center offers a variety of mental health services. For students who are interested in learning more about the services that we provide, I'd recommend that you visit our website (Counseling/Clinical Services (uci.edu)) or take a look at our brochure (Counseling Center Brochure (uci.edu)).
In terms of my involvement with the athletics department, I currently have a virtual drop-in hour on Monday's from 10:00 am to 11:00 am (PST) for student-athletes. The virtual drop-in visit is not a therapy appointment, rather a 10-15 minute consultation. Students who are interested in attending a virtual drop-in appointment with me can schedule an appointment on Campus Groups.
Where is your favorite place on UCI campus?
I've actually only been on UCI's Campus one time, so it's difficult to answer this question. I'll hopefully get a chance to explore the campus at a later time in the academic year.
What is the best part about working at UCI?
The students that I get to work with!
What are some things you like to do outside of work and to relax?
I love to spend time outdoors! I often go for a bike ride after work with my partner and our corgi. We'll strap him into his backpack, put his goggles on, and go for a ride to the beach to let him run around the dog beach. Also, as a former athlete, fitness is an integral part of my life. I go to CrossFit in the morning before work and then BJJ or kickboxing classes in the evenings. Exercise has always been an especially helpful way for me to relax.
What are some of your favorite tips to give students as ways to relax/manage stress?
Allow yourself to take breaks – we all need them and they're critical to recovery!
Journal out your thoughts and feelings.
Stay organized or get a planner.
Spend time in nature – go for a walk.
Recall times when you were confronted with an obstacle and overcame that obstacle! It's important to remember or be reminded of your strengths and how you can use them to overcome obstacles. You can do it, you've done it before! That being said, it's also okay to ask for help or support. Use the resources available to you. This is my plug in for UCI Counseling Center! We're here to support you in whatever way we can.
Listen to calming or soothing music.
