Cassandra “Cassie” Cacace, Ph.D., LMFT joins the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine as its Embedded Mental Health Counselor, bringing a passion for supporting the people behind the profession.
Cacace holds a doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Before joining Clemson, she spent three years teaching in a graduate program while conducting research and working with what she calls ‘the helpers’: teachers, therapists, doctors, nurses and other caregiving professionals.
She was drawn to the PCVM by its commitment to supporting the whole person, recognizing that developing outstanding veterinarians also means prioritizing their well-being.
“I’m excited to be part of a community that values mental health, resilience and helping future veterinarians thrive both professionally and personally,” Cacace said. “As the college grows, I hope to help create a culture where mental health and well-being are part of everyday conversations.”
In her role, Cacace hopes to become a trusted resource for students, faculty and staff, reinforcing the importance of self-care in a profession dedicated to caring for others. Among her college-wide initiatives is the development of a sensory and wellness suite where students and employees can decompress in a quiet and peaceful space.
“My goal is to remind our community that caring for yourself is an important part of caring for others,” she said. “The sensory space invites students to engage their five senses, slow down, and regulate their emotions. Everyone experiences stress differently, and we want our students to discover what works best for them. All our students have access to this, along with free, confidential mental health services right here at CVM.”
Cacace describes the opportunity at Clemson as a ‘unicorn position’. She says that this role feels uniquely suited to her passions and experience. She looks forward to building relationships across the college and helping its growing community navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Outside of work, Cacace enjoys spending time with her husband, Graham, and their pets, Gemma, an Australian shepherd, and Pickles, their cat. The family enjoys hiking together, while Cacace also finds time for her favorite genre, fantasy fiction, and gardening. Though she considers herself a beginner in the garden, she enjoys the opportunity to learn. She is also a proud aunt to two nieces who mean the world to her.
