Cara Cerullo, Ed.D., LISW

Associate Director, Director of Clinical Services
Biography

Education: 

2025-Western Illinois University, Doctorate of Education; Educational Leadership 

2005-University of Iowa, Master of Social Work 

2003-University of Iowa, Bachelor of Arts; Psychology 

License/Certification:

Licensed Independent Social Worker (Iowa) 

Mental Health 1st Aid Instructor 

Critical Incident Stress Management Certification 

Approach to Therapy:

With a background in Social Work and Educational Leadership, I aim to create a compassionate, collaborative environment that supports student and staff well-being. As a clinician, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Strengths-based and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Recently, I’ve focused on mental wellness in higher education, partnering with colleagues to promote student success. In my role as Director of Clinical Services, I support staff in delivering high-quality mental health care to students, ensuring services are effective and accessible. My work is grounded in connection, care, and a commitment to fostering both individual growth and organizational health. 

Areas of Competency 

  • Anxiety 

  • Depression 

  • Grief/Loss 

  • Relationship issues 

  • Self-esteem 

  • Stress management 

  • Substance Use 

Publications: 

  • Cerullo, C. A. (2024). The Impact of Organizational Climate on Burnout of College Counseling Center Clinicians (Doctoral dissertation, Western Illinois University). 

  • Plos, J. M., Crowley, K., Polubinsky, R. L., & Cerullo, C. (2021). Implementing suicide prevention training into an athletic training curriculum: an introductory model. Athletic Training Education Journal16(2), 87-100. 

photo of Cara