Briana Start

Briana is a new member of Siena's Counseling Center team. She moved to
Albany in 2022 from Long Island to pursue her bachelor's degree in Human
Development at the University at Albany. After earning her bachelor's
degree in 2025, she began pursuing a dual master's degree in Public Health
and Social Welfare at UAlbany and is completing her first field placement
at Siena University. **With a background in human development, Briana
understands that every stage of life plays an important role in an
individual's overall well-being. She has several years of experience
working in school and clinical settings, supporting individuals with autism
and other neurodevelopmental diagnoses. **During her undergraduate years at
UAlbany, Briana served as a Peer Wellness Ambassador with the Middle Earth
Peer Assistance Program. In this role, she researched student wellness
needs, planned outreach initiatives, and facilitated educational programs
on topics such as staying safe while going out and managing stress during
finals week. As a student herself, Briana understands the challenges of
balancing academics, work, relationships, and personal well-being. **Briana
is passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive environment where
students feel heard, valued, and empowered to prioritize their mental
health. She hopes to draw on both her lived experiences as a student and
young adult and her professional experiences to support the Siena
community. Although she will always be a Great Dane at heart, she is
honored and excited to begin this new chapter as a Saint.