Yancy Cruz-Virella

Yancy Cruz-Virella serves as an Assistant Professor in the Master of Science in Counseling and Rehabilitation Education program at Southern Illinois University (SIU). Her diverse background spans the non-profit, private, and higher education sectors, equipping her with a multifaceted perspective that she brings into her teaching. Cruz-Virella is dedicated to enriching the learning environment by integrating textbooks, supplemental materials, and real-life experiences, which she believes are crucial for a comprehensive educational experience. In her classroom, Cruz-Virella emphasizes the importance of open communication, respect, and ethics. She fosters an environment where students feel encouraged to engage actively and grow both personally and professionally. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be a collaborative process, where students are partners in their own learning journey. Cruz-Virella's research interests are deeply embedded in the field of rehabilitation counseling, with a particular focus on chronic illness, dialysis, and kidney transplant patients. She is passionate about exploring the multicultural aspects of rehabilitation counseling, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of patients and how these influence their treatment and recovery processes. Currently, Cruz-Virella is developing mixed-method research projects that delve into the experiences of kidney transplant patients, particularly focusing on their long-term outcomes. Additionally, she is investigating the experiences of dialysis treatment patients who have been undergoing treatment for over a decade. Her research aims to provide insights that can improve patient care and support systems for these individuals. Through her work, Cruz-Virella seeks to contribute to the broader understanding of chronic illness management and the role of multiculturalism in rehabilitation counseling. Her commitment to research and teaching reflects her dedication to advancing the field and supporting the next generation of counselors and rehabilitation professionals.