At Collegiate Recovery and Intervention Services (CRIS), our dedicated team is committed to supporting students through a wide range of personal challenges and life transitions. Whether it’s navigating mental health concerns, seeking recovery support, or simply finding a safe, judgment-free space to grow, our staff brings compassion, expertise, and a student-centered approach to every interaction. Meet the professionals who are here to walk alongside you on your journey toward well-being, resilience, and academic success.
Administration
Greg Vander Wal
Executive Director
gsvanderwal@ua.edu
I am a clinical psychologist and have worked in collegiate mental health for close to a decade. I also serve as the Executive Director of the Counseling Center at UA. I am committed to supporting students mental health and wellbeing and I am honored to serve the Collegiate Recovery and Intervention Services department in their efforts to support students in recovery and who struggle with substance use concerns.
- Licensed Psychologist
Education
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Doctorate in Clinical Health Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL -
Masters in Clinical Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL -
Bachelors in Psychology
Samford University, Birmingham, AL
Ashley Broughton
Administrative Assistant II
abroughton@ua.edu
I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field performing multiple types of support roles. My hope is to create a safe and nurturing office environment at CRIS where clients and their families feel free to express their vulnerabilities and share their stories. On a daily basis, I try to employ my positive attitude and tireless energy to encourage others to strive toward their goals throughout their recovery journey.
Counseling and Intervention Services
Kelly Miller
Assistant Director, CRIS Clinical Services
kelly.miller@ua.edu
I have worked with Substance Use Disorder clients and families since 2006 through various levels of care ranging from inpatient treatment, extended treatment, and outpatient treatment. I know what gives our clients the best chance at recovering from the disease of addiction is to have support from their families and friends, and I am committed to helping facilitate this process in any way I can throughout all of our various services.
- Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)
Education
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Masters in Human Environmental Sciences
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL -
Bachelors in Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
Savannah Kiesel
Staff Therapist I
slkiesel@ua.edu
I have worked with clients dealing with a variety of substance use concerns since August 2020. Working with clients in a collegiate setting has been a joy for me as a new mental health counselor. I am committed to helping our clients overcome adversities in all areas of their lives, and hope to create a collaborative approach to the counseling process. I believe that together with a supportive environment, we can help all students reach their goals, no matter the challenges that may exist. As always, Roll Tide!
- Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC)
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Education
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Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL -
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
Glenn P. Winkler
Staff Therapist II
gpwinkler@ua.edu
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience working with persons having issues with substance misuse/substance use disorders. I am excited, happy, and grateful to be part of UA’s Collegiate Recovery and Intervention Services team and I endeavor to effectively support the efforts of all students seeking stability as they form foundations for their futures. It is my hope that all persons who’ve had issues with substances can develop the love of self, the healthy connections with others, and the emotional and mental skills needed to achieve and sustain balanced, productive, rewarding lives. Life begins anew every day and it is never too late to start over and do it better.
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- AADAA-Certified Alcohol/Drug Counselor
Education
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Masters in Counseling Psychology
Auburn University, Auburn, AL -
Bachelors in Psychology
Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
Collegiate Recovery Community
Alex Liveoak
Assistant Director, Collegiate Recovery Community
awliveoak@ua.edu
I provide direct supervision and oversight of the University of Alabama’s Collegiate Recovery Community and I am responsible for the development and delivery of programs and services designed to encourage and support healthy lifestyles for students in active recovery. I have spent 8 years in the addiction and recovery field as a peer support specialist, resident assistant, case manager and therapist.
- Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (ALMFT)
Education
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Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL -
Bachelors in Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
Natalie Holland
Collegiate Recovery Community Coordinator
nholland@ua.edu
I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with over a decade of experience in substance use treatment, addiction education, and prevention. I’m passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journeys and am proud to be part of the Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC). I believe that successful recovery is rooted in a strong support system, and I’m honored to be part of the recovery network the CRC offers our students. I’m dedicated to raising awareness of our mission and the services we provide—not only on campus, but throughout the broader community as well.
Education
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Bachelors in Psychology
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL