Despina Vougioukas, CRC

Director of Early Intervention Services
Lower Eastside Service Center

Despina Vougioukas, M.A.,Ed.M., CRC., Master CASAC-G., LMHC, CBIS

Director of Vocational Services and Early Intervention Services at the Lower East side Service Center in New York.

With more than 25 years of experience in the counseling industry, helping individuals rebuild their life, Despina has consistently worked with individuals to help them rebuild their lives. Despina began her career over 25 years ago working at Bellevue Hospital in New York City. She worked in the psychiatric inpatient units, the outpatient clinics, as well as their day treatment program upon graduating from Teachers College Columbia with two masters.

Upon leaving Bellevue Hospital, Despina worked as the director of a Residential Therapeutic Community helping individuals gradually tapering off illegal drugs. In November of 1998, Despina joined the Lower East Side Service Center as the director of the vocational services. Most recently Despina also became the director of the Early Intervention Program (EIS) at Lower East Side Service Center. EIS offers a comprehensive assessment for HIV and hepatitis C clients.

Despina also supervises graduate interns from the various graduate schools in New York City.

Despina is a Credentialed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, a licensed Mental Health counselor and a Certified as a Brain injury Specialist.