KU News Release

KU names new director of Counseling and Psychological Services

LAWRENCE — Michael Lynch Maestas, a licensed psychologist and professional educator, has been named director of Counseling and Psychological Services at the University of Kansas.

Lynch Maestas (pronounced May-stus) is interim co-director of the Counseling Center at the University of Missouri. He will begin at KU in July, succeeding Pam Botts, who has been interim director of CAPS since April 2006.

Lynch Maestas has a doctorate and master’s in counseling psychology from the University of Nebraska and a bachelor’s in psychology from McPherson College. He is a licensed psychologist in Missouri.

In his interim director position at the University of Missouri, Lynch Maestas oversaw administrative and fiscal duties at the Counseling Center and university psychologists and counselors. He also was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Educational, School and Counseling Psychology.

Marlesa Roney, vice provost for Student Success, said the services CAPS provides are essential, given the developmental changes and personal challenges that are part of college life.

“Every day, KU students find support and assistance through CAPS, whether it be for homesickness, depression, test anxiety or simply coping with the day-to-day stresses of college life,” Roney said. “During times of crisis, such as the sense of vulnerability that resulted in the aftermath of the Virginia Tech tragedy, CAPS plays a critical role in enabling the university community to address issues and move forward. I am thrilled that Michael Lynch Maestas, a proven, successful professional, will be leading CAPS.”

Lynch Maestas said he was excited to be joining CAPS.

“CAPS gives to both the university through its service and education as well as the profession of mental health. I couldn’t think of a better place to begin the next step in my career,” he said.

Lynch Maestas’ professional and research interests have focused on personality and intellectual assessment, the relationship between intelligence and personality traits, American ethnic minority issues, multicultural therapy and assessment competencies, and training in professional psychology. He has published writings in professional psychology journals and books, and speaks Spanish.

As director of CAPS, Lynch Maestas will oversee the office that helps students adjust to college life, provides assistance with psychological, personal and family problems and offers faculty and staff consultation throughout the year. CAPS also offers individual, couples, family and group therapy.

Pam Botts, who served as interim director during the search process, will resume her role as associate director.

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