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Lillian Dugan

Lecturer, Master of Social Work Program

Bio

Lillian Dugan, LCSW, OSW-C, is a clinician, educator, and program leader specializing in oncology social work, trauma-informed care, and psychosocial support for children, adolescents, young adults, and families facing medical challenges. She brings extensive experience in clinical practice, higher education, and program development to her work with students and communities.

As a Lecturer in the Master of Social Work Program at Marist University, Lillian is committed to preparing future social workers through experiential learning, reflective practice, and the integration of evidence-based clinical skills. Her teaching emphasizes professional identity development, ethical practice, and the application of social work values across diverse practice settings.

In addition to her academic role, Lillian is the founder and CEO of her private practice located at Sunnyside Farm, an animal sanctuary, where she provides psychotherapy, clinical supervision, equine-assisted psychotherapy, and professional development services. Her work centers on developing innovative, relationship-based programs that promote connection, resilience, and healing through nature, animals, and community engagement for individuals and families navigating complex life challenges. She previously served as Director of Programs for The Dear Jack Foundation, where she led national psychosocial programming for adolescents and young adults affected by cancer, and she has held clinical roles across medical and community settings, including Michigan Medicine and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.


Education

Master of Social Work (MSW), Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health University of Michigan, 2018
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Minor in Human Services Endicott College, 2017


Research Interests / Areas of Focus

  • Oncology Social Work
  • Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Care
  • Psychosocial Oncology
  • Trauma-Informed Practice
  • Grief, Loss, and Survivorship
  • Clinical Supervision and Social Work Education
  • Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Selected Presentations

Dugan, L. (2017). Addressing the Psychosocial Needs of Adolescent Oncology Patients Through Non-Traditional Group Therapy. Poster presented at the Endicott College Thesis Conference.

Dugan, L., & Dolinsky, B. (2016). The Depiction of College Life on YouTube: Healthy or Not. Poster presented at the Eastern Psychological Association Conference.

Dugan, L., & Dolinsky, B. (2015). The Depiction of College Life on YouTube: Healthy or Not. Poster presented at the New England Psychological Association Conference.


Professional Licensure and Certification

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (New York)
  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (New Jersey)
  • Oncology Certified Social Worker (OSW-C)

Professional Affiliations

  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
  • Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW)

Contact Information

Academic School

School of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Office

Dyson 4013

Email

Lillian.Dugan@Marist.edu