The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship was created to support emerging Lancaster County counselors on their journey toward licensure, offering resources, mentorship, and financial assistance. We talked to Macy Stanley just as she was completing her two-year fellowship.
A native of Albany, New York, Macy has always been driven by a desire to help others. With an undergraduate degree in political science from the University at Albany, she initially contemplated a career in law or education. However, it was her experiences, both personal and professional, that ultimately guided her toward a career in counseling.
“I was always deciding between becoming a lawyer or a teacher,” she explained. “But through different internships, career experiences, and volunteer work, I developed a love for different people’s stories and mentoring others. It was during this time that I also had my own experience with counseling, which was transformative for me.”
Powerful and Meaningful Work
Macy’s journey toward counseling was deeply personal. As a young adult navigating life’s transitions, she sought help from a counselor. The experience was so impactful that it inspired her to pursue a career where she could offer the same support to others. “Working with my own counselor during a challenging time in my life made me realize how powerful and meaningful this work could be. I knew I wanted to help others in the same way.”
Determined to make a difference, Macy pursued a graduate degree in counseling from Messiah University. It was during her practicum and internship experiences in Lancaster County that she first heard about the Touchstone Foundation. “Touchstone was something that several supervisors recommended to me as I was pursuing my licensure journey. I’m so grateful for their advice because Touchstone has truly been a blessing.”
Clarity for the Whole Process
The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship offered her more than just financial assistance; it provided her with a supportive community and access to experienced supervisors who guided her every step of the way. “The licensure process to become a counselor in Pennsylvania can be very complicated and confusing,” Macy explained. “Touchstone brought clarity to the whole process and provided immediate assistance, setting us up with supervisors who walked with us through the licensure journey.”
One of the most significant challenges new counselors face is the financial burden of supervision, which is a critical component of the licensure process. Many aspiring counselors struggle to cover the costs of supervision while simultaneously building their careers. Macy, however, was spared this worry thanks to the Touchstone Foundation.
“A huge barrier for new therapists is the cost of supervision,” she said. “Touchstone covered that funding, which was a huge relief for me. It allowed me to focus on what I needed to learn, spend time with my supervisors, and gain the wisdom and guidance necessary for my career. I didn’t have to worry about coming up with the funds myself, and that took away so much stress.”
Able to Achieve All Her Goals
Macy’s fellowship began in August 2022 and concluded in August 2024. During this two-year period, she was able to achieve all her goals, including completing the required supervision hours to apply for licensure. “In Pennsylvania, we can complete our supervision within two to six years. Thanks to Touchstone, I was able to finish in two years, which means I can now apply for licensure and help more people in our community.”
Reflecting on her experience, Macy is filled with gratitude for the opportunities and support she received through the Touchstone Foundation. “Touchstone has equipped me with so much—wisdom, guidance, and the ability to help others. I am incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done for me.”
Paying it Forward
Macy’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, community support, and the importance of investing in the next generation of mental health professionals. As she moves forward in her career, Macy is eager to give back and continue the work that has had such a profound impact on her life. By becoming a licensed therapist in Lancaster County, Macy is paying it forward, ensuring that the benefits of The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship include helping more and more people throughout her career.
