Navigating Care with Grace: A Conversation with Our Clinical Care Coordinator

As the first point of contact for new clients, Grace Furlong plays a vital role in creating a welcoming, judgment-free space where people feel safe to share their stories, sometimes for the very first time. Grace reflects on what drew her to Seleni, the unseen responsibilities of care coordination, and how staying grounded allows her to support individuals during their most vulnerable moments.

What inspired you to join the Seleni Institute?

As I reached the end of my undergraduate education, I found myself looking for a meaningful next step. When I discovered the Seleni Institute, its mission immediately resonated with me. I was drawn to its unwavering commitment to supporting individuals and families through some of the most vulnerable and transformative times in their lives. The clarity and compassion of Seleni’s work made it clear that this was an environment where I could meaningfully contribute and continue to grow.

How do you approach building trust with someone who reaches out for support?

I approach building trust by creating a space where clients feel heard and never judged. There is no information that feels like "too much" for me to receive, which I try to communicate early on.

During intake calls, I don’t shy away from difficult topics or emotional moments. Sometimes just naming what someone might be experiencing can help them feel less alone. I aim to meet clients with curiosity and respect, so they sense that whatever they’re carrying is welcome in the room.

What’s something people might not realize about working in intake coordination?

As Seleni’s Care Coordinator, I serve as the first point of contact for new clients. Our intake calls are designed to determine whether Seleni is the right fit for a certain patient’s needs and to gather key information to help us make an informed and thoughtful clinician match.

For many clients, this may be the first time they’re putting words to what they’re experiencing, and that moment matters. Women's health is often shrouded in mystery, whether due to a lack of research, cultural stigma, or socialized silence. Holding space for someone as they begin to articulate their story is a responsibility I take seriously and is one of the many reasons I was inspired to join Seleni and work with patients.

What do you love most about being part of the Seleni team?

What I love most about being part of the Seleni team is that we’re tiny but mighty! I've seen firsthand how one individual, such as a clinician, staff member, or notably, a mother, can create waves and ripple effects of change.

For mothers, it’s often their entire family system that’s impacted. That trickle-down effect is exactly what Nitzia Logothetis, our co-founder, captures when she says, “Change a mother’s life, change a child’s life.” Even though we’re a small team, each of us is deeply connected to the mission and empowered to carry meaningful change forward. That shared sense of purpose is incredibly motivating. 

How do you stay grounded when supporting people in vulnerable moments?

I stay grounded by reminding myself that I’m there to hold space—not to fix, rescue, or rush. When someone shares something vulnerable, I focus on being present and regulated so they feel safe enough to continue.

I also keep in mind that their story is theirs to own, not mine to carry. That distinction helps me remain open and compassionate without becoming overwhelmed. With this mindset, I’m able to guide them into their next system of support, our incredible clinicians, and know that they’re in capable hands.