Biography:

Dr. Lina Siniscalchi-Racicot serves as the Director of Graduate Psychology and Associate Professor at American International College. In her roles, she oversees both master’s and doctoral psychology programs and supports students with real-world experience through strong community partnerships. Dr. Racicot is a published author and researcher whose work centers on childhood adverse experiences, mental health, substance use disorders, and risk factors that affect youth and families.

She is an affiliated researcher with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department and volunteers with the county’s Addiction Task Force. Her research has included examining juvenile justice programming effectiveness for dually involved youth through work with the Department of Youth Services and the Department of Children and Families. Dr. Racicot also developed the Addiction Counseling program at AIC, which prepares students for future certification or licensure as a CADC or LADC in Massachusetts.

Bringing teaching and community engagement expertise to her classroom, Dr. Racicot instructs courses that equip students with the research skills and applied knowledge necessary for careers in psychology and counseling.

Education:

• Ed.D., Child, Family, and School Studies – University of Massachusetts Amherst
• B.A., Psychology – Westfield State College

Research/Interests:

• Effects of childhood adverse experiences on development
• Mental health issues and substance use disorders
• Program effectiveness for at-risk and justice involved youth
• Applied research methods in psychology and behavioral health

Teaching Areas:

Dr. Racicot teaches courses in research methods, statistics, human development, and psychopathology, integrating theory with applied practice and community engagement.

Publications:

• Living With the Little Devil Man (as Lina Lisetta) — a narrative based on real‑life experiences involving childhood trauma, schizophrenia, and addiction
• Chapter contribution in Voices From the Fallen — an award-winning book by Mike Tourville