Student Counseling Services "Reimagined" at YSU

Francine Packard, director of Student Counseling Services at YSU stepped into her current role at the university just this past summer. Since that time, Packard has worked diligently to “reimagine” the Student Counseling Services (SCS) department on YSU’s campus. The recent passing of House Bill 33, allowed for more funding toward mental health and substance abuse programming making much of her vision possible in a short period of time.

Previously, Student Counseling Services was in Kilcawley. However, during the first implementation phase of the grant, SCS and the Dean Of Student’s Office (DOS) were relocated to the third floor of DeBartolo Hall, allowing for the expansion of services for both departments. “This move allows us to host more Graduate Counseling interns and of course, service more students,” Packard said.

Soon after, campus resources such as the Penguin Pantry and the Career Closet were able to occupy some of the space adjacent to DOS and SCS, allowing for the convenience of close proximity for students in need of these additional resources.

Expansion of the Student Counseling Services continues, with what Packard has now titled the THRIVE Grant, with plans to bring on a clinic case manager. This position will serve as the point of contact for individuals Penguin of Concern referrals.

“This clinic case manager will have the ability to follow up with any referrals, book students with therapists, provide resources and information for on and off campus, bridging the gap for students, making it easier for them to access resources ,” Packard said. “They will also be trained for a crisis, so they would be able to address anything that may need immediate attention.”

This new opportunity also allows for SCS to provide internships as previously mentioned, which is now possible with the additional space in DeBartolo Hall. . SCS currently have four interns working in the department. Packard hopes to continue partnering with the Graduate Counseling Program to expand future opportunities for these students.

In addition to hosting graduate interns, SCS will now have the capability to provide ongoing services that include diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders or ailments that may impair a students’ ability to succeed in the classroom, such as ADHD, Depression or General Anxiety Disorder.

Packard explained how crucial this is for internship experience. “This funding has allowed us to purchase the technology necessary to provide more comprehensive diagnostic testing of students. These tools will help us diagnostically differentiate,” Packard says. “This is really great for our interns, as they are often required to have experience with these tools before entering the workforce.”

The grant also allows for a holistic expansion of SCS by funding complimentary services to promote mindful-based approach to help students with emotional regulation.

“We strive to keep these students calm prior to a counseling service and when concluding a service,” said Dr. Packard, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, particularly for individuals seeking assistance through Student Counseling Services. “We are working to bring nap pods, right-light therapy, salt therapy, and encouraging self-exploration through these complementary services.”

Lastly, the funding allows for equipment necessary to support the expansion of the food pantry run by the Dean of Students Office (DOS). This includes the purchase of a hydroponics system. This system creates a controlled environment to support the growing of fresh fruits and vegetables to be available in the Penguin Pantry.

Packard is already seeing a major improvement with these changes put in place. “Our statistics indicate that in January 2024, SCS served 109 students with free and confidential counseling services. This is a significant increase compared to January 2023 when SCS served only 42 students. This grant has been invaluable to our students.”