Preparing Mental Health First Responders: College Counselors Supporting Residence Life Professionals

Authors

  • Matthew J. Paylo Youngstown State University
  • Jake J. Protivnak Youngstown State University 
  • Kyoung Mi Choi California State University-Fresno
  • Matthew Walker Youngstown State University 

Keywords:

College Counseling, Residence Life Professionals, Mental Health

Abstract

Mental health issues are on the rise on college campuses (Gallagher & American College Counseling Association, [ACCA], 2014).  Residence life professionals are often first responders to these issues.  College counselors are in a unique position to support these professionals by (a) preparing the residence environment, (b) planning and providing programming on mental health issues, (c) using basic crisis skills, and (d) making referrals. This paper will provide college counselors with the rationale, benefits, and processes for supporting residence life professionals to be mental health first responders

Author Biographies

Matthew J. Paylo, Youngstown State University

Associate Professor/ Counseling Program Director 

Department of Counseling, Special Education, and School Psychology

Youngstown State University 

Jake J. Protivnak, Youngstown State University 

Associate Professor/ Department Chair
Department of Counseling, Special Education, and School Psychology

Youngstown State University 

Kyoung Mi Choi, California State University-Fresno

Assistant Professor

School of Education & Human Development, California State University - Fresno

Matthew Walker, Youngstown State University 

Graduate Student

Department of Counseling, Special Education, and School Psychology

Youngstown State University 

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Published

2017-08-16