Cal U Counseling Center

About the Counseling Center

At times during a student's life, concerns about making the best personal, social, psychological and career choices become paramount. Students may wish to resolve problems that interfere with their success and effective educational performance while at the University. Being aware of current lifestyle issues, such as maintaining health and fitness while under pressure and dealing with unwanted consequences of using alcohol and substances, are real concerns. Therapists can assist students for whom challenges are relevant and pressing.

Location and Hours

The Counseling Center is located on the ground floor of Carter Hall and is staffed by three therapists. Psychological services are available during evening hours by special appointment. The center is staffed from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday by three therapists.

How to reach the Counseling Center

724-938-4056.
After-hours support during a crisis: Public Safety, 724-938-4347 (HELP), or 9-1-1
Health Center, 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at 724-938-4232. The nurse will put you in touch with a therapist or with a crisis hotline.

PLEASE NOTE: Counseling Center faculty emails are not monitored 24/7. If you are in need of immediate emergency assistance, please call 911, Cal U Public Safety @ 724-938-HELP or go to your nearest emergency room.

We're Here to Help YOU!

The Counseling Center faculty aims to help students overcome personal issues and stressful situations such as:

Relationship distress
Academic difficulties
Anxiety
Depression
Alcohol and/or drug use
Trauma

Meet Our Staff and Faculty:

Tim Susick, D.Ed., Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Mary Ann Salotti, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist
Dawn Moeller, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist
John Massella, Ed.D., Licensed Professional Counselor

All work-study students, graduate assistants, practicum students and interns who work in the Counseling Center sign an agreement to maintain the confidentiality of clients at all times.

Drugs and Alcohol Programs

An education and intervention program is available to students who have had or feel they may have problems with drugs and/or alcohol. Assessment and referral to more intensive services are provided at the Counseling Center. In some instances, students are referred by a judicial officer or campus administration.

Psychological Consultation

Students who visit the Counseling Center may come for a psychological consultation or short-term counseling, a referral to a long-term treatment provider or information about other valuable campus resources.

Services provided by the Counseling Center are strictly confidential according to state and federal law, are offered during academic semesters, and are available at no additional charge to California University students.

Keep in mind, however, that e-mail is not a secure form of communication and confidentiality cannot be assured if you choose to communicate with a therapist by e-mail.

To schedule an appointment, call 724-938-4056 or stop by the Counseling Center.

Crisis Intervention

Emergency psychological evaluation, part of any crisis intervention, can be on a walk-in basis during regular business hours or may be facilitated through the Counseling Center during regular business hours. Consultation with a Counseling Center therapist is scheduled by calling the office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday-Friday at 724-938-4056. After hours, call Public Safety at 724-938-4357 (HELP).

Formal agreements exist between the University and a local psychiatrist who is available for psychiatric consultation. During a mental health emergency, the psychiatrist may provide medical services beyond the scope of the Counseling Center. The psychiatric consultant, as well as selected other professional working in local clinics, provides a broad range of mental health, alcohol and other drug assessment and treatment services.

Referrals to Other Departments at Cal U

Professional counselors have extended their services by developing a strong referral system locally, on and off campus. Referrals can be made to any department or office on campus, including:

Students with Disabilities

Veterans Affairs Office

Women's Center

Campus Ministry