SU Counseling Center re-accredited by International Association of Counseling Services

SU Counseling Center re-accredited by International Association of Counseling Services July 20, 2006Jaime Winne Alvarezjlwinne@syr.edu

The International Association of Counseling Services (IACS) has awarded the Syracuse University Counseling Center a certificate of re-accreditation. The re-accreditation signifies that the center meets nationally recognized standards for mental health care. Fewer than 200 universities worldwide meet this standard.

In its review, the IACS University and College Counseling Centers Board of Accreditation cited the SU Counseling Center for its active involvement in the broader University community, connections with important campus units, excellent staff and faculty training program, and strong support from the administration.

“We are really pleased to be recognized for the high-quality work we do, both with individual students and the broader campus community,” says Rebecca Dayton, director of the Counseling Center.

A principal unit within the Division of Student Affairs, the Counseling Center offers comprehensive mental health services to all SU students, serving about 1,350 per year. The Counseling Center’s professional staff includes 11 trained therapists. Specific services include individual short-term counseling; 24-hour on-call mental health emergency coverage; group counseling sessions; consultation to faculty, staff and parents; and referrals to other community and University mental health services.

As part of the re-accreditation process, IACS conducted an extensive survey of the SU Counseling Center’s facilities and services; a team composed of IACS representatives evaluated all aspects of client care. In his letter of accreditation, Richard Yates, vice chair of the IACS University and College Board of Accreditation, praised the Counseling Center’s diverse and cohesive professional staff and high standards of service to the student and campus community.