Taking the first step: get to know CSU’s mental health services – The Cauldron
Design Credit: Kateryna Kopylchak | The Cauldron
In the quiet confines of her dorm room, a second-year student at Cleveland State University reflects on her journey with mental health support. Preferring to remain anonymous, she recalls the day she first reached out to the Counseling Center, feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of academic life.
“Admitting I needed help was one of the hardest things I’ve done,” she shared with The Cauldron. “But once I called and completed the phone screening, I felt a huge weight lift off my shoulders. They guided me to the right resources so quickly.”
Located in the Union Building at 1836 Euclid Ave., the Counseling Center provides a comprehensive array of resources including individual counseling, group therapy, and psychiatric services. With regular hours from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and urgent appointments available daily from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., the center aims to meet the needs of students juggling busy schedules.
The first step to accessing these services involves a 25-minute referral screening conducted over the phone. This initial conversation helps counselors understand students’ needs and direct them to appropriate support options, whether that’s therapy or other campus resources.
“It felt really easy and reassuring,” the anonymous student recalled. “I had my first session scheduled just a few days later.”
Despite the accessibility of these resources, many students remain unaware of what the Counseling Center offers.
“I think a lot of people don’t know about the variety of services available,” the anonymous student said. “It took me a while to find out what was out there for me.”
In addition to individual sessions, the Counseling Center also offers telehealth services at (216) 687-2277, allowing students to receive support from the comfort of their own spaces. This flexibility has proven crucial for students who may feel hesitant to seek help in person.
“Even just knowing that the crisis line is available 24/7 has made a huge difference,” the anonymous student said. “I can reach out whenever I feel overwhelmed.”
The Counseling Center stands ready to assist, but it relies on students to take the first step.