The Counseling Center at Otterbein University offers year-round mental health services to Otterbein students — even during summer break — no matter where they are located.  

“When students leave campus, they don’t leave their mental health needs here. That’s why we are committed to providing services any time of day or night, wherever they are,” said Dr. Kathy Ryan, director of the Counseling Center. 

According to the Counseling Center website, “Students come to counseling when something is not quite right in their world. They may not be sure what is wrong, or they may lack the energy, skills, confidence, or motivation to change. Otterbein counselors meet with students to understand their current situations and develop plans to move forward in healthier and more satisfying ways.”  

While school presents one set of stressors, from exams to jobs, going home may cause new stressors.  

“Students may struggle to fit back into their former social circles, have trouble decompressing from a stressful year, or face the pressures of a new job or internship,” Ryan said. “Every student and every situation is unique, so we tailor our mental health support services to meet those specific needs.” 

Counseling services are free for all registered students.  

There are two ways students can access counseling services this summer: 

• If students reside in the state of Ohio, they can meet with Dr. Ryan in-person or virtually from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekdays. Call 614-823-1333 to schedule appointments or register online at www.otterbein.edu/counseling. 
• If students live outside of Ohio or if ANY students want to reach counseling after-hours, they can speak by phone with off-site licensed mental health professionals at ProtoCall, by calling our office number: 614-823-1333. These counselors provide risk assessment, safety planning, and immediate crisis stabilization. They also can provide support and problem-solving strategies. ProtoCall staff coordinate care with Otterbein’s Counseling Center staff and maintain confidentiality except when there is risk of imminent and serious harm or abuse. ProtoCall hours are 5 p.m.-9 a.m. weekdays, and weekends from 5 p.m. on Fridays to 9 a.m. on Mondays. 

ProtoCall is a new option for students with mental health needs. It extends the hours and reach of the Counseling Center by providing telehealth services from qualified counselors.  

“ProtoCall is an important tool for the Counseling Center because it is available outside of our office hours, but works closely with our staff to coordinate the best care for our students,” said Ryan. 

“I encourage students to reach out to us over the summer. Summer can be a great time to recuperate from a stressful academic year, and counseling services can be part of that process.”