Counseling Center Student Life
Saint Xavier University’s (SXU) campus Counseling Center welcomed several new staff members to begin the Spring ‘25 semester. The announcement was made by Keith O’Neill, Ph.D, Dean of Students, and Title IX Coordinator.
The new hires include; Gricel Serrano, MA, Tayah Brent, LPC, Dennis Garrido Aviles, MA, and Raul Andrade, MA.
O’Neill shared, “This was a period of staff transition, with former staff moving on to new opportunities, and a somewhat extended period of searching for new staff to replace them and to provide continued service.”
The purpose of counseling is to be available to listen and offer guidance through challenging times. The counseling center offers resources for stress, anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, mental health, and trauma to students.
Brent stated “As a counselor at SXU, I offer confidential support to students, addressing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal relationships. I aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment where students feel safe seeking the help they need.”
Counselors are adaptable to student’s individual needs and can help them set specific goals to address their concerns. The counselors respect students’ privacy and keep sessions confidential.
“As part of the counseling center’s mission statement, my colleagues and I guide and support students to work toward personal wellness, balance, and growth. However, in my opinion, we are more than just guides, we can take on various professional roles. We are here to meet you where you are at.” said Andrade.
Students should not hesitate to use the counseling services. The counseling center provides in-person, telehealth, and phone sessions. Students do not need to share their experiences or get permission from anyone to attend the counseling center.
“The Center still exists in the same way, with the same number of counseling professionals, with the same programs and outreach, and with the same process for requesting service, as it did before. Rather, since any one staff member’s decision to transition can happen at any time, when SXU learned of a few vacancies at the same time, SXU then had the chance to fill those vacancies after conducting one large search that attracted many qualified candidates” said Serrano.
The center is still consistent with its goals for student success, they have just stepped into a new era. They wanted to reach more students by making some changes to the center. Additionally, they want to have more events to interact with students on a personal level.
“I am comfortable seeking help at SXU. It’s affordable, and they can probably help you find outside sources they don’t offer here” said Michelle Coronado. She further explained that after she learned about the counseling center, she believes that they have the resources to help students who need it.
Students can fill out a request for services form to speak with one of the counselors. The counselors can also provide students with outside resources if needed.
For more information, students are encouraged to contact the SXU Counseling Center and may request an appointment online or email counselingservices@sxu.edu.