Wilkes University has expanded its campus counseling services by implementing a new after-hours support line, providing an outlet for students that may need immediate assistance at any time.

The after-hours support staff will be available to students from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, as well as anytime on weekends, breaks, holidays and during the summer. 

Campus counselors Susan Biskup and Melissa Gaudio provided further explanation about the new service, which is already up and running.

“The purpose of the after-hours support line is to offer Wilkes students  the opportunity to talk with counselors who are well versed in the behavioral health field specifically pertaining to college student mental health issues,” Gaudio said.

Students reaching out through the after-hours line can expect to speak with master’s and doctoral-level health clinicians who are specifically trained to assist with all issues related to the mental health needs of college students, Gaudio explained.

The support line is mainly a resource to use during times of crisis that are outside of regular office hours.

Gaudio added that it is important to remember that students can also schedule appointments with her or Biskup between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. by contacting the Health and Wellness Services at 570-408-4730, which is located in Passan Hall.

Any mental health crises that happen during office hours can be directed to their office.

Biskup added that when students utilize this line they will be asked to identify themselves, although those records will be kept confidential, as always.

She continued by saying that campus counseling believes in reaching out to students in need of support and, as such, they will want to know who to contact to arrange follow-up counseling or to simply check in.

“We want to provide comfort and care for all Wilkes University students by letting them know that despite their circumstances, support is always available,” Biskup said of the benefits of this new addition to students.

“Through this service, students will find a listening ear and a skilled clinician to assist with guidance in the treatment and care of our students. Counselors, faculty and staff can all sleep better knowing that our students are cared for in the best possible way,” she added.

“We are really fortunate to have this service at Wilkes University.”

To contact the after-hours support line, call 570-408-CHAT. Along with this outlet, students can also contact Public Safety after hours at 570-408-4999.