Youngstown State University is reimagining its student counseling services, and thanks to funding from House Bill 33 changes are expected in the near future.

According to a press release, director of Student Counseling Services (SCS) Francine Packard stepped into her role this past summer and has since been working to "reimagine" the SCS department.

Previously, student counseling was in Kilcawley Center. Now, during the first implementation phase of a $537,825 grant, SCS along with the Dean of Students Office (DOS) has relocated to the third floor of DeBartolo Hall allowing for expansion of services for both.

Soon after this, resources like the Penguin Pantry and the Career Closet were able to occupy some of the space adjacent to SCS and DOS allowing the convenience of close proximity for students in need of these resources.

Expansion of SCS continues with what Packard refers to as the "THRIVE Grant" with plans to bring on a clinic case manager to serve as the point of contact for Penguin of Concern referrals.

"This clinic case manager will have the ability to follow up with any referrals, book students with therapists, provide resources and information for on and off campus, bridging the gap for students, making it easier for them to access resource. They will also be trained for a crisis, so they would be able to address anything that may need immediate attention," Packard said.

This opportunity also allows for SCS to provide internships. SCS currently has four interns working in the department and Packard hopes to continue partnering with the graduate counsel program to expand future opportunities for these students.

Additionally, SCS will now have the capability to provide ongoing services like diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders or ailments that may impair a students' ability to succeed in the classroom like ADHD, depression or general anxiety disorder.

"This funding has allowed us to purchase the technology necessary to provide more comprehensive diagnostic testing of students. These tools will help us diagnostically differentiate. This is really great for our interns, as they are often required to have experience with these tools before entering the workforce," Packard said.

The grant also allows for equipment necessary to support the expansion of the Penguin Pantry including the purchase of a hydroponics system, which creates a controlled environment to support the growing of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Packard says the SCS is serving significantly more students this year than last year serving 109 in January of 2024 compared to 42 in January of 2023.