Counseling Services
Mission Statement
The SDSU Counseling Center is dedicated to fostering our student body's holistic well-being and academic success. We aim to empower students to navigate personal and academic challenges, develop resilience and achieve their fullest potential through compassionate, confidential and culturally-sensitive support. By offering a range of counseling services, workshops and resources, we strive to create an environment that promotes mental health awareness, personal growth and a balanced life, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive in their educational journey and beyond.
Vision
To empower every student to realize their fullest potential through compassionate support and personalized guidance.
People-Centered
SDSU provides personal and confidential assistance on campus at no charge to the student. Whether you dealt with emotional difficulties before coming here to SDSU or a challenge is starting to affect your studies now, we are here to provide support. Our experienced and qualified counseling staff can help.
Stepped Care Model
The Stepped Care Model allows students to receive the level of mental health support they need, when they need it. Rather than fit students into one type of mental health service, students receive a care plan that works for them the same day they walk into the clinic for support. For more information about our Stepped Care Model contact SDSU.SHC@sdstate.edu.
Monday-Friday | 8:30-11 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m.
These contacts may help you.
Brookings Contacts:
- University Police Department: 605-688-5117
- University Police Department from a campus phone: 111
- The department can reach an on-call counselor after hours during the academic year.
- Brookings City Police Department: 605-692-2113
- Brookings County Sheriffs Department: 605-696-8300
- Brookings Health System (Hospital): 605-696-9000
- East Central Behavioral Health Center: 605-697-2850
Sioux Falls Contacts:
- Avera Behavioral Confidential Assessment Line:
- 800-691-4336 or 605-322-4065
- National Suicide Hotline:
- 988 (call, text or chat)
- 988lifeline.org
Assistant Director
- B.M. in vocal performance | University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- MSW in social work, integrated health scholar | University of Kansas
- Licensed social worker in Kansas and South Dakota
I am passionate about supporting students, families and professionals in building healthy relationships and resilient communities. My work focuses on trauma-informed care, restorative practices and empowering people to recognize their strengths. I strive to bring compassion, integrity and practical tools to every space I enter. I am proud of the level of care offered at the Student Counseling Center and encourage any SDSU student to make use of our services.
If you’re thinking of reaching out, go ahead and reach out.
Staff Counselors
- B.S. in human development and family studies | South Dakota State University
- M.S. in marriage and family counseling | South Dakota State University
- Currently working toward earning certification to be a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of South Dakota
My goal as a therapist is to create a welcoming environment for students to open up about any mental health concerns they may be having. College is a great place to grow and work on becoming the best version of yourself, and we are here to help you do so. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you meet your goals!
- B.S. in psychology | University of South Dakota
- M.S. in clinical mental health counseling | South Dakota State University
- Currently working towards earning certification to be a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Dakota
My goal as a staff counselor is to provide a safe, comfortable space for students to come and talk about their wellness journey. You are not alone in this process, and it is OK to ask for help. I look forward to meeting with you!
- B.A. in human services | B.A. in behavioral sciences | Dakota Wesleyan University
- MSW with emphasis in mental health and trauma | University of Denver
My goal as a staff counselor is to allow you a space to be open and honest about life stressors that are impacting your life, all while growing with skills and insight for yourself. Life can be difficult and uncomfortable at times, and we are here to support you. I look forward to navigating life’s stressors with you!
- B.A. in psychology, religion minor | Concordia College Moorhead
- M.S. in counseling and student affairs | College Counseling Emphasis
- Post degree graduate level coursework toward terminal licensure and clinical supervision certification | South Dakota State University, University of North Carolina Greensboro
My goal as a staff counselor is to provide an environment to help clients bring change to their lives with an adaptable, eclectic, trauma-informed approach with an emphasis on psychoeducation and self-discovery.
- B.S. in psychology | North Dakota State University | 2018
- M.S. in clinical mental health counseling | South Dakota State University | 2021
- Currently finishing certification to become a licensed professional counselor in South Dakota
When meeting with students, I prioritize tailoring my approach to whatever works best for that individual. Regardless of what brings someone into my office, my goal is to help students feel seen and valued, one human being to another. Life is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone.
- B.S. in human development and family studies | South Dakota State University
- M.S. in clinical mental health counseling | South Dakota State University
- Currently working toward earning certification to be a licensed professional counselor in South Dakota
I am passionate about helping students work through various challenges with a strengths-based approach. I will work to empower you to find your solutions and create positive change. I am a therapist who celebrates marginalized identities, abilities and bodies. Come see us; I am so excited to work with you!
- B.S. in psychology | Iowa State University
- MSEd in clinical mental health counseling | Northern Illinois University
We all have unique journeys filled with triumphs, struggles and challenges. As a counselor, my goal is to provide a supportive space for reflection, healing, self-discovery and growth. Using a person-centered approach, I collaborate with clients to create personalized plans toward well-being. Seeking support is a courageous step, and I look forward to the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey.
