OCC’s Student Health Center Adds 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line

OCC Marketing & Public Relations

Mar 8, 2024

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a building with a sign on it that reads Student Health Center

OCC's Student Health Center has expanded its mental health services for students by partnering with Protocall Services to provide 24/7 access to a crisis counselor.

Known as the OCC After Hours Crisis Line, students can call the Student Health Center at (714) 714-7715 and press 9 to be connected to a crisis counselor. This service is available to all current OCC students Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. until 9 a.m. and all day Saturday and Sunday. OCC students can also access this service on holidays and breaks.

"As mental health becomes increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of academic success, our commitment to providing 24/7 support reflects our dedication to nurturing not just the minds but the holistic well-being of our students," says Mental Health Services Director Larry Valentine. "With our new crisis line, we aim to offer an unwavering lifeline, ensuring no student feels alone in their darkest moments."

OCC's mental health services also include short-term and group therapy. Students have access to a team of pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associates and Trainees who work under the supervision of Licensed MFTs. Counseling sessions with licensed therapists are available to help students with academic pressure, cultural adjustment, depression, stress, anxiety, and much more. Depending on the level of mental health support, a student's need might exceed the capacity of the Student Health Center, and they will be provided with community resources that can handle acute or long-term mental health problems.

Weekly group therapy is available for Self-Compassion and Connection, Understanding Trauma Through Creative Writing, and Student-Athletes.

"We recognize that the need for support knows no schedule," says Larry Valentine. "Providing 24/7 mental health support at Orange Coast College ensures that our students have a lifeline, fostering resilience and empowerment on their journey toward wellness."

Mental Health Services are available in person at the Student Health Center Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.