Counseling centers, such as Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), may be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about addressing mental health on a college campus. But it is only one piece, albeit an important one, of a larger mental health support system in place at the University of Houston.

The UH Care Team is an integral part of this effort. This devoted group of professionals have made it their mission to provide a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach in support of students facing challenges and/or concerning behaviors. The team works behind the scenes to respond to students in sensitive mental health situations and connect them with resources.

“The Care Team plays a critical role in not only our initial response to a student in crisis but also overseeing the long-term case management that may be necessary,” said Daniel Maxwell, interim vice president for student affairs. “Because of the efforts of the Care Team, many students are able to remain on track with their academic pursuits, while getting the support they need.”

Under the guidance of the Dean of Students Office, the Care Team brings together a diverse group of university professionals, each possessing expertise and access to various campus resources. The team includes two full-time case managers. Together, they form a powerful alliance with one singular goal: to assess and address reported concerns while creating comprehensive plans that serve as guiding lights for students and the entire UH community.

 “We want to focus on fostering an environment that encourages the success and well-being of all students,” emphasized Donell L. Young, UH dean of students.

The Care Team tackles a multitude of cases and issues, such as students struggling with their mental health, academic pressure, substance abuse, relationships, issues at home and more. In each instance, they facilitate the student's connection with specific resources that related to the issue they are experiencing.

“We’ve had several students who have unfortunately been hospitalized where we have done outreach to faculty to make sure they’re connected and working with the student to stay on track in their classes,” Young said.

The Care Team’s dedication to the well-being of UH students is evident in the way they have assisted students who are dealing with substance abuse issues. In such cases, the team has been instrumental in connecting these students with “Cougars in Recovery,” a support network on campus designed to assist those in recovery from substance abuse. By bridging this gap, the Care Team ensures that students battling addiction can find the peer support to help them on their journey to recovery.

The collaborative efforts of the Care Team is equally dedicated to providing guidance to faculty, staff and all members of the community. “On a daily basis, a member of the Care Team will speak with faculty and work on walking them through how to support students that have mental health concerns. We aim to relieve stress on our faculty and show them how to support certain behaviors, “Young explained.   

From parents and friends to faculty members, anyone can refer a case about a student who may be facing challenges. The process is straightforward: faculty, staff and students can submit an incident report online to the Dean of Students Office. Young or an associate dean reviews the case. It’s crucial that the student’s name is provided so that the Care Team can initiate the necessary next steps.

“In cases where the student doesn’t respond within a certain time frame, we'll reach back out, and in some cases, we’ll reach out to the emergency contact to make sure the student is receiving the communication,” Young explained. “When students do respond, we set up a meeting with them to offer the necessary assistance.”

The Care Team convenes every Tuesday afternoon to provide updates on new and existing cases and maintains continuous daily communication. Additionally, the team collaborates with national mental health experts to enhance their ability to address student mental health issues and concerns.

In a time where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent on college campuses across the country, the Care Team stands as a beacon of support aiming to create an atmosphere of understanding and compassion.

The University of Houston is actively working to foster a culture of care that builds a more resilient environment. By prioritizing well-being, UH aims to create a stronger and more supportive community for everyone.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please submit a form to the Care Team.

 Meet the Care Team Members

Donell Young
Dean of Students

Monica Lackups-Fuentes
Associate Director – Counseling and Psychological Services

Heidi Kennedy
Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Academic Affairs

Jennifer E. Bloom
Assistant General Counsel Ex-Officio

Hope Pacheco
Assistant Dean of Students

Ronald Hunter
Lieutenant, Police Department

Holly Alexander
Director, Residential Life

Jon Rusciano
Chief Psychiatrist, Health Center

Rebecca Lake
Assistant VC/VP, Equal Opportunity Services

Melissa Melendez
Case Manager, Dean of Students

Sara Jahansouz Wray
 Associate Director, Dean of Students

For a list of mental health resources available to UH students, faculty and staff, visit the CoogsCARE website.

Need Support Now?

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call CAPS crisis support 24/7 at 713-743-5454, or for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call or text 988, or chat online at 988 Lifeline Chat and Text.