ECU counselor education students to participate in mental health emergency training

On Oct. 3, graduate students in the counselor education program in the ECU College of Education will participate in an all-day, intensive training session on mental health, first aid and other emergencies.

Upon completion, participants will receive a three-year certification to help people in mental health emergencies.

Students enrolled in ECU’s program are preparing to work in clinical mental health, college and school settings as professional counselors after graduation.

It’s the first time the specialized training has been offered to ECU counselor education students. While crisis, mental illness and mental health emergency information is available in several courses, organizers said students will benefit from the additional focus. ECU social work and rehabilitation students also will participate in the training, which is hosted by the Counselor Education Association.

“It’s important to think about these issues as they relate to college campuses, and hosting this sort of workshop may help raise awareness for those here at ECU who might be struggling,” said Allison Crowe, assistant professor for counselor education in the College of Education.