OSAS launches 'EU-LINK Program' to strengthen counseling referral system

To improve collaboration among teachers and advisers to ensure students’ challenges are referred to appropriate professionals, the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) introduced the EU-LINK program, short for Leading Interpersonal Connections through Nurturing Knowledge-sharing, held Sept. 22 at the EMRC Main.

Joanna Rodessa Capilitan of Southern Luzon State University opened the session, discussing the importance of a systematic referral process.

“A referral system in an organization will be more effective if coupled with an evaluation or an assessment tool to properly identify their problems,” Capilitan said.

Capilitan also emphasized the importance of assessments, noting, “Interviews, observations, student attendance, and GPA are critical tools in determining the right intervention for each student.”

Rey Marco Casiño introduced the RACE against Suicide program, a training initiative for counseling chairpersons to identify and address distress signals leading to suicidal ideations. He presented the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (CSSRS) as a tool to assess suicidal behaviors and guide mental health professionals in taking proper actions.

Dr. Liandro Serrano concluded the program by presenting the counseling referral process being established by OSAS. He outlined a directory of local mental health professionals specializing in behavioral support, further enhancing the support system for students.

Representatives from various departments attended the launch, including Glen Mendelivar and Melanie Samonte from Basic Education; Jana Beth Lusterio, Ma. Jamie Pasilan, and Ma. Herwina Ariles from Senior High School; Frisian Cruz from the College of Arts and Sciences; Ashley Pangiligan from the College of Business and Accountancy; Susan De Castro from the College of Computing and Multimedia Studies; Fergelyn Canonigo from the College of Criminal Justice and Criminology; Reina Pasumbal from the College of Education; Darwin Arcelo from the College of Engineering; Carell Untalan from the College of International Hospitality and Tourism Management; Capt. Crispino Portes from the College of Maritime Education; Esteve Estiva from the College of Nursing; and Dominica Nano from the College of Law.