Office of Professional Counseling

Supporting Your Mental Health & Well-Being

At PHSU, we understand that student life comes with unique challenges—balancing academic responsibilities, personal relationships, and future career aspirations can feel overwhelming. Our counseling centers are here to support you with confidential, professional counseling services tailored to your needs. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or academic pressures, our experienced counselors are ready to help. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Seeking counseling is a proactive step toward self-care, personal growth, and overall well-being. Our compassionate team is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely.

Schedule an Appointment

Your mental health matters! Schedule a counseling session today to receive the support you need whether you're at one of our Puerto Rico or St. Louis locations. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis—such as thoughts of self-harm, suicidal ideation, the loss of a loved one, hearing voices, or experiencing extreme distress—please seek immediate support.

Counseling Services for PHSU Students

We provide free, confidential counseling services for all PHSU students. Our goal is to help you navigate personal, emotional, and academic challenges with practical tools and compassionate guidance.

Common Concerns We Address

Life as a student can be both exciting and challenging. Many students hesitate to seek counseling, thinking they need to be in a crisis to benefit from it. The truth is, counseling is for everyone—whether you're struggling with everyday stressors or facing a major life event, our team is here to help you find balance and build resilience.

Our counselors are trained to help students facing a wide range of concerns, including:

Anxiety & Panic Attacks
Depression & Mood Disorders
Grief & Loss
Stress Management
Academic Challenges & Burnout
Relationship & Family Conflicts

Substance Abuse & Addiction
Trauma & PTSD
Eating Disorders
Social Anxiety
Homesickness & Transition Stress

What We Offer

Mental health is an essential part of student success. Whether you need help managing stress, overcoming obstacles, or developing a personal growth plan, we are here to provide guidance and encouragement.

Work one-on-one or in a supportive group setting to process personal challenges.

Address concerns related to relationships, self-esteem, stress, and emotional well-being.

Learn strategies to enhance focus, time management, and study habits.

Receive professional therapeutic support for mental health concerns.

Gain clarity on your career path and future goals.

Immediate Crisis Support

If you are in immediate distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, we urge you to seek support right away. Crisis situations can include: thoughts of self-harm or suicide, the loss of a loved one, experiencing physical or sexual assault, or extreme psychological distress.

During Office Hours

Visit our center or call ahead during office hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. When you arrive, please inform the receptionist that you are in crisis so we can assist you as quickly as possible.

After-Hours Emergency Help

If you need immediate support outside of our office hours, contact:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call 988 for 24/7, confidential support.
  • Línea PAZ – Call 1-800-981-0023 for emotional crisis support.

Your mental health is important, and you don’t have to navigate difficult moments alone. Reach out for the support you need.

Contact the Office of Professional Counseling

Ponce  | 787-840-2575, ext. 2555
St. Louis | 314-887-1341 x6734

José A. Soto Franceschini, PhD, LPC
Counseling Center Director
jsoto@psm.edu
787-840-2575 Ext. 5852

 

Jonaira Arroyo Rivera, Ed.D, LPC
Professional Counselor
Title IX Coordinator
jarroyo@psm.edu
787-840-2575 Ext. 5734

 

Grace M. Morales Mercado, MRC, LPC
Professional Counselor
Reasonable Accommodations Coordinator
gracemorales@psm.edu
787-840-2575 Ext. 5733

Soniamarie Lugo, M.Ed., LPC
Professional Counselor
slugo@psm.edu
787-840-2575 Ext. 4745

 

Tania B. Cintrón Cruz, M.Ed, LPC
Professional Counselor
San Juan & Online Programs
tcintron@psm.edu
787-728-2121 Ext. 2007

 

Arriell Pinkston, PLPC
Professional Counselor
apinkston@psm.edu
314-887-1341 x6734

Last Updated 3/28/25