Mental Health and Wellness
CVM Mental Health and Wellness Program is committed to creating an inclusive, aware and educated community of students, faculty, and staff that values mental health.
We take a whole-person approach to wellness and focus on the long-term success of our students.
The Mary Jane McMillen Crowe Student Success and Wellness Center
The Mary Jane McMillen Crowe Student, Success and Wellness Center manifests our commitment to wellness. Students have access to counselors, wellness professionals, and space to study or relax between classes. It is equipped with exercise equipment, yoga and meditation rooms, and an outdoor area for studying.
Make An Appointment
Connect with our mental health professionals and get the support you need.
Mental Health and Wellness services
Counseling Services
We believe it is essential to provide veterinary students with available counseling resources to provide support during our three-year program. Counselors on staff offer individuals the opportunity to seek help and get resources or encouragement when needed.
Wellness Events
Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine students can access regular events organized by our mental health and wellness professionals. These events aim to provide and assist students by providing helpful tools for daily management of stress, anxiety, and mindfulness.
CAPS Resources
The College of Veterinary Medicine partners with the central University of Arizona campus Counseling and Psych Services (CAPS) to provide our veterinary medical students with robust mental health and wellness support resources.
Meet Our Mental Health Professionals
Behavioral Health Counselor
Melanie Epstein has worked in academic settings for over 10 years and has wanted to return to higher education since her last position supporting college students at the Claremont Colleges. Melanie received her MSW from California State University, Long Beach, and has worked in community mental health and for the Los Angeles Unified School District since then.
Behavioral Health Counselor
Shawna Chesley-Kroh, LPC, is an Arizona licensed Behavioral Health Counselor who manages group therapy and facilitates workshops and case management. She received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s in Professional Counseling and has experience working at a behavioral health acute hospital, residential treatment center, and private practice. In addition, Shawna is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Question and Persuade and Refer (QPR), a suicide prevention program. With this process, Shawna has supported clients working on trauma, anxiety, and addiction. Specialties include addictions, mood disorders, trauma, suicide prevention, marriage, and couple counseling. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and teenage son.
If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, speak with someone now!
Arizona Counseling and Psych Services (CAPS): 520-621-3334, available 24/7
Suicide Prevention LifeLine: 1-800-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 741-741, available 24/7
Pima County Community Crisis Line: 520-622-6000
If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to your local emergency room.
Additional Mental Health and Well-Being Resources