Counseling Services at ISS
Counseling services offered through International Student Services are:
- Confidential
- Paid for by the International Student Fee, which means there are no further costs to international students in F-1 or J-1 status.
- Usually available for an appointment within that week or next week
Denise Contreras, she/her
Denise is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Arizona. She provides consultations, individual and group therapy to international students seeking emotional support at the University of Arizona. Denise strives towards building community with staff and faculty to support students and to help students understand what services are available. Denise utilizes a trauma-informed approach, relational-cultural therapy, with an intersectional lens to meet her clients where they are at. She has 13+ years of focus on sexual and racial trauma, addiction, harm reduction, eating concerns, and mood disorders.
Denise also provides LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care and Culturally Affirming and Sustaining Practices.
If you are interested in learning more about consultations and therapeutic services, please feel free to contact Denise through secure messaging within the student patient portal or through email at dmcontreras@arizona.edu.
For additional support:
- Site-Based Counseling
- CAPS Counseling Services
- Crisis Support
- Drop-in (urgent) services are available at CAPS Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30 pm at both clinic locations.
Explore CARE Pathways
Mental health support can take many forms. In addition to individual counseling, international students can explore CARE Pathways to find support that fits your needs, goals, and schedule.
CARE Pathways connects students with free workshops, counseling groups, individual support, and other wellbeing resources. Workshops and groups can be especially helpful if you are looking for practical tools and connection around concerns such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress management
- Adjustment challenges
- Imposter syndrome
- Time management
You do not have to wait until you are in crisis to seek support. Whether you want to learn a new skill, connect with other students, or talk with a counselor, you can explore the available pathways and choose the support that works for you.