Editor:

Thank you for providing front page information on Wednesday in “Speaking out: Students and faculty talk sexual assault at public forum in the CUB.”

It was noted “WSU mandates that employees report instances of sexual assault …”  Please note mental health providers at Counseling and Testing Services and healthcare providers at Health and Wellness Services are exempt by federal law from this mandate and are not required to make a report for students ages 18 or older who have been sexually assaulted.

Mental health providers and healthcare providers will keep information about sexual violence confidential for students ages 18 and older.

Students can access a mental health provider at Counseling and Testing Services 24/7 for help with sexual assaults at 509-335-4511 (Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and 509-335-2159  (after hours  and weekends). http://counsel.wsu.edu/.

– Susan Simonds, Ph.D.

Licensed Psychologist

Sexual Assault Response Coordinator

Counseling and Testing Services