Rhodes College Earns Accreditation for High Quality of Counseling Service Operations

image of a plant of candles in counseling center at Rhodes College

The Student Counseling Center at Rhodes College has received accreditation from the International Accreditation of Counseling Services (IACS). This accreditation confirms that the center provides a high standard of competent and reliable mental health services to its student community and is valid through June 2034. 

Building on a legacy that dates back to 1949, IACS validates professional excellence and recognizes exceptional counseling centers with its accreditation seal.

“This accreditation reflects the collective effort of our entire team. Their compassion, professionalism, and consistent focus on supporting student well being made this possible,” said Dr. Pamela Detrie, director of the Student Counseling Center. “Pursuing accreditation is a way to demonstrate our commitment to offering student services that meet the highest established standards in the field.” 

The IACS accreditation process includes detailed documentation, a comprehensive site visit, and multiple peer reviews that assess five key areas: relationships within the college/university community, counseling and clinical services, ethical standards, personnel, and resources/infrastructure. 

“After two rigorous days of touring the facilities, while interviewing a broad spectrum of stakeholders, ranging from staff to students to faculty, it was clear that Dr. Detrie and her staff play a pivotal role in service to the health and well-being of a broad spectrum of Rhodes students,” said Dr. Dennis Heitzmann, site visit evaluator and former IACS board president.

image of IACS accreditation logo

Rhodes’ Student Counseling Center offers support for students across a wide range of wellness needs, from psychological symptoms that affect functioning to promoting robust and resilient well-being. Counseling sessions are free of charge during the fall and spring semesters.

“We’re immensely pleased to include the Rhodes College Student Counseling Center into the IACS family,” said Annie Patterson, IACS executive director. “From the diligent months-long preparation of their application materials to the site visit, the SCC proved themselves competent and capable of upholding high standards and undergoing a rigorous evaluation. Their commitment to student mental health is apparent.”