Denise Contreras (she, her, hers)
Hi, I'm Denise, your International Student Services (ISS)/Global Center Life Management Counselor.
I'm a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) for the state of Arizona. I provide consultation and individual and group therapy to international students seeking emotional support during their tenure at UArizona. I also strive to build community with staff and faculty to help them better support students and understand what services are available. I have 13+ years of focus on sexual and racial trauma, addiction, harm reduction, eating concerns, and mood disorders and provide LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care and Culturally Affirming and Sustaining Practices.
My services are:
- Confidential.
- Paid for by the university, which means they're free to students.
- Usually available for same or next week appointments.
- Available in person and online.
I'm looking forward to connecting with you. Here's how you can reach me:
- Schedule a session online
- Virtual Office Hours: Tuesday, 3:30-4pm. No enrollment needed, just drop in.
- In-Person Drop-In Office Hours: Monday, Wednesdays, Thursday, 3:30-4:15 pm Global Center Rm 129
- Email: dmcontreras@arizona.edu*
*email is not confidential and not checked daily. Please call 911 or go to your local emergency room if there is an emergency.
International Student Mental Health Matters
International students face many of the same mental challenges as domestic students. Anxiety, depression, academic stressors, and homesickness are common for any student. However, international students also face unique stressors. Culture shock, isolation, discrimination, homesickness, language-related concerns, financial stress, cultural misunderstandings, dietary restrictions, and lack of support from American peers can all put international students at a greater risk for academic difficulties in comparison to domestic students. (Source: Vistas Online)
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Nelson Mandela
Services & Events
- Consultations for students, staff, and faculty
- Psychological/risk assessment
- Individual therapy
- Couples counseling
- Group therapy
- Education and prevention workshops
- Assistance with on-off campus resources
How to Get Started
- Schedule a session online
- Virtual Office Hours: Tuesday, 3:30-4 pm. No enrollment needed, just drop in.
- In-Person Drop-In Office Hours: Monday, Wednesdays, Thursday, 3:30-4:15 pm Global Center Rm 129
What to Expect
I collaborate with students to determine the most appropriate services and counseling interventions.