Mental Health Matters 

For the first time this fall, the C. T. Bauer College of Business will have a psychological counselor dedicated to providing support services to students. 

The new resource is part of a series of campus mental health initiatives, which include embedded UH Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) counselors in some divisions and colleges. Kia Batiste, who has 10 years of experience, is now offering student access visits and consultations as well as individual therapy and crisis services for Bauer College students. 

“I'm really excited about this because it really creates a convenient way for Bauer students to access CAPS services,” Batiste said. “Specifically within this position, I get to understand and target the unique needs of our students to provide better services and support while also promoting mental health advocacy and accessibility.” 

Batiste will spend weekdays, with the exception of Tuesdays, officing in Bauer's Melcher Hall (Room 305). Students can connect with Batiste during drop-in hours on Mondays from 2-5 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 

While services are primarily targeted for students, Bauer faculty and staff can have consultation meetings with Batiste to discuss supporting students who may be struggling. 

“I can serve students during my drop-in hours on a first-come, first-serve basis,” Batiste said. “My drop-in hours are the guaranteed days and times that I'll be available for students to come and walk in for an access visit or a consultation.” 

One of Batiste’s professional passions is making mental health resources more accessible, which this position is tailored to do. 

“What's unique about universities is every college has students with different experiences and different challenges,” she said. “What's beneficial about having me is that I'm a CAPS psychological counselor that is on-site but dedicated to serving Bauer students and understanding their unique needs. There's an opportunity to provide that support that's tailored specifically to them.” 

If Bauer students don’t have availability during Batiste’s drop-in hours, they can call the CAPS main office at (713) 743-5454 to schedule a same day access visit, except for Tuesdays.