7.5. Confidential Counseling Protected by Law

Anyone who has experienced sexual violence may choose to consult with a licensed mental health care provider or health care provider of their choice. By law, such professionals are able to assist victims confidentially and are exempt from legal obligations to report incidents to the university, with some limited exceptions, such as child abuse, elder abuse, or certain threats of harm.

A victim/survivor may decide to disclose the incident to a confidential resource and/or may report to WSU CCR for an investigative response by WSU, or local law enforcement for a criminal investigation. A victim/survivor may decline to notify authorities, including CCR and/or law enforcement. CCR can also assist the victim/survivor in notifying law enforcement, if a victim/survivor elects to do so. CCR will not share information regarding reports made to the university with law enforcement, unless required to do so by law or requested to do so by the victim/survivor.

WSU policy prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports or participates in an investigative or disciplinary process by WSU. Please note, WSU employees and student employees may have reporting requirements and be required to provide information to CCR.

IN MOST INSTANCES, SERVICE PROVIDERS FROM THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO SPEAK CONFIDENTIALLY:

Campus Confidential Resources

ResourceDescriptionPhone Number(s)
WSU Vancouver Wellness & Counseling CenterCounseling & psychological services and referrals for students.360-546-9238
WSU Vancouver Wellness & Health ServicesMedical services and referrals for students.360-546-9238
360-546-9046 (for 24/7 immediate help)
WSU Employee Assistance ProgramConfidential support and resources for employees.1-877-313-4455
509-335-2360 (for after-hours crisis support)

Off-Campus Confidential Resources

ResourceDescriptionPhone Number(s)
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical CenterHospital services360-514-2000
Legacy Salmon Creek Medical CenterHospital services360-487-1000
Clark County YWCA Sexual Assault Program24-hour legal, medical, and emotional support.360-695-0501
Clark County YWCA SafeChoice Domestic Violence Program24-hour legal, medical, and emotional support, plus emergency shelter.360-695-0501
Lifeline Connections Crisis Wellness CenterCrisis Triage & Stabilization Program for individuals 18+ as an alternative to hospital emergency departments.360-205-1222 (for 24-hour admissions)
National Suicide & Crisis LifelineConfidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources.988 or 800-273-8255
Northwest Justice Project Free Legal Hotline (CLEAR)Provides free legal assistance for low-income individuals.1-888-201-1014
Washington State Bar AssociationAttorney referral service, including reduced-fee and free legal help.