Embedded Counseling Services in Veterinary Education Proven Effective in Reducing Psychological Distress

A recent study from the University of Missouri highlights the significant benefits of embedded counseling services in veterinary medical programs, demonstrating that such programs effectively reduce psychological distress among veterinary trainees. This groundbreaking research emphasizes the importance of mental health support in high-stress professional education environments.

The study, led by Dr. Kerry Karaffa, a licensed psychologist at the Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine, is the first to evaluate the effectiveness of mental health counseling specifically for veterinary trainees. It shows that veterinary students, interns, and residents who utilized embedded counseling services between 2016 and 2024 reported significant improvements in psychological well-being, with reductions in depression, anxiety, academic distress, eating concerns, and substance use. The study also revealed that many trainees face additional challenges such as financial stress, chronic health issues, and past traumatic experiences.

According to Dr. Karaffa, the data collected underscores the importance of outcome tracking in counseling programs. She explains, "If students know there are positive outcomes associated with counseling, they may be more likely to seek help."

The findings suggest that embedded counseling services play a vital role in helping veterinary students manage personal and academic pressures, ultimately supporting their overall well-being. The study also noted that the experiences of veterinary trainees seeking counseling were comparable to those of other college students, reinforcing the broader relevance of such services.

The study's insights are not only valuable for veterinary education but can also inform practices in other academic disciplines, contributing to more effective mental health care for students. Dr. Karaffa encourages other institutions to adopt clinical progress monitoring to improve services and demonstrate their impact on student mental health.

This research, titled “Client Characteristics and the Effectiveness of Embedded Counseling Services in a College of Veterinary Medicine,” was published in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Education.