Immediate Action Plan

  1. If the suicidal attempt appears imminent, first notify Emergency Response Personnel via campus phone at x9911 or via outside phone or mobile at 911.
  2. Notify OTC Safety & Security.
    Springfield Campus, Waynesville Center and Branson Center (417) 447-6911
    Richwood Valley Campus (417) 447-7860
    Lebanon Center (417) 447-6689
  3. If the attempt is threatened but does not appear to be imminent, notify OTC Counseling Services via campus phone at x6973 or x6974, if calling via outside phone or mobile at (417) 447-6973 or (417) 447-6974.

Detailed Information

OTC employees come in close contact with a wide variety of students and staff on a daily basis.  As a result, we get to know some of these individuals very well and are familiar with their moods and behaviors.  We are therefore in an excellent position to notice attitudinal or behavioral changes that might indicate an adjustment difficulty or emotional problem.  Working together, we may be able to identify and assist students and staff who may need additional support.

Observable signs that may indicate a referral to Counseling Services:

  • Comments about suicide, depression, abuse or other trauma
  • Inability to track or concentrate in class or on the job
  • Withdrawal or isolation from others
  • Crying or sleeping in class or on the job
  • Unusually high (or low) energy level
  • Sudden lack of interest in hygiene or appearance
  • Dramatic weight loss or gain
  • Change in peer groups (students)
  • Sudden drop in class attendance, participation, or performance
  • Under the influence of drugs/alcohol

Guidelines for referring a student or employee to Counseling Services (non-emergency):

  • Speak directly to the individual and express your concern
  • Give the individual the Counseling Services number (447-6974) and location ICW 219
  • Encourage the individual to make contact

The counselors at OTC can:

  • Answer your questions concerning steps to take in assisting students or employees
  • Offer information about personal concerns and problems
  • Provide community referral services for students and employees of OTC

The counselors at OTC cannot:

  • Indicate whether or not a student or employee is being seen or has made an appointment without the individual’s written consent
  • Discuss content of a session or treatment without the individual’s written consent
  • Take disciplinary action
  • Provide transportation

At this time, OTC counselors are available for assistance during OTCs regular business hours (Monday through Thursday 7:30 am to 6:00 pm;  Friday 7:30 am to 4:30 pm). During evenings or on weekends, we encourage you to follow the procedures listed previously for non-emergency situations.  In emergency situations, notify Emergency Response Personnel via campus phone at x9911 or via outside phone or mobile at 911.  Follow up with OTCs Safety & Security.

Springfield Campus, Waynesville Center and Branson Center (417) 447-6911
Richwood Valley Campus (417) 447-7860
Lebanon Center (417) 447-6689

Please note that after you make a referral, OTCs Counseling Services staff and Safety & Security officers may consult with one another, especially if this was an emergency situation.  A decision may be made to refer the individual to another office or community agency for additional assistance.

If you encounter a situation with a student or employee that is not addressed in this guide, or if you have any questions regarding Counseling Services, please contact the Director of Counseling & Advising at (417) 447-6973 or (417) 447-6974.