Fresno Family Counseling Center moves to new location

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Fresno Family Counseling Center now has a new home located near Shaw and Palm in northwest Fresno.

The move for the low-cost counseling service run by Fresno State's Kremen School of Education was necessary since the program outgrew its old facility in Central Fresno. "What I value here and what I think we are instilling in our students is not only are they learning how to be a professional therapist but there's an ownership here," Dr. Chris Lucey with the center explained.

The center provides nearly 10,000 therapy sessions each year in English and Spanish. Lucey says the program is one of the few in the nation that is located off campus giving them so many advantages. "We're in the community, we're near the bus stops. People can access our services. On campus, it is more difficult with parking passes, parking in general."

The center now more classroom space for grad students who run the program. Each of the 16 counseling rooms for individual and group sessions was decorated by students.

But students are most excited about the hands-on experience that will help them and the community. "Here at Fresno Family, we literally see a variety of individuals and families," Fresno State student Adrian Jones explained. "So, to get that experience at this level, I believe is just going to be unmatched."

Technology also plays a role in the new center. Dual Channel Feedback video records some sessions and allows professors who are licensed therapist to give feedback to students during or immediately after. "Number one, to develop their skill level but also it allows us to collaboratively offer solutions and help to the families," Lucey explained.

Funding for the move was made possible through grants and a $200,000 donation from Dr. Harry Moordigian, the alumnus and retired dentist who passed away last year.

The center is open seven days a week.