Staff Who Inspire: Theresa Perlman MA, LPC

As hot days and warm nights usher us into summer, we cautiously return to public activity with the hopes of remaining together, outside with the sun on our fully exposed faces. However, as states gradually reopen, the threat of COVID-19 still lingers and, with its looming presence, we are reminded that many are still affected and will continue to feel the effects of its presence for many days to come. But, the proverbial silver lining is proving relentless in its desire to shine.

University Counselor, Theresa Perlman, MA, LPC, knows the hardships that many have faced during this time. "The effects of this pandemic are largely out of control," Theresa said. "People and students had their financial livelihood abruptly ended and would not or will not be able to return to work for many weeks. Some may have to find new jobs or sources of funding all together."

Theresa has been a Wayne State employee for nine years providing individual, group, and couples counseling as well as crisis consultations for registered students through the university's Counseling and Psych Services. Her passion for helping students navigate their own mental health and achieve personal and academic success motivated her decision to contribute to the Warrior Relief & Response campaign. "I wanted to help support our students and our university in this time of uncertainty and hopefully provide some emotional relief for students going through this."

The Warrior Relief & Response campaign is the university's effort to provide financial support to students who are struggling to cover unexpected costs such as food and housing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many others in the Wayne State community, Theresa wants our students to know that the university community cares about them and their well-being. She encourages fellow university employees to lend their support as well, noting that giving to Wayne State is "an investment in the university community and in the future of our students."

While the pandemic has influenced charitable giving across the country, Theresa's particular knowledge of Wayne State's student body gives in her a personal appreciation for the culture of philanthropy across campus. "Seeing opportunities to give and what has been raised to help those in the university community is inspiring," she said. And, for fellow employees who may be unsure about contributing she explained, "When we give, it not only has a positive impact in our community, it will also positively impact our own emotional and mental well-being."

Most people would probably agree that the COVID-19 pandemic has been complicated and challenging, to say the least. Yet, despite the hardships many continue to face, Theresa Perlman proves that Wayne State University is definitely one place where you'll find people doing their part to help those in need.

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