General Inquiries and Appointments
Wellness Counseling Center
counselingservices@pointloma.edu
(619) 849-3020
PLNU Wellness Counseling Team
Julie Westburg, M.A. Ed., Administrative Assistant
I am a PLNU alum, specializing in leadership and management. I have had the privilege of working at PLNU since April of 2017. While serving in the office of the Wellness Counseling Center, I have the joy of interacting with traditional undergraduate students on a daily basis. I have over 25 years experience serving as a mentor to youth and have a heart to see the upcoming generation be empowered to live their lives fully by being intentional about their overall health.
Varinia M. Peridon, M.S., LMFT, Mental Health Counselor Supervisor
Working as a mental health counselor at PLNU since 2012 has given me the freedom to incorporate faith as a key element in the change process and is foundational to the work I am passionate about doing with students. I bring a unique perspective on the healing process from working in the social services and mental health field. My specialties are in crisis management, working with individuals on a variety of relational issues, areas of addiction, boundaries, and in developing a stronger sense of self.
Melinda Olson, M.A., AMFT, Mental Health Counselor
It is an honor and privilege to walk alongside students on their journey at PLNU. Navigating our mental health can be difficult, life can bring about unexpected challenges, and seeking therapy is a courageous step. I believe that we have the ability to work towards healing and I am here to create a safe space for students and help them reach their fullest potential. I bring a warm, inviting, and safe presence in my therapeutic work. Together, we can work on building the tools needed to conquer the challenges you are facing.
Chris Bateman, M.A., LMFT, Mental Health Counselor Supervisor
I pursued counseling after being a family pastor for many years. Looking for tools to help people, I returned to school and earned my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Fuller Theological Seminary in 2005. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a broad range of issues working with individuals, couples and families through the years. In my role at PLNU, I also have the opportunity to work with college students to help them move on from stuck places in their lives as well as supervising our counselors who are completing their degree or licensure.