Coordinator: Karissa Vassallo, MSW, LCSW

TLC Phone Number: 908-203-6130
Cell: 908-963-0116
Email: KVassallo@somersetcountynj.gov

Since 2001, the TLC has been providing support to communities affected by traumatic events such as homicide and illness; the most difficult being suicide. The dual mission of the TLC is excellence in suicide prevention and trauma response assistance within the community to schools and youth-serving organizations following unfortunate losses due to suicide, homicide, accident, and illness. This is accomplished through county, regional, and statewide conferences, training, consultation, onsite traumatic loss response, and technical assistance. The purpose is to ensure that those working with youth from a variety of disciplines and programs have up-to-date knowledge about mental health issues, suicide prevention, traumatic grief, and resiliency enhancement.

The TLC Coordinator for Somerset County is available to provide consultation and resources to schools and youth-serving organizations following a traumatic loss or event affecting youth in the community, providing 24/7 support to coordinate a response from the lead response team following a traumatic loss, quarterly coalition meetings, suicide prevention trainings using the Question, Persuade & Refer (QPR) Model, and psychological first aid. 

Services available:

• 24/7 Support & Coordination of Traumatic Loss Responses
• Consultation for schools and youth-serving organizations following a traumatic loss
• Suicide prevention trainings utilizing Question, Persuade & Refer Model
• Quarterly Coalition Meetings
• Psychological First Aid

In Case of a Psychiatric Emergency
Please contact Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (RWJ PESS) at 908-685-2200.
This service can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.