Arizona Athletics' award-winning C.A.T.S. program has focused on the holistic development of student-athletes since its creation in 1991 and mental health has been a part of that Commitment to an Athlete's Total Success. As a pioneer in the industry, C.A.T.S. has grown and developed its mental health services as a national leader in the field.

"Mental health and wellness has been a priority from the top of the university, starting with President Robbins to our athletics administration and Dave Heeke," said Director of Clinical and Sport Psychology Dr. Alex Auerbach. "They have really been driving mental health and wellness as a foundation for student-athlete and staff development. We've received tremendous support from both of them to allow us to expand our staffing and create wellness committees focused on the mental health support of all Wildcats."

The Wildcat Journey of student-athletes is driven by the multi-faceted approach of C.A.T.S. and rooted in the first pillar of Arizona Athletics' strategic plan. The department will continue to use its clinical and sport psychology services to power its quest for excellence in student-athlete performance, wellness and safety to support their development during their careers and life after graduation.

Arizona Athletics helps drive that journey with three full-time mental health professionals on staff with Dr. Auerbach and two mental health counselors. This team of top professionals provide a wide array of mental health, wellness and performance services for student-athlete and employee success, health and wellbeing. These key services provide assistance with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, time management, enhanced focus and performance optimization among many others.

Providing excellent mental health services is also a key initiative in the athletics department's commitment to being an industry leader in creating a healthy, thriving culture for employees. The dedication of resources to health and wellbeing of coaches and staff is crucial component in an investment in people throughout the athletics department.

Through the Commitment to an Athlete's Total Success, the Wildcat Way was born as the everyday way of living as a Wildcat. Having the nationally renowned C.A.T.S. mental health services as a resource for Arizona Athletics' student-athletes and staff helps everyone who dons the Block A live the Wildcat Way.