Therapy Resources for Students at Johnson and Wales University

Building a Mental Health Toolkit at Johnson & Wales University

College life at Johnson & Wales University (JWU) is full of opportunity and excitement. But it can also bring stress, whether from academics, jobs, or adjusting to a new city. Building a personal mental health toolkit can help students not only manage these challenges but also thrive. This toolkit can draw from both on-campus resources and off-campus support like the Providence Therapy Group.

Research shows that many students face barriers such as long wait times, limited sessions, or stigma when seeking help on campuses across the county (mixed-methods analysis of mental health challenges). That’s why it’s important to know all the options available.

On-Campus Resources at JWU

JWU offers a range of mental health services that are free and confidential. Students can access:

  • Counseling Services provided by professional counselors for one-on-one or short-term support. The counseling center offers initial assessment and intake procedures to determine the best support for each student.

  • Tutoring at the Academic Success Center. Services include tutoring in a variety of subjects, coaching, and writing support.

  • Health Education is extensive at JWU including a variety of wellness programs focused on relationship violence prevention, alcohol and drug use, and mental wellbeing. The programs are designed to be inclusive of students with diverse physical abilities. Some programs or workshops may have required sign-ups or prerequisites.

  • Crisis response care for students in urgent situations is offered by the CARE (Crisis Aversion and Response Evaluation) Team. The CARE Team coordinates interventions for students who pose a risk of harm to self or others.

The wellness center and faculty collaborate to support student well-being. Educational workshops are part of the mental health education program at JWU.

These services are valuable first steps for many students. Evidence shows that interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness programs are effective for reducing anxiety and depression in college populations. On-campus programs help make these supports accessible.

Where On-Campus Resources Have Limitations

student studying in the library

While JWU’s services provide a strong foundation, there are some common challenges to students nationally:

  • High demand and long wait times. Nationally, college students often report delays before being matched with a counselor, and campus counselors are frequently overbooked due to high student needs.

  • Session limits. Many campus centers have policies that cap the number of visits, which can leave students looking for long-term care options.

  • One-size-fits-all approaches. Not every student connects with the therapeutic style or focus available on campus.

  • Cultural and identity barriers. Research shows that racial-ethnic minority and international students often access services at lower rates.

Limited assessment resources at college counseling centers can also delay access to appropriate care and treatment planning.

These gaps mean some students may start with campus support but later seek consistent, specialized care elsewhere. Students may also require additional assistance navigating the mental health program when campus resources are insufficient.

Off-Campus Options: Providence Therapy Group

This is where the therapists with the Providence Therapy Group comes in. As a comprehensive program designed to support student mental health beyond campus, Providence Therapy Group begins with a thorough assessment to tailor therapy to each student's needs. Students can benefit from:

  • Flexible scheduling that works around classes, jobs, and extracurriculars, with assistance offered for navigating insurance and appointments.

  • Specialized expertise in areas like anxiety, depression, relationships, cultural identity development, and gay affirming therapy provided by experienced counselors.

  • Therapists attuned to diverse needs, with training to support different cultural backgrounds.

  • Confidential care outside the university setting, which some students find more comfortable.

A variety of therapy services are offered, including individual therapy and group therapy sessions offered in-person and online.

Digital and off-campus options are especially helpful given that only about 28% of college students with mental health problems actively seek formal help, even though far more report struggles. Making therapy easier to access can bridge this gap.

Building a Complete Toolkit

students sitting outside studying

The most effective approach is often a blend of both on- and off-campus care:

  • Start with campus resources for immediate support and crisis needs.

  • Add ongoing therapy through Providence Therapy Group for deeper, long-term work.

  • Incorporate self-care and peer support to round out the toolkit, from exercise and mindfulness to connecting with friends.

Ongoing education through workshops and seminars is also an important part of a holistic mental health program, helping students build knowledge and skills for well-being.

Studies suggest that students benefit most when interventions are flexible and personalized, meeting their individual schedules, identities, and goals. This combination can turn mental health care into a sustainable part of everyday student life.

Conclusion

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as managing academics or career goals. JWU offers strong starting points with its comprehensive counseling services and wellness programs that provide students with immediate support and essential skills for managing stress and emotional challenges.

Providence Therapy Group extends that care by offering tailored, ongoing support that complements on-campus resources. By combining these options, students can build a robust mental health toolkit that helps them not just get through college, but truly thrive—academically, socially, and personally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What therapy resources are available for students at Johnson and Wales University?

Johnson and Wales University offers various therapy resources for students, including individual counseling, group therapy, crisis intervention, and wellness programs. These services are designed to support students' emotional and mental health needs in a confidential and professional setting.

How can I schedule an appointment for counseling services at JWU?

Students can contact the counseling services office via phone or online to schedule an appointment. The office staff will assist in setting up individual sessions or consultations based on the student's needs and availability.

What types of counseling services does JWU provide?

JWU provides individual counseling, group sessions, crisis intervention, consultation, and referrals to off-campus resources. These services address a range of topics such as stress management, emotional challenges, career development, and social or cultural identity issues.

Does JWU offer counseling services for diverse student populations?

Absolutely. The counseling staff is trained to address the unique needs of students across various identities, including gender, culture, and sexual orientation, ensuring inclusive and culturally sensitive support.

What should I do in case of a mental health crisis at JWU?

In case of a crisis, students can access immediate crisis intervention services through the counseling office during business hours or through an after-hours on-call service available by phone. Prompt support is available to address urgent psychological and emotional needs.

Can students access counseling services online?

JWU offers online counseling options to provide flexible access to therapy resources, accommodating students' schedules and preferences.

These virtual services are designed to support students who may face challenges with time management or who prefer the convenience and privacy of remote sessions. By leveraging technology, JWU ensures that mental health support is accessible to all students, regardless of their location or daily commitments.

How does JWU ensure confidentiality in counseling?

All counseling services at JWU are confidential, protected by legal and ethical codes, ensuring that students' privacy and information are securely maintained throughout their care.

What is Providence Therapy Group and how can it benefit JWU students?

Providence Therapy Group is an off-campus counseling service that offers specialized and flexible therapy options for students. It provides tailored support for issues such as anxiety, depression, relationships, and identity development, complementing the on-campus resources at JWU.

How can students at JWU access services from Providence Therapy Group?

Students can schedule appointments with Providence Therapy Group directly, offering flexible scheduling that fits around academic and personal commitments. This helps students manage time effectively while prioritizing their mental health and overall health wellness. These therapy resources for students at Johnson and Wales University emphasize inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, supporting diverse racial and family backgrounds. Financial assistance is also available to help navigate costs and insurance, making mental health care more accessible and sustainable throughout college.

Additionally, Providence Therapy Group offers confidential care outside the university setting, which some students may find more comfortable. Receiving support in a separate environment can provide a sense of privacy and ease, encouraging students to engage more openly in their mental health journey.