UW’s counseling center (UCC) is still operating for the fall semester via free ZOOM and telephone appointments. Students voice concerns that virtual sessions are not as utilizing as in person though, however, professors say otherwise.
“I absolutely think ZOOM-based/Telehealth therapy is every bit as good (and there’s a ton of research to bolster that) – so I wouldn’t go into thinking that it’s ‘lesser’ in any way,” said Psychology professor Matt Gray.
“It depends on the provider and the fit with the provider – but that isn’t any different whether in-person or Telehealth. But the specific modality ought not change things too much,” said Gray.
According to UCC Psychologist Julio Brionez, the UCC resources have been utilized because while COVID-19 is an additional stressor, the presenting problems of college are more or less the same.
“I used to go to UCC regularly before the pandemic,” said one student who wishes to remain anonymous. “Even though it’s basically the same over a computer, I just don’t feel like I get the face to face experience so I haven’t utilized it this year as much.
Brionez said returning to in person sessions next semester will depend on a COVID-19 vaccine.
“All of the sessions are virtual right now,” said Brionez. “Depending on a person’s situation, there is a room that is set up at the UCC that allows for someone to use a computer to ZOOM with a counselor. This is for those people who may not have access to wifi or devices to use ZOOM from home.”
UCC is still located on the third floor of Knight Hall. Office hours are 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday.
According to the UCC website, staff asks that anyone interested in an appointment calls the office at 307-766-2187. The appointment will then be made depending on the individual’s need and resources.
An after-hours crisis line is available at 307-766-8989. According to Brionez, reports of these calls to UCC will only be made if the situation is severe so that the staff can follow up with the individual.
This year, parents, staff and faculty may also call the UCC. Brionez said these calls will be supported hypothetically if they pertain to a student, since the counseling services are confidential.
According to Brionez, UCC is referring distance learners who are not in Wyoming to local providers, since most of the counselors at UCC are only licensed in Wyoming.
Other hotlines to call:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Trevor Hotline: 1-866-488-7386
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
