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Bryn Mawr 101: Counseling Services

supporting holistic student well-being
"College is full of change and self-discovery, and you don’t have to process it alone."

"College is full of change and self-discovery, and you don’t have to process it alone."

Counseling Services provides free and confidential mental health services that support the psychological health of Bryn Mawr students. Below, their office shares more about the resources, care, and services offered.

Luci Mcnara
Counseling Director - Luci MacNamara, Psy.D.

Can you share the mission of Counseling Services and how it supports students Bryn Mawr?

At the Counseling Center, we embrace Mind-Body Wisdom, recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of every student in our diverse community. We offer free, confidential, and culturally responsive services to help you navigate college life. Whether you are managing mental health, stress, relationships, or personal growth, we are here for you. 

College is full of change and self-discovery, and you don’t have to process it alone. We are here to listen, guide, and provide the support you need to care for your mind. Our goal is to walk alongside you through this journey, offering practical tools and connections tailored to your needs. Whether you need someone to listen, help facilitate change, or connect you with additional resources, we are here to help.

What kinds of resources and services do Counseling Services offer to support studentsʼ mental health and well-being?

Counseling Services are available to any student who is experiencing mental health concerns, stress, or simply needs a safe and confidential space to talk.

Our services include: 

  • Brief assessments
  • Short-term counseling
  • Psycho-educational groups and workshops
  • Crisis intervention
  • Case management
  • Outreach and advocacy
  • Psychiatric medication evaluation and management
  • Referral services

We also offer therapy groups on a variety of topics, including support for neurodiverse students, navigating family and relationship stress, and more. 

If you are unsure what kind of support is right for you, that is completely okay. We encourage you to schedule a triage appointment, available Monday through Friday from 10–12pm and 2–4pm, where we can talk through your needs and connect you with the right care.

cs
Counseling Services is located in the Health & Wellness Center

How does Counseling Services collaborate with other campus offices?

Counseling Services is a part of a larger team that includes Health Services and the Wellness Program, using an integrated healthcare model. Together, we form Health and Wellness Services, so if you’re managing both mental and physical health concerns, our team can support you collaboratively.

With the individual student’s permission, we offer collaboration with the Office of Academic Support, since we know mental health can sometimes affect your focus, motivation, and academic performance. Beyond that, we collaborate with Career and Civic Engagement, Access Services, Athletics, and even Campus Safety when needed and/or requested by the student.

We understand that mental health does not exist in a bubble. It can touch many parts of your life. That is why we work together across campus to make sure you are supported in a way that feels whole and connected.

"It is important to know that our counseling services are free and short-term, without a predetermined number of sessions."

What should incoming first-year students know about Counseling Services before they arrive on campus?

We know that starting therapy can feel intimidating. If you are unsure about whether therapy is right for you, we encourage you to schedule a triage appointment. This is the first step to talk with us and explore what kind of support might be the best fit for you. 

It is important to know that our counseling services are free and short-term, without a predetermined number of sessions. We aim to work with each student based on their unique needs. Most of all, we want you to know that we are here when you are ready.

Who makes up the Counseling Services team?

Our counseling team is here to support you. We are a group of caring clinicians, counseling interns, and a psychiatrist, all working together to meet the needs of our students. Each of us brings unique experience and a shared commitment to creating a safe, supportive space. 

We do our best to meet with students the same day they reach out or come in, and if that is not possible, we will offer to meet with you the very next office day. Most of all, we want you to know that you do not have to face challenges alone. Whenever you are ready, we are here for you.

students

Want to learn more about health and wellness at Bryn Mawr?

The Health and Wellness Center is located in the Student Life and Wellness Building (The Well), and houses Counseling Services, Health Services, and the Wellness Program (OwlWell). Click the button below to explore wellness resources.

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