FAQ's
What types of services does the Counseling Center offer?
The Counseling Center supports the academic, personal and interpersonal development of all Bay Path College students. We provide short term individual counseling. If the counselor and the student feel that the student would be better served in longer term treatment, the counselor may recommend the student see a counselor off campus.
We are also available to meet with groups and to participate in psychoeducational outreach programs. In addition, we provide consultation for faculty, staff, parents and students.
What types of problems do we address with students?
College students come to see us about a broad range of problems. Many students have issues related to normal development, such as identity or relationship issues. We also treat more complex psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, bereavement, substance abuse and difficulties related to past trauma. Sometimes a student is not clear what “the problem” is, but she knows that something is not right. Meeting with a counselor can be helpful in identifying a problem which might be affecting her in daily life.
What are the qualifications of the Counseling Center Staff?
We are staffed by two, one full-time and one part-time Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers.
Can the staff provide medication if it might be helpful?
No. Medication can only be prescribed by psychiatrists and other medical personnel. We are able to refer to local psychiatrists and are able to consult with a student’s primary care physician and/or psychiatrist from home.
What is the cost of counseling services?
There is no cost for use of the Counseling Center.
How are appointments made?
Students are encouraged to call the Counseling Center at 413.565.1276 to make an appointment. Students may also contact the Center by e-mail for the purpose of making an appointment. It is important to note that e-mail is discouraged for more detailed communication because it is not considered to be a secure form of communication and confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.
What about emergencies?
In cases of psychiatric emergencies, people should call 911 or Campus Safety at ext. 1225.
What if a parent, another student, faculty member or staff person is concerned about a student?
Concerned parties are encouraged to call the Center during business hours to consult about a student that may be troubled. Counselors will discuss strategies for helping the student, which may include recommending that the student see a campus counselor. Note that counselors will not contact students and ask for a consultation (meeting) because we believe that counseling is most effective when it is voluntary. In cases of imminent risk, the appropriate emergency personnel will be contacted.
Can a third party, such as a parent or staff person, be kept informed about a student’s progress in counseling?
Due to laws and ethical principles protecting the confidentiality of the counseling relationship, no information can be released without the informed written consent of the student, except for very rare circumstances in which the counselor is concerned about issues of imminent risk of harm to self or others.
