The Counselor Education and Supervision Program at the University of Arkansas is offering online mental health counseling to help serve the community during the COVID-19 health crisis.

These online visits will be provided at no cost by master's-level counseling students through July 31. The counseling sessions are open to everyone and are meant to provide support for minor or moderate anxiety and depression symptoms, along with general stress during this time. That could include financial, workplace or relationship issues and other concerns.

"We recognize that the process of navigating a pandemic can be stressful," said Kristin Higgins, associate professor of counselor education in the College of Education and Health Professions. "Rapidly-changing circumstances, the disruption of familiar routines and the isolating effects of social distancing may contribute to a general feeling of uneasiness. Many in our community are currently experiencing increased feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness."

Counseling students conducting the service have completed the majority of coursework required for graduation, have previous experience working with the public at their internship sites and are receiving supervision from licensed professionals and counseling program faculty.  

Higgins says the sessions will be conducted through a secure virtual platform and all confidentiality requirements will be observed.

"Whether you're looking to learn some new coping strategies or just need a listening ear, we're happy to help," she said. "Whether you need a weekly check-in or just one session to express your feelings, we're here. We may all be observing physical social distancing, but you don't have to get through this alone."

Email uarkcned@gmail.com to set up a counseling appointment. Student counselors are not able to provide care to those experiencing severe emotional instability or suicidality.

CAPS at Pat Walker Health Center on campus also is providing tele-mental health services only in an effort to adopt social distancing precautions and avoid exposure to COVID-19. 

Learn about  available resources and service.

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