"MCLA provides a practical education that challenges students to develop themselves as thinkers, readers, writers, communicators, and problem solvers. Moreover, the MCLA liberal education prepares students for personal and professional success, helping students to comprehend the world and make informed self-directed decisions, preparing them for lives of civic responsibility."
Charlotte Degen, Dean
Counseling Services
Guide for Faculty and Staff
The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts Counseling Services Office is located on the second floor of the Hoosac Bank Student Wellness Center. The office is open 8:30AM to 4:45PM, Monday through Friday.The office is open until 6:00PM on Tuesdays when fall and spring semester classes are in session. To make an appointment, please stop by during our office hours or call campus extension 5331. Emergencies will be seen immediately. Counseling Services strives to work collaboratively with faculty and staff throughout the college community. We offer individual and group counseling, support groups, consultations, and educational programs, focusing on developmental concerns as well as psychological issues. Our services are free to all MCLA students. In cases where a student needs services in addition to what we can provide, we can assist with referrals to appropriate resources in the community. Some common concerns students face are:
Puzzling emotions related to adjusting to a new environment, self esteem, identity, sexuality, stress management, grief/loss, family changes, relationship issues.
Psychological Concerns- Alarming or troubling behavior, alcohol or other drug abuse, depression, eating disorders, sexual assault, relationship abuse, anxiety, harassment.
Educational/Academic Concerns- Decision making, motivation, concentration, time management, test anxiety.
Referrals -While most students are able to cope with the stressors of college life, some find the competition, pressure, family, or other emotional difficulties overwhelming. In addition, in some instances substance abuse becomes a problem that interferes with social, academic and work functioning. Faculty and staff are often the first to become aware that a student may be in trouble.
Following are some guidelines to help the process of making referrals:
Poor class attendance despite your repeated attempts to contact
Little or no completed work even after contact with student
Poorly prepared work, especially if inconsistent with previous work
Negative changes in personal hygiene
Excessive weight gain or loss
Consistent lack of energy or falling asleep in class
Appearing overly nervous, tense or fearful
Disruptive behaviors in or out of the classroom
Alcohol and Drug Abuse- coming to class or meetings when intoxicated or hung over.
Seriously alarming and/or detailed subject matter addressed in journals, class discussions, writings
Talking or writing about suicide
Sometimes the best way to help a student is to encourage him or her to seek professional help. Our staff also can listen to your concerns and together explore options to help your student.
Encourage your student to talk about what he or she needs or wants. Use “I” statements to express your concerns. For example: “I’m concerned about you. I think it would be helpful for you to talk to a counselor.”
Share your knowledge about the services: (The office is open 8:30AM to 4:45PM, Monday through Friday. The office is open until 6:00PM on Tuesdays when fall and spring semester classes are in session. To make an appointment, please stop by during our office hours or call campus extension 5331.) In case of emergency after hours, please call Public Safety at extension 5284 or the Brien Center Crisis Line at 664-4541.
Give handouts, brochures, etc. about our services. You are welcome to stop by during office hours for informational brochures, other information, or just to find out who or where we are.
Assure the student of the confidentiality policy.
Follow-up. Encourage your student to get back in touch with you. Counseling Services will not be able to share information unless the student gives written permission.
