Counseling Center News

Resources for Those Affected by Violence in the Middle East

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 CDT

The violence unfolding in the Middle East has shocked and saddened many. The Counseling Center realizes that students who have ties to this region and those experiencing trauma and vicarious trauma are feeling a range of emotions as the cycle of violence continues. We extend our support to all who may be struggling.

Counseling Center Hosts National Screening Day

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 11:45:00 CST

On Monday, February 27, 2023, the Counseling Center’s Alcohol and Other Drug Program will participate in National Screening Day. This event originated from National Alcohol Screening Day, which is held annually to raise awareness about harmful and dependent drinking behaviors and connects individuals who are at risk with treatment options.

Statement Regarding the Death of Tyre Nichols

nlevans@illinois.edu (The Counseling Center) — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:30:00 CST

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Counseling Center stands in solidarity with those who are feeling anger, grief, fear, and concern in the wake of the death of Tyre Nichols. For those who choose to view it, the footage of Nichols being attacked can cause very visceral reactions and may lead to vicarious trauma. Many may be frustrated as Black people continue to die at the hands of the police at much higher rates than other groups. These emotions are completely valid, and the Counseling Center is here to provide support for those who may be struggling.

Counseling Center COVID-19 Procedures For Fall 2022

nlevans@illinois.edu — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:00:00 CDT

The Counseling Center is following the guidance of the University as the COVID-19 situation continues to change. Because we are considered a health care facility, masks are still required in the Counseling Center. We will provide any updates we receive on this page. If you have questions about telehealth, please call the Counseling Center at 217-333-3704.

Statement on Supreme Court Decision Regarding Reproductive Rights

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 11:00:00 CDT

The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade removes the constitutional right to an abortion. The University of Illinois Counseling Center understands that many in our campus community may be feeling anger, fear, anxiety, and other negative emotions. These are normal and justified reactions. Being someone who identifies as a minority that has been historically oppressed, having a history of trauma, or feeling the weight of the current sociopolitical climate may cause these emotions to feel even stronger.

Resources for Students Who Are Reacting to Events Unfolding in Ukraine

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:00:00 CST

Reports of conflict in Ukraine and escalated tensions in Europe have caused an array of emotions across our campus. The Counseling Center extends support to students who have personal ties to Ukraine and understands this is an incredibly difficult time. We know that it’s natural for those who are from or have family and friends in Ukraine to experience feelings of overwhelm, worry, anger, sadness, and many other emotions. It’s also natural for others to vicariously experience trauma as they learn of the volatile situation that continues to develop.

Counseling Center Hosts Alcohol and Marijuana Screening Day

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 10:45:00 CST

On March 1, 2022, the Counseling Center’s Alcohol and Other Drug Program will participate in Screening Day. This event originated from National Alcohol Screening Day, which is held annually to raise awareness about harmful and dependent drinking behaviors and connects individuals who are at risk with treatment options.

Counseling Services Offered Remotely February 2-4

nlevans@illinois.edu — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 20:30:00 CST

Due to an expected severe winter snowstorm, the Counseling Center will be offering remote services only from February 2-4. Students who have scheduled counseling appointments should have received an email with instructions from their counselor. Please call the Counseling Center at 217-333-3704 if you would like to make an appointment or if you have any questions.

We hope everyone stays safe and warm over the next few days!

WellTrack Assists Students in Reaching Wellness Goals

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 17:45:00 CST

WellTrack, an app that offers a suite of online tools and courses to help students identify, understand and address mental health issues they are having will be available to all Illinois students beginning October 15. WellTrack, which employs aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, offers a mood tracker, modules that teach students about managing anxiety and depression, and useful tools such as meditations and reminders for users to include enjoyable activities in their days.

Response to Proposed Changes to Duration of Stay for International Students and Scholars

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:45:00 CDT

Diversity and inclusion are core values of the University of Illinois Counseling Center. We believe that our international students and faculty/staff make significant contributions to our university and to the Champaign-Urbana community. This is why we are disappointed by recent proposed changes by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to limit the amount of time international students have to complete their degrees and also gain employment in the United States after they finish their studies.

Statement Regarding the Deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery

cc-socialmedia@illinois.edu — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 17:30:00 CDT

The University of Illinois Counseling Center stands in solidarity with those who are feeling anger, grief, fear, and concern about our nation in the wake of the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Like many others, we are frustrated about the frequency of violence (often by police) against Black people and the lack of action taken to prevent this violence. We continue to have faith in the goodness found in our humanity and are working within our local communities to make things safer and more equitable for everyone. Social advocacy can be an avenue for empowering individuals and communities.

Summer 2020 Procedures—Telehealth Now Available

nlevans@illinois.edu (Counseling Center) — Wed, 20 May 2020 09:45:00 CDT

As the University continues to follow social distancing recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to update the campus community on our services. We continue to offer remote services as our office is not currently accessible to students.

UPDATED: Counseling Center COVID-19 Precautions

cc-socialmedia@illinois.edu — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 16:15:00 CDT

The Counseling Center understands these are challenging times for everyone. For the safety of staff and in cooperation with CDC guidelines, beginning immediately, we will be switching to a phone triage system and will soon launch online counseling capabilities. Please note the following procedures.

Counseling Center Protocol for Managing Coronavirus

cc-socialmedia@illinois.edu — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:30:00 CST

The global spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and concerns about how the virus may impact us locally has understandably caused concern for many in our community. The situation is changing quickly, and the Counseling Center will follow guidelines established by the university to ensure public health protocol is met.

2019 Robert P. Larsen Human Development Award Winners

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Mon, 06 May 2019 13:45:00 CDT

On May 3, the Counseling Center presented the 2019 Robert P. Larsen Human Development Awards. The award, named after a long-time Counseling Center staff member, has been presented annually since 1992. The award recognizes those in our campus community who are working to make a difference, enhance student development, and maximize student capabilities to make effective and satisfying life choices. This year's recipients were Derrius Carter and SKY @ UIUC.

Nominations Sought For Robert P. Larsen Human Development Award

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 16:45:00 CDT

The Counseling Center is currently seeking nominations for the 2019 Robert P. Larsen Human Development Award. The Larsen Award was established in 1992 to honor individuals and/or groups that make significant contributions to the campus consistent with the general mission of the Counseling Center. It has been presented annually to any person or group who enhances student development and maximizes student capabilities to make effective and satisfying life choices. Eligibility is open to any person or group that is part of the university community (except for individuals associated with the Counseling Center).

To nominate an individual or group, please use this form. Applications are due by end of day April 19, 2019.

Counseling Center Offers Two New Groups for Fall 2018

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 12:30:00 CDT

The Counseling Center has added two new group counseling options for the 2018-19 academic year in addition to 25 other groups already being offered for students.

Spring 2018 #FinishStrongIllinois: Managing Stress and Thriving at the End of the Semester

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 13:00:00 CDT

The end of the semester can be tough. Deadlines, late nights, and concern over grades can add up to a lot of stress, and it's essential that you take care of yourself during this hectic time. The Counseling Center is here when you need us.

Counseling Center Offers Workshop Series on Mindfulness and Resilience

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 14:45:00 CDT

The Counseling Center is offering a two-part series designed to help you:

1. Manage stress, anxiety, and other emotions productively.

2. Learn mindfulness skills that can have a positive impact in the classroom and in your relationships.

3. Identify what’s most important to you and prioritize accordingly.

Counseling Center Winter Break Hours

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 14:30:00 CST

The Counseling Center will have limited hours the first part of winter break.

#FinishStrongIllinois: Tips for Wellness at the End of the Semester

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Fri, 08 Dec 2017 09:45:00 CST

The end of the semester is tough--deadlines, late nights, and concern over grades can add up to a lot of stress, and it's essential that you take care of yourself during this hectic time. The Counseling Center is here when you need us.

Statement on DACA

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Wed, 20 Sep 2017 17:45:00 CDT

On Tuesday, September 5, 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the impending end to the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy. We understand that the decision can have many implications for our students and can cause emotional distress. Please know that the Counseling Center is here to assist. We have a number of trained mental health professionals who offer confidential mental health consultations.

Response to Last Weekend’s Events in Charlottesville

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 09:45:00 CDT

The Counseling Center at Illinois is deeply saddened and troubled by this weekend’s events in Charlottesville, Virginia. We send our condolences to the friends and families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured while protesting hateful rhetoric from white supremacist groups. These acts of violence have no place anywhere, but we are especially saddened this happened on a college campus—where diversity of people and ideas are historically embraced. At Illinois, we stand in solidarity with our colleagues at the University of Virginia and continue to work toward social justice.

Resources for Those Affected by the Disappearance of Yingying Zhang

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 10:15:00 CDT

Update, 7/3/17: As events of Ms. Zhang’s case have unfolded the past few days, the Counseling Center wishes to reiterate our thoughts and support for Ms. Zhang’s family and for those who are affected by this tragedy. It is difficult to learn that someone who was formerly part of our campus community is charged with her abduction. Students, please see below for information about how receive services at the Counseling Center if you would like to talk to someone.

2017 Robert P. Larsen Human Development Award Winners Announced

nlevans@illinois.edu (Nichole Evans) — Fri, 05 May 2017 12:30:00 CDT

On May 3, the Counseling Center presented the 2017 Robert P. Larsen Human Development Awards. Given annually, the awards recognize those in our campus community who are working to make a difference, enhance student development, and maximizing student capabilities to make effective and satisfying life choices.