ATHENS, W.Va. (Hinton News) – The Concord University Counseling Center has been awarded funds from the WV Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC) for two programs in support of mental health awareness and positive practices.
The Concord Connect: Building Belonging initiative is designed to foster a powerful sense of community and inclusion among all students at Concord University. Through various activities, mentorship opportunities, and support networks, the program aims to create lasting connections and ensure every student feels valued and integrated into the university family. Coinciding with the growth of the counseling center, this grant has enabled the establishment of two meditation/mindfulness areas, a deepened partnership with the CU Campus Recovery Program, and events such as Sober Halloween and Low Tech Connect. The counseling center continues to provide opportunities and education to faculty, staff and students on mental health practices, keeping with recommendations and best practices from the American Council on Education.
The Workforce and Campus Mental Health grant funds a 24/7 Crisis Response service which provides telehealth services to the campus community, thereby augmenting the offerings provided by the CU Counseling Center and supporting the behavioral health workforce and future workforce of this state. The WVHEPC has contracted with BetterMynds to provide this free online therapy, telehealth services and wellbeing workshops to students enrolled at CU. This will be an invaluable resource for students as they manage the many challenges of attaining an advanced degree, such as financial struggles, being away from family, and balancing other responsibilities with school.
For more information about these programs, please contact Marie Newcomb-Richmond, Director of the CU Counseling Center at 304-384-5290 or mnewcomb@concord.edu.
