By Jemi Weldon (DCA Intern, Student Affairs Marketing & Communications)
Student Counseling Services (SCS), at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is a resource dedicated to the mental well being of all in the campus community. This page provides eight different avenues for mental health support, aside from just scheduling an appointment with counseling. Everyone has different mental health needs, and SCS is committed to each individual finding what path is right for them.
Schedule an appointment with SCS
- To schedule an appointment with a counselor, head to the patient portal. Whether counseling is new to a student, or if they are returning, SCS will help them find the right counselor for their needs.
Counselor in Residence - CIR
- The CIR program is a proactive measure between SCS and Student Housing and Residence Life to increase access to mental health services and decrease the stigma surrounding mental health support. CIR provides after hours, appointment free initial consultations with a licensed clinical counselor.
- The UABwell app was envisioned by students as a network for services, information, and resources about mental health in one location, easily accessible on mobile devices. The ideas and input from students created an app for a student’s unique mental health needs.
- This online peer to peer platform offers a safe, judgment free space to connect with others experiencing similar emotions. Trained professionals are always available any day and any time. Togetherall also has tools and courses to help students take care of themselves.
Therapy Assistance Online - TAO
- TAO has over 150 brief, effective, educational sessions covering over 50 common topics and skills related to mental health, wellness, and substance use issues. Interactive sessions, mindfulness exercises and practice tools are all aimed at helping students achieve their personal goals. TAO also provides free mindfulness exercises for the general public, with no UAB affiliation required.
- Kognito is an online educational program designed to educate faculty, staff and students about mental health. Learn signs and symptoms of mental health concerns and how to help someone experiencing mental health struggles.
- UAB Cares is a suicide prevention initiative for all in the UAB community. These resources are here to aid any student, staff and faculty member experiencing struggles in times of uncertainty. UAB Cares has information about mental wellbeing, Blazer Kitchen, and many more resources available for free.
Virtual Mental Health Support Groups
- Kaya Care and UAB Student Counseling Services have partnered to offer free interactive support groups led by mental health professionals. These sessions help UAB students balance academics, work and personal well-being. Click here to register for an upcoming group.
- November: Managing Stress and Burnout
- December: Exploring Mindfulness and Gratitude
- January: Taming your Inner Critic
- February: Achieving Life and Work Balance
- March: Navigating Mental Health Stigma
- Topics include:
If there is a mental health emergency, please call or text the Crisis Center at 205-323-7777 or the National Suicide Hotline at 988.