We’re here to support your emotional well-being, personal growth, and academic success. Whether you're navigating stress, relationships, identity, or life transitions, our team of caring professionals is here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported.
Welcome to the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services at Barry University
Mission Statement
The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services is committed to fostering a campus culture of wellness, resilience, and belonging. We provide high-quality, culturally responsive, time-limited mental health services that promote students’ personal development, academic achievement, and lifelong well-being. Through clinical care, outreach, consultation, and training, we aim to empower individuals, build community, and support the diverse needs of Barry University’s student body.
Our Approach to Student Mental Health
At the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services, we recognize that college is a time of growth, exploration, and challenge. Our approach to student mental health is grounded in compassion, respect, and a belief in each student’s capacity for resilience and change.
We take a developmental and holistic approach to care. Rather than focusing solely on diagnosis, we prioritize understanding each student’s unique context, identity, and goals. Many students seek support not because they have a mental illness, but because they’re navigating important life transitions, stressors, or questions about identity and purpose. We're here to walk alongside you as you grow.
We also deeply value the therapeutic relationship as a key part of the healing process. Building trust, feeling safe, and being truly heard can be transformative. Our counselors strive to create a supportive, affirming space where you can explore concerns openly and work collaboratively toward meaningful change.
We provide short-term, goal-focused therapy designed to support students as they work through concerns such as anxiety, stress, relationships, trauma, and academic challenges. When longer-term or specialized care is needed, we help connect students to trusted providers in the community.
Our team embraces a multicultural and inclusive framework, honoring the diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences of our students. We are committed to creating a welcoming space where all students feel safe, valued, and understood.
Mental health is not just about managing problems—it’s about thriving. That’s why we also offer outreach, workshops, peer education, and consultation to promote emotional well-being across campus.
You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out. If something is getting in the way of your well-being or academic success, we’re here to help.
Contact, Office Hours & Location
The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Evening appointments may be available upon request.
We are located in Landon 304, on Barry University’s main campus.
If you’re in crisis or need immediate support outside of office hours, please visit our Crisis Services page for 24/7 resources.
- Phone: 305-899-3950
- Fax: 305-899-3929
- Email: counselingservices@barry.edu
Our Services
We offer a range of services to support your mental health and overall well-being. Counseling services are free and confidential for currently enrolled Barry University students. Fees apply for certain services such as psychological assessment and psychiatric care, unless covered by the University’s student health insurance.
Confidentiality & Scope of Services
Your privacy is important to us. Counseling services are confidential, and information you share with your therapist will not be released without your written consent, except in situations where safety or legal requirements apply.
We provide short term, goal-oriented therapy to support student well-being, personal growth, and academic success. Common concerns include stress, anxiety, relationship issues, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and adjustment to college life.
If longer term or specialized care is needed, we can assist with referrals to trusted providers in the community.
How We Support You
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Individual Counseling
Meet one-on-one with a therapist to explore personal concerns, develop coping strategies, and work toward your goals in a supportive space.
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Group Counseling
Join others with shared experiences in a small, therapist-led group. Group sessions provide connection, insight, and support for managing common challenges.
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Crisis Services
Immediate support is available for students experiencing urgent mental health concerns. If you or someone you know is in crisis, visit our Crisis Services page or call us directly.
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Consultation & Outreach
We offer consultations for students, faculty, and staff, as well as workshops, presentations, and campus outreach events to promote mental health and wellness.
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Psychological Testing & Assessment
We offer limited psychological and psychoeducational assessments for concerns related to learning, attention, and emotional functioning. These services involve a fee, and referrals are provided when appropriate.
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Psychiatric Services
A psychiatric nurse practitioner is available on campus one day a week to provide medication evaluations and ongoing medication management. There is a fee for this service unless the student is covered under the University-sponsored health insurance plan.
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Telehealth Options
Students have access to secure virtual counseling through our center. Please note: Students in the Podiatry and Physician Assistant (PA) programs receive their mental health services exclusively through Uwill at no cost.
Crisis SupportWalk-In Appointments
During office hours, the Counseling Center offers walk-in emergency appointments for students experiencing urgent mental health concerns that cannot wait for a scheduled session. These appointments are designed to provide immediate, short-term support for students in crisis. Walk-in visits are typically focused on stabilizing the situation and identifying next steps for care.
Access a Walk-In Appointment
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency during business hours, you may come directly to the Counseling Center for a walk-in appointment.
Step-by-Step:
- Go to the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services
Landon 304
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Let the front desk staff know that you are experiencing a mental health emergency and need a walk-in appointment.
- A counselor will meet with you as soon as possible. Walk-ins are seen on a first-come, first-served basis, but emergencies are prioritized.
- You will be asked to complete brief paperwork before meeting with a clinician.
If possible, call ahead at 305-899-3950 to let us know you are coming. This helps us prepare to support you more quickly, but calling is not required.
After Hours Crisis Support
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis outside of our regular office hours: Students living on campus can contact their Resident Assistant (RA), who is trained to respond in crisis situations and can access the Director of the Counseling Center, who is on call 24/7. Students living off campus should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if they are in immediate danger or need urgent support.
Accommodations & Accessibility Resources
All accommodation requests are coordinated through the Office of Accessibility Services. The Counseling Center can assist with some documentation requests related to emotional support animals (ESAs), housing accommodations, and academic accommodations; however, we do not provide any documentation for accommodations without a completed psychoeducational assessment and a documented history of receiving services through our center.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Documentation for an ESA is only considered if the student is actively engaged in counseling services and has a history of receiving care through the Counseling Center. A psychoeducational assessment is required, which involves a fee and may include a waitlist depending on availability.
Housing & Academic Accommodations
While we may provide consultation or collaborate on requests for students actively receiving services at our center, we cannot issue any documentation without a full assessment and treatment history.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we encourage you to contact our office at 305-899-3950. We’re here to help you understand your options and connect with the appropriate campus resources.
Resources for students, parents, faculty/staff
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What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first visit to the Counseling Center is a chance to talk with a therapist about what is bringing you in and what kind of support might be most helpful. This initial session, often called an intake appointment, typically lasts about 50 minutes.
You will be asked to complete a few forms beforehand, including a brief questionnaire about your concerns and background. During the appointment, your therapist will listen, ask questions, and help you identify goals for counseling. Together, you will decide on the best next steps, whether that is ongoing individual therapy, group counseling, workshops, or a referral to other resources.
We understand that reaching out for help can feel like a big step. Our goal is to make you feel heard, respected, and supported from the moment you walk in.
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As a faculty or staff member, you play an important role in supporting student well-being. The Counseling Center is here to collaborate with you when you notice a student who may be struggling.
How to Refer a Student
If you are concerned about a student’s emotional or psychological well-being, you can refer them to the Counseling Center by:
- Encouraging the student to call us at 305 899 3950 or visit Landon 304 during business hours
- Offering to walk the student to the Counseling Center if they are open to it
- Calling the Counseling Center for a consultation if you are unsure how to approach the situation
Please note: We follow strict confidentiality laws and ethical guidelines. We cannot confirm or deny whether a student is receiving services, and we do not share any information about a student’s care without their written consent.
Faculty and staff are always welcome to share information or concerns about a student, which can be helpful in our assessment and response. However, students must initiate contact with the Counseling Center. We do not reach out or require students to attend unless they request services themselves.
Recognizing Students in Distress
Students may show signs of distress in different ways.
Some common indicators include:
- A sudden decline in academic performance or class attendance
- Noticeable changes in mood, behavior, or appearance
- Withdrawal from peers or class participation
- Expressions of hopelessness, worthlessness, or extreme anxiety
- Disclosures of personal struggles, trauma, or overwhelming stress
If you notice any of these signs or feel that something is not right, trust your instincts and contact us for support.
Faculty Consultation Services
The Counseling Center offers consultation services to faculty and staff who:
- Are concerned about a student and want guidance on how to respond
- Need help preparing for a difficult conversation with a student
- Have questions about when and how to refer a student to counseling
- Would like support navigating mental health issues within the classroom
Call us at 305 899 3950 for a confidential consultation. We are here to support your efforts in fostering a healthy and supportive learning environment.
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College is a time of growth and transition, not just for students but for families as well. The Counseling Center is here to support your student’s well-being while helping you stay informed and connected.
How We Support Students
The Counseling Center offers short term, goal oriented counseling, crisis support, group therapy, outreach, and access to virtual care. Our clinicians help students navigate concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, identity development, and adjusting to college life. We take a student-centered, culturally responsive approach that supports personal growth, emotional wellness, and academic success.
Tips for Talking About Mental Health
Starting the conversation can make a meaningful difference.
Consider the following:
- Let your student know it is okay to ask for help
- Normalize mental health care the same way you would physical health care
- Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgment
- Encourage them to use campus resources, including the Counseling Center
- Remind them they do not need to wait until things feel overwhelming to reach out
What Parents Should Know About Confidentiality
We understand how deeply you care about your student’s well-being. At the same time, we are legally and ethically required to protect student privacy. Once a student turns 18, their records are confidential, including to parents or guardians. We cannot confirm or deny whether a student is receiving services unless the student provides written consent.
You are always welcome to call and share concerns about your student. While we cannot share information in return, we are glad to listen and offer general guidance.
Supporting Your Student from a Distance
Even if you are not nearby, you can still play a supportive role in your student’s mental health.
- Check in regularly and ask how they are doing
- Encourage a routine that includes rest, connection, and self-care
- Give them space to grow and adjust to college life
- Remind them that help is available and they are not alone
If you are concerned about your student’s safety, do not hesitate to reach out to us at 305-899-3950 or contact Campus Safety at 305-899-3333 for assistance.
Self-Help Resources
Looking for information or support outside of counseling sessions? We’ve gathered trusted tools and links to help you care for your mental and emotional well-being. See below for additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
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All currently enrolled Barry University students are eligible for counseling services. Podiatry and Physician Assistant (PA) students receive their services through Uwill.
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Yes. Counseling is private and confidential. We do not share your information without your written permission, unless there is a concern about safety or as required by law.
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Counseling services are free. There is a fee for psychological assessments and psychiatric services unless the student has the university’s health insurance. Uwill services are free for all eligible students.
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Call us at 305-899-3950 or stop by our office in Landon 304.
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If you are experiencing a mental health crisis outside of our regular office hours:
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Students living on campus can contact their Resident Assistant (RA), who is trained to respond in crisis situations and can access the Director of the Counseling Center, who is on call 24/7.
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Students living off campus should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if they are in immediate danger or need urgent support.
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Sessions are typically 45 to 50 minutes and follow a short-term, goal-focused model.
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We do not provide documentation unless you have a history of receiving services through our center and complete a psychoeducational assessment, which involves a fee.
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Yes. A psychiatric nurse practitioner is available one day per week for medication evaluations and management. This service has a fee unless you are covered by university health insurance.
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Yes. Virtual counseling is available through our center.
Training Program
The Counseling Center at Barry University provides a high-quality, developmentally focused training experience for doctoral practicum students from Nova Southeastern University who are supervised by licensed clinical psychologists. Our program offers a supportive and enriching environment where trainees can build clinical skills, grow in professional identity, and engage with a diverse university student population.
Practicum Opportunities
We accept doctoral practicum students from Nova Southeastern University who are enrolled in APA-accredited clinical or counseling psychology programs.
Practicum students’ primary responsibilities include:
- Providing individual counseling to Barry University students
- Engaging in outreach programming to promote mental health and wellness
- Conducting psychoeducational assessments for students seeking academic or housing accommodations
In addition, practicum students participate in intake assessments, staff meetings, case consultation, and weekly training seminars. Trainees gain experience working with a diverse student population and presenting concerns that reflect the unique challenges of university life.
Supervision Philosophy
We approach supervision as a collaborative, supportive, and developmental process. Our licensed staff psychologist provides weekly individual and group supervision focused on enhancing clinical skills, deepening self-awareness, and exploring professional identity.
We emphasize multicultural humility, ethical practice, and the power of the therapeutic relationship. Supervision may include session recordings (with client consent) and feedback grounded in mutual respect and student growth.