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Bakersfield College offers no-cost mental and physical telehealth support to students

Posted at 2:26 PM, Apr 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-23 18:59:50-04

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield College Student Health and Wellness Center announced a new program offering telehealth options for students.

Mental, physical and COVID-specific support services will be provided at no cost to Bakersfield College student. Students have mental telehealth options for both 1-on-1 sessions and group sessions in a confidential, virtual environment.

There are 2 full-time mental health providers on staff who provide services to students on a flexible schedule, including weekend appointments.

"At a time like this, we're seeing a lot of isolation, anxiety and stress on our students. It is our hope that by spreading the word about the telehealth options for mental health services, students will reach out to get the help they need," said David Seymour, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at the Student Health and Wellness Center. "We have always offered a strong network of support services to our BC community. I'm excited that we were able to adapt quickly and add tele-mental health options to our toolbox for student success."

Students are also encouraged to connect with the BC Advice Nurses, who are available to discuss physical and mental health concerns and can refer students to appropriate resources.

There is no charge at all to use the Advice Nurse Service.

“Our students’ health and well-being is our number one priority,” said Cindy Collier, acting director of the Student Health and Wellness Center. “We are grateful to be able to provide these needed services during this time of transition when many of our students may not know where to turn for help. We want our students to know that Bakersfield College is there to support them, not only academically, but also with their physical and mental health needs.”

Check here for more information about Bakersfield College’s telehealth options.