The following are brief descriptions of the many services offered by the staff of this office:
Disability Services
The Assistant Director for Disability Services works with full and part-time graduate and undergraduate students with diagnosed learning disabilities. These would include attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, psychiatric and psychological disabilities, visual, hearing, or mobility impairments, medical conditions, and temporary disabilities. The coordinator provides academic and personal assistance and advocates for success in college life. The coordinator also provides disability awareness and education for the Bentley community.
Individual Counseling
Short-term counseling or therapy sessions are offered to students experiencing problems of a personal or interpersonal nature. This is available to any Bentley student, free of charge, for the duration of their time at Bentley. Although there are no session limits, the staff works on a brief model whenever possible.
Group Counseling
Group therapy is offered for students who share a specific concern or those who are working on interpersonal relationships. Typical groups include Living with Loss (for those surviving the death of a loved one), a Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, or Questioning Student Support Group, Interpersonal Growth Group, and others as needed. Please contact CSD for more information or to speak with a counselor about groups. You may also review our group therapy brochure to learn more.
Psychiatric Service
A psychiatrist is available one day each week for appointments with students. Medication evaluations, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments are available to students when referred by a staff member in Counseling and Student Development. Continuing on a program of medication requires that students maintain regular contact with a staff member in CSD.
Academic Skills
Noncredit study-skills workshops are available for students needing help with study habits or academic skills. Managing time, taking notes, reading texts, and preparing for and taking exams are some of the topics covered. Individual assistance is also available.
Workshops and Educational Programs
Topics such as assertiveness, stress, sexuality, academic skills and personal growth are offered regularly throughout the school year for various campus groups and organizations. Students interested in offering one of these workshops to their residence floor or organization should contact CSD. Also, long-term groups focusing on improved interpersonal communication, adult children of alcoholics, and eating disorders are offered each semester.