Mind Over Matter: BC’s New Center for Counseling and Wellness

Experiences shape every single moment in a person’s life. Experiences make people who they are – giving them an identity unique from anyone else.

Therefore, not everyone can cope with their past and present experiences in a healthy way. That’s where Bluefield College’s new Center for Counseling and Wellness can help, and now that the center is finally active on campus, the counselors say they are more than ready to address student needs.

Connie Elkins, director of the new Center for Counseling and Wellness and a BC assistant professor of psychology, encourages students to use the center’s services as often as needed. A licensed professional counselor and a national certified counselor, Elkins is pursuing a doctoral degree in counseling.

Other members working in the Center for Counseling and Wellness include Brandy Smith, a BC assistant professor of education and both a licensed professional counselor and national certified counselor; and Alan Smith, a counseling intern.

“Professional counseling services on campus now include assessment, individual counseling, group counseling, career counseling, crisis counseling, substance use counseling, consultation and collaboration with campus stakeholders, and referral services to area mental health service providers,” Elkins said.

On top of these services, Elkins said she is eager to begin presentations on special topics later in the semester. Additional services will be available in the future, and all services are free of charge to undergraduate Bluefield College students. 

Students will be able to make a schedule that best fits their needs when visiting the Center for Counseling and Wellness for the first time. They can also expect to enter a safe and caring atmosphere where the counselors are open to hearing about what each student hopes to take away from the counseling experience. 

“Sessions are scheduled around the schedules of the student and counselors,” Elkins said. “Most often, the counselor will want to meet with the student weekly for the first several weeks. When the student feels that he or she is making progress and feeling a bit better, sessions may be moved to every other week until the student feels they no longer need counseling support.”

Elkins added that students have the option to meet with their counselor as often as necessary, and that counseling is available when regular classes are in session during the traditional academic year.

Depending on a student’s needs, small assignments and/or tasks may be given to help them better understand their mental health. These small tasks can include journaling, practicing skills, and much more. 

Elkins wants all students to remember one thing: “Counseling can be very helpful, and sometimes it just takes having a few conversations with a counselor to feel a big difference.” 

Students may request an appointment by emailing counseling@bluefield.edu or by calling (276) 326-4207. Faculty may refer students using the same contact information or through BC Thrive. The counseling office is located in the Student Development House and is now open for appointments from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.