Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff are frequently in a position to identify students in distress.

Moreover, staff and faculty are often perceived by students as a primary contact in obtaining advice and support. Your expression of interest and concern may be critical in helping a student.  Counseling Services (CS) are available to faculty and staff for consultation regarding these issues.  Feel free to call Jonathan Spodick (Director of Counseling Services) at extension 4454.  Be assured that all calls will be considered private and confidential.

Below are guidelines that can be helpful when dealing with a student in distress.

1. Ask Direct Questions.  Take a calm, caring, matter-of-fact approach and ask students directly if they are experiencing a problem.
2. Avoid Escalation.  Do not provoke a student and avoid remarks that might seem judgmental, threatening, or intimidating (e.g. “You should be upset, you’re in danger of failing!”).
3. Seek Help.  Listen and decide if the student needs more than you can provide.  Your personal discomfort is a good cue that a referral might be needed.
4. Do Not Assume You Are Being Manipulated.  Only a thorough assessment can determine if the student is feigning his/her distress to get attention or relief from responsibility.
5. Safety First!  Always keep safety in mind as you interact with a distressed student.  Safety suggestions include: Keeping your office door open while meeting with the student, having another person present, and documenting the encounter. 

Remember, it might be helpful to call Counseling Services when you:

• Feel stressed or overwhelmed by the situation
• Feel angry at the student
• Feel afraid
• Feel generally upset

Click here for a referral form.