About a year ago, UNI teamed up with TELUS, an app that gives students free, 24/7 access to online therapy. Since TELUS launched in Fall 2023, over 2,000 students have already downloaded it, according to Allyson Rafanello, assistant vice president and dean of students. “TELUS has been a great way to supplement the counseling services we already provide,” she shared.
Once students have the app, they can jump into chats, make phone calls, do assessments, or explore other mental health resources. To get the word out, counseling services has been working closely with campus partners, organizing events to introduce more students to TELUS. One of these events will take place at Maucker Union Live on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, where students can stop by, chat and learn more about the app and other mental health services available on campus.
“We continue to see students who are looking for in-person counseling services at the Counseling Center, located on the 2nd floor of the Student Health Center,” Jennifer Jass, director of psychiatric and counseling services states.
The Counseling Center remains open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering individual counseling sessions, consultations and opportunities for students to meet with counselors. For those who aren’t sure about counseling or just want to talk through something quickly, there’s also “Let’s Talk,” which is a great starting point.
TELUS isn’t meant to replace in-person counseling; it’s more of an extra option. Many students prefer face-to-face interactions, and as part of the Division of Student Life, UNI is committed to providing services to students in a variety of formats. Moreover, the Counseling Center also functions as a training site for graduate students in Mental Health Counseling and Social Work programs, which require in-person clinical experience.
TELUS, however, has played a vital role by extending support during hours when the Counseling Center is closed.
The data from August 2023 to April 2024 shows that 63% of student engagement with TELUS occurred between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., times when the counseling center is closed. TELUS fills a gap, offering vital support to students during non-operational hours.
When asked how TELUS compares to in-person counseling, Jass said, “TELUS is one option within all of the services provided by Psychological & Counseling Services. Beyond its after-hours availability, TELUS provides a means for counseling and support over the summer, while students are studying abroad, and access to international students in the language they are most comfortable with.”
Even though many students still like the personal connection of in-person counseling, TELUS is all about flexibility. It makes sure mental health services are available whenever and wherever students need them. Through this partnership, UNI continues to expand resources and meet students where they are, no matter what time of day.
