Counseling office
24/7 on-demand crisis counseling and therapy
If you are dealing with any issue or concern that is causing excessive anxiety, preoccupation or worry etc., the university offers both virtual and in-person counseling during the academic year, August through May.
If you are unsure about whether or not counseling could be helpful to you, please give it a try, if only to evaluate what you need and to plan for how your needs can be satisfactorily met. The choice is always your own.
In-person counseling
Kelly Adlesh is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a background in education. She has been helping adults and children as a professional in community systems since 2003. She has experience with individuals and groups of people seeking to make real change in their lives. Kelly specializes in person-centered modalities. She will care for your needs and meet you where you are. Collaboration can help you get to where you want to be.
Kelly can provide individual and group counseling. Her on-campus hours vary and are available on my SimplePractice.
Virtual care
Bluffton students have free, unlimited access to a wide selection of behavioral health care providers, life coaching and on-demand crisis care through The Virtual Care Group. Meet with therapists through a secure, live video connection using a laptop, smartphone or tablet. The service is available 24/7 August to May.
Current students may activate their account by registering at www.thevirtualcaregroup.com/bluffton
If you are having difficulties activating your account or booking a telehealth visit, please call 24/7 customer support at 866-533-1827.
Looking for a private location to talk online with a Virtual Care Group counselor? A few options are:
- Gray Room - Located on the 2nd floor of Musselman Library.
- Centennial Hall 111 - Located at the end of the first-floor hallway in Centennial Hall.
- 1899 Room - Located adjacent to Bob’s Place on the lower level of Marbeck Center.
NOTE: This space is available by making a reservation. Email - bourassam@bluffton.edu to confidentially reserve this room.
Assistance is available in coping with issues, problems and concerns, including:
- Family problems
- Dating concerns
- Grief/loss issues
- Relationship issues, questions, concerns
- Emotional problems, including depression, anxiety, stress, loneliness, anger, etc.
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Eating disorders
- Concerns associated with violence, sexual assault or rape
- Childhood abuse
- LBGTQA+ issues or concerns
- Alcohol/drug use, abuse or addiction
- Anything that causes tension, conflict, worry, concern, pre-occupation, etc.
Counseling sessions are strictly confidential and no information is shared with any other person (including faculty, administration, staff, other students, your parents or any other family members) except in situations deemed to be life threatening.