By Ashlyn Beck | Staff Writer
The Baylor Counseling Center is a free resource on campus that offers students a safe and honest environment where they can connect with others.
Dr. Randal Boldt, senior psychologist and senior associate director, has worked in the Counseling Center for 16 years. He said the center’s current mission is to combat what Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called “an epidemic of isolation and loneliness” with “the healing effects of social connection and community.”
“I can meet with people who are struggling and help them find their path through that — not just through the struggle but toward thriving and resiliency,” Boldt said. “They tap into their own gifts and connect, celebrate and enjoy life there.”
Dr. Kallie Kobold, psychologist and director of outreach, said the heart of the Counseling Center is helping students find a way to connect with themselves and others. Students can participate in one-on-one therapy, group sessions or anonymous online counseling, but the goal is for them to make connections.
“Counseling and therapy can be a way to slow down, be present and listen to what’s actually going on and what you want for yourself,” Kobold said. “Our goal is to be able to provide that through whatever avenue that may be. We just want for people to get connected where they are.”
According to Boldt and Kobold, a unique tool the Counseling Center is using this fall is Togetherall. In addition to providing 24/7 care, this online platform is a space for students to receive and offer support to their peers anonymously. Togetherall is constantly supervised by licensed counselors who can provide care at any time.
“When peers connect with each other, it is really powerful,” Kobold said.
Kobold said one of the greatest strengths of the Counseling Center is simply being available. It is constantly growing to meet the needs of the student body, and the online platform Togetherall is just one example.
“We want students to have access to mental health support,” Kobold said. “Not everybody is ready to come to the Counseling Center or needs the Counseling Center. They really just want to connect with peers.”
Boldt said the Counseling Center ensures students’ needs are met during a time in their lives that can be particularly stressful and anxiety-inducing.
“We understand the struggles, and we are not here to judge, but to give you a safe place to connect,” Boldt said. “We are on your side.”
In addition to the Counseling Center and Togetherall, one resource that is always available to students is the suicide hotline, which can be reached by calling 9-8-8.
According to the Counseling Center website, students can schedule appointments by walking in, calling the number or going online through the Health Portal.
