Counseling Center

Our Mission

We our a team of dedicated mental health counselors who are committed to helping students improve their psychological well-being, develop a sense of belonging, and achieve both personal and academic success. We embrace diversity and aim to provide a safe space for all students.

What We Do

• Personal Counseling: Professional and confidential mental health counseling, at no cost to all OCC and Kean-Ocean students. Counseling is provided within a short-term, solution-focused framework, and referrals are provided for continued care as needed. Students often come for issues such as emotional or social difficulties, symptoms of anxiety and depression, academic concerns, relationship problems, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, substance use and addiction.
• Crisis Intervention: Trained and professionally licensed counselors are available to respond to psychiatric emergencies on campus. Counselors will intervene at any on-campus location if a student cannot be safely transported to our office. The primary goal of crisis intervention is to de-escalate the crisis, support the student in distress, initiate necessary crisis response services, and maintain the safety of all involved.
• Prevention: Promoting the overall health and wellness of all students and members of our community. Prevention programs at OCC are designed to raise awareness, fight stigma, educate, and encourage healthy choices. Primary topics include: suicide, substance abuse, addiction, domestic and sexual violence, and mental health awareness.
• Consultation: Counselors are available to provide information and guidance for faculty and staff in responding to behavioral or mental health difficulties in the classroom or in other direct interactions with students.
• Workshops, Education, and Training: Counselors provide expertise in the areas of mental health and wellness to assist the campus community in supporting student success.

What to Expect

Talking to a counselor for the first time can be overwhelming and we understand that. We are here to help you feel more comfortable in the process. Your first appointment will likely consist of a review of paperwork, telling your counselor the reason you are seeking help, and starting to work on a plan together that will help you towards a solution. Your counselor will also ask you several questions about any high-risk concerns as part of a routine assessment. No matter what the concern that brings you to our office, you can be sure you will receive professional care in a private, nonjudgmental setting.