Teletherapy and In-Person Therapy for Students at Auburn University at Montgomery
At Taproot Therapy Collective, we understand the unique challenges faced by college students and staff at Auburn University at Montgomery. Our team of skilled therapists offers both teletherapy and in-person options to support your mental health journey during these important years of growth and transition.
Understanding the Unique Mental Health Needs of AUM Students
Auburn University at Montgomery's diverse student population faces a unique set of challenges that can impact mental health and well-being. With approximately 5,200 students enrolled as of Fall 2023, AUM serves a wide range of individuals, each with their own specific needs and circumstances.
The College Mental Health Landscape
College students today face unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The transition to university life, academic pressures, financial concerns, and social challenges can all contribute to mental health difficulties. For many students, these years represent a critical period when mental health conditions may first emerge or intensify.
Unique Challenges Facing AUM Students and Staff
Non-Traditional Students
AUM serves a significant population of non-traditional students who are balancing academics with work and family responsibilities. These additional obligations can create unique stressors and time management challenges that may impact mental health.
Military-Affiliated Students
With Maxwell Air Force Base nearby, AUM has a notable population of military-affiliated students who may be navigating the complex transition between military and academic life, sometimes while dealing with service-related trauma or adjustment issues.
Regional Disaster Impact
Students in the Montgomery area may be dealing with the aftermath of regional natural disasters, which can cause disruption, displacement, and trauma that impact academic performance and mental well-being.
Urban Campus Setting
The urban setting of AUM presents both opportunities and challenges, with students potentially facing urban stressors including housing insecurity, transportation difficulties, and adapting to city life.
First-Generation College Students
Many AUM students are the first in their families to attend college, which can bring additional pressures, expectations, and challenges navigating academic systems without family guidance.
International Students
AUM's international student population faces unique challenges including cultural adjustment, language barriers, homesickness, and navigating unfamiliar healthcare systems when seeking mental health support.
Mental Health Statistics Relevant to Alabama College Students
Understanding the prevalence and impact of mental health challenges among college students and Alabama residents provides important context for addressing these issues effectively:
During the 2020–2021 school year, more than 60% of college students nationwide met the criteria for at least one mental health problem.
42% of college students have expressed the need for help with mental health difficulties in the last year, but more than 60% have never received counseling or therapy.
Approximately 41% of adults in Alabama sought medical treatment for mental health issues between 2017 and 2019.
The suicide mortality rate is almost more than four times greater for males compared to females (26.6 deaths compared to 6.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Alabama.
Source: Alabama Public Health
In 2019, suicide was the twelfth leading cause of death in Alabama, highlighting the critical importance of accessible mental health resources.
Source: Alabama Public Health
Why These Statistics Matter
These numbers highlight the critical need for accessible, effective mental health services for college students. At Taproot Therapy Collective, we're committed to addressing these challenges through specialized treatment approaches designed specifically for college students and young adults.
Mental Health Resources Available at AUM and in Montgomery
Auburn University at Montgomery offers several on-campus resources to support student mental health. These services provide an important foundation, and Taproot Therapy Collective serves as a complementary resource for students who may benefit from specialized treatment approaches or more flexible scheduling options.
On-Campus Resources
AUM Counseling and Health Promotion Services
Located in the Wellness Center (Moore Hall), this service provides:
- Individual counseling sessions
- Group therapy options
- Crisis intervention
- Mental health workshops and outreach programs
- Wellness promotion activities
For more information, visit the AUM Counseling Services website.
AUM Student Health Services
Provides basic medical care and can assist with referrals to mental health specialists when needed. Located in the Wellness Center (Moore Hall).
For more information, visit the AUM Health Services website.
AUM Student Affairs
Offers support services and can assist students in navigating resources both on and off campus.
For more information, visit the AUM Campus Life website.
Montgomery Area Resources
Montgomery Area Mental Health Authority
Provides comprehensive mental health services to Montgomery County residents, including counseling, psychiatric services, and crisis intervention.
Phone: (334) 279-7830
Website: www.mamha.org
Alabama Department of Mental Health
Offers resources, referrals, and information about mental health services throughout the state.
Website: mh.alabama.gov
Crisis Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Montgomery Area Mental Health Authority Crisis Line: (334) 279-7830
- For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room
Specialized Teletherapy for AUM Students
Why Teletherapy Works for College Students
Teletherapy offers flexibility, privacy, and convenience that aligns perfectly with the demanding schedules of college students. No need to worry about transportation or fitting appointments between classes—connect with your therapist from anywhere with internet access.
Taproot Therapy Collective offers specialized teletherapy services designed specifically for the unique needs of college students at Auburn University at Montgomery. Our approach combines evidence-based treatments with the convenience and accessibility of virtual sessions.
Flexible Scheduling
We understand that college schedules can be unpredictable and demanding. Our teletherapy services offer flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate your academic commitments, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities.
Secure and Confidential
Our teletherapy platform meets all HIPAA compliance standards, ensuring your privacy and confidentiality. Sessions take place in a secure virtual environment where you can speak freely without concerns about being overheard or recognized.
Continuation of Care
With teletherapy, you can maintain consistent treatment even during semester breaks, holidays, or when you return to your hometown. This continuity is crucial for long-term mental health improvement and support.
Specialized College-Focused Therapy
Our therapists understand the unique pressures of college life—academic stress, identity development, relationship challenges, career anxiety, and the transition to independence. We tailor our approaches to address these specific concerns.
Our Teletherapy Specialists
Expert Therapists Available via Telehealth
All of our telehealth providers are licensed in Alabama and specialize in working with college students and young adults. Each therapist brings a unique approach and specialized training to support your mental health journey.
Pamela Hayes, MSW LMSW
Pamela is a skilled clinical social worker offering teletherapy services to clients across Alabama. She specializes in supporting adults recovering from complex PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
For students with overlapping anxiety and attention difficulties, she offers specialized approaches addressing both anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Her non-pathologizing style blends experiential techniques with evidence-based modalities.
Teletherapy Specialties:
- Brainspotting
- Somatic Experiencing
- Lifespan Integration
- EMDR
- Student anxiety and academic stress
Dr. Haley Beech, PhD MSW LMSW
Dr. Haley Beech specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma. With a strong focus on treating the whole person, Dr. Beech incorporates somatic and experiential modalities to help clients navigate through trauma held in the body and emotions.
For students experiencing anxiety and depression, she may discuss both therapeutic approaches and medication options when appropriate. Her compassionate approach creates a safe space for healing and transformation.
Teletherapy Specialties:
- Brainspotting
- Academic and performance anxiety
- Identity development and personal growth
- Trauma-informed care
- Depression and mood disorders
Becky Milstead, LPC
Becky Milstead is a seasoned therapist with over 20 years of experience helping teenagers, young adults, and families heal trauma and learn to communicate effectively.
Becky's approach centers around each person's personality and unique needs, creating a safe space to be seen and heard. She incorporates engaging activities and teaches DBT skills to help young adults recognize and regulate their emotions.
Teletherapy Specialties:
- DBT skills training
- Transition to college and adulthood
- Family communication issues
- Emotion regulation
- Academic stress management
Marie Danner, LICSW-S MSW CCTP-II
Marie Danner is a seasoned trauma therapist who employs a multi-modal approach to create personalized treatment plans for each client. She specializes in helping college students navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Her therapeutic toolbox includes multiple evidence-based approaches that can be effectively delivered via telehealth, creating a comfortable space for students to explore their challenges from the privacy of their own environment.
Teletherapy Specialties:
- Brainspotting
- Lifespan Integration
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Anxiety and stress management
- Trauma processing
Kristi Wood, LICSW MSW PIP
Kristi develops personalized treatment plans that incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), attachment theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for college students to explore their experiences and work towards lasting change.
Kristi is an EMDR and Brainspotting trained therapist who understands the unique pressures facing today's college students, from academic stress to social media pressures and career uncertainty.
Teletherapy Specialties:
- Brainspotting
- EMDR
- Substance use concerns
- Anxiety and depression
- Identity exploration
Our Hybrid Therapy Approach for AUM Students
While many therapeutic approaches can be effectively delivered through teletherapy, some specialized treatments benefit from occasional in-person sessions. At Taproot Therapy Collective, we offer a unique hybrid approach that allows AUM students to combine the convenience of teletherapy with targeted in-person sessions when needed.
The Best of Both Worlds
Our hybrid approach gives you the flexibility to maintain consistent therapy through teletherapy while accessing specialized in-person treatments when they would be most beneficial. This approach is particularly valuable for students with complex trauma, severe anxiety, or specific treatment needs.
Treatment Modalities by Delivery Method
Available via Teletherapy
- Somatic Therapy
- EMDR
- Brainspotting (most forms)
- Lifespan Integration
- Parts-Based Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
Best Delivered In-Person
- Emotional Transformation Therapy
- Advanced Brainspotting techniques
- QEEG Brain Mapping
- Neurostimulation
- Neurofeedback
- Group therapy sessions
Our office is located in Birmingham, approximately 60 miles from the AUM campus. While this makes regular in-person sessions impractical for many students, our hybrid model allows you to schedule occasional in-person visits for specialized treatments while maintaining consistent support through teletherapy.
Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches for College Students
At Taproot Therapy Collective, we utilize a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches specifically selected to address the common mental health challenges facing college students:
Anxiety & Academic Stress
College students often experience heightened anxiety related to academic performance, time management, and future uncertainty. We offer specialized approaches including EMDR for anxiety, Brainspotting, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help manage these pressures.
Trauma & PTSD
Many students enter college with previous traumas or experience traumatic events during their college years. Our trauma-informed approaches include somatic therapy, EMDR, and Lifespan Integration to process these experiences and reduce their impact.
Depression & Mood Disorders
College can trigger or exacerbate depression and other mood disorders. We offer comprehensive approaches that address both the neurobiological and psychological aspects of these conditions, including nutritional approaches when appropriate.
Identity & Personal Growth
College is a critical time for identity development and personal growth. Our therapists utilize approaches like parts-based therapy and Jungian psychotherapy to support this important developmental process.
Attention & Focus Challenges
Many college students struggle with attention and focus issues, whether due to ADHD or other factors. We offer specialized approaches for ADHD and anxiety, including cognitive strategies, mindfulness techniques, and neurofeedback when appropriate.
Relationship & Social Challenges
College relationships can be complex and challenging, whether with roommates, romantic partners, or family members. Our therapists help students navigate these dynamics and develop healthy relationship skills that will serve them throughout life.
Ready to Get Started? Here's How
Taking the first step toward mental health support can feel overwhelming, but we've made the process as simple and straightforward as possible:
- Initial Contact: Reach out to us through our contact form or by calling our office. Let us know you're an AUM student interested in teletherapy services.
- Brief Consultation: We'll arrange a brief phone consultation to understand your needs and match you with the right therapist for your specific situation.
- Insurance & Payment: We'll discuss insurance coverage and payment options. We accept many major insurance plans and offer affordable self-pay rates for students.
- Schedule Your First Session: Once matched with a therapist, you'll receive instructions for accessing our secure teletherapy platform and schedule your first appointment.
- Begin Your Journey: Start your therapy journey with the support of a dedicated mental health professional who understands the unique challenges of college life.
Most students can begin therapy within 1-2 weeks of initial contact, and we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy academic schedules.
Contact Us TodayDisclaimer: Taproot Therapy Collective is a private mental health practice and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Auburn University at Montgomery. We are an independent business offering mental health services to AUM students and staff, among others in the community. There is no formal business relationship between Taproot Therapy Collective and Auburn University at Montgomery. This page is provided as an informational resource for AUM students and staff seeking additional mental health support options.