Teletherapy and Therapy for Students at University of West Alabama
Supporting the unique mental health needs of UWA students and staff
Understanding UWA Student Mental Health Needs
University of West Alabama at a Glance
University of West Alabama serves approximately 5,000 students with unique mental health challenges and needs in a rural campus setting in Livingston, Alabama.
Key Mental Health Challenges for UWA Students
- Academic pressure and stress from rigorous programs
- Transition challenges for first-year students
- Anxiety and depression intensified by COVID-19 pandemic effects
- Rural location and limited local resources
- Student-athlete mental health challenges
- Financial stress and concerns
- Homesickness for students far from home
- Online learning adjustment challenges
- Career readiness and post-graduation planning
Unique Mental Health Factors at UWA
- Rural Campus Setting: Limited access to off-campus resources may create challenges for students seeking services
- Division II Athletic Program: Student-athletes face unique pressures balancing sports and academics
- First-Generation Students: Many UWA students are first in their families to attend college
- Online Programs: Distance learning students have unique support needs
- Diverse Student Body: Students from various backgrounds need culturally sensitive support
- Career-Focused Programs: Students in nursing, education, and business programs face program-specific stressors
- Campus Housing: Roommate challenges and dormitory living adjustment
- Small-Town Environment: Limited entertainment and social options
- Post-Pandemic Challenges: Ongoing adjustment to new academic and social realities
Mental Health Resources at University of West Alabama
On-Campus Resources
- UWA Counseling Services: Located in Foust Hall, UWA Counseling Services provides free, confidential counseling to all enrolled students. Services include individual counseling, group counseling, and crisis intervention. Call (205) 652-3651 to schedule an appointment.
- Student Health Services: Provides physical health support and can make referrals for mental health services. Located in Webb Hall Room 102. Call (205) 652-3623 for information.
- UWA Campus Police: Available 24/7 for emergency situations, including mental health crises. Call (205) 652-3602 for non-emergencies or 911 for emergencies.
- Office of Student Life: Provides support and advocacy for students experiencing difficulties. Located in Webb Hall Room 310. Contact (205) 652-3581.
- UWA CARES Team: A multidisciplinary team that addresses concerns about students in distress. Submit a concern through the UWA website.
Local & Regional Mental Health Resources
- West Alabama Mental Health Center: Provides comprehensive mental health services for the region.
Phone: (205) 652-3835
Address: 1215 South Mulberry Avenue, Livingston, AL 35470 - DCH Regional Medical Center: Provides emergency psychiatric services and inpatient care.
Phone: (205) 759-7111
Address: 809 University Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
National Crisis Resources
- Crisis Text Line: Available 24/7, students can text "HOME" to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Available 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
Call or text: 988
Website: 988lifeline.org - The Trevor Project: Crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text "START" to 678678
Website: thetrevorproject.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: Provides support for individuals facing domestic violence or abuse.
Call: 1-800-799-7233
Chat online at thehotline.org
When to Seek Help
College is a time of significant transition and stress. Consider reaching out for support if you're experiencing:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm
- Difficulty concentrating or completing academic tasks
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Increased use of alcohol or substances to cope
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Early intervention can prevent mental health challenges from affecting your academic success and wellbeing.
Taproot Therapy Collective: Holistic Approach for UWA Students
At Taproot Therapy Collective, we understand the unique challenges faced by University of West Alabama students and staff. Our therapists offer flexible, evidence-based treatment options through both teletherapy and in-person sessions.
Our Hybrid Approach
We provide convenient teletherapy for busy student schedules, while also offering in-person sessions for treatments that benefit from face-to-face interaction. This flexibility allows you to receive the most effective care for your specific needs while accommodating the demanding schedules of academic life.
Specialized Services for UWA Students
Academic Stress Support
Specialized teletherapy focused on managing stress from rigorous academic programs and transitioning to college-level work.
Learn MoreStudent-Athlete Support
Tailored therapy for UWA athletes dealing with performance pressure, injury recovery, and balancing sports with academics.
Learn MoreRural & Distance Student Support
Support for students dealing with isolation in rural settings or navigating online learning challenges.
Learn MoreFirst-Generation Student Support
Specialized support for first-generation college students navigating unique challenges and family expectations.
Learn MoreCareer & Future Planning
Support for students exploring career directions and managing anxiety about post-graduation transitions.
Learn MoreAvailable Therapy Modalities
Teletherapy Options
These evidence-based therapies are fully effective via secure online sessions:
- Somatic Therapy Online Available
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Online Available
- Brainspotting Online Available
- Lifespan Integration Online Available
- Parts-Based Therapy Online Available
These therapies are especially beneficial for UWA students dealing with academic stress, anxiety, and pandemic-related mental health challenges.
In-Person Therapies
These specialized treatments are optimally delivered through in-person sessions:
- Emotional Transformation Therapy In-Person
- Advanced Brainspotting Techniques In-Person
- QEEG Brain Mapping In-Person
- Neurostimulation In-Person
Our Birmingham office is accessible for UWA students seeking these specialized in-person treatments.
Benefits for UWA Students
- Flexible Scheduling: Evening and weekend appointments to accommodate class, practice, and work schedules.
- Specialized Experience: Our therapists understand the unique pressures of rural university education and student-athlete demands.
- Cultural Competence: Support for diverse students navigating various identity and cultural challenges. [Learn More]
- Pandemic Response: Targeted approaches for students still dealing with the aftermath of COVID-19 on mental health and academic performance. [Learn More]
- Burnout Prevention: Specialized techniques for managing academic stress and preventing burnout. [Learn More]
- Distance Learning Support: Tailored approaches for online students facing unique challenges. [Learn More]
- Anxiety Management: Evidence-based treatments for anxiety and depression commonly reported among college students. [Learn More]
- Secure Platform: HIPAA-compliant teletherapy ensures your privacy and confidentiality.
Meet Our Therapists
Our experienced therapists specialize in supporting college students and academic professionals. All offer teletherapy options with flexible scheduling.
Pamela Hayes, MSW, LMSW
EMDR & Somatic Therapy
Specializes in helping students navigate academic stress and trauma with evidence-based approaches.
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Dr. Haley Beech, PhD, MSW, LMSW
Women's Issues & Perinatal Health
Expertise in perinatal health, medical trauma, and helping parents of children with disabilities.
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Becky Milstead, LPC
Teen & Family Therapy
With over 20 years experience helping teenagers and families heal trauma and improve communication.
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James Waites, LICSW, MSW
Student-Athlete Support & Career Coaching
Specializes in helping student-athletes overcome pressure, burnout, and navigate career transitions.
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Kristi Wood, LICSW, MSW, PIP
QEEG & Neurostimulation
Advanced brain-based approaches for students dealing with anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and depression.
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Kristan Baer, LMSW, MSW, SEP
Somatic Experiencing & Trauma
Specializes in trauma-focused therapy helping clients heal from PTSD, anxiety, and depression through a body-centered approach.
View ProfileReady to Take the First Step?
Contact us to learn how our therapists can support your mental health journey at University of West Alabama.
Contact UsWhat to Expect
- ✓ Discussion of your current challenges
- ✓ Overview of therapy approaches that might help
- ✓ Information about our teletherapy platform
- ✓ Information about rates and insurance options
- ✓ Guidance on scheduling your first appointment
Please contact us for current rates and appointment availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does teletherapy work for University of West Alabama students?
Our teletherapy sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. You'll need a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. Many UWA students complete sessions from their dorm rooms (when roommates are out), apartments, or even in private study rooms in Ralph Wadkins Learning Center. Sessions are just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns.
How is your service different from UWA's counseling services?
While UWA's Counseling Services offers valuable resources, as a private practice we provide specialized treatment modalities, flexibility in scheduling, and the option to continue therapy even during semester breaks or after graduation. We're also an excellent option for students who may prefer working with a therapist outside of the university system.
Can you work with my academic challenges specific to UWA?
Absolutely. Our therapists are familiar with UWA's academic environment and the specific stressors faced by students in various programs. We've worked with students from the College of Business, College of Education, College of Liberal Arts, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and the Division of Nursing.
Will my professors or UWA administration know I'm in therapy?
No. Your therapy is completely confidential. As an independent practice, we do not share any information with University of West Alabama unless you provide explicit written permission. The only exceptions to confidentiality are standard legal requirements related to imminent safety concerns.
Do you offer special support for student-athletes?
Yes. We understand the unique pressures faced by UWA student-athletes. Our therapists are experienced in working with athletes on issues such as performance anxiety, injury recovery, team dynamics, identity beyond sports, and balancing athletic commitments with academic responsibilities.
Can I continue therapy when I return home during breaks?
Absolutely. One of the major benefits of our teletherapy services is that you can continue your sessions from anywhere in Alabama during breaks or when you return home. This provides valuable continuity in your mental health care throughout your college journey.
Teletherapy Services Across Alabama
At Taproot Therapy Collective, we're committed to making expert mental health care accessible throughout Alabama. Our therapists provide professional teletherapy services that bring specialized care directly to you, wherever you are in the state.
Teletherapy Available in These Alabama Locations
We offer teletherapy across the state of Alabama and in these major cities: Dothan, Vestavia Hills, Madison, Prattville, Mountain Brook, Homewood, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, Florence, Birmingham, Auburn, and Mobile, Alabama.
Benefits of Teletherapy for UWA Students
- Convenience: Access expert therapy from your dorm, apartment, or anywhere with internet access
- Accessibility: No need to commute or travel, especially important in UWA's rural setting
- Consistency: Maintain your therapeutic relationship even during semester breaks or holidays
- Privacy: Receive care in a space where you feel most comfortable and secure
- Specialized Care: Connect with specialists who may not be available in Livingston
Our secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform ensures your sessions remain private and confidential, providing the same quality of care you would receive in person.
Learn More About TeletherapyInsurance & Payment Options
Insurance Plans
Please contact us to inquire about accepted insurance plans and coverage verification.
We'll be happy to help you understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Self-Pay Options
For students without insurance coverage or those who prefer not to use insurance:
- Please inquire about our current session rates
- Ask about possible sliding scale options based on financial need
- Information on package rates for multiple sessions is available upon request
We're committed to making mental health care accessible for all University of West Alabama students.