Frequently Asked Questions

Before introducing counseling, validate their concerns, remind them that we all need help in our lives, and normalize the counseling experience.
Remind your student about our free, confidential services (if via email, you can send them a link to our webpage).
Students can call or email the Counseling Center to make an appointment themselves, or you can suggest facilitating that introduction.
If you are making the introduction remotely, you can send a brief introductory email to counselingcenter@bmcc.cuny.edu and copy the student.
If on campus during business hours, students can walk in to Room S-343 and make an appointment, or you can accompany the student to the Center if you feel that is helpful.

Crying is a normal part of life and does not necessarily indicate the need for mental health services.
Talk to your student to find out what is going on. If they express a high level of distress or a desire for support beyond what you can offer, inform them of our services.
Sometimes students just need someone to listen and care.
If the conversation feels too intense or difficult to manage, or if the student seems to be getting more upset as they speak, a referral to counseling might be appropriate.

Speak with your student to gather more information. If you are referring a student in crisis, contact the Counseling Center to alert us of the issue as the student may not fully report the severity of the situation.
Trust your instincts. Ask the student if they have ever considered ending their life, if this feels appropriate.
A student who is having suicidal thoughts should be referred to the Counseling Center immediately. Students in crisis will be seen as soon as they are referred during business hours.
NYC WELL is available 24/7 for free, confidential crisis support: 1-888-NYC-WELL. This is a great resource to give any student even if you have also referred them to the Counseling Center.
BMCC Public Safety is also available for 24-hour support: (212) 220-8080

BART addresses conduct issues (threatening, disruptive behavior, rule-breaking, etc.); Counseling is one of many departments of the college in consultation with BART.
BART referral will bring the student to the attention of the college, but not always the Counseling Center.
Counseling Center referrals are confidential and will not be shared with the larger college community.

Everyone has the ability to be caring and make a positive difference in a student’s life.
Sometimes simply listening to a student can make a big difference.
People thrive with connection – when you show that your student matters, you can make a positive impact in their lives.
Students often confide in their professors because they feel comfortable.
It is important to make boundaries clear and limits to how you can be helpful should be set.

Remember that you are the authority in the classroom. You set the rules and create the boundaries.
If a student is disruptive, schedule an individual meeting with them and let them know your concern and potential consequences.
If you continue to be concerned, fill out a BART report and the appropriate departments will reach out with assistance.

Ask your student directly; following up with your student shows you care.
Counseling Center services are confidential; they are not part of the student’s academic record. We cannot disclose any information about your student, not even whether they made an appointment or attended a session.

If you are concerned about a student and are unsure of how to help, reach out to the Counseling Center for assistance.
Additional information can be found on the BMCC Counseling Center webpage.
Threatening, disruptive or dangerous behavior should be reported to the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity at (212) 220-8000 ext. 5298 or email: studentconduct@bmcc.cuny.edu.