The program provides 24/7 mobile support for all students
Due to a recent change in counsellors at the Wellness Centre, Mount Allison has introduced a new virtual counselling service for students. Mt. A is partnering with Morneau Shepell, a Canadian human resources and technology company, to introduce the Student Support Program (My SSP). This program is available until December, when a new counsellor will be hired.
My SSP offers 24/7 mental health and well-being support for students. Students will be able to access articles, tools and student support advisors through the app, website or telephone. The student support advisors are master’s-level counsellors who are experienced in providing support for the unique challenges students may face. This program, which is offered at no cost to students, is completely confidential and integrates with existing campus resources.
Mt. A is not the first university to use My SSP. Many schools across Canada, including Saint Mary’s University, Lethbridge College, University of Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia Community College, University of Ottawa and Université de Moncton, offer access to My SSP.
This new service can benefit students in a variety of ways. At Mt. A, counsellors are not always immediately available, but My SSP is. Additionally, students who may be struggling to leave home or who may be uncomfortable seeing a counsellor can now have access to support from their residence room, apartment or home.
Until a new counsellor is hired at the Wellness Centre, this program will hopefully help reduce the wait time for students who want to see a counsellor in person.
