Held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12:00-12:30 at North Complex (follow the signs). Click here to reserve your space. Don't forget to bring your own towel for use on the Moon Pods!
Mindfulness is a mental state that involves being fully focused on “the now” so a person can accept their thoughts, feelings and sensations without judgement. It is a state of relaxed concentration and being in the present moment while working towards self-awareness. The purpose is mental, emotional and physical healing as well as day-to-day stress relief.
Learning mindfulness meditation is straightforward. It is a practice, so it’s never about being perfect! Guided mindfulness entails a facilitator providing direction and leading individuals through a series of steps in a quiet and comfortable space. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery and other practices to relax the body and mind. Especially useful for beginners, guided mindfulness takes the guesswork out of the mechanics of practice.
Peer Wellness Coaching is designed to help individual students through intentional goal setting and peer support. Peer Wellness Coaches meet with students on a one-on-one basis on a topic of their choice. The position of a Peer Wellness Coach represents a wide variety of responsibilities. Some functions of a coach include: leading and growing the Wellness Education and Prevention program, assisting and joining fellow students in their daily lives, and offering awareness and resources to combat common challenges. The Peer Wellness Coaches that are entrusted with this opportunity to serve their peers are people that bestow high communication skills and strive to live a well-balanced life.
Stress Management; Motivation; Sleep Hygiene; Boundaries/Relationships; Self-Confidence; Getting Connected; Time Management; Communication Skills
Kristen received both her undergraduate degree in Psychology/Sociology and her Masters of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest Missouri State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Kristen’s therapy interests are in supporting others as they experience challenges in the areas of relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA+, anxiety/depression, and personal growth.
Courtney received her Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Psychology from Northwest Missouri State University, and earned her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. She is a National Certified Counselor. She has special interest in helping those struggling with eating and body image concerns and reducing mental health stigma.
Dana received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Master Degree in Human & Community Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has experience working in Higher Education as well as community-based mental health agencies. Dana’s therapy interests includes a focus on diversity and inclusion, LGBTQ+, issues related to depression and anxiety, and working with veterans.
Rachel received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Alcohol and Drug Studies from Missouri Valley College, and earned her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. Rachel has been working in Higher Education since 2008. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. Rachel’s therapy interests include: career counseling, alcohol and substance abuse counseling, and issues related to anxiety and depression. During her free time, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, bike riding, reading, and traveling.
Hayston received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Northwest Missouri State and his Master’s Degree in Counseling from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before starting at Northwest, Hayston counseled as an intern at Peace Partnership in Lee’s Summit, MO. Hayston’s therapy interests include depression/anxiety, spiritual issues/faith development, personal growth, and relationships. Hayston spends his free time with his family and pets, watching/playing sports, fishing, and grilling.
Justice received his Bachelor’s degree in Communication from African Bible College, Malawi South-east Africa, and a Master’s Degree in Counseling obtained from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. Before starting at Northwest, he counseled at various agencies including Abundant Life Counseling Center in Lees Summit, MO, Peninsula Behavioral Health, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Health Department in Port Angeles, WA as well as Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center in Seattle, WA. Justice's therapeutic approach integrates various Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-DBT techniques as well as various Humanistic Approaches. Through these methods he is able to help clients understand themselves and their environments better, finding solutions to complex life situations, enjoy life in all its fullness and thrive.
Hello, I am Sy’Maih Smith. I’m from Kansas City, Missouri. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family studies from Northwest. I’m currently working on my masters in School Counseling. I am the Wellness Services Case Manager. My purpose here is to assist the needs of the counseling center and oversee the peer wellness coaching program. I love that Northwest has so many great people here who care and love their students. You will find your family here. I spend my free time socializing with friends, working out, watching the Chiefs, and listening to music.
Peer Wellness CoachingYou can call Wellness Services at (660) 562-1348, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm to request a consultation with a counselor. During your consultation, your counselor will refer you to a coach who can best meet your needs. |
CounselingYou can call Wellness Services at (660) 562-1348, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm to request a consultation with a counselor. During your consultation, your counselor will work with you to create a stepped care plan to help you meet your goals. |
Crisis ServicesIf you are in crisis, you can request to meet with a triage counselor at Wellness Services during business hours. After hours, please call the 24/7 Support Line at (888) 279-8188 or text HOME to 741741. |
Counseling is covered in your designated wellness fee. There is no additional cost for counseling visits.
There is no limit to the amount of times you can see a counselor. Your counselor will discuss recommended treatment options at your initial consultation.
Frequency of appointments is decided with your counselor, based on severity of symptoms, goals, and availability of additional resources.
Counseling services are confidential except for the following:
Your initial appointment will be made based on schedule availability. After your initial consultation, you can continue meeting with the same counselor or request to meet with a different counselor. Occasionally, your initial counselor will refer you to another counselor due to level of fit or specialty areas.
Typically, students are seen for their initial appointment within 7-10 days. If you are in crisis, you can call Wellness Services at (660) 562-1348, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm, to speak with the triage counselor. If it is after-hours, you can call the 24/7 Support Line at (888) 279-8188 or text HOME to 741741
Counseling is completely voluntary and you can stop attending at any time. It is recommended to let your counselor know if you no longer wish to continue counseling.
Yes, most students report feeling better or noticing improvement within four sessions.
