College can be an exciting time filled with growth, independence and new opportunities, but it can also bring significant stress. Academic pressure, social transitions, financial concerns and being far from home can all take a toll on students’ mental health. Recognizing these challenges, Bucknell offers a range of mental health and well-being resources designed to meet students where they are. From professional counseling to peer support and self-guided wellness tools, these services reflect the University’s broader commitment to supporting students’ emotional, psychological and holistic well-being.
Counseling & Student Development Center (CSDC)
The Counseling & Student Development Center serves as the cornerstone of Bucknell’s mental health support system, providing free and confidential clinical services to students. Each year, roughly one in five Bucknell students access CSDC services, underscoring both the prevalence of mental health needs on campus and the importance of having accessible care. The CSDC operates with a brief, solution-focused model, offering support that helps students address concerns efficiently while developing strategies they can use beyond their time at Bucknell.
Students typically begin by scheduling a short initial phone consultation with a clinician. During this conversation, the clinician works collaboratively with the student to understand their concerns, assess safety and determine the most appropriate plan of care. Depending on individual needs, this plan may include brief individual counseling sessions on campus, referrals to off-campus providers or participation in group counseling. For students seeking in-person counseling, sessions are generally held every other week during the semester.
The CSDC also provides urgent care for students experiencing a mental health crisis. Students can call the center directly to request an urgent appointment and will be seen on a first-scheduled, first-served basis in a private and supportive environment. In addition to individual counseling, the CSDC offers psychiatric services, alcohol and other drug support, outreach programming, and self-help resources, making it a comprehensive hub for student mental health care.
Executive Functioning Pilot Program
For students who struggle with organization, time management or task initiation, Bucknell’s Executive Functioning (EF) Pilot Program offers targeted academic and wellness support. Hosted by the Office of Accessibility Resources, the program launched for the 2025-26 academic year to address skills that are essential for college success but often challenging for students with neurodiverse learning profiles.
Executive functioning refers to the mental processes that help individuals plan, focus, regulate emotions and follow through on tasks. These skills are particularly relevant for students with ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder or mood-related conditions that affect organization and motivation. Through the pilot program, participating students receive individualized support tailored to their academic goals and personal needs.
The program combines one-on-one coaching with professional staff, peer mentorship opportunities and practical skill-building strategies. Students may meet weekly or biweekly, either in person or virtually, and receive guidance on managing workloads, monitoring progress and developing sustainable systems for success. The program also emphasizes fostering independence and self-advocacy, helping students build confidence in navigating academic demands.
Participation in the EF Pilot Program is limited during its initial year, with referrals coming from the Office of Accessibility Resources, faculty, academic advisors or the Dean of Students office. Students may also request to be considered directly, making the program an important option for those seeking structured support beyond traditional counseling.
Trula Personal Wellness Coaching
For students interested in proactive, non-clinical support, Bucknell offers personal wellness coaching through Trula. This free resource focuses on helping students set goals, build healthy habits and navigate challenges related to overall well-being. Unlike traditional therapy, wellness coaching emphasizes self-directed change, with students working alongside trained peer coaches to identify priorities and develop strategies that align with their values.
Trula coaching sessions are one-on-one, virtual and conversational, creating a low-pressure environment where students can talk through topics such as stress management, motivation, balance and personal growth. Peer coaches are certified and trained to guide students through reflection and goal-setting while connecting them to additional resources when needed.
The Trula program is grounded in principles from positive psychology and integrative health, aiming to support students holistically rather than focusing solely on problems or diagnoses. By empowering students to take an active role in their well-being, wellness coaching offers an accessible entry point for those who may not feel ready for counseling but still want support.
Self-Help Resources from the CSDC
Recognizing that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, the CSDC also provides a wide range of self-help resources for students looking to support their well-being independently. These resources encourage everyday practices that promote mental and emotional health, from mindfulness exercises to stress-management techniques.
The CSDC’s self-help materials include guidance on clearing the mind, managing worries and incorporating relaxation into daily routines. Students are encouraged to make time for enjoyable activities, practice breathing exercises and experiment with meditation or grounding techniques to reduce stress. These resources also offer practical advice for addressing test anxiety and improving sleep habits.
In addition, the CSDC curates a list of apps, websites and digital tools that students can use on their own, such as meditation platforms, anxiety-management apps and sleep aids. While these tools are not a substitute for professional care, they provide accessible ways for students to check in with themselves and build healthy coping strategies.
Mental health challenges are common, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you are struggling yourself or notice changes in a friend’s behavior, Bucknell’s mental health resources are here to help. Students are encouraged to reach out to the Counseling & Student Development Center to explore available options or learn how to support someone in need.
