In an effort to help students prioritize their mental and physical health, the Health and Wellness Center now offers venting hours to provide students with a comfortable space where they feel heard and validated. 

According to Jennah Nitti, a third year clinical social work intern in the Health and Wellness Center, venting is short-term and solution-focused, allowing individuals to share feelings with a trusted person to relieve emotional tension. In contrast, therapy provides long-term care and support, fostering personal growth and lasting change through a continuous journey of learning guided by a professional.

Students can attend venting hours during designated times which are 1-4 p.m. on Mondays and 1- 3 p.m. on Tuesdays. During these hours, a clinical social work intern will be available to listen without judgment, focusing on immediate emotional relief and stress alleviation. While conversations are informal, they do not substitute for therapy; instead, they offer a chance to discuss concerns and receive supportive feedback.

Flyers are posted around campus, providing information about available services, while QR codes make it easy for students to access details or schedule appointments. The Health and Wellness Center is dedicated to ensuring health services accessible to all students through various outreach efforts.  

“The goals of the Health and Wellness Center are to provide robust support to students, actively engage them in wellness initiatives, and promote a culture of safety and awareness on campus,” Nitti said. 

The Health and Wellness Center offers free counseling services to all Utica students, available both online and in-person by appointment. These services are designed to support students’ mental health and well-being, ensuring they have access to professional guidance when needed. To schedule an appointment students can call, email or use Calendly links of staff in the Health and Wellness Center.

If students have questions about venting hours, they can contact the Health and Wellness Center at [email protected] or 315-792-3094.