PP Language Lessons
EasyHealthOctober 14, 2025

Therapists on Campus: What 'Embedded' Care Means for Students

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Key Vocabulary

therapist /ˈθɛrəpɪst/

A trained person who helps with mental health.
Example: The therapist met the student in the dorm.

drop-in /ˈdrɒp.ɪn/

A short visit without an appointment.
Example: I had a drop-in visit at the hall office.

resident assistant /ˌrɛzɪdənt əˈsɪstənt/

A student leader who helps others in a dorm.
Example: The resident assistant gave the student a referral.

📖 Article

Many colleges now place embedded therapists in residence halls and academic buildings. These therapists work near students so it is easier to meet them where they live and study.

The therapists offer drop-in sessions, short individual visits, group meetings, and help for resident assistants who find students in crisis. The goal is to make mental health care easier to use and to extend hours beyond the main counseling center. Virginia Tech started its dorm-based program in fall 2022, and Penn State began an embedded counselor program in 2016. Students often meet counselors for one to three visits or use drop-in hours.

101 words

❓ Quiz

Q1. Where do embedded therapists work?
Q2. When did Virginia Tech start its dorm-based program?
Q3. How many visits do students often meet counselors for?

💬 Discussion

1.

Do you feel it would be easier to see a counselor if they worked near your dorm? Why or why not?

2.

Have you ever used a drop-in service at school or work? What happened?

3.

What do you think student leaders (resident assistants) need when they meet a student in distress?