Counseling Services

The intense experience of law school can sometimes surface physical or mental health challenges, and UB School of Law students aren’t immune. Now, in a time when society in general is more aware of these concerns, the school continues to expand its efforts to make help readily available to students who need it.

The newest addition is an in-house counselor – Thomas J. Neill, an experienced licensed clinical social worker – who’ll be in O’Brian Hall as a front-line resource for students seeking help.

Accessing Counseling Services at the Law School
If a student needs counseling support, they may call UB’s Counseling Services (716-645-2720) to schedule a same-day needs assessment.

Needs Assessments: Currently, needs assessments are conducted over the phone. There are a limited number of phone appointments available daily so students are encouraged to call as early as possible. Phone lines open at 8:30 a.m. daily and appointments are available throughout the day. A student must be registered for courses during the semester they are seeking services. For example, a student seeking services during the summer must be registered for summer courses.

Referral to Law School’s Counselor: If referred to individual counseling after Needs Assessment, eligible law students can receive brief counseling at 216 O’Brian Hall, inside the Law Library. To access this option, the student should let the assessment counselor know if they prefer that counseling take place at the School of Law.  

If a student prefers not to have services at the School of Law, or if a student’s availability does not match the counselor at that location, the student may request to meet with the counselor at one of our other locations or may opt to see a different counselor. There are also teletherapy options at this time.

Crisis Services: Crisis appointments will not be available at the School of Law location. Crisis appointments are available during the day - via phone - by contacting Counseling Services at 716-645-2720. Students may also call UB Campus Police at 716-645-2222 or Erie County Crisis Services at 716-834-3131.

If a student experiences a crisis while meeting with the law school-embedded counselor, the counselor will follow existing UB Counseling Services policies to manage the crisis but may also ask for assistance from law school staff in the building.

UB's Student Wellness Education Services can provide help with nutritional counseling, smoking cessation, stress reduction and other issues.

The New York State Bar Association’s Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) provides education and confidential assistance to lawyers, judges, law school students, and immediate family members who are affected by the problem of substance abuse, stress, depression or other mental health issues.  Its goal is to assist in the prevention, early identification, and intervention of problems that can affect professional conduct and quality of life. All LAP services are confidential and protected under Section 499 of the Judiciary Law.

For assistance, call 1-800-255-0569.

Established by the Erie County Bar Association, the Lawyers Helping Lawyers (LHL) Committee provides a confidential channel of communication for attorneys and judges experiencing alcohol or drug-related difficulties.

Lawyers with Depression is a confidential support group for those struggling with depression in the legal profession, giving lawyers a place to share and find support for their depression while practicing law.

Mental health is a key part of your overall health. Brief screenings are the quickest way to determine if you or someone you care about should connect with a mental health professional - they are a checkup from your neck up.

This program is completely anonymous and confidential and, immediately following the brief questionnaire, you will see your results, recommendations, and key resources.