UCF Hillel students explore mental health wellness with JFS

Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando continues to partner with Central Florida Hillel to better meet the mental health needs of UCF students.

Since last August, JFS Orlando therapist Shaina White Williams, MSW has been available for open counseling hours at Hillel. She meets with students for one-on-one support on-campus and virtually, developing a sessions timeline that is therapeutically appropriate for each student. She and a partner therapist also provide group therapy during monthly Wellness Workshops. Williams has become a familiar face for students in the UCF Hillel community by also attending weekly Hillel programs like Shabbat dinners, Market Wednesdays, and other social gatherings.

During this past semester’s Wellness Workshops, students started exploring different topics, including self-care, the impact of social media, how to work toward a growth mindset, change as our constant, and stress management. A recent workshop ended with a three-minute dance party that helped students recognize the impact a little physical movement and music can have on one’s mood and anxiety — a fabulous self-care tactic. This semester concluded successfully with a Wellness Walk around campus along with sessions on mindfulness and deep breathing.

“There is a clear demand for access to therapy, and our partnership has proven to be a helpful aid for Hillel students,” said Williams. “Our goal is for small changes and tweaks to add up and help students not just survive their college experience, but to thrive.”

To learn more about JFS Orlando and their partnership with UCF Hillel, visit http://www.JFSorlando.org or follow them on social media @JFSorlando.