Officials Announce Funding for Mental Health Services in Montclair

On May 7th, 2024, Montclair State University welcomed New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way and Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges for a special on-campus event. The purpose of their visit was to announce that New Jersey college students will have access to free teletherapy, crisis connection, and wellness programming 24/7/365 for the remainder of the Murphy Administration.

This initiative, launched a year ago, is the first of its kind in the state and is in partnership with mental health and wellness platform Uwill. Currently, 45 eligible institutions of higher education in New Jersey have opted into this partnership to provide support for their students.

During the event, Assemblywomen Linda Carter (D-22), Rosaura Bagolie (D-27), and Andrea Katz (D-8) joined Montclair President Jonathan Koppell and Counseling and Psychological Services Director Jaclyn Friedman-Lombardo in commending the initiative. Uwill Founder and CEO Michael London also shared remarks during the program.

President Koppell emphasized the importance of working together to ensure that everyone feels supported, especially during difficult times. He expressed gratitude for the state’s investment in services like Uwill, which will provide vital support to thousands of students statewide.

Friedman-Lombardo highlighted the benefits of the telehealth program in filling service gaps for students who commute, prefer virtual support, or need assistance outside of business hours. This partnership has allowed Counseling and Psychological Services at Montclair State University to focus on prevention, addressing crises, and more acute clinical issues.

For more information on Counseling and Psychological Services at Montclair State University, visit their department’s website.