Health & Wellness
Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being is crucial for maintaining balance during your law school journey. At Baylor Law School, we believe your health is as important as your academic success. By prioritizing wellness, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands placed on lawyers and develop healthy habits that will support you throughout your legal career. Whether you’re seeking counseling, mental health resources, or ways to stay active, Baylor Law School offers various services to help you thrive.
Dispelling the Myth
Are you worried about how seeking help for mental health or substance-related issues might affect your bar application? You’re not alone. The Texas Board of Law Examiners encourages applicants to seek appropriate help without fear. You are not required to report diagnoses or treatment for mental health conditions, substance abuse, or addiction. The Board collaborates with the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) to support applicants who need assistance. If you have any concerns or questions about this process, please contact Katherine Sims, our Director of Student Life, at Katherine_Sims@baylor.edu.
Confidentiality and Support
Baylor is committed to maintaining your privacy. If you need help, both the Baylor Counseling Center and TLAP offer confidential services. The Counseling Center’s records are private and do not become part of your academic file. Additionally, TLAP operates under strict confidentiality, safeguarded by Texas law Section 467.007 of the Texas Health and Safety Code). This ensures that your information is not shared with any disciplinary agency, the State Bar, or the Texas Board of Law Examiners without your explicit consent.
If you’re navigating mental health concerns, reach out—you’re not alone.
Student Wellness Organization (SWO)
Our Student Wellness Organization (SWO) promotes a healthy and supportive environment for all Baylor Law students. SWO raises awareness about mental health and offers resources for managing the stresses of law school. Through quarterly dog parks, Wellness Week activities, and Professional Development Program sessions, SWO creates opportunities for students to relax, connect, and support each other. You can even enjoy healthy snacks during high-stress times like finals. Want to stay in the loop? Follow SWO on Instagram @baylor.law.swo or join their GroupMe for events and wellness tips updates.
Baylor Telehealth by Academic Live Care
In addition to the robust medical and counseling services offered through the Baylor Health Center and Counseling Center on Baylor’s main campus, the University has partnered with Academic Live Care to expand the medical and counseling services available to students.
Through Baylor Telehealth by Academic Live Care, students can access a wide range of free services, including:
- 24/7 mental health support
- Virtual urgent care for physical health issues
- Psychiatry, nutritional counseling, and women’s health services
- Unlimited telehealth visits with licensed professionals based on your preferences, including options for gender, cultural background, and specialties
For immediate mental health support or to schedule an appointment, call 833-969-3998 or visit baylor.academiclivecare.com for other services.
Baylor Counseling Center
If you prefer in-person support, the Baylor Counseling Center offers individual, couples, and group counseling and crisis intervention services. Whether navigating personal challenges or needing someone to talk to, the Counseling Center is here to help. Psychiatric services and medical nutrition therapy are also available. For more details about the services offered, visit the Counseling Center’s webpage or call 254-710-2467.
In addition to individual counseling, the Counseling Center offers many online resources. Please click here for a more detailed summary of services.
Baylor Health Center
As a Baylor student, you can access the Baylor Health Center, located inside the Student Life Center on the Baylor University campus (209 Speight Ave.)
The Baylor Health Center, located at the Student Life Center, offers general medical care and psychiatric services to help you stay healthy during your law school journey. From diagnosing illnesses to managing mental health conditions, the Health Center provides the care you need.
Appointments:
You may make an appointment Monday through Friday from 8 AM - 5 PM by calling 254-710-1010 or logging onto the Health Portal after 5 PM for urgent care web appointments for the next day. Summer hours are modified, so call to confirm availability. You must present your Baylor ID Card at check-in.
Transportation:
Students are responsible for transportation to the Health Center. If you need help with transportation options, feel free to contact Katherine Sims. If you need an ambulance to a local hospital, please note that you’ll be responsible for the cost, but the Health Center staff can assist in arranging this service. Please keep in mind that Health Center physicians do not make house calls.
Baylor Care Team Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with behaviors that may pose a risk to themselves or others, the Baylor Care Team can step in to provide support. The Case Manager for Student Life and the Baylor Care Team work proactively to manage and address such situations. If you notice concerning behavior, click here to submit a report.
Baylor FitWell
Physical activity is a powerful tool for maintaining mental clarity and overall well-being. Baylor’s FitWell program offers various classes and facilities to meet your fitness needs. For only $50 per semester, you can purchase a FitPass that gives you access to different fitness programs. Whether you’re seeking group classes or personal training, FitWell has options for every fitness level.
ABA Resources
2017 Well-Being Tool Kit for the Legal Profession
2020 Substance Use and Mental Health Toolkit for Law School Students and Those Who Care About Them
Private Counseling Services
If you prefer to seek help outside campus, Baylor Law School can connect you with private counselors familiar with law students’ unique challenges. Don’t hesitate to contact Katherine Sims for more information.
TLAP Support for Law Students
Law school can be stressful, and the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) is here to help. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, TLAP offers confidential support to help you navigate these challenges. Watch this video to learn more about TLAP’s services and how they can support you during law school.
Taking care of your health is essential to succeeding in law school. Baylor Law offers comprehensive resources to ensure you have access to the support and services you need to maintain your mental and physical well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take advantage of these services—you deserve to thrive!
