According to the Virginia Judges & Lawyers Assistance Program (VJLAP), one third of lawyers experience serious mental health issues or depression at some point during their careers. Because of this, Appalachian School of Law gives special attention to the well-being of our students and faculty by providing mental health counseling services.
We recognize the importance of these services as our students work their way through a rigorous academic program and prepare for a future in law and. Many ASL students have intentions of using their law degree to serve others, and we hope to provide resources that create healthy habits they can bring into their careers.
A professional counselor is regularly on campus to meet with students. The counselor’s schedule depends on the class schedule and varies semester to semester.
Dr. Rick Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor
External Counseling Services
Email: rwcarroll@bvu.net
Phone: (276) 935-4349
Dr. Carroll received his bachelor’s in Psychology from Emory & Henry College, his master’s in Counseling from Longwood College, and his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. He became licensed as a professional counselor in 1996. He has been providing counseling and consultation services to students, faculty, and staff of ASL since Fall 2019.
Over the past 27 years, Dr. Carroll has provided individual, group, couples, and family counseling to those in our community experiencing mental health and substance use disorders. He utilizes a person-centered approach that allows for client-therapist collaboration regarding identification of current difficulties and implementation of viable treatment approaches.
ASL students and faculty members have access to VJLAP, which has served Virginia’s legal professionals since 1985. VJLAP helps law students by offering discreet, non-disciplinary mental health assistance, addressing:
The organization provides interventions such as counseling, referrals to treatment, support groups, volunteer mentors, and monitoring progress.
If you have concerns about yourself or another student, call the hotline at 877-545-4682 or visit www.vjlap.org.
