Prohibition of Faculty Providing Student Mental Health Counseling Policy

(Revised September 2017)

(Revised – August 2009)

Although close academic relationships are encouraged between students and professors, students are forbidden from obtaining therapy from Lesley University faculty trained in counseling, including core and adjunct faculty. For the safety and wellbeing of its students, the University must ensure that students of the University only seek counseling through the Student Counseling Center or other, independent professionals.

If in the course of the student-professor relationship it becomes clear that the student is relying on the professor for more than academic support, career advice, or other guidance common to student-academic relationships, the professor shall refer the student to the Student Counseling Center or other independent counseling. This is for the student’s own mental wellbeing as well as to prevent the University or professor from facing liability.

Professors who face ambiguous situations should speak with their supervisors or General Counsel to the University.