For the past few years, it has become clear to the Temple Hillel staff team that the need for mental health support is great and that our students have had an increasingly difficult time securing services. Through a great deal of research and with donor support, we identified an opportunity to work in partnership with Jewish Family and Children’s Services of Greater Philadelphia to have our very own therapist to support our students. Our therapist will support students individually, host group gatherings in support of mental health, support staff wellness, and help students identify alternative therapeutic treatment if more appropriate.

Rachel Slater is a Licensed Social Worker and graduate from Widener University’s MSW program, with a specialization in trauma focused treatment. She has experience counseling working with children, adolescents, and adults in both school and outpatient mental health settings. Rachel takes a holistic approach to meeting the needs of her clients, always placing the utmost importance in creating a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. She understands that going to college is a time of transition that may bring many challenges and too often students are expected to figure it out on their own. Rachel holds a safe and warm space to talk with students about the ups and downs of adjusting to college life. She looks forward to supporting students who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships challenges, issues of self esteem, identity, and/or other life stressors. Rachel couldn’t be more excited to be working with the Temple community!

Any currently enrolled undergraduate, regardless of background, is eligible to sign-up for services through this program. Individuals who may be struggling with the stress of college, exploring gender or sexuality, relationship challenges, grief and loss, or any other concerns are encouraged to seek support.

Students will decide together with Rachel if short term or long-term work may be more beneficial. Sessions are 50 minutes long.

Sessions will be held in-person on the second floor of Temple Hillel. Rachel has a private office with a noise-canceling machine outside the door to ensure confidentiality.

It is 100% free for Temple students!

If you would currently like mental health support, are having a tough time, or want to maintain your mental health, please complete this form and someone from Jewish Family and Children’s Services will call you directly to get you set up with a few quick paperwork/logistical items. Once you’ve completed the short intake process with JFCS, Rachel will be in touch to coordinate your first in-person appointment. From there, you’ll be all set for regular weekly sessions!