Student Support

At College for Social Innovation, we are deeply committed to providing comprehensive support to our students, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally. Our multifaceted student support offerings are designed to address a wide range of needs and foster an inclusive, empowering environment.

 
 

  • We offer personalized academic advising to help students navigate their educational paths and achieve their goals. Our courses team provides one-on-one counseling tailored to individual learning needs. We also host workshops to enhance skills in areas like time management, research techniques, and professionalism.

  • Understanding that mental well-being is crucial for success, we provide access to licensed counselors and mental health professionals. Students can engage in confidential counseling sessions to address stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. 

  • Our career services help students explore career options, prepare for job searches, and develop essential professional skills. We offer resume writing assistance, interview coaching, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

  • In addition to stipends and reimbursement programs, we have a team of staff who meet weekly to discuss the financial health of our students. Our financial team assists with application processes for programs like SNAP and budgeting strategies to ensure students can focus on their semester without undue financial stress.

  • We foster a sense of belonging through student-led activities and leadership opportunities. These activities not only enhance personal growth but also build valuable skills and connections.

 
 
 

Through these offerings, College for Social Innovation is dedicated to supporting our students holistically, equipping them with the tools they need to excel.

 

Support We Offer:

  1. One on one counseling with a Licensed Social Worker.

  2. Counseling to support establishment of ongoing mental health relationships, including but not limited to: therapy, psychiatry, and wellness coaching.

  3. Direct access and training on TELUSHealth, a health and wellbeing solution software that students can access during their time with CFSI and beyond.

  4. Conflict resolution training.

  5. Practical Independence training that encompasses best practices, reporting pipelines, and emergency protocols.

  6. Wellness workshops throughout the semester focused on topics such as budgeting, sleep habits, and time management.

  7. Title IX complainant support and guidance, working directly with students’ home institutions and their Title IX offices.

  8. 24/7 On-Call assistance in case of emergency.

 

Staff Spotlights

Danielle Macedo, Mental Health Clinician

Dani is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who works part time with CFSI offering students mental health support that is empathetic, holistic, and solutions focused.  As a trained yoga teacher, they love incorporating mindfulness practices that have been proven to reduce stress and anxiety for students who are interested. Dani also facilitates staff trainings and consultations related to trauma informed practices, mental health needs, and self care. Dani holds a Masters of Social Work from the University of Washington, specializing in mental health, and has over 10 years of social work experience with children, young adults, and older adults.

Emily Saba, Manager of Internships and Case Management

Emily is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Massachusetts who has over 5 years of experience in both community and clinical mental health. Emily has extensive experience providing assessment, case management, clinical therapy, crisis management, safety planning and stabilization to a wide range of clients. She has worked in a variety of settings including non-profits, schools, hospitals, homes, and clinics, helping adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorder, trauma, PTSD, and substance use. Emily graduated from Boston College with a Master of Social Work degree, specializing in clinical mental health.

Rachel Burke, Senior Manager of Student Affairs and Title IX Coordinator

Rachel recently received her Title IX Coordination certificate through ATIXA (Association of Title IX Administrators)  and holds a B.A. in both Economics and Political Science from Boston University where she concentrated on education policy and analysis. Rachel’s title IX work encompasses managing Title IX compliance, investigations, and developing training programs. Rachel’s approach is both empathetic and professional, focusing on ensuring all individuals involved receive necessary support and resources. Her role involves close collaboration with students, staff and home institution administration to promote a safe and respectful experience. 

Resources

 
 
 

Important Contacts

 

  • Boston Emergency Services Team (B.E.S.T.) Crisis Evaluation and Support Line: 24/7 Hotline: 1(800)-981-4357

    St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and Emergency Room: 736 Cambridge St., Brighton MA 02135 | (617) 789-2102

    Boston Police Department, Allston Branch Direct Line: Direct line: (617) 343-4260

  • Partner’s Urgent Care (Brookline Branch): 1285 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02446 | (617) 751-6205

    CRISIS TextLine: Text “HOME” to 741741, anywhere in the US, for any type of crisis.

    Planned Parenthood (Boston Branch): 1055 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215 | (617) 295-7235