In cases of emotional problems, it is up to TFsto decide to listen, advise or steer clear oftroubled students.

An Alternative

Between lack of interest and superficialtraining, having a tutor or TF who is cognizant ofa students' problems is contingent at best,unlikely at worst.

But whether it is a College official or thestudent who expresses concern about the student'slife, the next step is a referral to trainedcounselors.

While recognizing that it is a necessary partof any medical approach to mental health, Kadisonbemoans a system of counseling where there is "anemphasis on pathologizing emotional problems."

A warm, welcoming living room--complete withfireplace--is "more user-friendly," Catlin says,making "the Bureau of Study Counsel a very goodpsychotherapy center."

Dr. Charles P. Ducey, director of the Bureau ofStudy Counsel (BSC), says his organization has aneasier time meeting the emotional needs of itsstudents.

Ducey says more than 50 percent of BSC'svisitors enter on their own volition--without areferral.

"The fact of the matter is that we have alwaysbeen more accessible. We do not quickly label.Students feel like, `They don't label me here,'"Ducey says.

Dealing with student needs on a human--notclinical--level help Ducey and his staff unearththe emotional problems that often underlie theacademic issues that prompted the initial visit.

"We're not here to tell you what to do," Duceysays. "We're here to resolve interferences so youcan enjoy your life."

But while homey, the BSC is not equipped tohandle long-term care, and, more significantly, itis not open to graduate students, who this yearhave vigorously protested inadequate advising inthe wake of two suicides of their peers.

Making House Calls

The sterility of UHS and the uncheckeddisinterest of many House tutors suggests asolution that combines training with comfort:bringing professionals into the Houses.

UHS is now trying to emulate its low-keycounterpart to the extent a managed care systemwill allow, giving doctors "credit" for hoursspent outside the office and inside residentialHouses.