Mental Health and Wellness Counseling
College can be tough on your mental health and many people are experiencing added challenges amid the uncertainty of COVID-19 as well as the unrest in our communities resulting from the murder of George Floyd, Daunte Wright, and countless others.
Our counselors are available to help you identify healthy ways to cope with the issues that come up as you pursue your education. We believe all students can thrive with relevant, consistent support and want you to know that we are here to be a part of your success team.
We are currently offering in-person and virtual counseling appointments. Our services are free and confidential for all current Minneapolis College students.
To Schedule an Appointment:
Log in to Navigate, select "Appointments," then select "Mental Health and Wellness Counseling." Be sure to have your star ID and password information handy as you will need both to access Navigate.
Meet Our Counselors

Grace Heneghan
(they/them/theirs), 612-659-6721, Master’s in Social Work Intern
Grace is a student support intern for this year. They are at the University of Minnesota completing their Master of Social Work and graduate certificate in Human Sexuality with an anticipated graduation of May 2022.
Grace’s social work experience includes interning at FAIR High School last year, with additional experience in youth work, outdoor education, and curriculum development.
Their approach to social work is dedicated to anti-oppressive practice with a focus on centering students as the experts of their experiences. Some of their social work areas of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues, gender and sexuality exploration, and grief and loss support.
Grace is excited to support and connect with students this year.

Merlita Lockman
(she/her/hers), 612-659-6739, M.S. Counseling and Student Personnel
Merlita joined the college in December 2021. She has a Master of Science in Counseling and Student Personnel and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her approach to counseling tends to be Rogerian, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused.
Merlita believes in actively listening, empathizing, being genuine, and accepting each student without judgment. She views her role as a short-term support to give students the direction they need to continue (move focus from problem to solution) and trust that they have the resiliency to do what it takes to be successful.
Merlita is committed to offering counseling services to students to promote academic success and mental wellness. She considers working at the college as working on the front lines of equity and inclusion.

Melissa Schultz
(she/her/hers), 612-200-5361, M.A. Counseling & Psychological Services
Melissa joined the college in 2015 and has her Master’s Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services. Her approach to counseling tends to be cognitive-behavioral, client-centered (cultural context included), and solution-focused.
Melissa believes each student comes with their own set of experiences and strengths and that ultimately, they have the answers needed to live a healthy and joyful life. Melissa views her role as one of a partner that listens and supports students to both identify and address barriers to academic success and overall wellness.
Melissa’s favorite part about working at the college is the diversity that exists within the community, the amazing resilience of our students and the shared commitment to learning in a nurturing environment.
Additional Resources On and Off Campus
Boynton Student Health Clinic (H.3400)
The on-campus Student Health Clinic provides mental health and primary care services to currently enrolled students. Please call 612-659-6384 to talk with a clinician before your visit.
Emotional Support Help Line for Students
United Healthcare and Optum provide a toll-free help line that is open 24/7 to support students if you are experiencing stress or anxiety related to COVID-19. Call 866-342-6892 to speak with a trained mental health specialist.
If you are currently experiencing a mental health crisis, please consider the following options:
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Crisis Text line offers free help to those who are having a mental health crisis or contemplating suicide. Text MN to 741741. Services are available 24/7 across Minnesota.
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Call the National Suicide Prevention Line (toll free) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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If you are a Hennepin County resident, call COPE (Community Outreach for Psychiatric Emergencies) at 612-596-1223. The COPE team is available 24/7.
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For LGBTQIA+ crisis and suicide prevention support, call Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860 and/or The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 (24/7/365 available, text options available at TrevorText: Text START to 678-678 stand messaging rates apply)
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Visit the Minnesota Crisis Response Website
If you are experiencing a resource related crisis (e.g. food, shelter, emergency assistance, and other community resources), you can contact our partners in the Resource and Referral Office: