Being in college can bring with it many struggles, both past and present, expected or unexpected, and addressing them in a spiritual context may be helpful. Pastoral Counseling embraces the Jesuit principle of cura personalis – care for the whole person – by integrating mental health counseling with one's spirituality or faith tradition.
Support, Now
Campus Ministry is committed to providing a welcoming environment for all members of the BC community, fully recognizing and valuing all identities, beliefs, and experiences. Pastoral Counseling in particular welcomes any and all spiritualities, faith practices, and traditions, with no expectations or requirements. Especially in the context of the unprecedented, ongoing uncertainty of our shared social and racial trauma and loss, along with increased vigilance, we encourage students to seek support from our staff.
Highlighted Programs
Axios
Axios is an inclusive and affirming space for LGBTQ+ and questioning undergraduate students to reflect, in ongoing community, on the intersection of sexuality and spirituality in their lives.
Learn MoreCenter
Center is a free, 6-week spiritual mindfulness group. With guidance and support, each week we’ll learn a distinct and accessible meditative practice and spiritual outlook to deepen our relationship with each other and ourselves.
Learn MoreTogether
Together is a student-centered grief support group for undergrads, meeting weekly for 6 weeks each semester. It’s an opportunity for anyone carrying grief at BC to see that they’re far from alone in this experience.
Learn MorePregnancy Resources
Boston College is here to support students expecting a child. We hold the emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of a woman, the child, and those who care about them, in a strong network of support. Find out more about BC’s supportive resources.
Learn MoreGrief Resources
Boston College is here to support students experiencing grief. We hold the emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of our students in a strong network of support. Find out more about BC’s supportive resources.
Learn MoreAbout Pastoral Counseling
What is Pastoral Counseling?
Pastoral counseling is a form of therapy that gives special attention to the role that spirituality plays in a person’s mental health and overall well-being. Rick is happy to consult on any issues to find the best fit for addressing whatever might be necessary. Rick works with a social work graduate student who is also available to meet.
Contact Rick by email, phone, or in-person to set-up an appointment or to refer someone:
Rick.Rossi@bc.edu
(617) 552-6592
McElroy 227
You may also find value in starting a conversation with one of our campus ministers, who can be a resource in discussing life’s joys, struggles, and big questions. Campus ministers can provide private spaces for these conversations and can be great starting points to work with you in figuring out where to go from here.
Rick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Campus Minister. He joined Boston College in 2002 after earning his Master’s in Pastoral Ministry. Over the years, he has worked with various Campus Ministry programs including Kairos, 4Boston, the Ignatian Society, and the Manresa Retreat. Rick is a trained spiritual director and has also served as a BC SANet Advocate. He completed his degree and licensure for clinical social work in 2015.
Within a psychodynamic grounding, and drawing on various therapeutic approaches in a strengths-based focus, Rick enjoys partnering with students in their time together to discover the best ways forward.
Adjustment Issues
Anxiety
Academic Stress/Questions
Crisis/Trauma
Depression
Grief/Loss
Life Transitions
Personal Growth
Relationship Issues
Self-esteem
Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Spirituality/Faith
Stress Management
Family issues