Discover Why El Camino Health Center Outshines Other Colleges: More Services and Resources at El Camino College

El Camino College provides a variety of free health services to students, including mental health therapy, contraceptives, and chiropractic care. Despite these valuable resources, only a small percentage of students are taking advantage of them.

Every semester, students pay a $26 health fee, which gives them access to these services. This fee supports reproductive care resources like condoms, birth control pills, and even free testing for sexually transmitted infections.

Susan Nilles, director of Student Health Services, sees a need for better awareness among students. “Many students tell me they had no idea these services existed,” she noted. This disconnection might stem from insufficient engagement with informational emails regarding services.

A unique offering at El Camino is chiropractic care, popular among students and available weekly. Roni Megro, an experienced chiropractor, leads these sessions, assisted by student interns from a nearby university. Compared to five other community colleges in Southern California, El Camino stands out for its range of services.

The $26 health fee reflects a significant increase from when it was first introduced at $7.50 in 1991. Adjusted for inflation, that would be about $17.87 today. Nilles is unsure if the recent increase approved by California’s Community Colleges will affect future fees at El Camino.

In the fall of 2024, El Camino Health Services received over $590,000, driven primarily by student fees. These funds are crucial for maintaining services, which also receive year-round support for mental health initiatives—$445,522 for the upcoming year, according to official reports.

As mental health becomes an increasing concern, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, more students are seeking help. Expert Ida Salusky from Northwestern University points out that young adults are particularly vulnerable during this transitional phase of life. “The isolation during the pandemic has led to increased anxiety and depression among college students,” she explains.

Nilles is proud of the health services available. “I believe we’re among the best in California,” she said. Services include weekly workshops, therapy dog visits, and even virtual therapy through BetterMynd, which offers unlimited sessions at no charge.

Student feedback highlights the effectiveness of these services. Navonna Hupach, a 19-year-old student, shared positive experiences, praising the supportive environment and easy-to-follow information from staff. Similarly, Luciana Stuppa expressed gratitude for the health center’s efficiency, appreciating how quickly she could receive care.

While other colleges, like Fullerton and Santa Monica, offer comparable services, El Camino remains a leader in variety and accessibility. For instance, Santa Monica College provides a 24/7 emotional support hotline. Understanding these offerings can empower students to take charge of their health better.

As the demand for mental health resources grows, recognizing and utilizing these available services is crucial. With resources like BetterMynd and engaging in-person workshops, El Camino College is dedicated to supporting the well-being of its students.



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