Remote Support

During this challenging time, Student Advocacy Centers across the Alamo Colleges District will continue to support our students by providing wraparound support services remotely. We will help with issues that are outside the classroom but can negatively impact stress, focus, and student performance. We will provide online counseling and case management support as well as emergency aid and access to community resources.

PLEASE CONTACT THE ALAMO COLLEGES HELPLINE AT 210-486-1111 8 AM-7 PM M-TH AND FRI 8 AM-5 PM.

The Nighthawk's Nest Advocacy Center will continue to monitor its department email (nlc-nest@alamo.edu) and will check voicemail daily. Please leave your name banner ID and student email. A staff member will reach out to you within 2 business days.

Nighthawk’s Nest Advocacy Center

Request forms

Application for Advocacy Services
Disability Support Services
Mental Health Counseling Services

The mission of the Advocacy Center is to support student success and well-being by providing integrated services and resources that address a variety of socioeconomic needs and mental health.

Do I have to meet with someone in person or can it be virtually?

No, we meet with students in person and virtually.

What is some assistance you provide to students?

Rental assistance, utility assistance, childcare, transportation, medical assistance, technology assistance, food assistance, access to mental health services, and connection to federal benefits application process.

Do you offer tuition assistance?

No, however, we work with students to see if we are able to utilize assistance towards other needs.

How long does an appointment for basic needs assistance take?

An average appointment is about 45 minutes to an hour.

How often can I use the food pantry? And how much food can I get

The pantry can be utilized twice a month and two reusable bags are issued to you on your first visit, we ask that you please return with your two bags each visit.

In-Person and Remote Services

Case Management Services

This involves a student-centered collaborative effort with community agencies to help you address your needs and goals while building upon your strengths and facilitating access to supportive services and resources.

Counseling, Mental Health, and Recovery Support Services

We believe that academic excellence is achieved when students have a strong mind and a supportive environment. Short-term individual counseling is provided remotely to address emotional or mental health concerns.

What counseling services are available?

Brief, solution-focused mental health counseling is available during business hours.

How much does it cost and who qualifies for the service.

It is free of charge for enrolled students.

How are services provided?

Services are available in person or by zoom according to the student’s preference.

How do I refer a student for counseling?

Counseling, along with other student services, is likely listed in your syllabus and gone over with students each semester. You may meet with the student privately and provide them with information about counseling along with other campus resources. Students apply through the link on our website. https://www.alamo.edu/nlc/experience-nlc/current-students/nighthawks-nest-advocacy-center/

Complete the Mental Health Counseling Services Request Form at the site. Our contact information is: phone 210-486-5179 and email nlc-counseling@alamo.edu.

How do we identify students who may need counseling?

Some students will let you know that they are having problems and need some help. Others may have behavioral signs, such as tears, anger, and being withdrawn, but may not ask for help.

Does the student have to have an appointment to meet with you?

No. Students may drop in for counseling.

What if a student is having a crisis and needs immediate attention?

Some faculty/staff do a warm hand as in walking the student to my office and introducing us to each other. They leave and I begin working with the student. The warm handoff helps the student transition to me for counseling. Sometimes, students who are given the office information do not follow through with coming to the office. They are stressed and may not understand.

What concerns are addressed in counseling sessions?

Areas of focus are the stressors that student identifies as hindering them in their academics and relationships. They may include but are not limited to, academic performance, anxiety or panic attacks, relationship losses, depression, wanting self-improvement, and adjustment to college.

What should I expect during a counseling session?

You will meet with a Master-degreed counselor for approximately 60 minutes. Towards the end of the session, you and the counselor will discuss the next steps.

What services are available for Faculty and Staff?

Consultation – Counselors are happy to provide consultation on a variety of emotional and behavioral issues affecting students.
Outreach Services – We can arrange to visit your class and present on a variety of topics: counseling services overview, stress in college, healthy relationships, and more.

Note: Counseling Services cannot provide personal services directly to employees. Please contact the Deer Oaks Employee Assistance Program for assistance: https://www.deeroaks.com/

Emergency Assistance

Emergency assistance is provided for students through emergency grants to help with unexpected emergencies, such as rent, utilities, and childcare needs.

Students who receive emergency aid are strongly encouraged to participate in a financial literacy workshop

Financial Literacy Workshop

Food Pantry

The Nighthawk’s Nest Food Pantry is now open to in-person services. The Nighthawk’s Nest Food Pantry is partnered with the San Antonio Food Bank to reduce food insecurity in NLC Students. The Food Pantry provides food and toiletries for students in need and assistance with applications for federal assistance programs, including SNAP benefits. The Nighthawk’s Nest Food Pantry also provides daily Grab&Go Snacks for all students.

Free or Low-Cost Internet & Devices