University Counseling Center partners with Mantra Health to expand virtual mental health support – @theU

University of Utah students now have access to Mantra Health, a virtual mental health platform that provides free, flexible support wherever they are. 

Offered through the University Counseling Center (UCC), Mantra Health connects students with mental health professionals for in-the-moment support and expands access to virtual mental health services. 

For the first time, students residing outside Utah can access virtual therapy at no cost through the university. Students studying abroad will also have expanded access to therapy. 

More University of Utah students are reporting mental health concerns. According to the Healthy Minds Study conducted at the U in winter 2026, 32% of student participants reported having been diagnosed with depression, up from 24% in 2020. Anxiety diagnoses increased from 26% to 36% during the same period. 

Students also report challenges accessing care. In the 2026 survey, 39% identified not having enough time as a reason for not receiving care, while 35% cited financial reasons. 

“We know students are balancing a lot, and finding the time or resources to seek mental health care can sometimes be challenging. Mantra Health gives students more flexibility in how and when they connect with support, including the ability to talk with a mental health professional when they need someone in the moment,” said Scott McAward, executive director of the University Counseling Center. “Our goal is to make it easier for students to take that first step and get connected to the level of support that’s right for them.” 

Mantra Health gives students flexible ways to connect with mental health support at no cost. Depending on their needs, students can access two services: 

ConnectNow: In-the-moment crisis support and problem-solving with a mental health professional. No appointment or referral is required. Connect by video or text from 6 a.m.–10 p.m. MT or by phone 24/7 at (888) 319-5111.  

Therapy: One-on-one sessions with licensed providers to help students manage anxiety, depression, stress and other mental health concerns. Therapy through Mantra Health is available by University Counseling Center referral only. To request a referral, students can schedule an Initial Consultation through the Student Health and Wellness Medicat portal or by calling 801-581-6826.  

Mantra Health replaces TELUS Health, formerly MySSP, as the University Counseling Center’s virtual mental health provider as of August 2026. Students who previously used TELUS Health are encouraged to transition to Mantra Health to access the university’s virtual mental health services moving forward. 

University of Utah students can log in to Mantra Health using their university credentials to explore available services and connect with support. Mantra Health is also available through the app for iPhone and Android.