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@dos5.net) 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
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.
No, we meet with students in person and virtually.
Rental assistance, utility assistance, childcare, transportation, medical assistance, technology assistance, food assistance, access to mental health services, and connection to federal benefits application process.
No, however, we work with students to see if we are able to utilize assistance towards other needs.
An average appointment is about 45 minutes to an hour.
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.
Brief, solution-focused mental health counseling is available during business hours.
It is free of charge for enrolled students.
Services are available in person or by zoom according to the student’s preference.
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. http://6p7.dos5.net/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@dos5.net.
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.
No. Students may drop in for counseling.
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.
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.
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.
- 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: http://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
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
Nest Hours
On-Campus:
Monday | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM, last student check-in at 6:30 PM.
Tuesday-Thursday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, last student check-in at 5:30 PM.
Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last student check-in at 4:30 PM.
Saturdays | First Saturday of Every Month: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, last student check-in at 12:30 PM. (September 7th, October 5th, November 2nd and December 7th)
Virtual Drop-In Hours and Links
Students will be served on a first-come, first-serve basis.Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm
(last student check-in at 9:30 pm)
Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
(last student check-in at 4:30 pm)
Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
(last student check-in at 4:30 pm)