Meeting students where they are: how Lake-Sumter expanded mental health access through flexibility, affordability & student-centered support
INSTITUTION TYPE
Lake-Sumter State College is a top-ranked public community college in central Florida focused on workforce preparation through its affordable, hands-on programs; it is a member of the Florida College System.
LOCATION
Multiple campuses in central Florida serve the Lake and Sumter Counties.
ENROLLMENT
8,500+ traditional and part-time students served annually
COUNSELING SERVICES
In-person counseling is provided through a third-party local provider, supplemented by virtual services via BetterMynd.
Impact in Year 1 with BetterMynd
Meet Carolyn, the Dean of Students
Carolyn Scott has served as the Dean of Students at Lake-Sumter State College for nearly 10 years, providing leadership across a broad range of responsibilities including as Chief Conduct Officer for the College, Chief Student Affairs Officer for the South Lake Campus, Co-Champion for Guided Pathways, Chair of the LSSC Care Team, and district responsibilities for the Student Assistance Program (SAP).
Before BetterMynd, Lake-Sumter’s SAP offered in-person counseling through a local provider. While the quality of care was strong, many students struggled to consistently access it.
“Many of our students balance work, academics, athletics, and family responsibilities,” Carolyn shared. “Relying solely on a face-to-face option simply wasn’t meeting their diverse needs.”
Closing the gap: why a single option wasn’t enough
Students needed more flexible options that could adapt to their busy schedules—and BetterMynd delivered. Carolyn explained: “Partnering with BetterMynd has helped us close that gap by offering an online, flexible, and 24/7 crisis access option to support our students’ mental health needs.”
Carolyn Scott
Dean of Students
Lake-Sumter State College
Complement, not replace: a hybrid model that expands access
Lake-Sumter’s team entered the partnership with a core question: Would virtual therapy replace in-person usage?
One year later, the answer is clear—BetterMynd didn’t replace local services and the value of in-person counseling. It enhanced and expanded them.
“While face-to-face session numbers dipped slightly, they remained strong,” Carolyn explained. “That tells us both in-person and virtual options are serving important, complementary roles.”
This layered approach meets the varied needs of students—especially those who are juggling multiple commitments or prefer privacy and flexibility.
What success looks like: data, stories, and student voice
For Lake-Sumter, success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about whether students are truly benefiting. BetterMynd provides both.
- High quantitative ratings from students (9.47 average counselor rating)
- Frequent, thoughtful student feedback that provides specific insights into how students are benefiting
- Increased visibility into satisfaction and student needs
“First and foremost, it’s been incredibly encouraging to read the student feedback”, shared Carolyn. “Beyond the quantitative ratings, many shared thoughtful comments about their positive experience.”
“I’m just so glad you are offering this platform and resource to all of us Lake-Sumter students who are going through a real tough time with the actions of the new White House administration as well as all the trouble and strife in the world. We struggle to stay focused on our studies and achievements but it can be a real bad distraction, especially when those actions could directly affect our ability to earn a good education. And (my counselor) is great. Thanks again!!”
– Lake-Sumter Student
“Very good session, connecting was a breeze and the therapy is very effective.”
– Lake-Sumter Student
“A conversation I was comfortable in, we chatted like friends and didn’t mind if I was busy grabbing items to show her, as she also recommending products to track time management! She’s like a best friend to vent to.”
– Lake-Sumter Student
A strategic piece of the retention puzzle
At Lake-Sumter, mental health is directly tied to student retention. BetterMynd plays a vital role in keeping students on track academically and emotionally.
“We are helping prevent academic disruption and disengagement before it starts,” explained Carolyn. “BetterMynd has become an integral part of our broader student well-being and retention strategy.”
The partnership has helped the team shift its approach—from reacting to crises to proactively designing a flexible care ecosystem that supports diverse student needs.
Smart investment, strong ROI
From a budget perspective, BetterMynd stood out as both affordable and adaptable.
- Cost is tied to usage, not enrollment
- Started with 100 sessions at a competitive rate
- Scales easily with need while allowing for tailored budgeting
“BetterMynd worked with our institution to develop a plan that is not only impactful for students, but also budget conscious,” explained Carolyn. “It has proven to be a very worthwhile investment.”
