Health & Wellness
Student Health and Wellness at Brown University
Student Health & Wellness Services
The Student Health and Wellness unit at Brown encompasses five departments: Brown Emergency Medical Services (BEMS), BWell Health Promotion, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Student Health Services and Student Accessibility Services (SAS). Students are encouraged to reach out for assistance, even after hours. Brown provides 24/7 professional care for urgent situations.
24/7 Resources
- On-campus emergencies: 401-863-4111 (BEMS)
- Sexual Assault Response Line: 401-863-6000
- Counseling and Psychological Services on-demand: 401-863-3476
- Nursing Advice: 401-863-1330
- Accessibility and safety emergencies: 401-863-4111 (Department of Public Safety)
- Urgent non-emergencies: 401-863-3322 (DPS administrator on call)
Browse All Health & Wellness Services by Topic
The University offers a wide range of dedicated services in support of student health and wellness.
Executive Director's Welcome
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to Brown University! Whether you are stepping onto campus as a first year student, returning for another engaging semester or a parent watching from afar as your student embarks on this incredible journey, I want you to know that our Health and Wellness team is here to be supportive every step of the way.
To our incoming students, congratulations on all of the remarkable accomplishments bringing you to this moment. You are joining a vibrant community of scholars, thinkers, and innovators, and I am confident that your time here will be both transformational and fulfilling. College is a time of profound growth—academically, socially, and personally. As you explore new ideas, form lasting friendships, and navigate the challenges ahead, please remember that your well-being is central to your success.
The Student Health and Wellness team is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive care that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit. From routine medical services to mental health counseling, wellness workshops, addressing accessibility needs and stress management resources, we are fully committed to supporting your holistic health and wellbeing. We encourage you to take full advantage of these resources—your health and ability to meet your academic aspirations are our top priorities.
To parents and families, I extend my deepest gratitude for entrusting your student to our care. I understand that transitions can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. Please know that we consider ourselves partners on this journey. Our team is here to support your student’s well-being, providing them with the guidance and care they need to thrive in this new environment. Students’ health, safety, and overall educational experience are at the heart of everything we do.
At Brown, we believe that a successful college experience is built on a foundation of well-being. As you begin this new chapter, I encourage you as a student to embrace all of the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead, knowing that we are here to help you along the way. We are thrilled to have you with us and look forward to being a part of your journey. Welcome to Brown!
Warmest regards,
Vanessa Britto, MD, MSc, FACP
Associate Vice President, Campus Life
Executive Director, Student Health and Wellness
Brown University
About the Departments
Brown Emergency Medical Services
Brown Emergency Medical Services (BEMS) is a blended volunteer/paid service licensed by the State of Rhode Island to provide 24/7 basic and advanced prehospital care to anyone requesting emergency aid through the Brown Communications Center. Our service area is the Brown campus or remote student or academic occupancies in the city of Providence. BEMS personnel are trained and equipped to provide the same level of services as other EMS agencies in Rhode Island, but BEMS is unique in its programs and mission as a collegiate ambulance corps.
In an Emergency, Contact
Phone: 401-863-4111
BWell Health Promotion
BWell supports the development of skills for lifelong, holistic health and wellbeing for all Brown students by offering interventions that are both community- and evidence-informed, and rooted in social justice to empower growth and the ability to thrive, prevent health disparities, and respond to emergent needs.
Contact BWell
Phone: 401-863-2794
Email: bwell@brown.edu
Learn More
Counseling and Psychological Services
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) takes a goal-focused and collaborative approach to mental health services to assist students in improving their lives. With a diverse staff, CAPS offers a range of psychological treatment, prevention services and outreach in an inclusive, compassionate, affirming and socially just environment. CAPS is available 24/7 for urgent needs and regularly open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Contact CAPS
Phone: 401-863-3476
Email: counseling@health.brown.edu
Student Health Services
Health Services provides holistic care that is respectful of students' personal, cultural and social identities. Health professionals offer visits for urgent and routine care, 24/7 nursing advice and on-site lab, pharmacy and X-ray services. In-person care and laboratory hours are subject to change during summer and holidays or if experiencing inclement weather or complications; visit the website for the most current hours.
Contact Health Services
Phone: 401-863-3953
Email: nursing@health.brown.edu
Student Accessibility Services
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) coordinates and facilitates services for undergraduate and graduate students with medical, physical, psychological and learning disabilities. While services for students with documented disabilities or medical conditions are coordinated through SAS, the accommodations are implemented by the Brown University community. Accommodations and services are provided based on student needs and are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Contact SAS
Phone: 401-863-9588
Email: sas@brown.edu
Student Health & Wellness Events
Health & Wellness Center and Sternlicht Commons
Starting in 2015, the University took on the ambitious project of conceptualizing a dual health facility and student residence hall centered around wellness. In October 2021, the building was completed and dedicated as the Brown University Student Health and Wellness Center and Sternlicht Commons residential hall. The building is located at 450 Brook St. in Providence.
This new facility unites Student Health and Wellness entities including Brown Emergency Medical Services (BEMS), BWell Health Promotion, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Student Health Services. Student Accessibility Services (SAS) will be located nearby in Page-Robinson Hall. By co-locating Student Health and Wellness departments, Brown is more easily able to provide integrated care and coordinate team efforts.
As Brown's first new residence hall in 35 years, Sternlicht Commons was designed with students’ well-being in mind, and residents are selected for their dedication to wellness and healthy living. The residence hall functions as a wellness community where students are actively working to cultivate an environment committed to developing and sustaining healthy lifestyles, eager to share their gifts and practices with peers through organic but focused programming, and endeavor to spread knowledge of these practices among the greater Brown community.