A rendering of how Benoit Hall is expected to look after it is renovated. Courtesy image/Rivier University

NASHUA – As part of its Go Boldly 2024-2030 strategic plan, Rivier University recently began renovating Benoit Hall to create a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance hands-on simulation and training for students in psychology, counseling and education.

The project reaffirms Rivier’s dedication to preparing skilled professionals for critical roles in behavioral health and education.

The renovation will expand the office suites, collaboration spaces, classrooms and seminar spaces for both the Division of Counseling and Psychology and the Division of Education. Additionally, a new entrance will be constructed and nearly 42,000 square feet of the structure, built in 1993, will be transformed into a cutting-edge educational environment.

By reconfiguring the layout of the building, Rivier aims to create dedicated simulation areas that incorporate immersive technology where graduate and doctoral students can engage in realistic counseling scenarios and refine therapeutic techniques. These renovations provide counseling simulation experiences in clinical and school-based settings by providing artificial intelligence and scenario-based counseling.

“Our commitment to addressing New Hampshire’s behavioral health workforce shortage has never been stronger,” said university President Sister Paula Marie Buley. “This renovation of Benoit Hall is more than just an upgrade–it is an investment in our faculty, students and community that will empower them to meet the complex mental health needs of our state and region.”

The demand for behavioral health professionals in New Hampshire has reached a critical level, impacting services in mental health, education, and clinical support. Job postings for positions like mental health workers, licensed clinical mental health counselors and school psychologists continue to rise, highlighting a significant workforce gap in these vital services.

At the same time, the need for doctorally-prepared professionals to perform assessments, psychotherapy, and educational testing is increasing. The state faces a shortage, not only in trained clinicians but also in qualified supervisors, which is essential for guiding new entrants into the field.

Rivier has consistently expanded its offering of academic programs in behavioral health to meet workforce challenges. Master’s degree programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling were recently relaunched in an online format, and the Doctor of Psychology in Counseling and School Psychology received full accreditation by the American Psychological Association. Most recently, the University entered into a counseling internship program with the Greater Nashua Mental Health Center that provides realistic experience for students and supports the enhancement of mental health services in the community.

Rivier’s undergraduate Psychology majors have the opportunity to apply for the year-long internship during their junior year, working an average of 28 hours per week at GNMHC and receiving $20 per hour, college credits, and invaluable practical experience through mentorship from experienced professionals.

“With a commitment to our counseling and psychology programs, New Hampshire’s behavioral health workforce continues to grow and, as a result, communities across the state will benefit from increased access to quality care,” said Dr. Ralph Sperry, dean of Counseling and Psychology. “Through strategic investments, Rivier is creating pathways for students to become leaders in the broad fields of behavioral health.”

The first phase of construction began last month, encompassing the Division of Counseling and Psychology, and is scheduled to be completed in May. The second phase, including the Division of Education and expanded learning spaces, is set to be completed by September.