Investing in the people who make JMU thrive through expanded TimelyCare access
News
James Madison University is expanding access to TimelyCare, a virtual mental health and well-being platform previously available only to students, to all faculty and staff at no cost.
Reflecting The Madison Promise's commitment to invest in our people, the TimelyCare expansion offers employees free access to confidential mental health, counseling and wellness resources that support overall well-being.
"Prioritizing well-being helps us show up as our best selves at work, at home, in our relationships and within our communities," said Tara Torkelson, coordinator of employee well-being. "JMU's commitment to employee well-being reflects an investment in people, recognizing the value of supporting each individual not only as an employee, but as a whole person."
The expansion reflects JMU's ongoing investment in employee well-being, a priority that President Jim Schmidt says is essential to supporting those who contribute so much to the university.
“Making TimelyCare available to every employee is one meaningful way we can care for those who care so deeply for this university,” Schmidt said. “I hope our colleagues will explore these resources and find the support that is right for them, whenever they need it.”
All JMU faculty and staff members are eligible to use TimelyCare, regardless of employment classification or insurance eligibility. The service requires no insurance, is offered at no cost to employees, and can be accessed by using their JMU e-ID and password.
The platform provides access to several services, including TalkNow, which offers on-demand, 24/7 support from a mental health professional; scheduled counseling with licensed providers; health coaching; psychiatry services through counselor referral; an anonymous peer community; and a library of self-care resources, including guided meditations, yoga sessions and wellness workshops.
All services are delivered through a secure and confidential platform, and information shared through TimelyCare is not shared with the university.
"Mental health is an essential part of our overall well-being," Torkelson said. "It influences how we manage stress, navigate change, build relationships, engage with our work and show up for ourselves and others. While many of us recognize the importance of well-being, accessing support can sometimes feel overwhelming, inconvenient or simply out of reach."
To help employees learn more about the platform and available resources, Balanced Dukes will host a virtual information session with TimelyCare on Sept. 16 from 11 a.m. to noon. Employees can register for the session here.
Additional information about the benefit and available services is available on the Balanced Dukes TimelyCare website.
As faculty and staff begin exploring the platform's resources, Torkelson hopes employees will view TimelyCare as an opportunity to invest in their own health and well-being.
"You invest so much in others," Torkelson said. "Now it's time to invest in yourself."
