BASICS Alcohol & Other Substance Brief Interventions

The Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students (BASICS) helps students evaluate their substance use and make choices aligned with their values and goals, all in a confidential, judgment-free setting.

Originally focused on alcohol, BASICS now addresses other substances as well. It’s intended for students referred by local courts or campus conduct offices, or those curious about their substance use patterns and interested in exploring changes. If you’re concerned with your substance use and interested in exploring change, please contact our Clinical Substance Use Counselor for more direct support.

Why participate in BASICS 

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• BASICS consists of at least two virtual (Zoom) sessions, over a three-week period, led by a trained facilitator.  
• Session One is 60 minutes long, typically in a group of 2-6 students.  
• In between Sessions One and Two, students complete a survey which includes short-term goal development.  
• Session Two is 60 minutes and is an individualized, 1-on-1 meeting with the facilitator.    
• It is important to note that BASICS is a screening tool that often pairs with broader educational programs like Carpe Diem. It is not considered a replacement for clinical assessments or counseling; however, we do provide these services at Student Wellness.  
• Student Wellness is proud to partner with local non-profit Carpe Diem for the provision of court and conduct-related substance education and skill-building classes. To register for the Carpe Diem program, please click here.

For appointments, more information, or questions, email basics@unc.edu

Directions to Student Wellness

Student Wellness is located in Suite 0103 in the Student and Academic Services Building North (SASB North). You can find directions at Maps UNC.

Accessible by the following bus routes:

• Manning Drive at Public Safety Stop – Once you get off the bus, make a right and walk past Hardin Residence Hall. Make a left at the small parking lot and walk past the UNC NPHC Legacy Plaza (gray columns in a circle). SASB North will be the building right in front of you with a garden out front.
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• Ridge Road at Ram’s Head Center – Once you get off the bus, make a left and walk towards Manning Drive. Make a right at the bushes and enter the SASB Plaza. SASB North will be on your right.
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