Rivier renovates Benoit Hall to advance education of future counselors, psychologists, and educators
Rivier completed a full renovation of Benoit Hall, unveiling a modern, technology enhanced facility for the start of the spring semester.
The 42,000-square-foot building, originally constructed in 1993, has been redesigned into a state-of-the-art learning environment for counseling, psychology, and education programs. The renovation includes expanded divisional office suites, computer-equipped classrooms, seminar rooms, and collaborative learning spaces.
Benoit Hall provides dedicated space for both the Division of Counseling and Psychology and the Division of Education and Leadership. Counseling simulation areas feature immersive technology that allows graduate and doctoral students to participate in realistic counseling scenarios and refine therapeutic techniques. These areas support both clinical and school-based counseling simulations through artificial intelligence and scenario-based learning.
Shortages of mental health workers, licensed clinical mental health counselors, and school psychologists have placed increasing strain on mental health services, education systems, and clinical support environments. The state also faces a growing need for professionals qualified to conduct assessments, psychotherapy, and educational testing, as well as a shortage of trained supervisors essential to developing the future workforce.
The completion of the Benoit Hall renovation represents a significant milestone in Rivier’s Go Boldly 2024–2030 strategic plan, affirming the University’s dedication to preparing the next generation of behavioral health professionals for clinical and school-based settings.
Among its more than 60 academic degree programs, the University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in counseling, psychology, and education.