GAME-CHANGING CARE Cameron Simmons ’25 Champions Mental Health for Athletes
When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cameron Simmons ’25 (MA Mental Health Counseling) was faced with more than just uncertainty—he saw an urgent need. As a pre-physical therapy major and a member of the IU Southeast men’s basketball team, Simmons was focused on helping others improve their physical health. But witnessing the mental health struggles of his teammates, his loved ones, communities nationwide, as well as his own shifted his perspective. Instead of focusing solely on physical recovery, he turned his attention to a deeper need: mental health care.
aligned with his own values and professional goals. “The Mental Health Counseling program’s goal to prepare us to serve the community at large, and its inclusion of cultural sensitivity practices, stood out to me,” said Simmons. “It’s very much about just being human and connecting with others. That’s what led me to want to be here.” Simmons was able to put his education into practice quickly. In the summer of 2024, he joined Outreach, Inc., an Indianapolis-based nonprofit working to end youth homelessness, for his practicum requirement. There,
plays such a big part in mental health.” Simmons was connected to this opportunity through practicum and internship coordinator Megan Flinn, assistant professor of mental health counseling. His connection with faculty in the Mental Health Counseling program has helped him grow academically, professionally, and personally. “I can definitely say my work and the knowledge that I’ve gained while here at UIndy have made me a better person and helped me understand how I can be a better counselor,” explained Simmons. “Coming into this program, I knew that I wanted to help people mentally, but I didn’t know how. My connection with several of the professors here, especially Megan Flinn, has taught me a lot about counseling frameworks and made me more comfortable in my work.” Simmons will graduate this spring and join the ever-growing ranks of professionals specializing in mental health care for athletes. With his unique insights into the challenges athletes face and his genuine commitment to helping others, Simmons is ready to step up and be a game-changer in leading the next generation of athletes to healthier outcomes.
“Seeing the benefits of my work with Outreach gave me a sense of accomplishment. Having somewhere safe to live is a basic need, and the stability aspect plays such a big part in mental health.” — Cameron Simmons ’25
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in psychology, Simmons knew that a master’s degree was his next step. As an Indianapolis native, he was already familiar with the University of Indianapolis. He quickly discovered that the University’s mission of “Education for Service”
Simmons conducted psychological evaluations for individuals aimed at securing housing vouchers. “Seeing the benefits of my work with Outreach gave me a sense of accomplishment,” said Simmons. “Having somewhere safe to live is a basic need, and the stability aspect
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MAGAZINE // WINTER 2024
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