Universities: Free Counseling Services For Students?

University can be an exciting time for students, but it can also be overwhelming. Many universities recognize this and offer free or low-cost therapy services to students who need guidance or help. These services can be beneficial for students who may not have the financial resources to pay for therapy themselves, and they can encourage students to seek help when needed. The number of free sessions offered varies from university to university, and some universities also offer online or virtual counseling services.

Confidentiality

There are, however, exceptions to this rule. In the United States, for example, the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) states that school counselors have an ethical obligation to keep information confidential unless legal requirements, school board policy, or the need to prevent serious and foreseeable harm to the student or others demand it.

Serious and foreseeable harm is determined by multiple factors, including a student’s developmental and chronological age, the setting, parental/guardian rights, and the nature of the harm. School counselors should inform students when situations arise in which they have a responsibility to disclose information obtained in counseling for the protection of students, themselves, or other individuals.

In the State of California, the following conditions must be met for information to be shared:

• If the student presents an imminent threat of harm to themselves or others.
• When there is an indication of abuse of a child, dependent adult, or elderly adult.
• If the student becomes gravely disabled.
• If information is required by a court subpoena or court order.

The University of California also follows the California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and other applicable laws that apply to the use and disclosure of health information.

On-campus vs off-campus

Many universities offer on-campus counselling services to their students. These services are often free or low-cost and can be very beneficial to students who may be struggling with their mental health. On-campus counselling can help students cope with mental health challenges, stress, and other personal issues. It can also help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote a culture of self-care and well-being.

On-campus counselling services typically offer a variety of assistance, including individual counselling, group workshops, and support groups. They may also offer virtual or hybrid options for students who are unable to attend in-person sessions. These services are usually confidential, with strict ethical and legal standards in place to protect students' privacy.

However, there may be limitations to on-campus counselling. For example, there may be a limited number of sessions or semesters offered for free, after which students may be referred to off-campus mental health professionals. Additionally, wait times for appointments can vary, and students may not always have access to the same counsellor, which can disrupt continuity of care.

Off-campus counselling, on the other hand, can provide students with more specialized or long-term care. This may be particularly important for students dealing with trauma or other complex issues. Off-campus counsellors are typically not affiliated with the university and can offer a fresh perspective. They may also have more availability and shorter wait times.

The cost of off-campus counselling can vary, and some services may be covered by insurance or offered on a sliding scale based on income. Students can often find off-campus counsellors through referrals from on-campus services or their school-provided insurance. Additionally, there are several organizations and resources dedicated to providing low-cost or free mental health support to students, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Local Psychology Training Clinics, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Ultimately, both on-campus and off-campus counselling services have their advantages and can be utilized by students based on their specific needs and circumstances. It is important for students to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed, as both options can provide valuable support and guidance.

Free vs paid

University can be an exciting time for students, but it can also be overwhelming. Many universities recognize this and offer free or low-cost therapy services for students who need guidance or help. These services can be beneficial for students who may not have the financial resources to pay for therapy themselves. They can encourage students to seek help when needed and provide them with the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

Free therapy services offered by universities can vary. Some universities offer a set number of free sessions, while others offer unlimited sessions. These sessions can be in-person, virtual, or hybrid. Some universities also offer group therapy, workshops, and support groups. Additionally, universities may have on-campus health centers that provide medical services and education, as well as referrals to off-campus mental health professionals if needed.

While free therapy services can be a great resource for students, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One issue is the wait time for an appointment, as university counseling centers may be overbooked or understaffed. Another concern is the privacy and confidentiality of the student's information. While mental health professionals are bound by strict ethical and legal standards to maintain confidentiality, there may be exceptions if the student poses a threat to themselves or others.

On the other hand, paid therapy services offer more flexibility and privacy. Students can choose their own therapist and are not limited to the number of sessions offered by the university. Paid therapy may also be more accessible, with shorter wait times and a wider range of available appointments. Additionally, students may feel more comfortable knowing that their classmates will not see them in the waiting room.

Ultimately, the decision between free and paid therapy depends on the individual's needs and preferences. Free therapy services offered by universities can be a great starting point for students to get help and build a support system. However, if the student requires more specialized or long-term care, paid therapy may be a better option to ensure they receive the necessary treatment.

Teletherapy

One provider of teletherapy in the UK is Eaves & Welch Therapy, whose dedicated team of professional therapists all hold postgraduate qualifications in counselling and psychotherapy. They are also committed members of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Eaves & Welch Therapy offers 60-minute sessions for £39 for students aged 18+ attending UK colleges and universities. These sessions can be conducted via Zoom video chat or telephone call, providing flexibility and convenience for students.

Another option for students seeking teletherapy is Tele-Therapy-UK, which offers access to leading therapists and counsellors in the UK via a secure video link. They work closely with their sister organisation, Psychiatry-UK, to provide rapid referrals to medical practitioners if needed. Tele-Therapy-UK offers a range of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy, brief therapy, and mindfulness, tailoring their approach to each individual's unique needs. However, to receive therapy services via Tele-Therapy-UK, an initial consultation with a psychiatrist from Psychiatry-UK is required, which costs £350.

Online Counselling Clinic is another UK-based provider of teletherapy services. They offer confidential and convenient sessions with qualified therapists, providing support for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship counselling. Online Counselling Clinic emphasises the convenience and accessibility of their services, allowing individuals to access support from anywhere with an internet connection.

Student experiences

Students have reported mixed experiences with university counselling services. One student reported a positive experience with their college-provided therapy, which was free of charge. They also noted that the number of free visits varies between colleges. Another student, who attended therapy for all four years of their undergraduate program, reported a good experience overall, but expressed frustration at having a different therapist each year. They recommend requesting a licensed therapist who will be at the college long-term.

Another student reported having an unlimited number of free sessions annually, but expressed concern about the lack of privacy and the sharing of information with the school administration. They also mentioned that their access to therapy was cut off when they were forced to take a medical leave of absence.

One student who had a single session with their college-provided therapist was referred to an off-campus therapist, which they found to be a better fit for their needs. Another student reported having to wait six months for five sessions with a therapist who was unable to empathise with their issues due to differences in socio-economic background.

Some students have praised the convenience and accessibility of online therapy services, which can be especially helpful for those who feel uncomfortable seeking help on campus or who are unable to attend in-person sessions. However, others have noted that the quality of these services can vary and that they may not be suitable for addressing deeper issues that require long-term work.

Overall, while university counselling services can be a valuable resource for students, the availability, quality, and effectiveness of these services can vary significantly between institutions.

Frequently asked questions