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University Counselling Service
Student & Staff Counselling

Student Counselling

Student Counselling FAQs

Can I have a different appointment time?

The appointment is only available at the time offered. If you cannot make this time, in most cases your name will return to the waiting list. We will offer a second appointment when a suitable one becomes available.

How long are the appointments?

Typically counselling sessions last 50 minutes, but sometimes shorter or longer sessions are arranged. You should allow up to an hour for a first appointment. If you arrive late for your session, please be aware that your appointment will be curtailed or may be re-scheduled.

Can I request a specific time or day for my counselling?

Yes, but bear in mind that you will be seen more quickly if you can be more flexible. Evening counselling appointments are in limited supply. We give first priority for these to students who are unable to attend during the day because of their course, placement or research location.

Can I request a specific counsellor?

Please let us know if you want to see a female or male counsellor, or if you are specifically seeking a CBT approach. Otherwise, we allocate appointments based on our assessment of what you describe on your form and the availability indicated on your timetable. As most of the counsellors work part-time or only in term, we aim to arrange for you to see an appropriate counsellor at a time that you can manage as soon as we are able.

How long will I have to wait for an appointment offer?

The answer will depend on many factors, including: how busy we are, your stated availability, and whether you are requesting CBT. It also depends on our assessment of your particular situation. The typical current waiting time is shown on our News page but individual cases may be much shorter or longer. Please let us know if you feel your situation is becoming urgent or if your availability changes in any way.

Does my problem have to be a serious one to see a counsellor?

No, many personal, relationship or identity problems can be helped through counselling. Seeing a counsellor is about making a positive choice to get the help that you need. Please don't wait until a problem has grown very serious - we would much rather you came when something is relatively minor, so that it can be resolved more quickly.

What if more help is needed than the Service can provide?

If longer-term therapy or specialist help is needed, referrals can be made via your GP to psychological, therapeutic or psychiatric services in the community or within the NHS. We can also provide information and advice about how to find a private counsellor or therapist (although we cannot arrange appointments with specific individuals). Your counsellor would discuss these options with you if this seems the best way forward.

Will my counsellor tell anyone about my problems?

No. The counselling we offer is confidential, which means we will not discuss your situation with anyone outside the Service, unless we have your consent to do so. For more information about this please see our confidentiality policy which also refers to our professional code of ethics.

Will records be kept about my counselling?

Yes. In accordance with professional practice, the Service keeps statistical information on clients and individual counsellors make notes about what happens during sessions. These records are strictly confidential and do not go outside the Service. You also have the right to request your counselling records. For more information about our record keeping and data protection matters, please see our section on Data Protection.

What if I am worried about someone else?

If you are worried about a friend, partner, or relative, you are welcome to arrange a single consultation session to discuss your concerns. We may not be able to respond immediately, but we will do our best to see you quickly. Our Mental Health Advisor can also offer advice and information if you have concerns about the behaviour or mental health of another person.