Services
Individual Counselling
Individual counselling is provided for a wide range of issues including those that are academic and study-related and those of a personal or social nature. Sessions last for approximately fifty minutes, except for the initial intake session which lasts for approximately thirty minutes. Intake sessions are usually available within one or two days.
The counselling staff are all highly experienced professionals and are either registered psychologists or qualified social workers.
Referral
Counsellors have access to a range of information regarding community facilities, as well as contacts for private counsellors, psychiatrists and other such professionals, in the event of a referral off campus being needed. If the counsellor needs to provide any information to another professional, the permission of the client is sought. Also, counsellors may refer students to specific areas within the University for further assistance. For example, a student may be referred to the Dean of Students for high level academic advice and information regarding University Regulations or to special courses offered on campus in writing skills, numeracy skills or English for Academic Purposes, should the need arise.
Liaison
Within the University, Counsellors liaise with individual Schools and Offices regarding programs and services offered by the Counselling Service.
Consultancy
Counsellors are available to provide consultancy services in areas of their expertise to Schools and Offices of the University. As an example, Counsellors are trained in specific techniques to assist students or staff who may become affected by an unforeseen traumatic event, such as an armed robbery or a suicide. Counsellors are available for consultation in relation to concerns that students or staff might have about a third party.
Critical Incidents
The Counselling Service has special expertise in the area of Critical Incident Response. It is important that any event such as an episode of violence, fire or explosion, flood, severe storm, bomb threat, suicide or threat of harm to self or others is dealt with in an appropriate manner which facilitates recovery of those affected. Counselling will be available if the need arises. Please contact the Counselling Service for further information.