Resources for Students: Making Referrals
- I think my friend/roommate/etc would benefit from counseling. How can I help him/her seek services at the Counseling Center?
- What if I am unsure if my friend/roommate/etc would benefit from counseling?
- How do I know if this person received counseling?
1. I think my friend/roommate/etc. would benefit from counseling. How can I help him/her seek services at the center?
Referring others for counseling is an important and sometimes difficult task. Every year many students, faculty and staff call or come to the Student Counseling Center expressing concern about someone - a friend, relative, roommate, or student. Student problems may include stress overload, depression, anxiety, family or relationship issues, physical or sexual abuse, academic difficulties, substance abuse, eating issues, and identity concerns.
Be frank with the person about the limits of your time, expertise, or objectivity. Tell the person that you think she/he should get help from another source, and suggest the Counseling Center. If she/he is reluctant to seek professional help:
•Normalize the process of talking with a counselor as a positive, helpful experience.
• Reassure him/her that counselors talk to students about a wide range of concerns, and that problems need not reach the crisis stage before help can be beneficial.
• Assure the person that she or he can meet with the counselor on a one-time basis without committing to ongoing therapy.
• Inform the person that the counseling services are confidential, and that any contact or information about him/her cannot be disclosed to anyone without his/her written permission.
Talk to the student in private. Be gentle and caring. Specifically state your reasons for concern. Listen carefully. Avoid criticizing or sounding judgmental.
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2. What if I am unsure if my friend/roommate/etc would benefit from counseling?
If you are concerned about a student, call the Counseling Center at 974-2196 or come in during our walk-in times (M-F 10:00 – 11:30 and 1:00 – 3:30). Our counselors are available for consultation, and can help in a number of ways, including:
• Assessing the seriousness of the situation.
• Suggesting possible courses of action.
• Exploring both on- and off-campus resources.
• Determining the best way to make a referral, if appropriate.
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3. How do I know if this person received counseling?
Ask that person. Because counseling is confidential, we cannot inform you if the person of concern came to the Counseling Center or reveal what they talked about. Therefore, the best way to find out if the person came to the Center is to follow-up with this individual yourself.
If you feel that it is vital for you to learn whether this student came to the Center from the counselor, ask the student to sign a release of information form when they are here, giving us permission to confirm with you that they came.
Click here for more information on Referring a Distressed Student.
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