Who goes to counselling?
In many ways, the ideal answer is, “everybody!” Like most of the people at Student Services (and throughout the campus), our job in counselling is to help you, as a student, have the most successful academic career you can. So if you are ever concerned that things aren’t going as well as they could, or you’re contemplating a big decision and would like to talk it over with someone - then we’d love to hear from you! Although we’d be happy to help with whatever concern you bring with you (and sometimes that help just means pointing you to the right resource), our work can generally be broken down as academic advising, personal counselling, advocacy and consulting.

What is academic advising?
Academic advising is conducted by many people. Staff in the First_Year Advising Centre (FYAC) help incoming students with these issues; faculty play an important role in advising students, especially as it pertains to those majoring in a domain taught by a faculty member (which is especially important to third- and fourth-year students); and the staff in Student Services are available for all students year-round. Academic advising can include the following:

• Advice with course selection, choice of major, and university transfer options.
• Assistance with time management, developing effective study skills, and reducing procrastination.
• Planning for graduate work or professional study beyond the bachelor's degree level.
• Inquiries regarding admissions.

What is covered by "personal counselling"?

• Counselling and psychotherapy for personal (for example, relationship breakup) and clinical issues (for example, depression).
• Addresses diverse concerns, including anxiety, crisis, depression, abuse, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol concerns, eating disorders, self-harm, and self-esteem.
• Inclusive service allowing focus on all dimensions of life: physical, social, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual.
• Advocacy: assistance for students navigating administrative and bureaucratic structures both within and outside the University.

What kind of consulting do you do?

• Concerns about the well-being of a student or group of students can be brought to our counsellors. This service is available to staff, faculty, administrators, and even other students and parents.
• Staff are available to make presentations and to consult with groups, such as classes, residence communities, and academic departments.

Referrals
Students can access our service without a referral. We can also arrange for referrals to external, community-based resources when needed.

Who will know I’m coming to counselling?
The staff at Student Services take your privacy and right to confidentiality very seriously. We don’t discuss a client’s case with anyone without first clearing through you. And with so many different activities going on in The Loft, no one even needs to know you’re coming to counselling.

When can I come in?
Our services are generally available by appointment year-round, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the Fall and Winter semesters, we try to make some evening hours available as well. You can make an appointment to see a counsellor by calling us at (902) 566-0488.

Appointments and Hours of Operation
8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday
Evening appointments offered on Wednesdays until 7pm.
Contact 902.566.0488 W.A. Murphy Student Centre

Who can use counselling?
All registered students at UPEI can access counselling services. Our counsellors will be happy to meet with students with any issues that are getting in the way of the university experience they want to have. Frequently addressed issues, and possible resources are available here.

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