Answers to your questions about the Counseling Services

Who knows if I've been to Counseling? We don't report to anyone that you have used our service. Files are kept in our offices, in locked cabinets, for the purposes of case management and statistical reporting. Texas law prohibits our revealing the identities of who we see unless we feel they are a danger to themselves or others. See our Confidentiality Statement.

Do you see children? We see the children of students on occasion, mostly for behavioral or transitional problems, or as part of family counseling. If the youngster has need for more comprehensive evaluation or services we make every effort to help that referral along. For child-oriented services see Other Local Resources.

What kind of counseling do you offer? We provide just about any type of counseling you might want or need. Our counselors provide individual, marital/relationship, family, and utilize various modalities, (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, etc.). If you have a particular need please ask us about it.

What about counseling for alcohol or drug concerns? Counseling staff coordinate the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Awareness and Prevention Project. Counselors can discuss concerns you have about yourself or others. You can also check our other web pages for Other Local Resources and Interesting Web Sites about substance use/abuse issues.

How much does it cost? There is no fee for our services. We are funded through student fees as well as additional funding from UTMB, so there is no additional cost to our clients.

Do you see husbands, wives, partners or significant others? Yes, they are eligible for the same services as their student-partner.

Do I need a referral to make an appointment? You may refer yourself, no other referral is needed.

How do I make an appointment? Call 747-9508, or drop by our office at 2.500 Rebecca Sealy Hospital. We can make arrangements if you would like to talk briefly with a counselor about making an appointment.

Can I choose my own counselor? We usually recommend the counselor who can get you in soonest, or who we believe would be most appropriate for you. If you have a specific request, please let the secretary know. We will do what we can to accommodate you. Sometimes a request for a particular person means it will take a few more days to get an appointment.

Does my use of Counseling Services become part of my student file? Will it go in my Dean's Letter? No, no! Your records DO NOT become part of any file outside this office. Our counselors are bound by professional ethics and Texas law to maintain the confidentiality of your contact with us. See our Confidentiality Statement.

What if I need to see a counselor immediately? We give urgent situations the highest priority. Call 747-9508 or come by 2.500 Rebecca Sealy Hospital weekdays 8-5. For after-hours situations, contact the Healthcare Hotline at 1-800-917-8906. See Crisis Contact Information.

What if it's not me, but a friend I'm worried about? While we can't really counsel your friend through you, and we don't force students to come in for a visit, we are open to talking with you about your concerns and can advise you about how to best help your friend. Look over our Guide for Faculty and Staff to get ideas.