Frequently Asked Questions
Faq Items
Are the counsellors professionally qualified?
The Counselling Service is an organisational member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and subscribes to their Code of Ethics and Practice. For details of this please visit the BACP website (opens in a new tab). All counsellors are professionally qualified and registered practitioners.
Can I request a specific time or day for my counselling?
You will be asked for your availability during your initial appointment. However please note that the counselling service is only available during our set working hours.
Can I request a specific counsellor?
The service is committed to diversity and inclusion for all students. However, at times we may not be able to provide this. We are endeavouring to address this gap in our provision of service within the Counselling and Mental Health Service.
How long will I have to wait for an appointment offer?
Our waiting list times can vary. However, you will be given an indication of the waiting time during your initial appointment.
Does my problem have to be a serious one to see a counsellor?
No, many personal, relationship or academic-related 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 suggest you see one of our Wellbeing Advisors in the first instance who can support you in accessing the most appropriate support.
Will my counsellor tell anyone about my problems?
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. Exceptions to this rule apply only if there are legal or statutory obligations to disclose, or if there is a risk of serious harm to the client or to others. For more information about this please see our Data Protection and 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 Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy.
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 Advisors can also offer advice and information if you have concerns about the behaviour or mental health of another person.
What happens if I am unable to attend my first appointment?
An appointment is only available at the time it is offered. If you cannot make this time, in most cases your name will return to the waiting list. We will then offer a second appointment when another 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.
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 agencies within the community, or to services 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 can discuss these options with you if this seems the best way forward.