Referring Someone for Counseling

Consider a referral when:

• A student expresses to you some adjustment concern or emotional problems.
• You feel a student could benefit from professional help.
• A student talks about suicide, whether to you or another student.
• The problems or requests made by a student are beyond your level of competence.
• After some time and effort you feel like you are not making progress in helping a student.

• A meeting at the Counseling Center is not mandatory but is in the student’s best interests.
• You are willing to come to the Counseling Center with the student for the first visit.
• All information provided to the Counseling Center is strictly confidential.
• Seeking help is healthy. Students often argue that they can deal with their problems alone. You should point out that you are not saying the student can’t but that their efforts might be enhanced by consulting with a professional.
• If the student talks about suicide, strongly emphasize the need for the student to meet with a counselor for at least one visit. One visit does not obligate the student to more visits, unless they and the counselor decide that more meetings would be helpful. Don’t make threats but point out that talking about suicide is serious and such talk cannot be dismissed.

• If you are an RA, discuss the situation that prompted the referral with the residence hall director. The director may have some useful suggestions and will also want to be informed of a potential crisis.
• Contact the Counseling Center either by phone at 649-7900, ext. 232, or stop by the center on the lower level of the Campus Center. You may use this time to discuss the situation with a counselor, who can determine what the best intervention strategy might be. Always try to discuss the situation with a counselor before bringing in a student, unless it’s an emergency. You should also let a student know you will be contacting the Counseling Center and emphasize that you are trying to make the referral easier for the student.
• When you do not have to contact the Counseling Center on the student’s behalf, always give the student the counselor’s name and contact information.
• Follow up with the counselor. It is often helpful to the Counseling Center for you to keep us informed about the student’s adjustment. Because of client confidentiality, information sharing will be one-way. The Counseling Center cannot discuss with you our work with the student unless the student gives consent.