Does it mean I have a serious problem if I come for counselling?

The degree of difficulties which students experience vary according to the individual, their capacity to cope and their current circumstances. Some issues may be helped with only one or two counselling sessions whilst some may need longer, including referral on for longer term help.

Will my tutor or anyone else know that I am receiving counselling?

No. The fact that you are receiving counselling is confidential. We will not divulge anything to your tutor or anybody else without your permission.

Exceptions to this rule would be if we were seriously concern that you were going to do serious harm to yourself or others. In this situation we may need to let someone else know, with or without your consent.

Will it go on my college record?

No. Counselling records are kept in a secure place by the counselling service and are completely separate to any other college records. Nobody outside the counselling service has access to these. Under the Data Protection Act you are entitled to have access to these notes.

Will the Counselling Service provide evidence that I have attended for Extenuating Circumstances Applications?

No. The Counselling Service does not provide proof of attendance in support of Extenuating Circumstances Applications. It is not valid evidence and will not support an application in any way. For more information on what is valid evidence please see the All you need to know about Extenuating Circumstances leaflet.