Our Process – What to Expect
We offer services in person, by video call (Microsoft Teams), telephone and email. If you would like to register with the Counselling Service, the quickest way is to complete our online form.
Complete Our Referral Form
To register with the Student Counselling Service you need to self-refer using our secure online form. No-one else can refer you to our service.
Register Now – Secure Online Form
The form is in two parts; part one is your details and availability, as you're signed in, some of this will auto-complete, part 2 is optional and asks some questions to provide the therapist with some background on your reasons for approaching the service.
If you aren’t able to access our form, please email us.
Once you have completed the form, you will receive an automated email confirming your referral has been received.
Consultation Appointment
Once we’ve processed your referral form, we will get in touch offering you a video consultation at a time you have indicated you are available. We will usually email to offer you an appointment time with a time date to confirm by, so make sure you keep an eye on your emails and reply to let us know whether or not you can attend. Emails will be sent to your University email account. If you've noted on your referral that you would prefer telephone contact we'll phone you to arrange the appointment. Sometimes consultation sessions become available at short-notice following cancellations. If you've selected the option on the form saying that you're ok with being offered one of these and included a contact number, we'll phone you to offer.
The consultation is a 45 minute session with a qualified therapist in which you discuss your situation and possible support options. The therapist will guide you through. You'll be emailed a password protected Assessment Outcome (AO) document within a couple of days of your session which outlines what you agreed and any resources recommended.
Next steps
At the end of your consultation, you and the counsellor will decide what the best steps are. Normally one or more of the following:
- Recommendations for Self-Help
- Brief Counselling Through the Service
- A Referral to Another University Service
- A Referral to an External Service
Safe and Confidential Environment
Some people particularly struggle with finding the language to express how they feel. They are uncomfortable talking about what they perceive as failure, and find it hard to know where to turn to when it becomes impossible to ignore disturbing feelings, behaviours and physical symptoms.
Speaking to a professional counsellor gives you the opportunity to talk, listen and express yourself without being judged.
Privacy Notice
Please read our Privacy Notice before you complete the online form. It outlines what information we keep, why and how we process it.
Browse the Information on Our Site
Before you complete our referral form you may find the self-help sections of this site helpful.