Counselling Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a Counsellor do? How is this different from an Advisor?
Counsellors work with students to enable them to achieve academic success and meet their career aspirations. We do this through clarifying their career goals, teaching self-management skills, addressing personal problems they may be experiencing, and helping them to understand all aspects of student policies at Kwantlen which affect them.
Advisors assist with course selection, educational planning and transfer information to/from other institutions.
What do I see a Counsellor for?
Some of the reasons students come to see us may be related to a lack of clarity or confusion about what career to pursue which may affect the kinds of courses they take and their focus in class; others come in because they are underperforming in class in spite of sufficient effort; and then there are those students who are facing personal challenges (relationships, financial, crisis, mental health, etc.) which is negatively affecting their studies. Often there are multiple reasons for why a student seeks counselling.
Do Counsellors have special training?
Yes. All of us have a minimum of Master's degree in Counselling Psychology.
Is Counselling like psychiatry?
No. Counsellors are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medication.
What if I definitely want a male or female Counsellor?
Please make this request at the time of booking. You will be offered an option to see one, or speak to one on another campus if this request cannot be met on your own campus.
How confidential is Counselling? What are the limits of confidentiality?
Kwantlen Counselling Services takes the protection of your privacy very seriously. All information discussed and/or recorded during counselling sessions is considered private and is held in strict confidence. We will not release information to anyone, whether an individual or an agency, without your consent. There are a few, very rare exceptions to this rule. Counsellors are required by law to report instances of clear and imminent danger to self and/or others and instances of current child abuse. If you have further questions or concerns about confidentiality, please ask your Counsellor about it.
Does seeing a Counsellor mean I have a mental problem?
No. We see many different types of students, and some who do have mental health disabilities. In many instances, seeking the help of a Counsellor to solve various life and academic challenges that any student may face helps to actually prevent a mental health problem from taking place or getting out of hand.
Do I have to pay?
No. Counselling services are free to registered Kwantlen students.
Does it work for everybody?
We know from experience that individuals who are better informed and skilled in managing themselves and their lives, tend to make better decisions about their education, relationships and career.
Counsellors role is to support students in their goal to achieve academic and personal success while at university.
What do I say?
Usually the Counsellor will initiate your discussions and support you through the session. If you have specific questions why you have sought counselling, please do not hesitate to let the Counsellor know of the specific purpose of your visit.
Will the Counsellor give me advice?
The Counsellor facilitates you to identify the reasons for your predicament, the options available to you, and learn ways to help yourself resolve whatever challenges that are facing you.
Will the Counsellor have experienced problems like mine?
Counsellors have experience with a variety of psychological issues, and their professional training prepares them to address individual student needs.
What will the Counsellor think of me – will they think badly of me for getting into a mess?
Counsellors have also been students and experienced the challenges of student life, which gives them a credible insight into the pressures of academic life.
How can it be right to be in need of help?
Seeking information and knowledge from professionals who can help us to manage our own lives is self-empowering and positive to one's self esteem.
Wouldn't I be better to try and sort it out for myself?
Limited knowledge, information and resources, can lead to ineffective decision-making, especially when experiencing distress.
What about talking to my friends?
Talking to supportive and trusting friends is very comforting. Relying on friend's to make critical decisions which require professional expertise is unhealthy for them and yourself.
How can I book an appointment?
Please visit our website and click the big green button on the right for specific campus counselling offices contact information: http://www.kwantlen.ca/counselling
Where can I get further information?
Please check our website for external resources, drop-by our resource areas, and/or make an appointment with a Counsellor to access resources specific to your personal needs. http://www.kwantlen.ca/counselling
