Information for Parents

Information for Parents

Going off to college represents a major life transition.  Managing time, clarifying values, transitioning into new friendships, learning from mistakes, and developing autonomy will begin to occur when your student first arrives on campus and will continue throughout the college years.  Some students may experience few problems while others find the process more difficult.  It is expected and completely normal for students to experience some anxiety making the adjustments during each of the years they are in college.

This page is intended to provide you with information about our services and the ways in which we can be helpful to you and to your student.

How can Counseling Services help parents?

We are available for consultation with parents by phone or by appointment.  We invite parents to call if they have concerns about their son or daughter.  Parents frequently have questions about the specific services we provide that may be beneficial to their student.  We can also help parents secure referrals to services outside of the college for their sons and daughters.

What about Confidentiality?

Confidentiality is an important part of establishing trust and effective counseling relationships.  Confidentiality laws also prohibit us from sharing any information about a student’s counseling contacts without the expressed permission of the student.  However, confidentiality considerations do not prohibit us from discussing ways in which parents can be helpful in dealing with the issues that their sons and daughters are confronting. 

Why do students go to counseling?

Typically students seek counseling for difficulties with adjustment, problems with relationships, self-esteem, sexual orientation, as well as serious emotional and behavioral issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse.  We encourage students to consult us about any matters that concern them.

What services are offered?

University Counseling Services offers individual counseling, group treatment, consultation and referral services.