Getting Individual Counseling

Counseling is unique to each person, no two experiences will be alike.
You can be sure, however, that our staff will do their best to tailor your experience to your needs. 

Students seek our services for a variety of personal reasons, ranging from time management, self-esteem, stress, and social isolation to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and sexual assault.

 

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Individual Counseling Expectations

  • What is counseling?

  • Counseling is a relationship with a person who is professionally trained to help discuss concerns in a way that clarifies one's thoughts and feelings. This helping relationship leads to increased self-understanding and more effective behavior.

  • Different Experiences for Different Needs

  • Students seek our services for a variety of personal reasons, some of which are but not limited to: Relationships, Time Management, Self Esteem, Social Isolation, Stress, Grief, Anxiety, Sexual Orientation, Depression, Study Skills/Academics, Anger Management, Sexual Assault/Rape, Alcohol/Drugs, and Family.

  • What would an appointment be like?

  • Students meet with a counselor to discuss the situation and evaluate options for addressing their areas of concern. The role of the counselor is to listen non-judgmentally and prompt you to examine your own thinking rather than deciding for you or giving advice.

  • Do I need to make an appointment to see a counselor?

  • Yes, you need an appointment to see a counselor. To schedule an appointment, students can walk-in or contact the office by phone at (850) 599-3145.

  • Does the Office of Counseling Services have a psychiatrist?

  • The Office of Counseling Services has two consulting psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. This service is provided for students who feel they might benefit from discussing medication options.

  • As part of the policy of the Office of Counseling Services, those students who are interested in medication as an option must also meet with a counselor at least once a month.

  • Comprehensive Services

  • The Office of Counseling Services offers a wide variety of services to meet the needs of our students. Our services include individual counseling, group counseling, couples counseling, psychiatric medication consultations, academic support, workshops, and presentations.

  • Explore our variety of other services!  explore services

  • Why should I come to 'Counseling Services'?

  • While the college experience is often exciting and enjoyable, it can also be quite stressful. It is important to address the stressors and concerns in your life so you can focus on being academically successful.

  • Who is eligible to receive services?

  • Students currently enrolled in classes are charged a student health fee (currently $6.91 per credit hour) along with their tuition. This health fee entitles students to access mental health and physical health services. Students not enrolled for a summer term or recent graduates may pay a health fee (currently $103) that will allow them access to clinic services for one semester.

  • How often are appointments? How long do they last?

  • Ordinarily, students will see a counselor for a 45 to 50-minute appointment once per week, although scheduling is done on a case-by-case basis.

  • What if I need to speak with a counselor NOW?

  • Counselors are available to assist with crisis or emergency situations. If your concern is urgent (i.e., suicidal thoughts or attempts, experiencing hallucinations, or experiencing a trauma within the last seven days), you do not have to have a scheduled appointment; you can just walk-in.

  • Does the fact that I went to counseling end up on my transcript or school records?

  • As required by law, counseling sessions at the Office of Counseling Services are confidential. No information is disclosed to anyone (e.g. parents, professors, administration) in any identifiable manner without prior written consent from the student. The exceptions are when a student is under the age of 18, when the student is in danger of harming themselves or others, when there is suspected abuse of a child, a disabled person, or an elderly person, or when a judge mandates disclosure to a court of law.

  • What if I need to speak with a counselor and it’s after-hours or the Office of Counseling Services is closed?

  • If you need to speak with a counselor when our office is closed, call BetterMynd for FREE at (844) 287-6963
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Want To Schedule An Appointment To Talk To Someone? Looking For Our Office?

FAMU | 1735 Wahnish Way | CASS Building, Suite #304

To speak with a counselor after-hours, call BetterMynd at (844) 287-6963
In Case of Emergency, call FAMU Police Department at (850) 599-3256 or Dial 911
P:
(850) 599-3145
F:
(850) 599-8481
E:
counseling@famu.edu