Frequently Asked Questions

What does the UWA Counselling and Psychological Service offer?

The Service provides free, short term, fortnightly, 50 minute sessions. Most students attend counselling 3-4 times on average, however up to six sessions are available.

What can I expect from my appointment?

Your first meeting is a 20-minute session during which you discuss with the psychologist your goals, priorities and the suitability of this service for your needs.

Why do people come to counselling?

Students and staff attend counselling for many issues that may be impacting on their study and work life. The most common reasons are stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, shyness and difficulty with friends, homesickness/ loneliness, concentration problems, low self esteem/confidence, addictions and sexuality issues.

Will my counsellor be professionally qualified?

All staff are registered psychologists and have a postgraduate qualification in Psychology or Counselling. The psychologists adhere to professional codes of conduct and continually update their skills and expertise. All have current registration with the Psychologist's Board of WA.

Each semester the Counselling Service supervises Psychology and Counselling Masters students who have completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology and are undertaking specialist postgraduate training.

How do I know if my problem is serious enough to see a psychologist?

You do not need to be in crisis to seek counselling. In fact, it is better to do something about a problem before it becomes a crisis! If something is affecting your study or work or you just have something on your mind then it might be worth seeing a psychologist.

How much does it cost?

The UWA Counselling and Psychological Service is a free service to staff and students of the University.

Are my counselling sessions confidential?

Yes. Information about a client cannot be released outside Student Services unless the client has given the psychologist written or verbal consent to do so. Information can only be disclosed without client consent when there is a clear danger to the client and others, or there is a legal obligation to do so by a court subpoena, search warrant or legislated requirement.

Is there a waiting list to see a psychologist?

Yes, one-two weeks at most times of the year. During peak demand times such as before exams this wait time can increase to two-three weeks. If you are having personal difficulties it is best to access counselling early in semester rather than in crisis before the exam period. The counselling service in is demand and although we would like to offer same-day appointments this is seldom possible.

What if I need to see someone urgently?

In an urgent situation a staff member will contact you within 24 hours on your initial contact to assess your situation. If you cannot wait for 24 hours you can request a list of emergency contact numbers this is available from reception staff.

Where can I get help with stress management or managing anxiety?

To help you overcome stress and anxiety the Counselling Service runs workshops each semester on Stress Management, Worrying, Relaxation, Shyness and others. It can also help to make an appointment to see a psychologist to discuss strategies that might help.

Can the counsellor support my request for special consideration?

Yes, where appropriate. In recognition that unexpected events can seriously interrupt your studies during the year, the counsellor may be able to help you clarify and/or seek variations to your assessment schedule. To ensure a prompt response it is helpful if you bring evidence of your situation to the counselling appointment.

If you have not previously seen a counsellor from this Service, it may be difficult for the counsellor to support your request. If you have consulted a professional prior to counselling this person may be able to support your request (eg. another mental health professional, your doctor, your priest). It is important to discuss any requests for Special Consideration with your faculty before coming to Counselling.

What if I need more than six sessions?

To meet the needs of students who require long-term therapy we have a referral network of mental health professionals and agencies in the community. If it is determined during your intake session, or early in your counselling that you will need more than six sessions the psychologist will discuss with you the most appropriate external service for your needs.

What if I need crisis support?

The UWA Counselling Service is only open between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm. We will respond to most requests for urgent assisstance however there are a number of 24 hour services able to sssist you in an emergency. See our crisis services page for a listing of 24 hour crisis support information.

What if I don't show up for my scheduled appointment?

It is your responsibility to attend scheduled appointments, if you miss a scheduled time we then offer this time to the next person on our wait list. We have a long wait list during the second half of each semester. You will need to call Reception on 6488 2423 to make another appointment.