What is counselling?
Counselling is a collaborative process of exploring troubled thoughts, feelings and behaviours between a student client and a trained counsellor. It involves safe and open discussions on options and strategies to cope with the circumstances and situations that have brought distress.
Who uses counselling service?
Both male and female undergraduates and graduates from various disciplines and nationalities have sought help from our counsellors on a wide range of issues. These issues may be study and examination stress, family or relationship concerns, problems adjusting to a new environment or lifestyle.
For feedback from some students on how they had benefited from counselling, please click here.
Is seeking counselling only for the mentally ill or a sign of weakness?
Counselling is a positive step towards dealing with negative emotions and feelings. It takes strength and courage to recognise one's limitation and tap on resources to resolve an issue that might otherwise adversely affect one's quality of life. Counselling is a powerful source of help in the right direction. It is perfectly normal and acceptable to seek professional counselling, even for people without mental conditions.
How do I know I need counselling?
If the personal issues or challenges you are facing are affecting your quality of life in the areas of your health, relationship, daily activities, academic performance or eating and sleeping patterns, it is recommended that you seek professional counselling. Should you have thoughts of suicide, self-harm or harming others, you need to seek help immediately.
How long does a counselling session take?
The first counselling session usually takes about 90 minutes. After the initial discussion, you and your counsellor may decide on one of the options:
- No further counselling is required at that particular moment in time
- Further appointments are needed to explore and work on the issues further
- Alternative services are appropriate and your counsellor may provide specific resources or work together with other professionals such as a doctor to help you better with the issues
If further discussions are needed, each session may take 60 minutes. The number of sessions will differ from case to case.
Is there a fee imposed for the counselling session?
Counselling is available to all NTU undergraduates and graduates at no charge.
Who is my counsellor?
Your counsellor is a mental health professional who is experienced in providing objective listening and perspectives on nearly any issue that may be of concern to you.
Will what I share be kept confidential?
All information about you will not be disclosed to anyone without your verbal or written permission, except when there is a possibility of harm to self or others; or destruction to property.
Can I not meet the counsellor face-to-face?
It is important that face-to-face discussions take place between the counsellor and the student as counselling is a collaborative effort that involves in-depth discussion of the issues, thoughts and feelings as well as exploration of options. In instances where students prefer an anonymous setting, we may refer them to alternative community resources that are currently available. However, as these agencies may not necessarily reflect the views of our counsellors, it is recommended that NTU students seek help from the Student Counselling Centre.
Can I refer a student or course mate for counselling?
If you have a student or course mate who is showing signs of distress, you can introduce our counselling service to the person. Should you encounter a situation where you are unsure about a student's state of mental health, you can also contact the Student Counselling Centre for consultation. Students generally should agree to be helped and seek counselling on their own accord.
How do I utilise the counselling service?
Our counsellors are available by appointment or in times of emergency. You can reach the Student Counselling Centre (SCC) at 6790 4462 or email: scc@ntu.edu.sg. In the event that you are unable to keep the appointment, please inform the staff at SCC.
