Referring Someone to the Counseling Center

Reasons for consultations/referrals

The following signs may indicate a need to refer a student to the Counseling Center:

• Abrupt or radical changes in behavior
• Isolation from others
• Poor attendance in class due to alcohol/drug abuse
• Sudden outbursts of anger/irritability
• Attention/memory difficulties; restlessness
• Inappropriate crying; low self-esteem
• Chronic fatigue/low energy

A student may also be referred to the Counseling Center for assistance with issues such as the following:

• Life planning assertiveness training
• Self-esteem building; stress management
• Relationship enhancement; anger management
• Communication

Guidelines for facilitating consultations/referrals

You may want to call for a consultation to discuss your concerns about a student. One of our staff will help you clarify what may be the most helpful approach for that individual. 

Talk to the student directly and express your concern. Give the student the Counseling Center phone number and location and encourage him/her to make the contact.

Assessment of the student

In the initial interview the clinician assesses the student's needs and what services may be appropriate. The following options may be considered: further assessment using career and/or psychological testing individual, couples or group sessions, and referral to other departments or services on campus or in the community.

Follow-up

We understand that you may be interested in the progress of the student you have referred. However, we are bound by the principles of confidentiality as defined by the ethics of the American Counseling Association, the American Psychological Association, and the National Association of Social Workers.