Students can discuss any type of personal or academic concern in counseling. Confidentiality All counseling sessions, consultations, and referrals are confidential within ethical and legal professional guidelines of the State of Vermont. Generally, contact with a student's family or College administration occurs, as required by law, only in a life-threatening situation, hospitalization, or with the student's written consent. There are important legally mandated exceptions to confidentiality. Information is routinely shared internally within the Counseling Service staff, primarily for case consultation and supervision.
Clinical supervision is provided to the counselors by a local psychiatrist.
Since the Counseling Service's philosophy is based on time-limited, developmental intervention, individuals may be referred at any point to mental health professionals off campus. Emergencies Occasionally situations arise which may seem overwhelming or life threatening. If such a serious situation occurs, a counselor is available to speak with a student in crisis 24 hours a day during the regular academic year. Students are encouraged to discuss financial arrangements with their mental health professional. Faculty, staff, parents, and students often use this service.