How to Refer When you wish to refer a student to the University Counseling Center, it is usually best to be direct and straightforward about your concern for his or her welfare. Speak specifically about the behaviors that have raised your concern so that you and the student both understand the same frame of reference about the situation. By speaking directly, you convey your respect and caring for the individual. There are counselors available to students at the Counseling Center. Counseling is helpful for people who feel the way you do.
Counseling can help.
Feel free to use, amend, or expand on any of the recommendations above. Except in emergencies, the most important thing is to present your concern in such a way as to enable the student to freely accept, consider, or refuse your recommendation. Some people need time in order to think over the decision to seek counseling. A caring and gentle suggestion is usually enough. If a student says emphatically no, then it is important to respect and accept that decision and to perhaps leave the door open for alternative consideration.