An additional insurance plan that provides for limited inpatient and outpatient counseling services can also be purchased through the Business Office for students wishing to access services off-campus. Confidentiality is an essential component of any therapy relationship. By law, counselors must protect information disclosed in the counseling process. Information about a student's participation in counseling can not be discussed with faculty, staff, parents, friends and others unless that student has given explicit authorization. Counseling records are kept in separate and locked file cabinets, and are only available to Counseling Services staff.
State law requires that confidentiality be set aside in limited circumstances to ensure safety.
These circumstances include the reasonable suspicion of child or elder abuse, and an imminent threat to life through suicide, homicide or the inability to meet basic health or safety needs due to mental illness. Any questions about confidentiality can be discussed with your counselor. Appointments can be scheduled by telephone or in person. When leaving messages for counselors, please leave your name and telephone number, and include several good times to return your call. The counselor will ask questions about your immediate needs and circumstances in order to develop an accurate understanding of your situation.