What is counselling?
Counselling is a process to help you address concerns, come to a greater understanding of yourself, and learn effective coping and decision-making strategies. It involves a relationship between you and your counsellor to help you accomplish your goals. Counselling often involves sharing sensitive and personal information that may at times be distressing. Your UFV counsellor will support you through this process in a professional and competent manner. While personal satisfaction with counselling may vary, research shows that counselling is effective for a variety of issues.
What services does UFV's Counselling department offer?
We offer individual appointments, workshops, training sessions and outreach events related to student wellness, career explorations, and study skills.
Is counselling confidential?
All counselling services are confidential, including your attendance at appointments and the content of your sessions. UFV does not keep a record of counselling in any academic, educational or job placement file. Information about you cannot be released, without your written permission, except in the following situations:
- If a counsellor learns of, or strongly suspects, physical or sexual abuse or neglect of a person under 19
- If there is evidence of clear and imminent danger of harm to yourself or others
- If there is a court order requiring the release of information.
Please note that UFV counsellors work as a team. Your counsellor may consult with other counsellors to provide the best possible care.
Who can access counselling at UFV?
Personal, crisis, career and study skills counselling is available to all UFV enrolled students.
How much does it cost?
There is no fee for counselling services at UFV. There are modest fees for career assessment tools and some workshops.
What if I can’t make it to my appointment?
If you are going to be late or can’t make it to your appointment, please let us know. We appreciate 24 hours notice so that the time can be made available for another student. To cancel or reschedule an appointment, please call us at 604 854-4528 (Abbotsford), 604 795-2808 (Chilliwack), or send us an email.
As a UFV instructor, what can I do to help a student in crisis?
During normal working hours, you and/or the student may consult with a counsellor in Student Services by calling local 4528 (604-854-4528). If there is an immediate safety risk, call UFV Security at local 7654 (1-855-239-7654). For more information on identifying the signs of a student in distress, issues to consider, ways to respond and what to do after hours, see Faculty and Staff Crisis Support on the Crisis webpage.
I’m worried about a friend or family member who goes to UFV. What should I do?
Listen. This will help the person to feel supported and it will help you decide what to do. If you think the person is in crisis, ask. If it seems like you are in over your head or if you are feeling uneasy or afraid, call for help. Let someone with experience handle the situation. During normal working hours, you and/or the student may consult with a counsellor at Student Services by calling 604-854-4528. If there is an immediate safety risk, call 911. For more information on how to support family members and friends, see Family and Friends Crisis Support on the Crisis webpage.