Is counselling right for me?

Emergency and after-hours support

If you need immediate support outside UFV Counselling’s hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), the following resources are available 24/7:

UFV Security: 1-855-239-7654 or local 7654 from a UFV phone
Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8 (available 24/7) or dial 1-800-784-2433
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Youth in BC Distress Line: 604-872-3311
Indigenous Helplines:
- KUU-US Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
- Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310
Emergencies: 9-1-1 (or 9-9-1-1 from a UFV phone) if there is an immediate safety risk
Community resources: Call 2-1-1 or visit the 2-1-1 website

For non-urgent concerns or to connect during office hours, please contact us.

For personal crises after 4:30 pm or on weekends (when UFV Counselling is closed), contact the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8.

Wondering if counselling is the right step for you?

Whether you're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply need a safe space to talk, UFV Counselling is here to support you. We understand that reaching out can feel intimidating, but taking that step can bring clarity, confidence, and meaningful change.

We’re here to listen, guide, and help you explore your strengths and challenges in a welcoming space.

When to consider counselling

Counselling is available to all UFV students, and there’s no “wrong” reason to reach out. You might benefit from talking to a counsellor if you're experiencing:

Academic and life stress

Feeling overwhelmed by school or falling behind
Struggling with time management, study habits, or burnout
Facing pressure around grades, career direction, or future path
Having trouble adjusting to university, moving, or life in a new culture

Personal or emotional challenges

Feeling anxious, sad, isolated, or lacking motivation
Managing grief, relationship issues, or family conflict
Coping with identity questions or cultural transitions
Dealing with low self-esteem or feeling disconnected
Struggling with sleep issues or finding balance in life
Adjusting to university or life in Canada

Looking for clarity or support

Feeling stuck or unsure about your next steps
Wanting to explore your values, goals, or purpose
Needing a safe, non-judgmental space to talk things through

Even if your concerns feel small, you don’t have to face them alone. Counselling is here to support you.

What to expect in your first appointment

Your first meeting will be with an Intake and Navigation Counsellor. They’ll help you get started by learning more about what’s on your mind, your goals, and what you’re hoping to get out of counselling. It’s a safe, judgment-free space to talk openly.

You don’t need to have it all figured out, we’re here to listen, support you, and help you take the next step.

After your intake appointment, you’ll be matched with a counsellor who best fits your needs and goals.

What is counselling?

Safe space: A safe, private, and supportive way to talk about what you’re going through.
Confidential: Your privacy matters. What you share in counselling stays between you and your counsellor.
Welcoming: Our counsellors are kind, respectful, and here to support you—without judgment.
Supportive conversations: It’s a space to talk honestly about your thoughts and feelings. It can help you reflect, understand yourself better, and find ways to cope with challenges.

What counselling isn't

Not a quick fix: Counselling isn’t an instant solution. It takes time to learn about yourself and grow at your own pace, and finding your own way forward.
Not about giving advice: Counsellors won’t tell you what to do. Instead, they help you explore your options and find your own answers.
Not judgmental: Counselling is a safe, respectful space. You can reflect on your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

Ready to talk to someone?

You don’t have to have it all figured out to get started. If you're thinking about counselling, that’s a great first step. Book your first session and see how we can support you.

Ready to talk to someone?

You don’t have to have it all figured out to get started. If you're thinking about counselling, that’s a great first step. Book your first session and see how we can support you.

Ready to talk to someone?

You don’t have to have it all figured out to get started. If you're thinking about counselling, that’s a great first step. Book your first session and see how we can support you.

What to expect from the counselling process

Private: What you share is private, and you can ask any questions about the process.
Approach and techniques: Our counsellors hold at least a Master’s degree with specialized training and certifications. They use different tools to support your specific needs.
Collaborative process: Counselling is a team effort between you and your counsellor. Whether you're working on personal challenges, study skills, or career plans, sessions are tailored to fit you.
We empower you: Counselling helps you build confidence, gain clarity, and learn strategies that work. The goal is to support your growth and help you succeed in school and in life.

Frequently asked questions

I’m worried about a friend or family member who goes to UFV. What should I do?

Listen first. This helps the person feel supported and gives you a better sense of how to respond. If you believe they may be in crisis, ask them directly. If you're unsure what to do, feel overwhelmed, or feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to reach out for help — let someone with experience step in.

Encourage the student to book a counselling appointment. They can call Student Services at 604-854-4528 or visit the Student Health and Wellness Portal.

If there is an immediate safety risk, call 911.

For more information on how to support family members and friends, see Resources for faculty and staff.