Melissa Zetts Deep Unto Deep

About UArts Counseling

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Mission Statement
The UArts Counseling Center works with our very talented student body by providing individual counseling, groups, outreach and prevention programming, training, consultation to faculty and staff, and referral resources for longer-term support in our community. We also assist with crisis intervention in collaboration with the Office of Student Life, Public Safety and the Dean of Students office.

Counseling provides a safe place to talk and discuss varying issues in a private and confidential setting. We offer a service where students can talk with trained therapists about a concern or challenge that is impeding the ability to live a healthy and enjoyable life. Counseling is an opportunity for you to talk about your concerns in a safe and non-judgmental space where you have access to resources that can help you find solutions both here and in the community.

As specialists in working with college students, staff at the UArts Counseling Center can help you address your concerns in a caring and supportive environment. We aim to help our students resolve personal concerns that may interfere with their academic progress, social development, and life satisfaction during the college experience.

Why Come Here?
Counseling staff work with students regarding a variety of issues including but not limited to: 

Some common issues addressed in counseling are:

  • Life Transitions (i.e. adjusting to college, homesickness, etc.)
  • Stress Management
  • Family problems
  • Lack of Self-Esteem and Confidence
  • LGBTQ Concerns
  • Trauma
  • Concerns about Alcohol or Drug Use
  • Eating Problems & Body Image Concerns
  • Problems in Intimate Relationships
  • Loneliness
  • Procrastination
  • Depression
  • Anxiety and Worry
  • Anger Management
  • Grief & Loss
  • Sexual, Physical and Emotional Abuse

Counseling FAQs

Do I have to have serious problem or psychiatric issue to use the Counseling Center?
No. Counseling is for everyone. We encourage students to visit the UArts Counseling Center to discuss a variety of concerns involving everything from general homesickness and loneliness to procrastination and stress management. We are also here to help for more complex difficulties involve mental health such as depression, anxiety and many other presenting issues.

Will anyone be told that I have come in for counseling?
No. A student must sign a release of information form to provide consent to the Counseling Center to discuss them with anyone else. However, if a student is an immediate danger to themselves or others, the staff is obligated by law to break confidentiality in order to respond to emergency situations. This may include contacting family members or university staff involved in crisis responding. If such a situation arises, the UArts Counseling staff will make every effort enforce confidentiality.  

Can I email a counselor?
For a first appointment, we do not accept emailed requests for services. Please come to the Counseling Center during regular business hours to schedule an appointment.

What happens if I miss my appointment?
Students must inform their therapist prior to an appointment if they need to cancel and reschedule.

How many long does counseling take?
The length of time in the counseling relationship varies depending on the nature of the concern and the individual circumstances of each case. However, typically the services that we provide are short-term and solution-focused. If longer-term treatment is required, referrals to community providers will be provided.

Does going to counseling mean that I need to see a psychiatrist?
Our Counseling Center is staffed by mental health therapists and trainees. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. Your therapist may suggest an appointment with a doctor if you want to know if medication might be helpful in relieving symptoms or for further evaluation.