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Frequently Asked Questions
Is counseling confidential? Is it part of my academic record?
University Counseling Center records are confidential and separate from your academic records. All information about you, even acknowledgment of your visits, is confidential and cannot be released to any other office or individual (even your parents) without your written permission. There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality. Counselors are required by law to release certain information in situations that involve harm to yourself or others, in instances of child or elder abuse, or as a result of a court order. These events are extremely rare. Typically, the only way others would become aware of your seeing a counselor would be if you told them.
Please visit our Essential Information web page and read our Welcome Letter to learn more about UCC confidentiality.
What types of services does the Counseling Center offer?
The Counseling Center offers short-term individual counseling, groups counseling, psychiatric and psychological referrals, career exploration workshops, career/vocational testing and counseling, crisis services, educational presentations, and consultation to University departments and student organizations.
How do I know if I need individual or group counseling?
When you meet with a counselor for your initial appointment, the counselor will discuss with you the different services available and his/her recommendations given your particular situation. Please visit our Group Counseling web page to read about the different types of counseling groups.
Will my insurance cover counseling at the UCC?
Many of the services provided here may not be covered by an insurance carrier, so we cannot guarantee that your insurance company will reimburse you for these services. The UCC does not process or submit billing to insurance companies for you. However, you may submit a bill from the UCC to your insurance company for possible reimbursement on your own. If you have questions about these matters, you may wish to discuss it with your insurance carrier and/or your counselor during your initial appointment
What are the qualifications of the UCC staff?
Our staff represents a variety of professionals and professionals-in-training: psychologists and master's level counselors, all of whom are licensed or license-eligible in Washington, D.C.
What if I need to see a psychiatrist?
Students who are seen at the UCC can be referred for psychiatric or medication consultations to the psychiatrist at the Student Health Services.
What kinds of problems do students discuss in counseling?
Most students who use the UCC are experiencing normal developmental concerns and academic pressures that, at times, leave them feeling anxious, confused, angry, lonely, depressed, or overwhelmed. Counseling is aimed at helping students understand and manage these stressors. Any personal issue can be discussed in counseling. Typical concerns include:
Adjustment to GW
Low Self-Esteem
Academic Concerns
Personal Crises
Anxiety and Stress Management
Poor Grades
Assertiveness Issues
Relationships with Family or Friends
Depression
Sexual Abuse
Difficulty Choosing a Major/Career
Sexual Assault/ Date Rape
Difficulty with Alcohol or Other Substances
Sexual Identity Issues
Discrimination
Study Skills
Food Preoccupation/Problematic Eating Habits
Suicidal Thoughts
Grief
Test Anxiety
Loneliness
Time Management
Students often consider counseling under the following circumstances:
They just need to talk with someone who can provide an objective viewpoint.
- They feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of sadness and/or helplessness.
- Their emotional difficulties make it hard for them to function at their best day to day. (For example, they are unable to concentrate on assignments, and their class performance suffers as a result.)
- Their actions are potentially harmful to themselves or others.
- They are troubled by the emotional difficulties of family members or close friends.
- They feel lonely, disconnected from others, or like they don't fit in.
Will UCC staff provide talks, presentations, or brief workshops to organizations, classes or campus office groups?
We are glad to take requests for day or evening presentations and ask that requests be made at least two weeks ahead of the desired date. If we are unable to meet the request, we will try to suggest other options or resources to help meet your needs. Some of the groups and workshops offered in the past have been organized around topics such as "Managing Stress," "Signs of Depression, " "Helping a Friend with an Eating Disorder," "Sexual Communication," "Time Management," and "Long Distance Relationships."
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