FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to pay for the services I receive at the SCC?
Students who have a validated Hampton University Identification card will not be asked to provide payment for the services rendered by the staff of the Student Counseling Center (“SCC”). Students who are referred to outside agencies or private practitioners may be required by the respective provider to pay and or provide proof of insurance coverage.
Am I “Crazy” for seeking mental health care?
Frequently there is a hidden fear that if things are ‘so bad’ that someone is receiving counseling – ‘going to a shrink’ – s/he must be crazy. This may seem true especially if that is what you’ve been told, but it is NOT TRUE! Most students come to the SCC because of a crisis which they may or may not have caused themselves; conflicts with others that are not resolving simply; conflicts with persons whose values and behavior are radically new, incomprehensible, and problematic to the student; heartbreak; anxiety; depression – unshakable blues that are affecting many areas of functioning; homesickness and being less ready than they thought to be on their own; loss and grief; and basic phase of life/developmental challenges because of moving from adolescence to young adulthood. These things, plus all the academic work, sleep deprivation, and other stressors can definitely distort reality.
I've always heard that if your faith is real and strong, you don't need to have counseling. Is that true?
The SCC Therapists respond to questions of faith with great care and respect. We believe that one’s faith is central to identity, and that counseling and religious faith can be compatible. What is important to us is to help students understand and incorporate their faith in the development of self-concept that occurs in the transition from adolescence to young adulthood.
How do I make an appointment?
Appointments can be made with a Therapist by calling the Student Counseling Center between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Appointments will not be scheduled during class times, and it is the responsibility of students to schedule accordingly. If it is necessary to reschedule or cancel an appointment, please call 757-727-5617 prior to the scheduled appointment. Appointments are scheduled only when the classes are in session for the academic semester. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services may be offered, if determined appropriate by the therapist and clinical licensing laws.
What if I can’t make my appointment or if I forget to attend?
Regular attendance to counseling sessions is important in order to facilitate the counseling process; however, it is sometimes necessary to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Students should call 757-727-5617. If an unexpected event occurs on the day of the appointment, a call is still appreciated. Failure to call constitutes a ‘no-show.’ After two (2) consecutive no-shows, or a combination of three (3) no-shows and cancellations, the student will be considered self-terminated.
What can a student expect during a typical individual counseling session?
Students who are seen by the Therapists at the SCC can expect to be treated with respect in a non-judgmental manner, regardless of the reason they are being seen. The Therapists assist students to express, understand and find appropriate solutions for their concerns. The SCC offers individual counseling for students who need assistance with personal concerns, emotional distress, interpersonal issues, psychological disorders, and critical crisis situations.
What can a student expect during a group session?
Current psycho-educational group offerings include—
Additional psycho-educational groups can be developed based on need and/or student request. These groups provide information and opportunity to practice new behaviors. They are not therapy groups. Similarly, the alcohol and drug education class does not constitute substance abuse treatment, and cannot be used to meet criminal justice system probation and parole mandates. They do, however, provide fulfillment of University code of conduct violation mandates.
What shall I do? Please, just tell me what to do!
Therapists’ most important role is to help students access their own strength, creativity and personal resources. We do not tell you what you should do. We do help weigh options. We listen carefully and reflectively. Based on what students disclose and explore, we can sometimes say, “Based on what you’ve been saying, it seems that X, Y, and Z are possible options. What do you think?” Then we can propose strategies and resources to help with the options the student chooses.
Have you ever been through this? What did you do, or would you do if you were me?
Individual Therapists vary in the degree to which they are “transparent” – willing to talk about their own lives. That has to do with personality and training. The core issue is that the counseling relationship is structured for the attention and good of the student who, except for basic respect and non-violence toward the Therapist, is free of the typical give-and-take responsibilities of friendship. Therapists’ ethical codes of conduct prohibit them from forming true friendships with students, and from having relationships with them in addition to counseling. We are not allowed to hang out, be your professors, relatives, recipients of services such as baby sitting, hair, nails, etc., or gifts. It is odd, but it is quite freeing once you get used to.
Can I receive a referral if I do not want to be seen by the staff of Hampton University?
Yes. A referral will be provided for those students who wish to receive services outside of Hampton University. Mental health concerns requiring hospitalization or specialty care are referred to the appropriate health services. This is a courtesy service only, and does not constitute recommendation of any particular provider.
How many times can I see the Therapist?
The services provided at the SCC are for crisis and short-term counseling concerns. Students who require long term services will be provided with a referral to a local outpatient mental health provider.
What if my therapist is a different gender/orientation or from a different culture/background than me?
The Therapists are well versed in counseling and know how to create a kind, caring, helpful, nonjudgmental environment conducive to an effective counseling strategy. Communication is key to a successful counseling relationship. Make certain to discuss your concerns with your Therapist. After having a few sessions with your Therapist, if you feel that you are not a “match”, you can notify your Therapist who will work with you to address your concerns, and if necessary, transfer your care to another Therapist.
Are you going to tell my parents what I say?
No, however, if the student and Therapist are in agreement that it would be best to disclose something to parents, we (Therapist and student together) do everything we can to facilitate the process, including inviting them into sessions. Therapists cannot disclose anything to parents without students’ written consent. The exceptions are situations of the likelihood of harm to self or others, loss of ability to care for self, disclosure of child or elder abuse, or the student is under the age of 18.
I need academic counseling, how do I get help?
If you are thinking about seeing an academic Therapist, Hampton University offers a broad range of services from academic Therapists and advisors. However, you will need to seek help from The Student Success Center or Student Support Services.
May I request a letter documenting services?
The SCC only provides documentation for students who have been engaged in services. Retroactive letters for those who have not been seen at the SCC are not provided. Please feel free to contact your SCC Therapist if you have questions.
Can my boyfriend, girlfriend, roommate, etc. come to my session?
After thorough discussion with the Therapist, yes. We discuss the student’s reasons, hopes, fears, etc. for wanting individuals to come to sessions. If it would be beneficial, we clarify objectives – what we hope to accomplish – and a plan.
If I used to take medicine for a psychological reason, like ADHD or depression, haven't I outgrown it now?
Not necessarily. There are many adults with ADD or ADHD. It is very important to disclose this part of your medical history. Most people think of college as a brand new start. It is that. It is also more challenging than many or most students expect it to be. The Counseling and Health Centers can work together to assist you to maintain your medication regimen and provide support for this great transitional period, so that it turns out to be manageable at least, and blossoming at best.
What if I am hospitalized? Can I come back to the University?
When a student is admitted to a psychiatric hospital either voluntarily or involuntarily, prior to returning to the University, s/he will be required to provide medical information to the University Health Center Director and/or the Director of the Student Counseling Center. Please see the Student Handbook for additional information about the medical leave of absence policy.
Can’t find an answer to your question? Give us a call at 757-727-5617 or send an email to studentcounseling@hamptonu.edu.
