NSU Student Counseling

Our intake process takes 5 to 10 minutes over the phone, and we do our best to set you up with an appointment within a few days. Sometimes it could take a little longer, depending on your availability and the availability of the counselor. Our counselors do their best to be as flexible as possible with their schedules.

How much does it cost?

As long as you are a full- or part-time NSU student, you may participate in individual, couples and group counseling at no cost. If you need to see the psychiatrist, we will charge you a reasonable fee.

How many counseling sessions will I get?

You may participate in up to 10 individual or couple counseling sessions per year (from the date of your first appointment). In addition, you may participate in up to 10 group counseling sessions and have 10 appointments with the psychiatrist. If you require long-term care or need more help than we are able to provide, we offer appropriate referrals to off-campus professionals.

Is counseling confidential?

When you come to Student Counseling, we keep what you tell us (and even the fact that you’ve been to see us) confidential, revealing no information about you to anyone outside our office, including professors, administrators, family, or friends. And our records stay in-house, separate from your academic and/or medical records.

If you want us to talk with someone about you or your situation, we’ll be happy to do so, but only after you’ve signed a release of information form, explicitly giving us your permission.

To help you get the most out of your time with us, your counselor may consult with his or her Student Counseling supervisors and/or colleagues about his or her work with you. However, everyone who works for us is bound by the same rules of confidentiality, so all information stays with the team.

There are a few exceptions to our confidentiality policy. The state of Florida requires disclosure without written or verbal consent when there is a suspicion of child and/or elder abuse or neglect, or if you intend to harm yourself or others. In such cases, we are legally bound to help ensure the safety of the at-risk person.

May I request a specific counselor?

Yes, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request to see someone you’ve heard about or have seen in the past.

Are psychiatric services available?

Yes. We offer psychiatric assessment and treatment, for a reasonable fee, when necessary. Our psychiatric services are, like our counseling, brief in nature. If you need ongoing help, we will provide you with referrals to off-campus professionals.

Why should I come to counseling?

There are a number of reasons why students come to Student Counseling. Some are looking for help in managing anxiety, depression, or anger; others are having trouble with sex, sleeping, or managing relationships. Still others are struggling with alcohol or addictive substances. We also work with athletes and artists who wish to enhance their ability to perform effectively.

How long are the counseling sessions?

Each counseling session lasts 45 to 50 minutes.

How often will I meet with the counselor?

Most sessions are held once a week. When things start to get back on track, you and/or your counselor may decide to schedule your sessions every two or three weeks.

What will the first counseling session be like?

You will first fill out a brief form and sign a therapy agreement. You and your counselor will then talk about your concerns and figure out some reasonable goals.

What if I'm having a meltdown after you've closed?

We staff a crisis line 24/7. If you need to talk to someone after our office has closed, call 954-262-7050 and the operator will connect you with a crisis counselor.

Nova Southeastern University : : Ph: 954.262.7050 Fax: 954.262.3986 : Revised - April 17, 2006