Student Services

Commonly Asked Questions

How do I know if I need counseling?

We meet with students with a wide range of issues, such as: academic difficulties, anxiety, depression, homesickness, sexual orientation issues, loss, eating disorders, sexual abuse, relationship problems, family problems and many others. If you feel that something is hindering your academic and/or personal life, you may schedule an appointment to discuss whether counseling is appropriate for you.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments may be made by calling 203.596.4585, stopping by our office in Leever Center, or e-mailing the Counseling Center at LAntel@post.edu. We make every effort to schedule an appointment as quickly as possible, usually within a few days. If you have an urgent matter, we will do our best to see you that day.

What types of therapy do you offer?

The Counseling Center primarily offers short-term individual therapy to Post students. We also see couples and meet with students and family members. Therapy groups are created to address student needs and interests.

The Counseling Center also provides psychoeducational programs throughout the year, such as monthly substance use programs and other issues relevant to the student body. For more information regarding programs, check out the Student Activities Calendar in Leever Center. If there are issues that you would like the Counseling Center to address, please stop by or e-mail us your suggestions.

Do I have to have a serious psychological problem to use the Counseling Center?

No. Students come to the Counseling Center with a wide range of personal issues.

How do I know if I need to see a psychiatrist?

You and your counselor will discuss whether you need to see our psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications and has advanced training in mental health. If you and your counselor decide a psychiatric consultation would be helpful, Post University's consulting psychiatrist, Dr. Robert McWilliam, will see you.

Will people at school know that I am coming to counseling?

No. Your relationship with your counselor is strictly confidential. We are bound by federal and state statutes as well as by professional ethics to maintain confidentiality. We may only speak to someone with your written consent. Exceptions to this rule are as follows:

  • If information is shared that someone is suicidal or homicidal.
  • If there is suspicion of physical, emotional, sexual abuse or neglect involving a child under the age of 18 or an adult over the age of 65, or of anyone who is disabled.
  • If a court order authorizes us to release information
  • A subpoena does not authorize us to release information unless it is accompanied by a court order or proper written authorization to release information provided by the client.

How much will it cost?

Counseling sessions are free to all Post day students.

What will I do at my first appointment?

During your first meeting with your counselor, we will gather information regarding your current situation and determine how we can best help you. This is a collaborative process where you and your counselor will develop a plan that addresses your situation and works for you. Your counselor will also review your rights as a client as well as issues of confidentiality.

How often do I have to come?

You and your counselor will determine a meeting schedule. Typically, students meet with their counselor once a week for fifty minutes.

How do I cancel an appointment?

It is very important to cancel your appointment as soon as possible if you are unable to attend. Please call our office at 203.596.4585 to cancel. If you miss two appointments without canceling, we may have to stop providing services to you and offer your time to another student.

May I change therapists?

If you are uncomfortable with your counselor, it is important to discuss your feelings and concerns with your counselor to determine whether you should continue with her/him or see someone else.

Our goal is to provide high-quality counseling services to Post students. If you are dissatisfied with our services, we encourage you to discuss it with your counselor.

What about emergencies?

If you have a crisis situation when the Counseling Center is closed or if you are unable to reach someone in the Counseling Center, please call 203.228.8706. If you need to reach the Waterbury Hospital Crisis Center, call 203.573.6500.

How do students feel about coming to counseling?

Most students are initially nervous about coming to counseling because they do not know what to expect. Some feel that coming to counseling means that there is something "wrong" with them. However, most students find counseling to be a very productive and positive experience. Counseling is a time for students to care for themselves, step back from the pressures of school, and see a personal dilemma from a new point of view.