Frequently asked questions
- Can I see whomever I want?
- How do I know I will benefit from counselling?
- Will it cost me a fortune to meet with a counsellor?
- What if I have feedback to give?
- Can I see a counsellor for my entire time at Concordia?
- I missed an exam or need an extension on a paper; will the counsellor give me a letter to help me out?
- What are your hours of operations?
- What if I only have a short question? Do I have to wait a long time to meet with a counsellor?
- What if I have a serious emergency? Do I have to wait a long time to meet with a counsellor?
Can I see whomever I want?
By all means, yes, you can see whomever you want. Our priority is to give you the earliest and most convenient appointment to fit your schedule. Whether your preference is for a male or female counsellor, we can accommodate your choice. If you would prefer to see someone who speaks French, that is not a problem, either. Some of our staff are very comfortable conducting sessions in French. When you call or come to make an appointment, you can simply request your preference. At peak periods during the semester, you may have to wait a little longer to see someone specific, but every effort will be made to provide you with an appointment at the earliest opportunity.
How do I know I would benefit from counselling?
Many students have found counselling to be helpful in dealing, and coping with, the academic, personal and social challenges of university life. In general, what you can expect from personal counselling is that you will have the opportunity to discuss and reflect upon personal issues in a relaxed, confidential atmosphere. The counsellor will listen carefully, reflect, and clarify your concerns and provide you with an objective perspective from which you may make some important changes in your life. If you are unsure if counselling will benefit you, please do not hesitate to make an appointment to discuss what the potential benefits for you might be.
Will it cost me a fortune to meet with a counsellor?
No, not at all. Counselling is free for all currently registered Undergraduate, Graduate and Continuing Education students. The only fees involved are for testing materials, should you need or wish to do certain career tests. Test costs are minimal and prices may vary depending on the test. The only other fee would be a workshop fee, which is sometimes required for specific workshops or group programs.
What if I have feedback to give?
By all means, your feedback is welcomed as we are always trying to improve the services we offer. We have specially designed confidential forms that you can fill out in our reception areas and drop in a confidential box. If you require a response, our Director will get back to you. If we can improve some aspect of our service, then all students stand to benefit.
Can I see a counsellor for my entire stay at Concordia?
For academic questions, emergency situations or for career exploration or testing, you can see a counsellor at any time. However, for Personal Counselling, a maximum of 10 sessions is offered while you are at Concordia. Should you need it, your Concordia counsellor will help you connect with outside community resources, which offer more long-term support. Remember, in 10 sessions you can accomplish a lot.
I missed an exam or need an extension on a paper; will the counsellor give me a letter to help me out?
At times Counsellors will write a letter for students, but only within certain parameters. A student who has been involved in counselling prior to exams or deadlines may request a letter from their counsellor, outlining the situation that has caused the academic difficulty. Letters, however, are not normally written after the fact when the counsellors did not have any prior knowledge. It is important to note, however, it is within the counsellor’s own discretion to choose to write or not to write a letter on your behalf.
What are your hours of operation?
The general office hours are:
Sir George Williams Campus - September to May
Monday to Friday - 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Loyola Campus - September to May
Monday to Friday - 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
N.B., On both campuses, summer hours from June until August will vary somewhat.
What if I only have a short question? Do I have to wait a long time to meet with a counsellor?
For short questions of an academic nature, a drop-in service is available downtown at the Sir George Williams Campus. Twenty-minute drop-in appointments are available by appointment. All you have to do is drop-in or call to make an appointment.
What if I have a serious emergency? Do I have to wait a long time to meet with a counsellor?
In case of an emergency or crisis requiring immediate attention, a counsellor will be found for you. By presenting yourself at either office, the receptionist will take the appropriate steps to ensure that you are seen as quickly as possible. No real emergency is left very long because our top priority is to give you the best service possible, in the shortest time.