Available Services
Counseling
Counseling, or psychotherapy, is a professional relationship that focuses on personal problems. The counseling relationship differs from both social friendships and patient-physician contacts. Unlike friends, counselors are able to be objective; they are not involved in your daily lives. Unlike most physicians, counselors do not give specific advice or tell you what to do. Instead, they serve as skilled listeners who help you to clarify issues, discover your true wishes and feelings, and deal effectively with problems.
Some examples of challenges for which students seek counseling include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Adjustment to college life
- Interpersonal/relationship issues
- Low self-esteem
- Identity concerns
- Crisis needs
- Family Issues
- Grief and loss
- Substance abuse concerns
- Abuse and violence issues
Matching Student Mental Health Needs With Flexible Pathways to Wellness:
Solution Sessions
One-at-a-time skill/strategy-oriented sessions focused on problem-solving, referral to resources, and teaching or reinforcing coping skills the student can practice on their own. Typically scheduled within a week. (Not for ongoing or more urgent needs, call or walk-in to schedule).
Initial Assessment-Ongoing Counseling
Students needing more support to address mental health concerns with brief ongoing counseling services. Start with an initial assessment with a provider who will collaboratively create a plan to address your concerns. Great for if you are unsure of our needs, call, walk in or schedule online.
Group Counseling, Support Groups and Workshops
Counseling groups provide a supportive space where students can connect with others facing similar challenges, learn new skills, gain insight, and build a sense of belonging.
Walk-In/Crisis
Students needing immediate and urgent support for significant concerns. Examples include situations such as risk of harm to self or others, significant loss, recent sexual assault, psychosis mania or acute panic. Call, walk in or call 988 or 211 after hours.
Meeting with a counselor at the NDSU Counseling Center is free for NDSU Students. If your concerns may be more appropriately addressed by another agency, the proper referral(s) will be made.
Psychiatric Services at Student Health Service
Psychiatric Services are provided at Student Health Services (Wallman Wellness Center), and referrals can be made either by Counseling Center or Student Health staff. Psychiatric services include evaluation, medication consultation and follow-up visits.
Phototherapy (for SAD)
A limited number of therapeutic light boxes are available for current clients of the Center who are experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The light boxes may be checked out from the Center for clients' personal use. Clients at the Center may speak to their counselor to discuss whether this option may be appropriate for them in conjunction with counseling.