How to Make a Referral for Psychological Counseling
If a student approaches you with a problem, take the time to listen in a non-judgmental and respectful manner. If you wish to approach the student with your concerns, do so directly and state your concerns clearly. The following suggestions may help to make the process of providing a referral easier:
Some Comments on Confidentiality
The counselors at Student Development Services are under ethical and legal obligations not to release confidential information. We cannot tell anyone that the student is receiving counseling services. Counselors adhere strictly to confidentiality laws for their profession and can only release information with the student's written permission. One exception, in the case of danger to self or others, involves breaking confidentiality of the student without permission so that the student or others are protected.
If a student tells us that you referred him/her, gives written permission, and requests it, a counselor will notify you that the student did attend the first appointment. If you would like more information about a student’s contact with SDS, you can directly ask the student. The student can make decisions about how much he/she wants to reveal to others.
