Frequently Asked Questions
▼ Who is eligible for services?
All currently enrolled USA students are eligible for counseling services and there
is no limit on the number of counseling sessions that one may receive. Counseling
services are provided free of charge. The department does charge fees to students
directly for some of the standardized tests that are administered.
▼ How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be made by calling (251) 460-7051 or by stopping by in person at
300 Student Center Circle. Business hours are 8:00 am-5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
▼ What about emergencies?
For emergencies, UCWC counselors are available during regular business hours and can
be accessed by calling or coming to the center. If a mental health emergency arises
on campus after business hours or on the weekend, the University Police Department
(460-6312) will contact the UCWC counselor on-call.
▼ Where is UCWC located?
We are located at the University Counseling and Wellness Center, 300 Student Center
Circle.
▼ What about parking?
All persons parking on campus must have a valid parking pass for the lot in which
he or she chooses to park. If you do not have a parking pass for the lots near the
UCWC office, we strongly encourage you to obtain a temporary parking pass from Parking
Services (located near the University Police Department) prior to attending your appointment.
UCWC does not have dedicated parking and, in most instances, cannot assist in parking
ticket reversal.
▼ What types of services are offered by the Counseling and Wellness Center?
UCWC offers individual counseling; group counseling; consultation for faculty, staff,
parents, and students; and educational and outreach programs to the campus community.
All services are available throughout the year.
▼ What happens during the initial session/intake appointment?
Intake appointments can typically be scheduled within the same week. The initial paperwork
takes approximately 15 minutes to complete; you can then expect to spend approximately
30-45 minutes with a counselor who will assess your current situation. Follow-up sessions
are scheduled as appropriate to help you work through your problems. There are no
limits on the number of individual sessions you can attend per academic year. Additionally,
group counseling may be used as an adjunct or primary form of treatment. Group sessions
are only limited by the number of groups available and the number of times any group
meets.
▼ How much does it cost for counseling?
There is no charge for counseling services. To receive services, you must be a currently
enrolled South Alabama student.
▼ With what types of problems do students typically come to counseling?
Students come to UCWC with a wide range of problems. Many have issues related to their
normal development such as identity or relationship issues. Others are dealing with
more specific psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress,
bereavement, substance abuse, and/or eating and body image issues. Some students are
not sure what the problem might be but just know they are not functioning or feeling
the way they normally do. They might notice having a harder time studying, eating
or sleeping too little or too much, or otherwise just not meeting their day-to-day
obligations. A counselor can help sort out what is wrong in order to get students
back on track.
▼ How confidential is my contact with UCWC?
Counseling services are provided confidentially. Information is not divulged to others
without your written consent unless there are compelling ethical and/or legal reasons
for doing so such as when there is a threat of serious harm to self or others. If
you have further questions about confidentiality, please contact our office.
▼ What are the qualifications of the UCWC staff?
UCWC is committed to providing the highest quality of counseling services to its students.
To that end, full-time licensed or license-eligible counselors staff UCWC. UCWC also
serves as a training site for South Alabama graduate students in mental health-related
fields. The graduate clinicians-in-training are closely supervised by senior licensed
staff.
▼ What about medication?
Counselors at UCWC utilize local and on-campus physicians for medication referrals.
If you think you may benefit from mental health medication, please contact your primary
care physician, Student Health (on-campus), or a psychiatrist for an evaluation. You may choose to contact your
health insurance provider for referral options as well.
▼ What about ADHD testing?
UCWC does not provide the type of testing necessary to support a diagnosis of Attention
Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Students interested in this type of testing
may want to contact the USA Psychological Clinic at (251) 460-7149.
▼ What if a parent, another student, a faculty or staff member is concerned about a
student?
Counselors are available to consult during business hours if there is a concern about
a student. Strategies for helping the student, and if appropriate, getting the student
in to see a counselor can be discussed. UCWC staff members do not generally contact
students and ask them to come in or inquire about their mental health. It is our belief
that counseling is most effective when it is voluntary. If a situation exists in which
a student is in imminent danger as a result of a psychological problem and refuses
help, then appropriate law enforcement or emergency medical personnel will be contacted.
▼
Do I have to be in state to receive services virtually?
Due to state-to-state licensing laws, UCWC counselors are unable to provide tele-mental health counseling to students residing in other states and countries.
If you reside in a state or country outside of the state of Alabama, we can help you connect to resources within your community. UCWC is able to provide a brief case management appointment via phone, Zoom, or in-person to provide guidance in seeking services in your area.