Frequently Asked Questions

Students seek out counseling services for any number of concerns. Some common concerns that students present with include stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family concerns, self-esteem, body image, academic difficulties, grief, alcohol/drug use, sexual assault, and choices about major or career plan. 

Sometimes these concerns can be resolved with support from friends and family. Other times it may feel like you’ve tried everything and things aren’t getting better. If you are unsure if your concern is appropriate for counseling, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment to explore options.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact University Counseling Services by phone at 608.342.1865. Or you can stop by 220 Royce Hall. 

Eighty percent of students responding to a UW-Platteville University Counseling Services survey (LOSS 2021-2022) stated that they made improvements in the area for which they sought counseling, and 91% said they would return to University Counseling Services again if needed.

College is a time of change and stress, and sometimes the usual way of handling a problem doesn't seem to work. Counseling can help students identify psychological, behavioral, interpersonal, and situational causes of stress. University Counseling Services is a safe place where students can explore their feelings, gain a new perspective, identify their strengths, and focus on developing solutions to their concerns.

University Counseling Services adheres to both the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association and the legal standards of the State of Wisconsin which guarantee that everything a student talks about in counseling is held in the strictest of confidence. 

University Counseling Services will not acknowledge to parents or any university personnel that a student has used counseling services unless the student first gives written authorization. Counseling notes and counseling records do not become a part of the student’s official university file at any time. 

Before the first appointment, students are asked to come in 10 minutes early to gather personal data and answer a short questionnaire. The goal of the first appointment is to find out your concerns, relevant history, and goals. At the end of the first session, your counselor will work with you to determine appropriate actions, including a decision on how counseling can help you. Individual counseling sessions are typically 50 minutes.

University Counseling Services are short-term and goal oriented to meet your needs in an efficient and effective manner. On average students meet with a counselor every two to three weeks for a specific period of time. It is normal for students to feel anxious about their first appointment, but usually students quickly feel comfortable with talking to their counselor. You are encouraged to ask your counselor any questions that you have about the therapy process, the type of treatment you’re getting, and any other services that could benefit you.

You do not need health insurance in order to meet with a counselor. There is no charge to students for our counseling sessions, because our services are paid through tuition and student fees.

On occasion a student may want someone to join them in their counseling session. If this request is made, University Counseling Services cannot guarantee that strict confidentiality will be maintained by said individuals.

If you think a friend needs help don't ignore it. Show your support and tell them help is available. Although you cannot schedule an appointment for someone else you can encourage them, ask if they would like you to walk with them to their appointment, or follow up to see how their appointment was. It may also be helpful to talk to a counselor yourself to learn more ways to support your friend.