FAQs

Where is the Counseling Center located?
Who is eligible for services?
What about confidentiality? Will other people find out what I'm saying?
How do I make an appointment?
What can I expect?
Is there a charge for counseling services?
How many times can I meet with a counselor?
What if I'm late or need to cancel?
What if I think I need medication?
How do I make a referral to someone else?

Where is the Counseling Center located?
We are located on Center Road between Chesapeake and Susquehanna Halls, in a one-story, pale yellow building (the only one in the vicinity not made of bricks). If you are unsure how to get here, call us and we'll be glad to help (410-455-2472, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm).

Who is eligible for services?
All current UMBC students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for an intake interview. At this time, you and your counselor will determine the most appropriate services. This may include individual (up to 12 sessions) or group counseling at the Counseling Center, self-help resources, or referral to a community provider.

What about confidentiality? Will other people find out what I'm saying?
University Counseling Services staff are legally and ethically required to keep the information clients share with us confidential. As a result, both your attendance and any information you share in counseling will not be revealed to anyone (family, faculty/staff, friends, etc.) outside of the Counseling Center unless you provide written permission to do so. The rare exceptions include a) when there is clear and imminent danger that someone's life is at risk, b) in the case of apparent or suspected abuse of a child or dependent adult, or c) under enforceable court order.

How do I make an appointment?
You may call the Counseling Center (410-455-2472) or come in person to our office at the Student Development & Success Center. We will let you know of available appointment times, and you can expect to be seen for an intake appointment within 1-3 days. "Walk-in" intakes are available for urgent or emergency situations. It is helpful to arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to your first appointment in order to fill out intake paperwork.

What can I expect in counseling?
During your first appointment (intake), you can expect to be asked some questions about your current situation, and your counselor will listen closely as you describe your experiences. Sometimes, an intake is extended across more than one session in order to get a better idea of what's happening. Together, we will assess your needs and come up with an effective course of action. This may involve a variety of possibilities such as ongoing weekly or biweekly individual counseling, referral to a more appropriate counselor (at the Counseling Center or an outside provider), a medication consult, group counseling, or usage of self-help resources.

Is there a charge for counseling services?
There is no charge for services provided at the Counseling Center.

How many times can I meet with a counselor?
Following the intake interview (first appointment), students referred for individual counseling at the Counseling Center may receive up to 12 sessions per academic year (June 1st- May 31st). Other services do not count toward the 12-session limit. In some instances, depending on your situation and the details of your presenting problem, we might offer a referral to a counselor in the community, especially if long-term counseling seems likely or necessary. In collaboration with you, this may occur within the first few sessions or near the end of the 12-session limit.

What if I'm late or need to cancel?
Counseling is likely to be most beneficial when you attend sessions consistently. Also, it is important to be on time for scheduled appointments. If you need to cancel/reschedule or you realize you will be late for your appointment, please call the Counseling Center (410-455-2472) as soon as possible to let us know.

What if I think I need medication?
The Counseling Center has a psychiatrist onsite part-time (8-10 hours/week) who can prescribe medications when appropriate. This service is provided for students actively engaged in ongoing counseling through UCS. If you and your Counseling Center counselor together believe medication may be an effective option, your counselor will make a referral and an appointment with the psychiatrist. The Counseling Center psychiatrist will evaluate your situation and determine if medication is appropriate. Alternatively, you will be encouraged to utilize your insurance providers list or a Counseling Center staff member may offer a community referral.

How do I make a referral to someone else?
To recommend counseling services to a UMBC student. First determine the student's willingness to go to a helping resource. Reassure the student that it is an act of strength to ask for help. Remind them that campus counseling services are free and confidential. Offer to help make the initial contact by calling or coming with the student to the Counseling Center.