Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff can refer a student by having the student call the Counseling Center for an appointment. Referring a student for counseling is an important and sometimes difficult task. Referrals are appropriate when noticing any of the "signs of distress" or any of the "situations" below:

Possible signs of distress in a student are:

  • Social withdrawal, lack of energy, falling asleep in class
  • Notably elevated or decreased moods
  • Marked changes in personal hygiene
  • Impaired speech or garbled and disjointed thoughts
  • Threats to harm self and/or others

Faculty members may observe other behaviors such as frequently missing class, a drop in the quality of academic work, crying in class or the office, or disturbing material in submitted assignments.

Refer immediately if:

  • The student expresses suicidal thoughts
  • There is gross mental impairment or confusion
  • You observe bizarre behavior
  • The student exhibits uncontrollable sobbing or other intense emotions preventing the student from expressing what the problem is
  • The student reports involvement in or awareness of any abusive relationships

Can you consult with the Counseling Center first?

Yes, if you have a concern about a student, feel free to call the Center at 226-6035 and ask to speak with one of our staff members. If you are concerned about the student’s safety you may contact Campus Safety or the Dean of Students Office, and request assistance also.

What if the student refuses help?

While it is important to care about the emotional well-being of students, we cannot make their decisions for them. If a student resists referral and you remain uncomfortable with a situation, contact us at 226-6035 to discuss your concern.

The student's confidentiality and privacy

It is important that students feel no hesitation to ask for help. Assurance of confidentiality is vital to them. Students have the right to receive confidential care. All contacts are strictly confidential in accordance with Florida state privacy laws. Records are not available to individuals or agencies, either on or off campus, without a student’s specific written permission. Once a student becomes a counseling client, the only time confidentiality will be broken is in the case of a life threatening situation.