Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Understand FAMU Counseling Services through our FAQs. Get information on appointment scheduling, service confidentiality, and available mental health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is counseling?

Counseling is a relationship with a person who is professionally trained to help discuss concerns in a way that clarifies one's thoughts and feelings. This helping relationship leads to increased self-understanding and more effective behavior.

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Where is the Office of Counseling Services?

The Office of Counseling Services is located at 1735 Wahnish Way Suite 304 (CASS Building).

Who is eligible to receive services?

Students currently enrolled for classes are charged a student health fee (currently $6.91 per credit hour) along with their tuition. This health fee entitles students to access mental health and physical health services. Students not enrolled for a summer term or recent graduates may pay a health fee (currently $103) that will allow them access to our provided services for one semester.

How often are appointments? How long do they last?

Ordinarily, scheduling of sessions, including length of time, is done on a case-by-case basis.

Why should I come to the Office of Counseling Services?

While the college experience is often exciting and enjoyable, it can also be stressful. It is important to address the stressors and concerns in your life to focus on being academically successful.

What services are offered?

The Office of Counseling Services offers a wide variety of services to meet the needs of the students. Our services include individual counseling, group counseling, couples counseling, psychotropic medication consultations, academic support, workshops, and presentations.

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What are some of the concerns students come to the Counseling Services to address?

Some of the reasons students seek our services are but not limited to Relationships, Time Management, Self Esteem, Social Isolation, Stress, Grief, Anxiety, Sexual Orientation, Depression, Study Skills/Academics, Anger Management, Sexual Assault/Rape, Alcohol/Drugs, and Family concerns.

What would an appointment be like?

Students will meet with a counselor to discuss options for addressing their areas of concern.

Are the services confidential?

As required by law, counseling sessions at the Office of Counseling Services are confidential. No information is disclosed to anyone (e.g. parents, professors, administration) in any identifiable manner without prior written consent from the student. The exceptions are when a student is under the age of 18, when the student is in danger of harming self or others, when there is suspected abuse of a disabled person, an elderly person, or child abuse, or when a judge mandates disclosure to a court of law.

Does the fact that I went to counseling end up on my transcript or school records?

Counseling sessions are confidential. Your participation in counseling is not recorded on your transcript or school records.

Does the Office of Counseling Services provide psychiatric services?

The Office of Counseling Services has two consulting psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners that meet with students. This service is provided for students who feel they might benefit from discussing medication options.

Do I need to have an appointment to see a counselor?

Yes, you need an appointment to see a counselor. To schedule an appointment, students can walk in or contact the office by phone at (850) 599-3145.

What if I need to speak with a counselor NOW?

Counselors are available to assist with crisis/emergency situations. If your concern is urgent (i.e. suicidal thoughts or attempt, experiencing hallucinations, experienced a trauma within the last seven days), you do not have to have a scheduled appointment; you can just walk in.

What if I need to speak with a counselor and it’s after-hours or the Office of Counseling Services is closed?

If you need to speak with a counselor under these circumstances, call BetterMynd at (844) 287-6963.

Want To Schedule An Appointment To Talk To Someone? Looking For Our Office?

1735 Wahnish Way Suite 304 (CASS Building)

To speak with a counselor after-hours, call BetterMynd for free at (844) 287-6963
In Case of Emergency, call FAMU Police Department at (850) 599-3256 or Dial 911

P:: (850) 599-3145
F:: (850) 599-8481
E:: counseling@famu.edu