Faculty & Staff Resources

Consultation & Student Support

The VSU Counseling Center provides consultation services to faculty, staff, administrators, students, and parents to help support students experiencing emotional, personal, or academic challenges.

Our services include:

• Guidance on recognizing and responding to students in distress.
• Collaboration with campus departments and organizations to coordinate student support and care.

Confidentiality Matters: Counseling records are protected under Georgia law. Without a student's written consent, we cannot confirm or share whether they are receiving services. Limited exceptions apply when safety concerns or legal requirements warrant disclosure. Learn more about our Confidentiality Policy.

Recognizing & Referring a Student in Distress

When Should You Be Concerned?

Consider referring a student when emotional, personal, or behavioral concerns begin affecting their academic performance, relationships, or daily functioning.

Common signs of distress include:

• Frequent absences, missed assignments, or declining academic performance.
• Withdrawal from others or noticeable changes in behavior.
• Persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, or emotional outbursts.
• Changes in energy, appearance, or personal hygiene.
• Confused thinking, concerning statements, or safety-related concerns.

How Can You Help?

1. Connect Privately: Express your concerns in a supportive, nonjudgmental way.
2. Listen & Validate: Allow the student to share their experiences without criticism.
3. Encourage Support: Remind students that counseling is confidential, available at no cost, and doesn't require being in crisis.
4. Offer Assistance: Help the student schedule an appointment or offer to accompany them to the Counseling Center.

What If a Student Declines Help?

Seeking counseling is a personal decision. If a student declines services but you remain concerned, contact the Counseling Center for guidance on how to provide support.