Almost everyone experiences some time in life when ordinary or extraordinary events become overwhelming. At those times, everyone needs help and support to manage their lives in ways that do not damage their academic experiences or careers. Sources of support can come from many different directions: a trusted friend, a family member, a mentor or teacher, or a counselor.

The University of Southern Mississippi is committed to all students having a successful experience here. Part of that commitment involves providing comprehensive mental health services to students in the university community. Our Staff at the Student Counseling Services offer skilled help in a wide variety of areas: problem-solving, time and stress management, communication skill-building, self-esteem and self-development, assertiveness training. Referral for psychiatric evaluation and treatment at the Student Health Services is also available.

In addition, we provide a caring and confidential environment to talk about any concerns people might be having.

Here are some other questions people often ask about our services:
 
  • What counseling is provided through the SCS?

The word "counseling" is often confusing, because it is used in many different contexts on campus: financial aid counseling, academic counseling, etc. Student Counseling Services provide personal and psychological counseling to assist students in dealing with problems that interfere with their everyday functioning. We also offer group counseling (see our web page on groups) and consultation with for faculty and staff regarding student mental health issues.

• Are there limits to the services we provide?

The University of Southern Mississippi is in a unique situation compared to most universities, in that we are able to respond to many long-term, as well as short-term, problems. In addition, referral for psychiatric services at the Student Health Services is available. There are some instances in which a person’s situation demands interventions that we do not have the capacity to provide (hospitalization, for example). In those cases, we can assess the situation and work with that person to make sure an appropriate and helpful referral is made.

• Whom might I be working with?

The SCS has six licensed professional staff who provide a variety of therapies. Up to four doctoral students provide services under close supervision during the regular semester.

• How much does counseling cost?

Services through the SCS are currently free of charge.

• Will I have to wait for services?

It is highly unusual for a potential client to have to wait for services. We are committed to meeting the needs of the people we serve in a timely manner. There are times (transition between semesters, loss of a staff member) when there may be a few weeks' waiting period. However, we also base decisions on the urgency of the situation. If someone is in crisis and needs to be seen right away, we do everything we can to see that person the day they contact the SCS or as soon as possible thereafter. We also make ourselves available for walk-in emergencies. 

• How private and confidential is the SCS?

All information given by a client in a counseling session, including the fact that he or she contacted the SCS, is strictly confidential. SCS records are completely separate from academic records, and are stored in a central locked location. Limits to confidentiality include imminent risk to self or others, suspicion of abuse, and legal subpoena. 

• Self-help materials?

We have a number of informational brochures in the SCS that are available to anyone who may need that information. Also visit our web page on "Self-help" for further information on different issues that might be of concern to you. 

• Do you offer services outside the Center?

Yes! We would be glad to respond to requests for presentations and workshops. We offer presentations on a wide variety of topics (please see our web page on "Outreach"). We are also available for consultation or emergency assessment. If you are thinking of some help you need and cannot find it described on our web pages, please give us a call at (601) 266-4829, and we would be glad to discuss options and resources available to you.

• Does the SCS have after-hours care? 

Yes. Typically, the business hours of our office are between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. However, we may arrange group counseling or presentations during evening hours if needed. We also have a counselor on call at all times. If you are a student who needs emergency help after hours, please call the counselor on call at 601.818.6352 or 911.