Counseling Services FAQs
What is Xavier University Counseling Services?
Counseling Services is a Student Affairs sub-unit within the Center of Health and Wellness. The major goal of Counseling Services is to promote the wellbeing of all students by providing culturally sensitive counseling, consultation, prevention, and training that enhances the student academic and personal success.
Who is eligible for counseling services?
All currently enrolled students are eligible for services.
Who provides services in Counseling Services?
The staff consist of a licensed Psychologist, Mental Health Counselors and Social Workers. Services are also provided by masters and doctoral interns under the supervision of professional staff.
Why should I come to Counseling Services?
As an individual, if you have unique concerns and needs, Counseling Services offers various counseling methods tailored to meet your needs. See below a list of possible reasons you may want to see a counselor.
- Alcohol/Drugs
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating Disorders
- Grief
- Relationships
- Sexual Assault
- Stress
- Suicidal Thoughts
Do I need an appointment to see a counselor?
Yes, you should call 504-520-7315 for an appointment. Limited walk in appointments are available during Counseling Services hours of operation.
How much will I have to pay for services?
All Xavier University Counseling Services are free to enrolled students.
Are the services confidential?
Yes, Counseling Services records are not included in any of the other university records. All information about you, even acknowledgment of your visits, are confidential and cannot be released without your written permission.
What types of services are provided?
Counseling Services provides individual, group, and couples counseling, crises intervention, alcohol and other drug counseling and referrals. We also offer a wide variety of workshops and presentations on mental health topics for student organizations, residence halls and the university community.
How many sessions do I get with a counselor?
We provide brief individual therapy to our students. You are eligible to receive up to 12 sessions of individual therapy with your counselor. You may not need to attend all 12 sessions to achieve your goals, and you and your counselor can discuss additional services should the need arise when your sessions have come to an end.
I've been seen in Counseling Services before. Am I allowed to come back?
All students are welcome to walk in to request a same-day appointment in the event of a mental health emergency, whether or not you have been here before. You can always schedule a consultation with an available counselor to determine what other resources may be helpful to you. Unless you have been referred to a community provider by Counseling Services, you are entitled up to 12 counseling sessions per academic year. Those who have been referred to a community provider as a solution best fitting their needs are encouraged to continue ongoing support with that provider. If you need help finding a different community provider, you are always welcome to call Counseling Services Care Coordinator at (504) 520-7315 for assistance.
Why am I being referred to a community provider if my friend gets to have sessions in Xavier’s Counseling Services?
We use our clinical judgment and professional training to help inform our decisions so that each student is able to get the most helpful resources possible for that individual’s unique needs.
Is Counseling Services LGBTQ+-friendly?
Yes, all of our clinicians are competent to support the LGBTQ+ students at Xavier and seek to provide a safe space for them in Counseling Services.
Are psychiatric medications prescribed by Counseling Services?
No, psychiatric medications are not prescribed in Counseling Services. However, our Care Coordinator can assist you in connecting with other appropriate providers in the community.
How do I know if I need individual or group counseling?
The type of counseling you receive will be determined by you and your counselor. Sometimes a combination of individual and group counseling is the most effective treatment option.
What kinds of groups are offered in Counseling Services?
Counseling Services offers a variety of groups during fall and spring semester. A group is formed when people with similar issues want to discuss and work on their common concerns. Groups may be short term or ongoing and consist of four to ten people. Click here for more information on the: Group Therapy.
Contact Us
Office of Counseling Services
St. Joseph Academic & Health Resource Center
Building #13, Room 202
Office: 504-520-7315
Fax: 504-520-7943
Mailing Address
1 Drexel Drive
P.O. Box D
New Orleans, LA 70125
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
After 5:00 pm - By Appointments Only
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Closed for Lunch