Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

Select a question to read the answer.

Getting Started

Getting Started

Who can use the Counseling and Wellness Center?

Counseling services are available to students who are currently enrolled at Santa Fe College. Limited services may also be available to students who were enrolled in the most recently completed semester and have not graduated, as well as students planning to enroll for the upcoming semester.

High school dual-enrollment students and students under 18 will need a parent or guardian consent form on file.

How do I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment by calling the Counseling and Wellness Center or visiting us in person. Contact Us
Do I need a diagnosis to see a counselor?
No. You don't need a diagnosis or a specific mental health concern to meet with a counselor. Counseling can help you manage challenges, improve your well-being, work toward your goals, or simply talk through something that's bothering you.
How do I know if counseling is right for me?
There's no perfect time to see a counselor. If you're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with something in your life, counseling may be helpful. You can also meet with a counselor when you simply want support, insight, or help reaching a personal, academic, or career goal.
Counseling

Counseling

What can I talk about with a counselor?
You can talk with a counselor about a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, academic concerns, career decisions, life changes, and personal growth.
What will my counseling appointment be like?

Your counselor will listen to your concerns, ask questions, and work with you to understand what's happening. Together, you'll explore your goals, strengths, and options for moving forward.

You don't have to know exactly what to say or have everything figured out. Just start where you are.

How are counselors trained?
Our counselors are trained mental health professionals with graduate-level education and professional training in counseling. You can learn more about individual counselors on our Meet the Team page.
How many counseling sessions can I have?
There is no limit on the number of sessions as long as you are enrolled in classes. Counseling is short-term and focused on helping you address current concerns and develop strategies for moving forward. Your counselor will work with you to determine the level of support that best fits your needs.
Privacy & Confidentiality

Privacy & Confidentiality

Is counseling confidential?
Yes. Your counseling information is private and confidential, with limited exceptions required by law or related to safety concerns. Your counselor will explain confidentiality during your first appointment and answer any questions you have.
Will my professors or parents know that I'm seeing a counselor?
Your counseling information is confidential. We do not share information with professors, parents, or others without your permission, except when disclosure is required or permitted by law.
Appointments

Appointments

What if I need to cancel or miss my appointment?

If you cannot make your appointment, please call us at least 24 work hours in advance to cancel or reschedule.

Appointments are in high demand, so giving us advance notice allows another student to use the appointment time.

If you miss two appointments without providing the required notice in the same semester, you will not be able to schedule additional counseling appointments during that semester. Students who need visits required by the Standards of Academic Progress policy or academic support may still use posted walk-in hours.

Academic & Career Support

Academic & Career Support

Can a counselor help if I'm struggling in my classes?

Yes. A counselor can help you explore study and test-taking strategies, learning styles, test anxiety, and personal concerns that may be affecting your academic performance.

If you're on academic notice or experiencing other academic difficulties, your counselor can also help you understand your options and connect you with appropriate resources.

Can a counselor help me choose a major or career?
Yes. Counselors can help you explore your interests, values, personality, skills, and goals. They can also recommend career assessments and make campus referrals to help you understand how your results may connect to majors and career options.
Supporting Someone Else

Supporting Someone Else

I'm worried about a friend or roommate. Can the Counseling and Wellness Center help me?

Yes. You can talk with a counselor about your concerns and get guidance on how to approach your friend or roommate and connect them with support.

If there is an immediate concern about someone's safety, visit Need Help Now? for information about what to do.

What should I do if I see concerning or threatening behavior?

If you are concerned that someone's behavior may pose a threat to themselves or others, report your concern to the appropriate campus or emergency resource.

You can contact the Santa Fe Police Department, the Counseling and Wellness Center, or a campus supervisor. You can also submit a report through the Safe Santa Fe Reporting System.

Services We Don't Provide

Services We Don't Provide

Does the Counseling and Wellness Center provide psychological evaluations or court-ordered services?

The Counseling and Wellness Center does not provide psychological evaluations, readiness-to-return-to-work assessments, court-mandated counseling, or documentation for therapy animals, emotional support animals, or service animals.

We can help you identify community providers who may offer these services.

Still Have Questions?

That's okay. We're happy to help you figure out where to start.

Contact the Counseling and Wellness Center