Counselling

Many of us experience times when it's hard to stay positive and cope with everyday life. There are many sources of support available if you are experiencing personal, emotional or psychological difficulties. Before you decide to apply for counselling, you might wish to try the online self-help program. Some find it a useful tool for clarifying thoughts and feelings.

We also provide online resources and podcasts on a range of issues students experience. If you need to talk to someone in confidence, we offer the following counselling service.

What is counselling?

Counselling enables you to talk in a confidential and supportive environment about whatever is going on for you, including feelings that may be distressing. Your counsellor will listen to you in a non-judgmental way, respecting your beliefs, lifestyle and culture, and will help you make your own decisions and any changes.

Counselling can be helpful for a range of personal, emotional and psychological issues. You may also request counselling if you are not sure what is troubling you. The counselling service is confidential. Please refer to our Confidentiality Statement for more information. 

What do we offer?

We offer face-to-face individual counselling (usually up to four sessions) and occasionally groups and workshops.

However, you may find it easier to email about personal issues than talk about them. Also, if you are away from the campus, for example during vacation or on a work placement, it might be inconvenient to come in for a face to face counselling session. That's why we offer Online Counselling.

Can anyone at the University use this service?

Counselling is a free service for all current students at NTU.

Opening hours

We offer appointments throughout the year on Mondays to Fridays from 9 am - 4.30 pm (Tuesdays until 7 pm during term-time on the City site only). Times during vacations may vary.

What if I'm not happy with the service?

Please talk to your counsellor or the Counselling Administrator first. If you would then like to make a formal complaint, please write to the Wellbeing Manager at the Student Services Centre at the City site.

How do I get urgent help?

This service works on an appointment system, so it may not be possible to offer you an immediate response. If you are in crisis or danger, please contact your doctor or call the Samaritans on +44 (0)8457 90 90 90 or email them.

Mental health support

It may also be helpful for you to be aware of the Mental Health Support Team, who work with students with mental health conditions that are impacting on their studies. The team works with students on a one-to-one basis, and also recommends reasonable adjustments the University can make to take account of individual needs.