Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make an appointment at Counseling Services?
To schedule your first appointment, submit an appointment request form to request an in-person initial appointment. You can anticipate that the initial appointment will take about 45 to 60 minutes. To ensure you are scheduled in a timely manner, please provide as much availability as possible.
If you are looking for virtual counseling services, you can go to timelycare.com/au to register and access telehealth services.
Walk-in services are available without an appointment during regular business hours but may be limited due to staff availability.
If our office is closed, consider using TimelyCare for 24/7 support. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, contact Campus Public Safety at 630-844-5450 or 555 from a campus phone, or call 911.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
This session will last about 45 minutes and will be more consultative in nature. The goal is to get a clearer picture of the concerns that brought you to the Wellness Center and to begin assessing what kind of support might be most helpful for you moving forward.
How often will I meet with my counselor?
You and your counselor will make a plan that best meets your unique needs. This may include weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or as-needed counseling.
Is there a session limit?
The length of counseling can vary. Sometimes concerns can be addressed successfully in just a few visits; other concerns may take more time to unpack. Our goal is to provide shorter-term supportive therapy, but the length of services is determined between you and your counselor. We offer short-term brief therapy, typically lasting 6-10 sessions. Some studies indicate that short-term counseling can be effective with as few as 3-6 sessions, while others suggest it can be completed in as many as 10 sessions. The duration can vary depending on the individual, their specific circumstances, and the progress made during therapy. Even if you end counseling, AU students can return for services in the future.
What if I am in crisis and need to talk with someone right away?
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or contact Campus Public Safety for on-campus assistance at 630-844-5450 or by dialing 555 from any campus phone. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency that is not life-threatening, we will work to meet with you as quickly as possible. We are available in the office on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Remember, TimelyCare also offers urgent support with the “Talk Now” service! Visit TimelyCare to learn more. You can also contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Can someone from Counseling Services come to speak to my organization, club, or group?
Yes. Our counselors are comfortable presenting on a variety of topics related to mental health and well-being. Our ability to accommodate requests is dependent on counselor availability as well as having enough advance notice to ensure we have time to prepare (usually 2-4 weeks). We may request to meet with you to discuss your specific programming needs.
What if my counselor isn’t a good fit?
It’s completely okay if you don’t feel a strong connection with your counselor. Finding the right fit is an important part of the counseling process. Students are welcome to request a different counselor at both the Wellness Center and through TimelyCare. Whether you’re looking for a different communication style, background, or specialty, our goal is to connect you with someone who feels like the right match for you. Just reach out, and we’ll be happy to help with the transition.