Signs Suggesting the Need for a Referral

Academic Problems

• Excessive procrastination
• Uncharacteristically poor work
• Inconsistent work
• Repeated requests for special consideration
• Career/Major indecision

Interpersonal Interactions

• Dependency on advisor/"hanging around"
• Avoidance of professor or other students
• Behavior which regularly disrupts classroom
• Complaints from peers

Behavioral Markers

• Marked change in personal hygiene
• Dramatic weight gain or loss
• Frequent falling asleep in class
• Irritability, particularly in conjunction with unruly behavior
• Impaired speech or garbled, disjointed thoughts
• Unusually soft or loud voice, or unusually slow or fast speech
• Tearfulness or intense emotion

If you feel that the student would benefit from a referral for counseling, it is usually best to express your concern and recommendation directly to the student. It is also generally better to suggest counseling to a student and allow the student to make his or her own decision. But if a student needs help immediately, offer to call the Counseling Center with the student present.

If you call the Counseling Center on behalf of a student, identify yourself and explain to the receptionist that you are assisting a student in making an appointment, then allow the student to speak to the receptionist to arrange an appointment time.

Client confidentiality prohibits us from providing you with information about a student whom you have referred to us, but it is almost always appropriate for you to check back with the student, to ascertain whether he or she has followed through on your recommendation. This communicates your continued interest and concern.

If you are concerned about a student or situation, but are not sure how to proceed, call the Counseling Center. A professional psychologist will return your call and help you determine an appropriate course of action. Your call will remain confidential.