International Students
Many international students seek counselling to navigate personal challenges that may arise as they make cultural adjustments to living and studying in the UK. We welcome the opportunity to support all our international students through our CONFIDENTIAL Counselling and Psychotherapy Services.
Here's some FAQS:
1. I have never tried counselling before. Is it appropriate for me to start now?
Yes. Many students try counselling for the first time while at university. If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, isolated, or want to work out what's going of for you emotionally, counselling can provide a supportive and understanding space.
2. Will anything I say be shared with my academic department or my family?
Absolutely NOT. Counselling is private and confidential. Nothing you share will be passed on to your academic department, your family, or anyone else without your explicit consent—unless there is a serious concern about your personal safety and wellbeing.
3. English is not my first language. Can I still access counselling comfortably?
Yes. Many students who use the counselling service speak English as an additional language. Our counsellors have experience working with individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. You are welcome to take your time, ask for clarification, or express yourself in the way that feels most comfortable.
4. Will the counsellor understand and respect my cultural or religious background?
Yes, the service offers a respectful and inclusive environment for all students. You are welcome to bring your cultural, spiritual, or religious identity into the conversation if you wish. Our therapists are trained to work with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and are open to learning from your experiences.
5. I am feeling homesick or unsettled. Can I talk about this in therapy?
Yes, definitely. Feeling far from home, adjusting to a new culture, or missing familiar support systems can be emotionally challenging. These are common experiences among international students, and counselling offers a space where you can explore these feelings openly and without judgement.
6. I feel pressure to succeed or meet expectations from my family. Can counselling help with that?
Yes. Many students experience stress from family or feel a strong need to succeed academically. Counselling can support you in understanding how these pressures affect your emotional wellbeing and help you find healthier, more compassionate ways to manage them.
7. What if I am not sure how to express my feelings or where to begin?
That is completely okay. You do not need to have the right words or a clear story. Many people feel unsure at the beginning. Your counsellor will support you in exploring what is going on at your own pace.
8. Can I talk about my faith, beliefs, or cultural identity during sessions?
Yes. These aspects of your life are welcome in therapy. Whether you are exploring spiritual questions, navigating your cultural identity, or balancing different values, your counsellor will support you in a respectful and non-judgemental way.
9. What happens during a counselling session? What should I expect?
A counselling session is a confidential conversation with a trained professional. You can talk about anything that is on your mind, including your thoughts, feelings, challenges, or personal questions. The space is intended to feel safe, open, and supportive.
The counselling service provided by the University is brief and focused, rather than long-term weekly therapy. You may be expected to take the lead in sessions by identifying what you'd like to discuss and setting goals for your therapy.
Have a look over the FAQs to get a fuller understanding about how to get the best from your therapy experience.
10. Can I request to work with a counsellor of a particular gender or background?
You are welcome to let us know if you have any preferences, such as working with someone of a particular gender or with specific cultural understanding. While it may not always be possible to meet every request, we will do our best to support your needs.
11. Do I need to pay for counselling?
No. Counselling at the university is free of charge for all registered students.
Please see here for further information about the University Counselling and Psychotherapy Service.
Resources
Making the move to university: international students
