Is counseling confidential?
Client confidentiality is respected at all times. The counselor will not discuss client issues with any other person or make written reports available to any other person. All interactions with the Counseling Center, including scheduling or attendance of appointments, content of counseling sessions, progress in counseling, and counseling records, are confidential. There are specific conditions that limit confidentiality. Further information is available from a counselor.

Does counseling become a part of my student record?
Counseling records are not part of student academic, educational, or job placement records, and University staff outside the Counseling Center do not have access to them. Counseling records consist of forms completed by clients providing demographic data, counseling history, and information about the present problem as well as progress notes documenting each counseling session.

What does counseling cost?
There is no charge for currently enrolled Mercer students to receive counseling services.

How do I make an appointment?
Initial appointments may be scheduled by calling the Counseling Center office at (678) 547-6060. Additional appointments will be made to accommodate the schedules of the counselor and client. 

Where is the Counseling Center located?
The Counseling Center is located in 208 Sheffield Student Center.

How many sessions will I have?
The counselor and client will determine how long to continue therapy. Students enter counseling voluntarily and may withdraw from counseling at any time. Typically, the decision to terminate counseling is made by mutual consent of the counselor and client. If a client discontinues counseling without notifying the counselor, it is the
Counseling Center's policy to consider the counseling relationship terminated 30 days after the last session attended by the client.

How long do appointments last?
Sessions typically last 45-50 minutes and are usually scheduled once per week or every two weeks.

After I call, how long before I see a counselor?
Appointments can usually be made within a week of your initial contact. During high demand periods of the term, clients may be placed on a waiting list for follow-up sessions after their initial appointment.

May I e-mail a counselor?
You may e-mail a counselor to schedule or change appointments. Since we cannot guarantee the security of e-mail communication, you are encouraged to discuss confidential issues with a counselor in person.