Counseling Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a diagnosis to receive counseling?

No. We do provide additional support to individuals with existing mental health diagnoses, but our support services are very broad. Sometimes, students just need a neutral person to talk things through with, especially when they are away from home for the first time. 

What about confidentiality?

Student conversations with counselors are strictly confidential and the use of Counseling Services does not appear on student transcripts. Because of our confidentiality policy, information will not be shared (even with parents) without a proper signed release.

Do I need an appointment?

We do our best to accommodate walk-ins and students in crisis, so students are welcome to stop by anytime. However, the best way to ensure seeing a counselor is to schedule an appointment. You can request an appointment by sending an email to counselor@mtmercy.edu and including the days and times that work best for you. We will then correspond via email to set up a time that works for all. We also send students links to online forms, so that they can complete intake paperwork in the privacy and comfort of their own space.

What does it cost? Do I need insurance?

Counseling is free of charge to enrolled Mount Mercy University students and no insurance information is utilized.

Who staffs MMU’s Counseling Services?

The office is led by the Director of Counseling Services who oversees graduate- and doctoral-level interns. Our interns have completed in-class training in counseling skills and applied clinical theories, and provide one-on-one counseling to students under the supervision of the Director of Counseling Services. We partner with the Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic at Mount Mercy’s CRST International Graduate Center, and have utilized marriage and family therapy master’s students since January 2016.