Counselling

Sometimes we reach a point where we are unable to find solutions on our own. Not being able to find a solution to a problem simply means we are human – not different from others. Psychological upset and painful feelings are normal reactions to intense or abnormal events and are part of the natural healing process. Counselling can help facilitate this healing process.

Make an appointment

We are prepared to assist you in a variety of personal development areas. Common concerns include, but are not limited to the following:

Puzzling, distressing feelings
Self-defeating behaviours
Low self-confidence
Academic problems
Getting along with others
Marital / relationship discord
Dealing with children/colleagues
Career-related issues
Decision-making dilemmas
Feelings of depression or anxiety
Stress reduction and relaxation
Time and task management
Grief and loss

What is counselling?

Counselling is a process that helps individuals to understand themselves, their behaviors, affection and relationships. Counselling can assist individuals to identify their strengths and empower them to take control of their lives.

Why go for counselling?

Most people seek counselling for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to:

life transition
decision-making
dealing with children/teens/colleagues
adjustment to new experiences
marital issues
troublesome feelings such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, shyness, fear and anger
grief and loss
relationship issues
values questions
sexual assault or harassment
misuse of alcohol and other drugs
victim of bullying / threats
stress
culture shock

Is what I say confidential

Counselling Services carefully guards privacy and confidentiality. We do not release information without prior written permission from the client. However, legal confidentiality cannot be maintained in the following three circumstances:

when there is imminent danger that someone´s life is at risk
in the case of apparent abuse of a minor; and
by court order.

Is there a fee for counselling services?

No. It´s free. Voluntary and confidential counselling is available for Curtin Malaysia staff and students.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments can be made by email at HealthCounsellingDisability@curtin.edu.my or by filling up the Request for Counselling Appointment Form or by visiting our office at Prinia 1.

Do I have to be “different” to come to counselling?

No, coming to counselling does not mean you are different or that you have a serious mental illness. Many individuals come to counselling because they are experiencing difficulty and seeking professional help can prevent a problem from getting worse. Some people may fear being labelled by coming to counselling but this is something to talk about with your counsellor.

Referral

If you should be in need of specialised services which the University does not offer or if your needs extend beyond the scope of our short-term counselling model, we will assist you in connecting with an appropriate professional or agency outside the University.

Individual counselling

Individual counselling provides an opportunity to talk with a personal counsellor about anything you wish and to get help in resolving conflicts, solving problems, choosing a major, handling crisis situations, making decisions, and developing better coping skills. Staff and students are occasionally referred off campus to appropriate community resources. Our trained counsellor is available to help staff and students work through personal concerns and learn new strategies of dealing with stress. You can explore a variety of concerns that may prevent you from functioning at your optimum levels and achieving your personal goals.

With your counsellor, you will set goals for yourself and then take action to pursue those goals. You may decide to seek further education, enhance your skills, make changes in your current job, or seek a new job, or make lifestyle changes. Your counsellor can help you with preparing for any of these steps.