What is individual counseling and can it help me?
In individual counseling you have the full attention of one of our staff members in a one-to-one atmosphere of understanding, warmth, and insight. Our counselors and psychologists can help you in a variety of ways because they are excellent sounding-boards, compassionate listeners, and very skillful in working with problems of living.

Am I eligible for counseling services?
Degree-seeking students currently enrolled at Rider University are eligible for counseling services.

Can I trust that counseling will be confidential?
We are ethically committed to confidentiality and federal/state law requirements. This means that even your attendance in counseling is kept private and confidential. The law states that there are four exceptions to this general rule: a) you may request (by means of a signed release) that your counselor may reveal information to other individuals or agencies of your choice; b) in instances where there is imminent danger of serious harm to yourself or others, a counselor may reveal that information to prevent harm; c) in cases involving physical and/or sexual abuse of children or endangered adults, the counselor must report such abuse; and (d) where otherwise requested by subpoena or mandated by court order or state/federal law.

Who would be my counselor?
At your first appointment you would see a counselor who would provide an intake interview. Following the intake, your situation is reviewed and you will be assigned to the counselor or psychologist that best pairs with your specific needs. Some of our staff members are counselors who are interns in counseling psychology and work under the supervision of licensed psychologists.

How long do I need to wait until I can see a counselor?
The Rider University Counseling Center is fully committed to pairing you with a counselor as soon as possible. In the past, standard procedure assures that a student is paired with a counselor during the week following his/her intake interview.

How much does it cost?
Nothing. The Rider University Counseling Center is a resource offered free of charge to students currently attending Rider University.

Would I be able to get a psychiatric consultation if I need one?
Yes. Students who are in counseling at Rider University are eligible to confer with our consulting psychiatrist.

What could I expect counseling to be like?
Our psychologists and counselors have different personal styles; however, we all share a compassion for your personal story and feel that the counseling relationship can make a difference in the life of a client. Come in and see. If you are committed to change you may be surprised by how much you can grow.