Welcome
As a parent, there will be times when you may suspect that something is not going well for your son or daughter while at Ashland University. During those times, you may consider encouraging your child to stop by the University Counseling Center if he or she would like to speak with someone about their concerns.
Confidentiality
If your child is being seen by a counselor at Ashland University please note that by law, we cannot disclose this fact or any details of his or her counseling with you without your child's express permission. Your child will be told this information as well. The information your child discusses in counseling is, by law, considered a privileged communication. This means that your child is the one who decides who is allowed access to this information. If you call the Counseling Center to provide us with information or concerns about your child, please understand that we are not able to reciprocate.
There are rare exceptions to the rules of confidentiality: In the event that your child poses a risk to himself or herself, or someone else, then the counselor is legally and ethically obligated to break confidentiality as necessary to insure the safety of the involved parties. Also, by law, counselors must report suspected child or elder abuse. Other exceptions to confidentiality include the rare situations when records must be released to comply with a court order.
How can the University Counseling Center help parents?
We are available for consultation with parents by phone or by appointment here in our offices. If you have concerns about your son or daughter please feel free to contact us. We may be able to provide support for you, your student, or referral information to offices that may be more appropriate for a given problem. Call the counseling office at 1-419-289-5307.
Forcing your child to attend counseling
Though it may be frustrating if your child refuses to seek help, it is never a good idea to force your child to attend counseling. Counseling needs to be a personal choice. Continue to listen, be compassionate and offer support while reminding them that professionals are available to them.
Possible Warning Signs that your child may need a referral to counseling
- Socially withdrawing or self-isolation
- Bouts of crying
- Changes in sleep, appetite and overall energy level
- Recent traumatic event or loss of a loved one
- Talking about or implying suicidal ideation or having a plan
- Emotional break-up with a boyfriend or girlfriend
- Changes in academic performance (absenteeism, tardiness, not completing assignments)
- Loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable
