Parents and Family
For Parents and Family
As a parent or family member, you know your student better than anyone. If you notice changes in their mood, behavior, or overall well-being, encouraging them to connect with Counseling Services can be an important step.
You may want to suggest counseling if your student:
- Seems overwhelmed or is having difficulty coping with life's challenges.
- Is experiencing ongoing stress, anxiety, depression, or conflict that is affecting daily life, relationships, sleep, attendance, or academics.
- Is not acting like themselves or has experienced a noticeable change in behavior.
- Is facing significant life decisions or personal challenges and could benefit from the support of a neutral professional.
- Has concerns that feel beyond your ability to help.
- Expresses thoughts or behaviors that make you concerned for their emotional well-being or safety.
Sometimes, having the opportunity to talk with a trusted family member is enough to provide relief. Other times, students may feel more comfortable speaking with someone outside their family. Encouraging counseling is a positive way to support your student's health and success.
For non-emergency situations, you are welcome to contact Counseling Services with your student or on their behalf. We can explain available services, answer questions, and help your student schedule an appointment. If your student is hesitant to attend, offering to accompany them to the Counseling Office or asking a trusted friend to go with them can make the first visit feel less intimidating.
Counseling Services values your involvement and concern for your student. However, counseling records are confidential and protected by federal and state privacy laws.
Without the student's written permission, Counseling Services cannot confirm whether a student has scheduled or attended an appointment, participated in counseling, or discussed any information related to their care, except as required by law.
Participation in counseling is voluntary unless there is an immediate concern for the student's safety or another legal requirement.
It is common for students to feel uncertain about counseling. Family members can make a meaningful difference by offering encouragement without pressure.
You can help by:
- Normalizing counseling as a healthy way to manage life's challenges.
- Reassuring your student that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Letting them know that many students use counseling during college.
- Sharing your own experiences with asking for help, if appropriate.
- Reminding them that counseling at Cowley College is free for currently enrolled students.
- Explaining that counseling is confidential and is not part of their academic record.
- Talking openly about any concerns or misconceptions they may have about counseling.
- Encouraging them to explore the Counseling Services website to learn more before scheduling an appointment.
Sometimes simply knowing that someone cares and supports them is enough to help them take the first step.
If you believe your student is in immediate danger or there is an emergency, call 911 or contact the nearest emergency room immediately.
If your student lives in campus housing and you are concerned about their immediate safety, contact Campus Safety and request a wellness check.
For urgent mental health concerns, students may also contact Four County Mental Health Center's 24/7 Crisis Line, call or text 988, or reach out to Counseling Services during regular business hours for assistance.
The transition from high school to college is exciting, but it can also bring new challenges for both students and their families. Encouraging independence while remaining supportive helps students develop confidence, resilience, and healthy problem-solving skills.
The following resources may be helpful as you support your student's transition to college and adulthood: