How to Contact a Counselor

Counselors are available to guide you through a particular process. Specific types of counselors help with correlating issues. For instance, a college guidance counselor provides guidance for students who need help sorting out their college academic options, whereas a mental health counselor guides patients through the process of dealing with emotional issues. When you need to get in touch with a counselor for help, tailor your search toward the type of counselor that can best help you.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your primary care physician about a referral for a mental health counselor. If you or someone you love is dealing with an emotional hardship, your doctor can recommend counselors in the health field.

• 2

  Look at your college, university or academic institution's department list by going to the school website or using the school brochure. Review student resources sections that may contain the names of guidance, admissions or financial assistance counselors who provide services through the school to students.

• 3

  Ask your relatives, friends, coworkers or school colleagues for counselor references. If you need someone to talk to about an emotional issue or if you need help navigating academic information, it can help to see a counselor who comes highly recommended from someone you know.

• 4

  Perform a search through an online counselor directory, such as the American Counseling Association, which provides information on national board certified mental health counselors in your area.

• 5

  Contact the counselor via phone or email. Introduce yourself and tell the counselor that you would like to set up an appointment. Briefly explain what the issue is that you are dealing with, but save the details for the meeting.

• 6

  Wait for the counselor to get back to you if you leave a message. Some counselors see many clients throughout the day and do not have time to review their missed call log until the end of the day. Be patient. If you do not hear back from the counselor within a week, you can call or email as a follow-up.