Parents Guide to Counseling Center Services

Consultation Services for Parents

We provide consultation services to parents who are concerned about their child and are seeking advice on how they can best help their child.

We can:

  • Help you assess your child's situation, the seriousness of the problem, and your child's level of safety
  • Give you suggestions on the most effective ways to talk with your child about your concerns
  • Talk to you about the services we offer and what your child can expect if they choose to make an appointment
  • Coach you on the best approach to suggest counseling to your child and help you to make a referral to the Counseling Center (see also Making a Referral)
  • Provide you with information on resources within the community
  • Help you with your own feelings about the situation and what role you can play to help your child through their difficulties

We can not:

  • Make an appointment for your child. The student must make the appointment themselves
  • Discuss confidential information regarding your child's treatment or even tell you if they have made or kept an appointment, unless your child gives us permission to do so in writing (see Confidentiality for more information)
  • Provide counseling for parents

Counseling Center Services for Students

As an enrolled student at Bemidji State University your child is eligible for free, confidential services from the Counseling Center. Our focus is to provide high quality, professional services with the goal of enhancing your student's personal and emotional well being, as well as their academic potential.

Services include short term individual counseling, couples and group counseling, crisis counseling, and assessment services. Some of the many issues that may be addressed in counseling include:

  • Adjusting to college life, homesickness
  • Crisis or trauma including, death or illness of a loved one
  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Emotional or mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety
  • Overuse or abuse of alcohol, drugs, gambling or Internet
  • Eating disorders or body image issues
  • Relationship, communication, or social difficulties
  • Managing life issues

What Your Child Can Expect

When your child contacts the Counseling Center an appointment will be made as soon as one is available. If your child is in a crisis situation every effort will be made to see them the same day. During the first meeting your child's counselor will assess your child's needs, listen to their concerns, and answer any questions they may have. The counselor will discuss with them whether or not more counseling may be recommended, or may make a referral to receive additional services within the community that are not offered at the Counseling Center. In some instances, students may leave the initial appointment feeling able to handle their concerns without further assistance.

Your child can expect to be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. Their concerns, difficulties and fears will be listened to and taken seriously.

Emergency Contacts: 


On Campus
BSU Security 218-755-3888

Off Campus
Emergency Services (calling within area) 911
Emergency Services (calling from out of area) 218-333-9111
Community Crisis Line 1-800-422-0045
North Country Regional Hospital 218-333-5595