Counselling Services Unit

The Counseling Services Unit at the University of the Sacred Heart Gulu (USHG) is a vital non-academic service dedicated to addressing mental health needs and promoting well-being within the Gulu community. Serving students, teaching staff, non-teaching staff, and the wider community, the facility provides comprehensive support to individuals facing a range of emotional, social, academic, and occupational challenges. Here’s an overview of the key services offered:

THERAPEUTIC COUNSELING:
Individual Counseling: Providing one-on-one sessions to address personal psychological and emotional issues.
Family and Group Counseling: Facilitating group sessions to support families and groups dealing with common challenges.
Community Counseling: Extending support to the wider community within the reach of USHG interventions.

ASSESSMENT AND INTERVENTION
Needs Assessment: Evaluating clients’ needs to determine the appropriate level of support and intervention.
Tailored Interventions: Designing and implementing personalized intervention plans to effectively address specific circumstances.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
Identifying Challenges: Diagnosing psychological and emotional issues.
Treatment Plans: Creating and managing treatment plans to help clients overcome their challenges.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT:
Emergency Support: Providing immediate assistance to clients experiencing crises.
Crisis Strategies: Implementing strategies to manage and alleviate crisis situations effectively.

PSYCHO-EDUCATION:
Mental Health Education: Educating clients on positive coping mechanisms and mental health strategies.
Workshops and Seminars: Conducting educational sessions to enhance mental health literacy.

CAREER GUIDANCE:
Career Counseling: Assisting students and professionals with career-related decisions and development.
Skill Development: Providing resources and support for personal and professional growth.

AWARENESS TRAINING:
Training Programs: Developing and delivering training sessions on mental health and counseling issues.
Targeted Workshops: Tailoring training for specific groups such as teachers, students, mentors, and community leaders.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH:
Radio Programs: Engaging with the community through mental health programs broadcast on local radio.
Outreach Initiatives: Participating in joint outreach programs in schools and health centers.
Collaboration with NGOs: Partnering with civil society organizations to promote mental health awareness and intervention.

REFERRALS:
Specialized Services: Guiding clients to specialized healthcare facilities, psychiatrists, and community support networks when needed.

PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATION:
University Collaboration: Working with university professionals to ensure the effective delivery of counseling services.
Community Partnerships: Collaborating with secondary schools and community organizations to extend the reach and impact of mental health services.

HOLISTIC SUPPORT:
Integrated Services: Cultivating strong relationships with support networks, government entities, and community resources to enhance the effectiveness of counseling services.
Comprehensive Care: Ensuring holistic support for students and the community through a well-organized network of professionals.

Through these diverse and comprehensive services, the Counseling Services Unit at the University of the Sacred Heart Gulu demonstrates its commitment to fostering mental health, resilience, and holistic well-being. This proactive and inclusive approach ensures that individuals of all ages within the university and the broader Gulu community receive the support they need to thrive.