Opinion: This Free Service Is Underutilized By UCC Students

UCC

Recently, I graduated from the University of Cape Coast with a BSc degree in Psychology. Reflecting on my time there, I realized that one invaluable service provided by the institution, likely at no cost, is significantly underutilized by students, including myself. This is the counselling services. Although it has been available for quite some time, it became even more accessible a couple of years ago when a "Counseling Services" section was added to the student portal. From my observation, students can easily book sessions or appointments through this platform by providing a few personal details and selecting their preferred mode of delivery. Despite this accessibility, the issue is not with the availability of the service but with how we, the students, leverage it to improve various aspects of our lives.

As students and, more broadly, as humans, we are not immune to crises and challenges. These challenges can directly or indirectly impact multiple facets of our lives. Consequently, it is crucial to identify effective ways to manage or resolve these issues. As students, we often grapple with academic or educational challenges, personal struggles, and relationship issues, to name a few. While some of these problems can be addressed independently, others may require the guidance of a professional or an expert.

Recognizing this need, the University of Cape Coast introduced counselling services to provide students with the professional support and guidance necessary for navigating their academic and personal journeys. The aim is to help students chart a better trajectory, avoid misguidance, and receive the assistance they need to thrive.

However, many students, myself included, often overlook these free professional services. Instead, we tend to seek help from other sources, such as friends, social media, or websites. While some of these sources can be helpful, their effectiveness is often limited. Therefore, I strongly advocate for students to utilize the counselling services provided by the institution. This is particularly important in today’s world, where an abundance of information makes it easy to be misled.

Before continuing, let’s take a moment to discuss what counselling services are and why they are essential.

What Are Counselling Services?

Counselling Session

Counselling services are professional support systems designed to help individuals navigate personal, academic, emotional, or psychological challenges. These services are typically offered by trained counsellors or psychologists who use evidence-based approaches to provide guidance and assistance. Counselling can take various forms, such as individual sessions, group therapy, workshops, or online consultations, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual.

At its core, counselling aims to create a safe and confidential space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and concerns without fear of judgment. Counselors work collaboratively with clients to identify issues, develop coping strategies, and set achievable goals for personal growth and well-being. Whether addressing academic stress, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or career uncertainties, counselling services serve as a valuable resource for fostering resilience and enhancing overall mental health.

Why Are Counselling Services Essential?

1. Mental Health Support: Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. Counselling services provide students with the tools to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, enabling them to perform better academically and personally.

2. Personal Growth: Counselling helps individuals understand themselves better, identify their strengths, and work on areas of improvement. This self-awareness is crucial for personal and professional development.

3. Academic Success: Academic pressure can be overwhelming, leading to burnout or reduced performance. Counsellors can assist students in developing effective study habits, time management skills, and strategies to overcome academic hurdles.

4. Conflict Resolution: Relationship issues, whether with peers, family, or romantic partners, can significantly impact a student’s focus and happiness. Counselling provides a neutral ground for addressing and resolving these conflicts constructively.

5. Career Guidance: For students unsure about their career paths, counselling services offer guidance on choosing suitable fields, preparing for the job market, and building skills necessary for long-term success.

How to Access the Counseling Services from Your Student Portal (UCC)

Accessing the "Counselling Services" from your student portal is straightforward because the portal design is clean and simple, focusing on functionality.

Steps to Access the UCC Student Portal

1. Connect to the Internet: Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection.

2. Open Your Web Browser: Launch your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).

3. Search for the Portal: In the browser's address or search bar, type "UCC student portal" and press Enter to initiate the search.

4. Locate the Link: From the search results, find and click on "Login - Student Portal - UCC." This will direct you to the official UCC students' portal login page. Alternatively, click the link here: UCC Student Portal to be taken directly to the portal login page.

5. Login to Your Account: Enter your credentials (e.g., student ID and password) to access the portal.

Steps to Access the Counselling Services from the UCC Student Portal

1. From the navigation links located on the left sidebar, scroll and find “Counselling Services.”

2. Click on “Counselling Services” to open the form for requesting counselling services.

3. In the form displayed:

• Select your Counselling Type from the dropdown menu.
• Enter your Contact Number (e.g., 0240000000).
• Provide your Email Address (e.g., name@ucc.edu.gh).
• Select the Mode of Delivery from the dropdown menu.

4. Click on the “Submit Details” button to submit your request.

Now, patiently wait to be contacted by the appropriate office.

In conclusion, counselling services are an invaluable resource for students, providing professional support for a wide range of challenges. They promote mental well-being, guide personal growth, and empower students to succeed academically and personally. At the University of Cape Coast, these services are readily available and easily accessible through the student portal. By utilizing these services, students can better navigate the complexities of university life and ensure a more fulfilling and successful experience.

So, if you haven't already, take advantage of this excellent resource and let counselling services be a part of your university journey.