Counseling ServicesFlexible Stepped Care Model
For Urgent/Crisis Support, please call 757-683-4401, press OPTION 2.
This line is available to all ODU students 24/7/365.
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What is a Flexible Step Care Model?
We have adopted a Flexible Step Care Model which provides students with the right level of service based on their presenting needs. It also offers quick access to services through on-demand, same-day counseling options.
The Flexible Step Care Model seeks to meet students where they are in the change process, while promoting autonomy and empowerment. This is not a linear model, so you do not need to complete lower steps in order to reach the higher ones. Instead, it is simply that the most effective, yet least resource intensive intervention is offered first, and care is stepped up to the level based on evidence of required need.
Benefits:
- Improved access to mental health care
- Individualized and customized care plans for each student
- Connection to a range of wellness services
- Referrals to campus and community partners
- Enhanced participation in workshops and groups
- Promotion of self determination
- On-demand, same-say appointments and self-scheduling through the portal
Step 1: The Initial Session
On-demand, same-day appointments are offered
When you call, walk-in or schedule online you will be able to choose from the available appointments for that day. If that day is filled, you are encouraged to check back the following day. You have a choice as to how many or few appointments you make.
How to Make an Appointment
The initial session is designed to clarify your concerns and help you access the services you need, whether that be at ODU OCS, other campus resources, or in the community. You and the clinician will discuss what type of service will be most helpful to you. Some students need only one session to help them feel "back on track" and other students may want to continue through learning skills, participating in groups, or utilizing individual counseling.
If it is decided that Counseling Services may be of assistance to you, the initial session will introduce you to our services and inform you of what to expect. Counseling Services provides on-demand, same-day or next-day sessions within a brief treatment model.
After the initial session you will leave with an individualized care plan which may involve participation in workshops, use of self-guided digital programs, skill-based groups, group or individual therapy, or campus and community resources. You may also be referred to psychiatry services for medication evaluation and management, if you believe that could be helpful to you.
Follow-Up Appointments
After your initial session, follow-up appointments are typically on-demand. The day you want to be seen for a follow-up appointment, you can schedule online, or contact us to schedule with the same counselor who did your initial appointment, if possible. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled as concise problem targeted 30-minute sessions.
Note: All counseling sessions will end at least ten minutes early so that counselors have time for documentation.
