A place to turn when you need help
Professional, safe and confidential
Free, confidential and professional support for all enrolled VIU students. We collaborate with students in a compassionate setting to clarify concerns, establish goals and explore resources for wellbeing. We offer a variety of services that can assist in the management of personal challenges.
Face to face or online counselling for all VIU students, including online students, is available through VIU Counselling Services from Tuesday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 5 pm.
Book an appointment
Call 604.485.2878. When prompted, say "Tracy" to leave your confidential voice message. Please include your name, phone number, student number, and email
Or
Email Counsellor and Education Advisor, Tracy Tunstall, at tracy.tunstall@viu.ca with your full name, phone number, and student number
You will be contacted by Tracy to set up an appointment during regular business hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis
Contact the BC Crisis Centre. Additional crisis supports are available at Sea To Sky Safety Net or by calling 1.866.661.3311
Having thoughts of suicide? Call or text 9.8.8
Experiencing a mental health crisis? Call 310.6789
Need to speak to a counsellor right away? The Government of BC's Here2Talk provides phone, text, and chat options for students in crisis that need a counselling session. Students can call as often as they like, and the service is free. Here2Talk is also available as a free App.
If you are faculty and are concerned about a student
Please contact tc.students@viu.ca or visit tiwšɛmawtxʷ campus Student Services.
There are also campus-specific guides to help you connect students with the right supports.
Learn more about supporting students in distress
Why seek help?
There are many reasons why you might want to visit us. Some common issues that students come to us with are depression, social anxiety, self-harm, disordered eating, relationship problems, perfectionism, grief & loss, substance use, confidence, loneliness, procrastination, internet addictions, coping with a traumatic event, adjustment to University life and many other personal difficulties. Our goal is to help you overcome these challenges so you’re able to have the best possible experience at VIU.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes. We take your right to privacy seriously. All information is for the purpose of providing counselling services. No information will be released to VIU administrators, instructors, outside agencies or anyone else unless authorized by you or required by law. Please speak to our counsellor for more information about confidentiality.