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Counseling & Psychotherapy Services

The mission of the Counseling & Development Services (“CDS”), as a department of Student Affairs, is to promote, in collaboration with the entire UHWO community, the academic success & overall development of our students through the provision of high quality counseling, psychotherapy, consultation, education & training. We seek to accomplish this mission by meeting the developmental needs of our students. We are ever mindful of their diverse experiences & the richness of the multicultural communities and countries from which they originate. Thus, we endeavor to empower our students to utilize their unique strengths to achieve their academic, personal, professional & social goals.

Eligibility & Cost:
The CDS provides CONFIDENTIAL & time-limited counseling & psychotherapy FREE OF CHARGE to all UHWO students on “active status” with the UHWO. A student is classified as “active status” when one: (1) maintains enrollment in at least one UHWO class each fall & spring term; or (2) is on an approved leave of absence. Students who are not enrolled or completely withdraw from UHWO are not eligible for services.

Intake & Follow-Up Sessions:
The first session will involve a clinical interview & assessment of the student’s therapeutic needs, as well as a discussion of how best to collaboratively address the student’s concerns. Ensuing sessions will be scheduled as clinically warranted.

Time-Limited Services:
In order to meet the needs of the entire UHWO student body, students are alloted a total of 8 sessions per term. Most students do not require that many sessions. If, however, a student approaches the session limit and remains in need of continued services, efforts will be made to help the student find a mental health provider in his/her community. Some issues, because of the complexity and history, are more appropriately addressed in long-term therapy. Students in need of long-term therapy will be referred to community providers who can best meet the student’s long-term therapeutic needs.


The CDS offers the following types of counseling & psychotherapy services:

Individual Counseling
Student meets 1-on-1 with a psychologist or therapist to address individual concerns that can range from academic stress to crisis management & suicidal ideation. Common issues addressed in individual therapy include adjustment to life stressors, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal/homicidal thoughts, traumatic experiences, substance abuse, eating disorders, domestic violence, bereavement, family problems, anger management, career concerns, identity issues, financial stress. For more information see Common Mental Health Concerns Faced By College Students

Couple Counseling
Couple counseling is available for all eligible UHWO students & their partners. The couple meets with a psychologist or therapist to address their relationship concerns. Clinical attention will focus on the couple’s negative interaction dynamics that perpetuate problems.

Crisis Management

During Office Hours Mon.-Fri. 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
For immediate assistance:
  • Call Student Affairs at 689-2800; or
  • Go to C141
Non-Office Hours For life threatening emergencies:
  • Call 911;
  • Call campus security at 689-2911; or
  • Go to your nearest emergency room or police station

Call Suicide & Crisis Hotline 24hrs/7days

  • Oahu 832-3100
  • Other Islands 1-800-753-6879 (toll-free)

To schedule an appointment:

  • Call 689-2800; or
  • Go to C141