Where do I go to see a Counsellor in NMCI?

For a face to face session on a Wednesday, the Maritime Life Skills Counsellor is based in Room 2.66 on the second floor. We will work with you to see if we can offer you appointments at a time to suit you where possible. 

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments can be made by emailing counselling.admincork@mtu.ie   We also offer one early and one lunchtime consultation in order to minimise class disruption. Also you can ring the Counselling reception desk in CIT at +00353 21 4335772.

How long does a session last?

Consultations last for 50 minutes, where you will have an opportunity to talk about what is going on for you. A counsellor will not be able to provide instant solutions, or advise you what to do but will listen and facilitate an increasing awareness of yourself and your choice of possibilities. To come for counselling takes courage as it involves facing up to what ever issue is causing you a problem. Asking someone else for help should not be seen as a sign of weakness but on the contrary should be seen as a wise sign that you are taking steps, hopefully at an early stage, to address any problems you are experiencing.

What type of issues do students normally seek help for?

Life at Sea can throw up its own unique challenges. On top of that students normally seek help on a range of personal issue such as:

• Stress Including Exam Stress
• Procrastination
• Anxiety
• Excessive Worry
• Relationship Difficulties (family, romantic, classmates etc.)
• Depression or Mood Difficulties Including Isolation both ashore and afloat
• Grief or Bereavement
• Homesickness or Loneliness
• Lack of Motivation or Direction
• Assault or Abuse
• Bullying or Harassment Including Sexual Harassment
• Addiction or Substance Use
• Perfectionism
• Low Confidence or Self-Esteem
• Balancing Part-Time Work and Academic Requirements

Is the service confidential?

Yes everything you say will be treated as confidential, and that will include no requirement to inform your sponsoring company (if you are a sponsored cadet) provided you are not a danger to yourself, other people or the law has not be broken. With your consent only we can talk to people on your behalf if you so wish. Counsellors are bound by the professional ethics of their accrediting organisation to maintain confidentiality. Case notes are kept on all students who attend but are always secured in a locked counselling filing cabinet.

Will the fact that I attended the counselling service appear on my academic record?

No, definitely not.

How soon can I be seen for a session?

We aim to offer everyone an appointment as soon as possible. However during busy times the wait can be a little longer.

How many sessions am I entitled to?

While nothing will be written in stone, all students will be entitled to six individual sessions, and depending on the demands on the service this can be reviewed on a case by case basis.

What Happens in a Typical First Counselling Session?

Besides some basic routine administrative details being taken, a first session is normally an opportunity for you and your counsellor to outline and figure out what the problems actually are, discuss any concerns you may have and collaboratively decide what is the best strategy going forward to address those issues. Also you are encouraged to ask any questions you may have about the counselling service.