Information and Consent for Services

Welcome to the Counseling Center at Doshisha University. This is a place where students can gain insights into their experiences and engage in self-reflection with the assistance of counselors (clinical psychologists, certified public psychologists). Within the framework of Student Support, we provide psychological and educational assistance in fostering a fulfilling student life.

Please read and understand the following information that you should be aware of when using the Counseling Center.

1. Generally, there are no counselor substitutions. Counseling sessions are conducted at the Counseling Center on campus you belong to.
2. Counseling sessions are by appointment only. In-person counseling sessions last for 50 minutes. Please note that if you arrive late, the session cannot be extended (if you are running late or need to cancel, please contact the center by phone).
3. For telephone or online counseling, please consult with your assigned counselor.

1. The contents of the counseling are kept confidential. No information will be disclosed to third parties without the consent of the visitor.
2. However, in exceptional cases, even without the visitor's consent, it may be necessary to disclose minimal information to relevant individuals or organizations* under the following circumstances:
   • When there is a risk of self-harm or harm to others.
   • When there is a potential danger that may significantly impact the visitor or their surroundings, such as jeopardizing the safety of the university's educational and research environment or violating the law.
   • When otherwise required by law.
3. If the visitor is receiving support from other professionals or staff members** within the university, limited information may be shared to provide more appropriate and effective support.

1. If there are behaviors that impede the safety of counseling center users or staff members, counseling may be interrupted or future usage of the counseling center may be restricted. Behaviors that impede safety include:
   • Intimidating, aggressive, or threatening behavior towards other users or counseling center staff.
   • Stalking behavior towards other users or counseling center staff.
   • Any other behavior that causes inconvenience to other users or counseling center staff.
2. In the event of severe weather warnings, other special alerts, earthquakes, natural disasters, fires, or any unforeseen circumstances, counseling sessions will be interrupted to ensure safety.

*family members, guarantors, academic departments, Health Center, academic advisors, governmental agencies such as public health offices or the police, medical institutions, etc.

**Physicians, nurses, clinical psychologists, certified public counselors, career consultants, social workers, psychiatric social workers, SDA office coordinators, etc.