University of Nebraska Kearney

Students in Distress

Make a Referral 

1. For assistance in an emergency situation, Call Police and Parking Services 627-4811 or 911
    
2. If you suspect a student has a disability, refer him/her to the Academic Success Office at 865-8214. A disability, whether psychological or physical, does not excuse inappropriate behavior.
    
3. For academic concerns refer him/her to the Academic Advising office at 865-8932 or the Academic Success office at 865-8988
    
4. For behavioral or conduct issues contact the University Conduct Officer at 865-1619
    
5. Suggest the student make an appointment at UNK Counseling and Health Care by calling 865-8248 or 865-8218. If necessary, you can help the student make an appointment. Call while the student is with you. Write down the appointment details, including the location of the appointment, date and time of the appointment along with the provider’s name
    
6. If the student is hesitant to make an appointment, explain to the student that:
   
   1. Counseling at UNK is confidential. This means that the information about the student cannot be released to other UNK Offices, family members, or any professor without the student’s written permission (except when the student is in danger of harming themselves) Counseling records are not kept with any academic records and are protected by law.
       
   2. The services are free to currently enrolled UNK students taking seven or more hours; students registered for less than seven hours, can opt in by paying the health care fee.
       
   3. The UNK Counseling and Health Care staff consist of professionally trained and licensed psychiatrists, clinical nurse specialists, and mental health counselors with expertise in caring for college-age students.
       
   4. The first meeting is an intake or consultation session. Depending on the complexity of the situation a case may be referred.
    
7. Do not attempt to make a referral when the student is so upset and confused that he or she cannot understand or listen to you. Wait until the student has calmed down enough to be able to converse and respond to your suggestions.
    
8. If it appears an individual may cause harm to themselves or others call Police and Parking Services at 627-4811 or 911.
    
9. Other referral contacts
   
   1. Dean for Student Life, MSAB, 865-8528
       
   2. Ombudsperson, 1200 Founders Hall, 865-8404
       
   3. Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Office,1203 Founders Hall, 865-8388