Student volunteers perspectives on roles/functions of university counseling centers in Taiwan

Abstract

This study discussed the student volunteers’ perspectives on the roles/functions of University Counseling Center (UCC). Fifteen student volunteers of a university in northern Taiwan participated. Phenomenological method was employed to analyze in-depth interviews. Themes emerged including volunteers viewed; roles and functions of UCC as enhancing the quality of mental health on campus, psychological and counseling education beneficial to students for comprehending counseling and UCC, specialized counseling services designed to take the initiative to reach out to students, and direct counseling interventions provided to tailor individual students’ needs. Participants suggested that UCPs should help students know more about UCC and the counseling profession. Students will “be familiarized with UCC, trust UCP, and visit UCC.” Consequently, they will utilize UCC resources when needed. Key words: University counseling center, student volunteer, role and function.