Counselling Services for UVic and Camosun Students

Starting or continuing university can bring a lot of new experiences, some exciting, some overwhelming. Whether you're feeling anxious about exams, struggling with relationships, adjusting to life away from home, or just feeling stuck, you're not alone. At Harbour Family Counselling, we’re just down the road from the University of Victoria and Camosun College’s Lansdowne Campus, and we’re here to offer you a safe, welcoming space where you can talk, reflect, and feel supported.

What Do College and University Students Talk About in Counselling?

Every student’s experience is different, but many of the concerns we hear are shared by others. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to start, you're not alone. Counselling can offer the support and clarity you need to move forward.

Here are some of the most common reasons students come to see us:

Academic Anxiety and Exam Stress

You might find yourself overthinking before a test, blanking during quizzes, or putting off assignments until the last minute. We can help you manage stress, stay grounded, and build study habits that actually work.

Low Mood and Motivation

If it's hard to get out of bed or you're feeling disconnected from things you used to care about, you're not the only one. Counselling can help you feel more motivated, balanced, and connected to your goals.

Roommate and Relationship Challenges

University and College can be a time of exciting new relationships and also conflict. Whether it's a breakup, tension with roommates, or struggles with family, we offer a space to talk it through and find healthy ways forward.

Loneliness and Homesickness

Feeling homesick or isolated is very common, especially if you're far from family or still finding your community. We can help you feel more settled and connected.

Focus, ADHD and Executive Function

If you're having trouble concentrating, staying organised, or meeting deadlines, we can help you develop tools that match how your brain works and support your success in school.

Perfectionism and Procrastination

Perfectionism can lead to a cycle of high pressure and avoidance. We’ll work with you to shift unhelpful thought patterns and help you move forward with more confidence and ease.

Career and Major Uncertainty

It's normal to question your program, your career path, or your future plans. We offer support to explore your interests and values so you can make choices that feel right for you.

Identity and Life Transitions

You may be exploring your identity, adjusting to life away from home, or trying to balance different expectations. We provide a safe and supportive space for self-reflection and personal growth.

Grief, Loss or Past Trauma

If you're coping with grief or something painful from your past, we're here to help. Our trauma-informed approach allows you to move at your own pace and feel safe while processing what you’ve been through.

Coping, Habits and Substance Use

If you're leaning on substances or habits to get through tough times, you're not alone. We’ll help you understand what’s going on and work with you to build healthier ways to cope.

How We Can Help: Therapies That Meet You Where You’re At

Our counsellors use gentle, evidence-based approaches that are especially helpful for young adults. We may draw from:

IFS (Internal Family Systems)
This approach helps you explore different parts of yourself and build a stronger sense of calm, clarity, and self-acceptance.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
CBT offers practical tools to manage anxiety, shift self-critical thoughts, and build healthier thinking and coping habits.

DBT Skills (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
These skills provide step-by-step strategies for managing strong emotions, communicating more clearly, and handling tough situations.

Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
Mindfulness helps you stay present and centred, especially during stressful moments like exams or challenging conversations.

Compassion-Focused and Strengths-Based Counselling
This style of counselling supports you in building self-kindness, setting boundaries, and working from your strengths.

Solution-Focused Therapy
A practical, future-oriented approach that focuses on what’s already working and helps you set clear, achievable goals.

Career Counselling and Exploration
If you're feeling uncertain about your major or future direction, career counselling can help you clarify your values, explore your options, and make choices that feel right for you.

We'll always work at your pace, and your comfort and goals are our top priority.