University Counseling Centre

You don’t need a reason to come in.

The Counseling Centre is a confidential, free service for everyone at the university — students, faculty, and staff. Sessions are private. We listen first.

Book a session Resources & helplines

400+: Counseling sessions in the Centre's first academic year
28: Interns trained in 2024–25
30,000+: Individuals reached through various outreach initiatives

What we offer

Beyond a one-to-one session.

Counseling, assessments, workshops, and group spaces — all free for everyone on campus, designed around what people actually come in for.

Individual Counseling

Confidential one-on-one sessions to work through stress, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and academic challenges.

Career Assessments & Guidance

Expert-led career assessments and personalised guidance sessions exploring interests, aptitudes, and values.

Psychometric Assessments

Insight into personality, emotional patterns, and strengths through scientifically validated tests.

Support Groups

A safe, supportive space to share experiences, connect with peers, and learn healthy coping strategies together.

Internship Opportunities

Hands-on exposure in psychology, counseling, and mental-health initiatives to complement academic learning.

Workshops on Mental Health & Life Skills

Interactive sessions on stress management, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and communication.

Certificate Courses

Short certified programmes that introduce psychology, testing, and counseling in a practical, engaging way.

Wellness Events & Campaigns

Pledges, open-mic sessions, art-therapy circles, and awareness campaigns promoting well-being and inclusion.

Free & private

Take the Wellbeing Self-Assessment.

The Self-Assessment is a short questionnaire that looks at symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress over the past week. It takes about five minutes, it’s completely free, and your answers stay private. It can help you decide whether to come in for a session — but it is a self-check, not a diagnosis.

In crisis or need urgent help right now? See our helplines.

Start the Self-Assessment →Take the concerns checklist →

What people come in for

You’re not alone in any of this.

Some of the things students bring into the room. There is no such thing as “too small” — many people come in simply to gain clarity or manage everyday stress.

Academic Stress & Performance Pressure

College can feel like a constant race filled with deadlines, exams, and expectations piling up from all sides. In therapy, we slow things down together, break big tasks into smaller steps, and work on building healthier study habits. More than anything, we remind you that you are more than just your grades.

Anxiety & Overthinking

It's common to feel stuck in loops of "what if" thoughts, worried about the future or about what others might think. Therapy offers a safe space to share these fears without judgment. Simple grounding techniques and thought exercises help quiet the noise so you can feel calmer and more in control.

Low Mood & Motivation

Sometimes it feels like you've lost your spark. Getting out of bed, going to class, or doing the things you once enjoyed becomes really hard. In therapy, we sit with you in that heaviness and gently explore what's weighing you down — finding small, meaningful ways to bring back energy and purpose, one step at a time.

Relationships & Loneliness

Even in a campus full of people, it's possible to feel alone or struggle with friendships, family, or romantic relationships. Therapy gives you space to talk openly about these challenges. We focus on building healthier connections, setting boundaries where needed, and learning how to nurture relationships that truly support you.

Identity & Self-Discovery

College years are full of questions: Who am I? What do I really want? What matters to me? It's normal to feel confused or lost while figuring yourself out. Therapy can guide you through that process — helping you reflect on your values, discover your strengths, and make choices that feel true to who you are becoming.

Homesickness & Adjustment Issues

Being away from home, sometimes for the first time, can feel lonely and overwhelming. New routines, new people, and a new environment take time to get used to. Therapy helps normalise these feelings and equips you with tools to adapt while staying connected to the support systems that matter most.

What we stand for

A space where healing, growth, and authenticity unfold naturally.

Empathy and Respect: We listen to understand, not to judge. Every person who walks through our doors is met with warmth, dignity, and unconditional regard.
Confidentiality and Trust: Your story is safe here. We uphold high standards of privacy and ethical practice to ensure that your experiences remain secure and respected.
Collaboration and Empowerment: We believe therapy is a collaborative effort. Together, we work toward self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change — empowering you to be an active participant in your own growth.
Diversity and Inclusion: We honour all identities, backgrounds, and life experiences. Our space is inclusive and affirming, where every voice is welcomed and valued.
Integrity and Professionalism: We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical care, continuous learning, and transparency in every interaction.
Accessibility and Support: Seeking help should feel easy, not intimidating. We aim to make mental-health support approachable, responsive, and stigma-free.

Who you’ll meet

Counsellors who will sit with you.

The Centre is a professional training environment. Sessions are held by the counsellor or by trainee counsellors under supervision — all bound by strict confidentiality guidelines.

Counselor

Shubhangi Pingulkar

Counselor, HBSU

Trainee Counsellor

Harshi Mamania

Junior Counselor, HBSU

Common questions

Before you walk in.

What is the Counselling Centre and who is it for?: The Counselling Centre is a safe and confidential space where trained counsellors support students with personal, emotional, academic, or adjustment-related concerns. Our services are free of cost and available to all currently enrolled students.
What kind of issues can I come to counselling for?: Students seek support for a wide range of reasons — university life can bring many personal and academic challenges. Common concerns include stress, anxiety, low mood, adjustment to university or cultural transitions, relationship or family issues, self-esteem or identity, academic pressure, procrastination, concentration difficulties, grief, loss, loneliness, burnout, and uncertainty about career paths. If something is affecting your overall wellbeing or studies, counselling can help.
Is counselling free?: Yes. All services offered at the Counselling Centre are free for enrolled students and staff members.
How do I make an appointment?: You can book online through our website portal, walk into the centre (4th floor, Department of Psychology, Elphinstone College) during office hours, or email us. If it feels urgent, please mention that in your request and we will do our best to schedule your appointment at the earliest.
What happens in a counselling session?: A counsellor will be there for you, listening without judgment or biases. We will help you explore your thoughts and feelings, and work with you to find strategies that promote your wellbeing.
Is what I say confidential?: Yes. Your privacy is very important to us. Information shared in counselling remains confidential and is not shared with faculty, parents, or peers without your consent. The only exceptions are when there is risk of harm to yourself or others, or legal requirements (such as court orders). If such a situation arises, we will discuss it with you whenever possible.
Do I need to be in a crisis to come?: Not at all. Many students come to counselling simply to express, gain clarity, or manage everyday stress. Counselling is also about growth, not just crisis.
Are there group sessions or workshops?: Yes. In addition to one-on-one counselling, we offer support group sessions and workshops on topics like stress management, mindfulness, academic skills, and building healthy relationships.
What if I am worried about a friend?: You can reach out to us if you're concerned about another student. We will guide you on how to support them and, if necessary, connect them with professional help.
Will seeking counselling appear on my academic record?: No. Counselling records are completely separate from academic records and will not affect your grades or future opportunities.
I'm not sure if counselling is for me. What should I do?: That's completely okay. You are welcome to book a single session just to see how it feels. Many students find it helpful simply to talk to someone in a supportive, confidential space.
Do I need a referral from a doctor or faculty member?: No referral is required. You can reach out directly. We want counselling to be as accessible as possible.

Reaching out is a sign of strength

Book a free, confidential session.

Walk in to the fourth floor of the Department of Psychology during office hours, email us at psych.counselor@hbsu.ac.in, or pick a slot through the booking page.

Book a session Helplines