Many students struggle with the varied life transitions which occur throughout the course of their university career. For many, this is a time of identity development, changes in relationships, questions of meaning and purpose, among other challenges. There are resources available on campus to support students during this time but, for some, it can be uncomfortable to access services on campus. This discomfort can leave students uncertain of where to turn. Thankfully, the extended health benefits provided by the students’ association can allow students to access supports off campus. For example, the Vancouver Island University Student’ Union benefits package covers social work services. According to the information that I have linked to above, the coverage allows for up to $75 per session, for a total of $525 dollars over the course of a coverage year.
In many cases the benefit plan for VIU students will not cover a full session’s fee, as counselling typically costs anywhere from $90 to $120. However, within the Nanaimo area there are therapists, such as myself, who are willing to work on a sliding scale if finances pose a barrier to services. This means that students can access the support that they need while incurring little or no additional cost, following reimbursement from their benefit plan.
As mentioned briefly in my bio, part of my motivation to pursue this form of work has come from my personal experiences of having benefited from seeking counselling in my own life. My most impactful experience of positive change through counselling was during my undergraduate degree. The reality is that I would not have been able to access these services if it were not for funding such as that of my student health benefits. This is the case for many students who live on tight budgets and often rely on student loans to pay tuition and make ends meet. It is for this reason that I am writing to encourage students to make full use of their benefits in order to access the services and supports that they may need. Whether it is chiropractic care, massage therapy, dental work, or counselling provided by a registered social worker, I encourage you to use your benefits. You are paying for it through your student fees!