Counselling services in the university context

Psychological and social counselling services offered by the student service organisations in Germany – the Studierendenwerke (or STWs) – support students in overcoming challenges in their life and study situation and thus contribute to equal opportunities in their studies.

The counselling services of the Studierendenwerke are central components of a healthy campus life. They provide low-threshold support, help with orientation and decision-making in personal and social matters, and promote students' independence, their ability to cope with problems and to continue their studies even in crisis situations.

Studying is a biographical transitional situation. It is a life phase of learning and development and of coping with social and institutional performance and selection requirements, as well as a time of financial uncertainty. As a result, the period of study is particularly prone to disruption - students' need for counselling and information is especially high.