Understanding of counselling
You, as the person seeking advice, are at the heart of the work carried out by the Study Advisory Service. Our focus is on providing guidance on choosing and planning your course of study.
The Study Advisory Service’s approach to counselling is characterised by a resource-oriented, client-centred and neutral attitude, in which an open-minded approach and confidentiality are a given.
We tailor our support to your personal concerns and issues related to your studies, which may also include personal difficulties.
Our open-ended approach ensures that your individual preferences and needs are taken into account. Through our counselling, we aim to strengthen your self-reliance, so that we do not make the decision for you, but stand by your side to support you.
Should we not be able to assist with a particular matter, we will be happy to refer you to other counselling services.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process for resolving conflicts – solution-focused and structured.
At the Study Advisory Service, we primarily use the Harvard approach. It emphasises cooperation, a focus on interests and sustainable solutions. Key principles:
- Confidentiality: Everything discussed remains within a protected framework.
- Impartiality: The mediator supports all parties equally.
- Voluntary participation: Participation is voluntary at all times.
- Personal responsibility: The parties involved develop the solutions themselves.
When is mediation helpful?
Conflicts are part of everyday university life. If left unresolved, they can affect the learning environment, academic processes and academic success. Mediation helps to resolve tensions at an early stage. Typical situations:
- Conflicts between students, e.g. in project or group work
- Conflicts within working or study groups
- Disputes within university groups, initiatives or committees
- Situations where the conflict significantly hinders studies or collaboration
How can you contact us?
Is a conflict causing you stress? Feel free to get in touch!
Here is how:
- Send an email to studienberatung(at)
hochschule-rhein-waal.de (subject line: ‘Mediation’). - We will call everyone involved to assess the situation.
- If both parties agree, we will arrange an appointment for a structured mediation session.
Counselling and mediation are free of charge and confidential.