Frequently Asked Questions

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Will our discussions be confidential?

Yes, unless there is an issue of personal safety to you or others. For personal information to be released, you must sign a FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) form, much like the HIPAA form.

If I indicate a problem on my Disclosure Form, what will happen?

The purpose of disclosing any prior problems is to make sure any necessary documentation can be gathered before residency to ensure that there will be no future licensing problems. It is most important for the Disclosure Form and the Background Check to be congruent. If the Background Check reveals a previous problem, the Disclosure Form must be changed. Any further documentation that is required will be kept with the disclosure form and background check in a confidential file. This file will then be returned to you during the spring of your final year before graduation from the College of Medicine.

What are some advantages in talking with the counselor about my problem?

Our counselor is on-site and has flexible office hours that can accommodate your schedule—and there is no charge for these services. You can usually expect to be seen immediately or within a day. She has been in practice in the Columbus area and at the OSU Medical Center for more than 25 years.

What if I feel uncomfortable talking to the counselor on-site?

Our counselor has a wide range of other resources, including outside referrals, that she can call on to help you with your problem. All you need to do is ask.

Besides a referral for medication, does the counselor have other options for dealing with my problem?

Counseling can usually be helpful in assessing, defining, and clarifying issues. Our counselor has received training in mind-body medicine and uses guided imagery. She can also direct you to other alternatives.