Supporting Student Mental Health in Higher Education
PCHEI (Psychological Counsellors in Higher Education Ireland) is a dedicated network for professionals in university and college counselling services. We provide a platform for collaboration, learning, and innovation in student mental health.
Who We Are
For over 40 years, university and college counselling services have played a vital role in supporting student well-being. PCHEI is a collective of professionals working to enhance student mental health services through shared knowledge, professional development, and advocacy.
Collaboration & Learning
Engage with like-minded professionals through networking events, peer discussions, and shared learning experiences.
Professional Development
Access training, workshops, and conferences to enhance skills and stay informed on the latest trends in student counselling.
Research & Advocacy
Contribute to and benefit from cutting-edge research, helping shape policies and best practices in higher education counselling.
Why Join PCHEI?
As a member, you will have access to
Professional Development
Training and events to enhance your skills.
Networking Opportunities
Meet and collaborate with others in the field.
Skill Building
Learn new ways to support students effectively.
Latest Trends in Student Counselling
Stay updated on best practices.
Innovative Ideas & Research
Contribute to and learn from new mental health initiatives.
PCHEI members can take part in educational sessions that focus on key areas such as inclusive counselling, crisis intervention, ethics, leadership, and new student support models. The organization also connects members with experts from Ireland and beyond to improve student mental health services.
Member Benefits
Annual Conference
PCHEI organizes a yearly conference covering important topics like:
- Supporting students in crisis
- Mental health trends
- Suicide prevention
- Grief, trauma, and addiction support
- Legal and ethical issues in student counselling
Training Events
PCHEI offers training throughout the year on issues identified by members, such as:
- Gambling and addiction
- Identifying and helping students in distress (3-part course)
Mental Health
PCHEI has played a key role in launching national programs, including:
- Consent and sexual misconduct prevention
- Suicide prevention initiatives
- Staff training on supporting struggling students
- Online support platforms like Speak Out and Togetherall
Our Student Counselling Model
PCHEI’s Comprehensive Student Counselling Service Model (CSCS) is designed to improve student mental health support. This model takes a whole-campus approach to student wellbeing, combining counselling, outreach, and policy development to better support students. It includes five key areas:
01
Clinical Services
Providing direct counselling and crisis support for students.
02
Consultation & Collaboration
Working with staff, faculty, and external services.
03
Mental Health Promotion & Prevention
Running workshops, training, and awareness programs.
04
Training & Education
Educating staff and student leaders on mental health
05
Research & Development
Using research to improve services and policies
