Counselling

Students in the Nest building

The embedded counselling program in the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education is committed to creating a confidential, inclusive and empathic environment where graduate students can access holistic support for their well-being. The program offers on-site short-term individual counselling as well as programming throughout the academic calendar to support a healthy learning environment. Our services are delivered with sensitivity and responsiveness to the rich fabric of diversity within the graduate student community. The program is based on the principle of social accountability to ourselves and others as a foundation of the Faculty of Medicine’s core values of respect, integrity, compassion, collaboration and equity. Taking care of our body and mind lays a foundation to fulfill this commitment to ourselves, others and society.

Graduate and Postdoctoral Education (GPE) Embedded Counsellor

Elena Latushkina, Ph.D., RCC, PCC (she/her)

Elena is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Embedded Counsellor in the Faculty of Medicine, offering support to research graduate students. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Doctorate in Psychological Science. With a background in psychological research, Elena integrates evidence-based counselling with strength-based and solution-focused coaching, grounded in a person-centered, responsive, and inclusive approach. Her primary focus is supporting students as they navigate complex academic and personal challenges, build emotional resilience, foster meaningful connections, and enhance overall well-being.

The Embedded Counsellor meets with students individually, either online or in person, whichever is most convenient, to explore their specific concerns and work collaboratively to develop a personalized approach tailored to graduate students’ unique needs. Care is confidential, culturally responsive, and non-judgmental, respecting each individual’s personality, culture, and lived experiences.

Book an appointment

If you would like to book a counselling session, the following options are available:

Appointment Format & Locations

  • Online video sessions (via Zoom): Monday – Thursday
  • In-person sessions: Currently offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health (Vancouver campus). In-person appointments rotate across select sites, and on-site counselling support will continue expanding to additional Faculty of Medicine locations in the near future.

If you’re located outside of British Columbia, find support options specific to your needs.

Please note that the Master’s students in Occupational Therapy (MOT), Speech and Audiology, Genetic Counselling (GC), and Physical Therapy (MPT) programs are excluded from embedded counselling services. Students in these graduate programs are requested to book their appointments through regular UBC Student Counselling Services.

Embedded counselling FAQ

What happens in a counselling appointment?

You will have a private and confidential space to discuss any concerns or challenges you may be facing. The session is focused on your needs and goals, and the counsellor will actively listen, provide support, and offer guidance. Even if you don’t know what you need, the counsellor can help you explore and navigate the next steps.

Conversations may cover topics such as academic stress, personal challenges, career aspirations, coping strategies, and long-term and off-campus mental health resources. The goal is to help you navigate challenges, enhance your well-being, and succeed in your graduate studies. UBC counselling sessions are 45 minutes long.

If you discover that your challenges are more deep-seated, you can work with a counsellor to identify alternative support.

When are appointments available?

Appointments become available a few weeks in advance of the appointment date. If needed, same-day virtual or in-person appointments may be available.

If appointments are fully booked, you may see a notice that no times are currently available at this time. We encourage you to check back frequently, as new appointment times open daily, including when cancellations occur.

If you are in crisis or experiencing immediate distress, the following resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

  • Emergency Services: 911
  • Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8
  • UBC Campus Security: 604-822-2222

How many sessions can I book?

Embedded counselling follows a brief / short-term counselling model. Whereas we do not have a firmly prescribed number of sessions that you are eligible for, embedded counsellors typically see students for up to five sessions. If you experience situations and challenges that require more extensive help, the embedded counsellor will support you through a referral.

Embedded counselling follows a brief / short-term counselling model. Whereas we do not have a firmly prescribed number of sessions that you are eligible for, embedded counsellors typically see students for up to five sessions. If you experience situations and challenges that require more extensive help, the embedded counsellor will support you through a referral.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, counselling is confidential. Your privacy is of utmost importance, and all information shared in sessions is kept strictly confidential and will not be shared with others. Confidentiality ensures that you can freely discuss your concerns without fear of judgment or disclosure. There are, however, legal and ethical limits to confidentiality in situations involving imminent harm to yourself or others, and these limits will be explained by the counsellor during your first session.

What is the embedded counsellor’s approach?

The counselling philosophy is deeply rooted in a holistic perspective, acknowledging the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. With a trauma-informed lens, we strive to create a safe environment that acknowledges and respects the impact of past experiences. Therapy sessions are steeped in a solution-focused orientation, and aim to identify and achieve goals while celebrating the strengths and resilience that arise from your lived experiences. 

Our approach is grounded in cultural sensitivity, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our academic community. We strive to bring a unique perspective that embraces and respects the richness of cultural diversity. We understand the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space, taking into account the cultural nuances that may shape your academic and personal journey.

Embracing a client-centered approach, the counselling sessions are tailored to your individual needs and aspirations, ensuring a collaborative and culturally sensitive path to personal and academic growth.

Can embedded counsellor help with questions related to my graduate program?

No. The embedded counsellor provides clinical and emotional support. For any academic support regarding your program, please contact your program advisor or coordinator.

I am about to graduate, can I still see the embedded counsellor?

Yes, as a UBC student you are eligible to access counselling services for up to 3 months after your graduation date. 

I am a postdoc, can I still see the Embedded Counsellor?

Postdocs are not eligible for embedded counselling services. Instead, you can access the LifeWorks Care Access Centre 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-387-4765 or through UBC’s Employee and Family Assistance Program.

Additional Recourses

  • Visit Student Health Services to see a doctor, nurse, or other medical professional on campus.
  • Explore  Health and Wellbeing at UBC to learn about a wide range of supports and services available to students, including mental health, physical health, and wellbeing resources.
  • Connect with UBC Counselling Services, available to all UBC students. Call 604-822-3811 to book a same-day virtual or in-person appointment, offered Monday to Saturday on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Contact the UBC Wellness Centre to find services that best suit your needs, such as wellness advising, self-help tools, group therapy programs, and peer support resources.
  • Access Here2Talk – immediate 24/7 mental health counselling for post-secondary students in British Columbia. Support is available in multiple languages, and UBC students can reach out as often as needed, from anywhere in the world.
  • First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line – Culturally grounded support available by phone at 1-855-242-3310 or through online chat.

24/7 Crisis Support

If you or someone else needs crisis support, the following resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: