Counselling and Student Support in Estonia
This guide explains how students can access counselling and support in Estonia, including academic advising, career counselling, psychological services, wellbeing resources, disability support, and crisis help. Services vary by university and programme—always follow the instructions on your university’s website and student portal.
Who Can Use Counselling
• International and local students enrolled full‑time or part‑time (some services extend to exchange and visiting students)
• Doctoral candidates, often with access to specialised PhD counselling or supervisor mediation
• Recent graduates may retain limited access for a short time (check your university’s rules)
Types of Counselling and Support
• Academic advising: course selection, study planning, ECTS load, degree requirements, academic policies
• Study skills coaching: time management, exam preparation, academic writing, avoiding burnout
• Career counselling: CV/cover letter, LinkedIn, interview prep, internship and job search strategies
• Psychological counselling: stress, anxiety, low mood, culture shock, homesickness, relationships, perfectionism
• Group workshops: resilience, public speaking, productivity, thesis writing bootcamps
• Disability and accessibility support: learning accommodations, assistive tech, accessible housing coordination
• International student advising: adaptation, cross‑cultural support, practical life and study routines
• Mediation and ombudsperson services: conflict with supervisors/peers, discrimination, harassment reporting
Languages and Formats
• Many services are available in English; Estonian and Russian options are common
• Sessions can be in‑person or online (video/phone); group formats are often hybrid
• If you need a specific language or online modality, request it when booking
Confidentiality and Professional Standards
• Counselling is confidential; notes are stored securely and separate from academic records
• Limited exceptions apply for safety/legal reasons (e.g., risk of serious harm)—your counsellor will explain these
• You can request a different counsellor if the fit isn’t right
Costs and Eligibility
• University counselling is usually free for enrolled students (session limits may apply)
• External therapy via private clinics may be covered partly by your insurance; verify your policy before booking
• Some services (e.g., career workshops) are open to all students without referral
How to Book
• Check your university’s counselling or student wellbeing page for booking links and eligibility
• Typical routes: online calendar, email request, or contacting student services
• For urgent concerns, many universities have priority slots—state that your need is time‑sensitive
What to Expect in Your First Session
• 45–60 minutes focused on your goals, history, and current challenges
• A brief plan: tools/strategies, number of sessions, referrals if needed (e.g., medical services)
• Practical resources: worksheets, skills guides, crisis contacts, workshop suggestions
Common Topics Students Bring
• Overwhelm during exams, procrastination, sleep problems, balancing work and study
• Culture shock, language frustration, homesickness, building a support network
• Thesis anxiety, supervisor relationship issues, perfectionism, imposter feelings
• Career uncertainty, job search stress, internship applications, negotiating offers
Wellbeing and Self‑Help Resources
• University libraries and learning centres (study skills, writing labs, citation help)
• Peer mentors/buddy programmes for practical tips and social support
• Mental health portals and self‑help materials; check reputable sources and your university’s recommendations
Crisis and Immediate Help
• In an emergency or if someone is in danger, call 112 (police/ambulance/fire) in Estonia
• Emotional support helpline 116 123 (availability in Estonian/Russian, and often English—confirm current hours)
• Victim support helpline 116 006 (guidance after crime or traumatic events)
• Your university may list on‑call or after‑hours resources—check your student portal
Academic Accommodations and Accessibility
• If you have a documented condition, contact disability services early for accommodations
• Examples: extended exam time, alternative assessment formats, note‑taking aids, accessible classrooms
• Submit medical documentation as requested; plan ahead of exam periods
International Student Considerations
• Adjustment timeline: culture shock can peak in months 2–4; reach out early rather than waiting
• Language: many counsellors offer services in English; ask about translation if needed
• Insurance: verify coverage for mental health, including session limits and referral requirements
PhD‑Specific Support
• Doctoral counselling/mentoring for motivation, research planning, and work‑life balance
• Supervisor mediation and research integrity ombudspersons for conflict or misconduct concerns
• Career coaching for academia vs industry paths, grant writing, and publication strategy
Preparation Tips
• Write down key concerns and goals before your session
• Bring relevant documents (schedule, assignment/exam dates, CV, feedback)
• Be honest about workload, sleep, and stressors so the plan fits your reality
Workshops and Events
• Regular sessions on time management, exam prep, thesis writing, resilience, and job search skills
• Career fairs and employer talks (often in partnership with Work in Estonia and local companies)
• Book early—popular events can fill quickly
If You’re Worried About a Friend
• Share supportive listening, avoid judgement, and encourage them to book a counselling session
• In urgent risk situations, call 112 even if you’re unsure—safety first
• Many universities accept concern reports from peers or staff; check procedures
Privacy, Records, and Data
• Counselling records are confidential and not shared with professors without your consent
• You can request info on data storage, retention, and your rights under local law
Where to Find Official Information
• Study in Estonia: studyinestonia.ee
• University student services and counselling pages: University of Tartu (ut.ee), TalTech (taltech.ee), Tallinn University (tlu.ee), Estonian University of Life Sciences (emu.ee), Estonian Academy of Arts (artun.ee), Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (eamt.ee)
• National emergency: 112 (phone)
• Emotional support helpline: 116 123
• Victim support helpline: 116 006
Final Reminders
Book early, especially during exam periods; counselling is most effective when you reach out before a crisis. Use academic, career, wellbeing, and accessibility services together for a holistic plan. Keep track of your appointments, follow through on action steps, and ask for adjustments if something isn’t working—support in Estonia is student‑centred and here to help you succeed.
