Free counselling services for post-secondary students
September marks the beginning of a new school year for post-secondary students across New Brunswick. It’s a season full of excitement, change and opportunity—but it can also bring stress, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm.
Between adjusting to new routines, meeting academic demands and managing financial pressures, it’s no wonder so many students notice their mental health feeling stretched during this time. The good news is that you don’t have to face these challenges alone. There are free and low-cost counselling services available to support you, including Just Us counselling.
Why Mental Health Matters in September
Heading back to school can feel like a fresh start, but it can also be a difficult transition. Students often juggle:
Academic pressure: balancing heavy course loads, assignments and upcoming exams.
Social changes: making new friends, joining clubs or maintaining long-distance relationships.
Financial stress: tuition, textbooks and living expenses can quickly add up.
Life transitions: for many, this is the first time living away from home or managing new responsibilities.
It’s important to remember that stress is normal, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. Counselling can provide tools, support, and perspective to help you feel grounded and capable.
Free Counselling Through Just Us
At Just Us, we believe everyone deserves access to mental health support, no matter their financial situation. That’s why we’re proud to offer free and low-cost counselling services for students in New Brunswick.
Our approach is:
Accessible: We reduce financial barriers so cost isn’t an obstacle.
Welcoming and stigma-free: We know reaching out can feel intimidating, so we listen without judgment.
Flexible: Whether you need short-term support for a stressful moment or longer-term counselling, we’ll meet you where you are—in person or online.
We also understand the unique challenges students face in New Brunswick, from navigating rural services to managing housing pressures to coping with long winters that can impact mood and energy.
If you’re struggling as the semester begins, reaching out to book a session can be a powerful step toward taking care of yourself.
Other Free Counselling Options for Students
While Just Us is here for you, there are also other resources available across the province:
1. On-Campus Counselling Services
Universities and colleges in New Brunswick—including the University of New Brunswick, St. Thomas University, Université de Moncton, and NBCC—offer counselling through student wellness offices.
These services are usually free for registered students.
Availability can vary, especially early in the term, so it’s helpful to reach out as soon as possible.
2. Peer Support Programs
Some schools run peer support initiatives, where trained students provide listening and understanding in a safe, non-judgmental environment. While not a replacement for professional counselling, they can be a valuable first step when you need someone who relates to student life.
3. Community Helplines and Supports
9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Available 24/7 across Canada by phone or text. If you’re thinking about suicide, or worried about someone else, trained responders are there to listen and support you. Call or text 988.
Kids Help Phone: Open to youth and young adults up to age 29, with free 24/7 phone and text-based support. Call 1-800-668-6868 for support or visit their website for text and chat options.
New Brunswick Addiction and Mental Health Helpline: A confidential, toll-free, bilingual, round-the-clock service for people of all ages looking to speak to someone about concerns related to mental health and addictions. Call 1-866-355-5550 for support.
Hope for Wellness Indigenous Helpline: Hope for Wellness Helpline is available 24/7 to all Indigenous people. Call 1-855-242-3310 or visit hopeforwellness.ca to chat.
Choosing the Right Support for You
Deciding where to go for counselling depends on what feels most comfortable and accessible for you. Consider:
Accessibility: Do you prefer in-person or virtual sessions?
Cost: Do you need free or sliding-scale support?
Timing: Are you looking for immediate help or ongoing support?
Comfort: Would you like to talk with a professional, or start with peer or phone-based support?
There’s no wrong choice. What matters most is finding a safe, supportive space where you can begin to feel better.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Back-to-school can be both exciting and overwhelming, and it’s okay if you’re finding it hard. Counselling is a resource to help you feel supported, not a sign of weakness. Whether you connect with Just Us counselling, your school’s wellness office, or a community resource, know that help is available.
This September, take time for your mental well-being. You deserve support, balance, and a strong foundation to succeed this year.
If you’re a student in New Brunswick looking for free or low-cost counselling, reach out to Just Us today. We’re here to walk alongside you.