Student Support Network (SSN) University of Guelph

Student Support Network U of G

University of Guelph Student Support Network

The Student Support Network is comprised of a group of trained students who provide confidential support, assistance, and referrals to drop-ins while following the guidelines for peer counselling.

"Being a volunteer with SSN has been an incredible experience for me. To be able to support others while being surrounded by volunteers and leaders who truly care about the service we provide has been very fulfilling. SSN is a community of like-minded folks who are not only committed to supporting other students, but also fostering a healthy and warm environment for all members. I have learned so much about what it means to support others and contribute to wellness on campus." - SSN Volunteer, W24

Book a Session

The SSN is closed in the Spring/Summer semester, during Winter Break, during Reading Week, and when the university is closed for snow days. 

What is the SSN?

  • Peer-to-peer drop-in counselling is provided by other University of Guelph student volunteers who receive extensive training in active listening and communication skills who are here to help those who are struggling.
  • Confidential, non-judgmental listening & support
  • Information and referrals
  • An opportunity to chat with peers who care
  • SSN for Black, Racialized and Students of Colour
  • GSSN for grad students (including those on leave of absence)

GSSN: Grad Student Support Network – NEW for Summer 2025!

The GSSN is a new program run for and by U of G grad students. This program offers the same confidential and non-judgemental peer-to-peer counselling services as our other SSN programs, but is designed specifically to graduate students. Grad students can access the drop-in program in-person or virtually, connecting on topics including (but not limited to) advisor relationships, work-life balance, procrastination, stress and more. Note: The GSSN will be offered during Summer, Fall and Winter semesters, whereas the other SSN programs do not run during the Summer.

Summer 2025 Hours:

  • Mondays 10:00-11:00am
  • Thursdays 1:00-2:00pm
  • Location: JT Powell Building, 1st Floor Room 1149
  • Starts July 7, 2025

Virtual Hours:  

  • Wednesdays 5:30-6:30pm
  • Online booking is required → Book Here (LINK TBA)

SSN Hours:

PLEASE NOTE: The SSN does not run during the summer semester and will reopen for the Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 semesters

SSN Drop-in for Black, Racialized & Students of Colour Hours:

For students who self-identify as Black, Racialized and/or people of colour, who would like to speak with a fellow peer who may have shared experiences and understandings:

  • SSN for BRSC does not run during the summer semester and will reopen for the Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 semesters

Looking for free 1:1 counselling services for Black and Racialized Students? Visit Counselling Services

After-Hours Support:

  • After-hours and phone support are offered through Here 24/7 at 1-844-437-3247 for crisis services, or Good2Talk at 1-866-925-5454, or contact the Crisis Text Line powered by Kids Help Phone by texting UofG to 686868.

How to find us? Helpful wayfinding tips for in-person sessions:

  • To access the drop-in, enter through the main doors of the J.T. Powell building and turn right (past the washrooms). You will see a sign to direct you to the drop-in space.
  • The J.T. Powell Building is also home to Counselling Services, Student Accessibility Services, Health Services Clinic and the HPC. 
  • The J.T. Powell building is beside the Gryphon's Athletics Centre.

Stay Connected:

If you would like to keep up to date on what we offer throughout the year, as well as the specific starting date of applications, stay connected to the SSN:

Additional Counselling Options

Student Wellness Services offers same-day Drop-In and Urgent Counselling. Call us at (519) 824-4120 Ext. 53244 for an appointment

If you or a friend is having suicidal thoughts, please contact someone immediately, or to the nearest emergency room, or call 911: they are there to listen, and they want to help.

  • Good2Talk Postsecondary Helpline: 1-866-925-5454.
  • Here 24/7 (Addictions, Mental Health & Crisis Services for Waterloo – Wellington Region): 1-844-437-3247
  • Crisis Text Line powered by Kids Help Phone: Text UofG to 686868

Volunteer with SSN!

All volunteers are required to commit to both the Fall and Winter semesters and receive extensive training in active listening and communication skills. 

Roles are now filled for the 2025-26 academic year.

Learn more about the SSN Volunteer Program