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 anonymous support, assistance, and referrals to drop-ins while following the guidelines for peer counselling.

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

"Being in SSN has given me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable knowledge surrounding well-being, and help others in a way that no other opportunity has allowed for! It is such a wonderful community of people, and I am very thankful to have the chance to contribute to making campus a safer, more welcoming place for everyone.” - SSN participant, W22

Book a Session

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 Students and Students of Colour

Winter 2023 hours:

  • Monday-Friday 12:00 - 8:00 pm
  • Location: JT Powell Building, 1st Floor Room 1149

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

Virtual Hours:  

  • Monday-Friday from 8:00 - 10:00 pm
  • Online booking is required → Book Here

Exam Hours:

  • Monday-Friday: 12:00 - 8:00 pm (in person)
  • The SSN is closed in the Spring/Summer semester during Winter Break and during Reading Week. 

SSN for Black and Racialized Students hours:

If you are a black student and student of colour and would like to speak with someone who identifies similarly, visit the SSN Drop-in:

  • Dates & Times: Tuesdays 4:00 - 6:00 pm
  • Location: JT Powell Building, 1st Floor, Rm 1149

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

Looking for free 1:1 Black Students and Students of Colour counselling services? 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.

Hear from our SSN participants: 

“Being in SSN has given me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable knowledge surrounding well-being, and help others in a way that no other opportunity has allowed for! It is such a wonderful community of people, and I am very thankful to have the chance to contribute to making campus a safer, more welcoming place for everyone.” - SSN participant, W22

"The SSN is a community that puts U of G students first, simply by supporting and being there for one another." - SSN participant, W22

"SSN volunteers are some of the kindest and most compassionate folks I have ever met. The service offers a chance to share and connect with peers while receiving support along the way. The energy and service that the SSN adds to U of G can't be beat!" - SSN participant, W22

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. 

Apply for Fall 2023:

  • Applications Open: February 13, 2023 (on Experience Guelph)
  • Application Deadline: March 10, 2023 at 11:59pm
  • Interview Dates: March 25 and 26, 2023
  • Mandatory Training Dates: September 5 and 6, 2023