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

Fall/Winter 2024-2025 Hours:

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

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

Virtual Hours:  

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

Exam Hours:

During exams (December 2 - December 13, 2024), the SSN is open on an adjusted schedule:

  • In-Person: 12:00 - 6:00 pm (drop-in)
  • Virtual: 6:00 - 8:00 pm (booking required → Book Here)

SSN for Black and Racialized Students Hours:

If you are a Black and Racialized student and would like to speak with a fellow peer, visit the SSN Drop-in:

  • Dates & Times: To be determined
  • Location: JT Powell Building, 1st Floor, Rm 1149

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 2024-25 academic year. Applications for the 2025-26 year will open in Spring 2025.

Learn more about the SSN Volunteer Program