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

Fall 2022 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 6:00 - 8:00 pm (changing to 4:00 - 6:00 pm for the Winter 2023 semester)
  • 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.