What is the WAVE project?
The WAVE project was selected as the winner of the PROBEN Call for Proposals. Sapienza University of Rome is the lead institution, in partnership with several Universities and AFAM (Higher Education in Art, Music and Dance) institutions in the Lazio region. The WAVE project is committed to developing a unified, shared, and replicable model to promote well-being and prevent psychological distress among the university and AFAM student population in Lazio, through integrated interventions involving research, prevention, psychological support, expressive activities, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and the enhancement of clinical and counseling services.
What is the PROBEN Call for Proposals?
“Pro-Ben – Promozione del Benessere Psicofisico degli Studenti” (Promotion of Students’ Psychophysical Well-being) is an Italian public initiative aimed at universities and AFAM institutions to fund projects dedicated to student well-being. Sponsored by the Ministry of University and Research (MUR), this call provides funding to develop services and activities focused on mental health and well-being among the student population.
Who is the project for?
The project is open to all students enrolled in the partner universities and AFAM institutions.
Which institutions are participating in the project?
Several universities and AFAM institutions (Higher Education in Art, Music and Dance) are participating. Specifically: Sapienza University of Rome, the University of Tuscia, the University of Rome “Foro Italico”, the Academy of Fine Arts of Rome (ABA), the “Silvio d’Amico” National Academy of Dramatic Art, the Maria Ss Assunta Free University (LUMSA), and the International University of Rome (UNINT).
Are the services free of charge?
Yes, the services offered as part of the project are free of charge for students of the partner institutions.
What is the psychological counseling service?
It is a space for active listening and psychological support aimed at students experiencing personal, academic, or relationship difficulties.
Is counseling different from psychotherapy?
Yes. Counseling is a short-term intervention focused on specific difficulties, whereas psychotherapy is a deeper, longer-term journey.
Can I access counseling even if I don’t have a “serious” problem?
Absolutely, yes. The service is designed for moments of stress, study difficulties, anxiety, or simply when you feel the need to talk things through.
How many sessions are provided?
The number of sessions may vary depending on the University, but it is generally a short cycle (e.g., 3–5 appointments).
Are the sessions held in person or online?
It depends on the University: in-person sessions are often guaranteed, but some Universities also offer the option of online sessions.
How can I book a counseling session?
You can book through the dedicated form. You will receive a response directly from the Counseling Service of your University or AFAM Institute.
Do I need to pay or have a medical prescription?
No. There is no payment required, and you do not need a medical prescription.
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
Waiting times may vary depending on the availability of the service, but every effort is made to ensure rapid access.
Are the sessions confidential?
Yes. All sessions are strictly confidential and protected by professional secrecy.
Will my data be shared with the university or professors?
No. Personal information is never shared under any circumstances. As outlined in the informed consent form, your data will be anonymized and used only in an aggregated form for research purposes.
Who will I have the sessions with?
The service counselors are all licensed psychologists and/or psychotherapists registered with the Professional Order of Psychologists, who have undergone specific training.
In addition to Counseling services, what other well-being activities are offered?
We offer workshops, seminars, group activities, and events focused on stress management, mindfulness, and psychophysical well-being. You can find the various projects organized by the different Institutions in the News and Events section.
How can I participate in the activities?
You can check the calendar on the website and sign up using the links provided.
Do the activities provide certificates or academic credits?
It depends on your University and the specific activity.
Can I access the services if I am an international student?
Yes. Many services are also accessible to international students; please check for language availability at your institution.
Can I request a different counselor if I don’t feel comfortable?
Yes, it is possible. If you feel that the sessions are not helpful or you do not feel comfortable, you can report it to the service.
What happens after the cycle of sessions ends?
At the end of the sessions, you can discuss potential next steps with your counselor: whether to continue with a different type of support or to formally conclude your journey.
Can I return to the service in the future?
Yes. You can access the service again at different stages of your university career, in accordance with the procedures established by your University.
Can the service refer me to other professionals?
Yes. If necessary, the service can help guide you toward more appropriate paths, including options outside the university.
What happens during the first session?
The first session is designed to understand your needs and explore together how to move forward. You don’t need to prepare anything in advance.
Can I terminate the counseling process at any time?
Yes, you can stop at any time, with no obligations.