Challenges and opportunities
Transition to University
Counselling services are available to all ADU students. Counselling needs may concern academic or personal issues, and anything that may affect your academic success.
We also educate students on academic and interpersonal issues, assess and provide arrangements for special needs students, and offer assistance in the case of personal emergencies.
Our university student counselling services are, of course, completely confidential. You can rest assured that anything discussed with the student counsellor will not be discussed with anyone else.
Student Counseling & Students of Determination Services
At Abu Dhabi University (ADU), student success is supported through a holistic framework that prioritizes wellbeing, inclusion, and personal development. Delivered by professional Student Counselors within the Student Support Office, a key division of the Student Affairs Department, these services ensure that every student is empowered to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Our services are built on two integrated pillars:
- Student Counseling Services
- Students of Determination (SOD) Services
All services are confidential, student-centered, and designed to create a supportive and inclusive university environment.
A Foundation for Mental Health, Growth, and Academic Success
Student Counseling Services
ADU offers comprehensive and confidential counseling services to all students. These services support students in navigating academic challenges, personal concerns, and social experiences while promoting resilience, wellbeing, and personal growth.
Student Counselors provide a safe and private space where students can openly discuss concerns and develop effective coping strategies.
Key Services Include:
- Individual counseling sessions
- Group counseling (e.g., stress management, communication skills, interpersonal relationships)
- Support for students who are academically at risk or on academic probation
- Crisis and emergency response support
- Workshops, awareness campaigns, and personal development programs
Our Impact
Through proactive outreach and continuous engagement, Student Counseling Services:
- Promote mental health awareness
- Enhance students’ problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Improve academic success and retention
- Foster a positive, supportive campus culture
Empowering Ability Through Inclusive Education
Students of Determination (SOD) Services
ADU is committed to ensuring equal access to education for Students of Determination by providing tailored support and removing barriers to success. Our Student Counselors play a central role in assessing needs, coordinating services, and empowering students to fully participate in university life.
Who Are Students of Determination?
This includes students with:
- Physical disabilities (e.g., paralysis, amputation)
- Sensory disabilities (visual or hearing impairments)
- Neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, stroke)
- Learning disabilities (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia)
- Mental health conditions (e.g., mood or psychotic disorders)
- Chronic illnesses (e.g., asthma, heart conditions)
Students of Determination Teaching Guide
Supporting Inclusive Teaching Excellence at ADU
As part of Abu Dhabi University’s commitment to inclusive education, the Student Support Office, and in collaboration with the Center for faculty development and Learning Innovation has developed a comprehensive Students of Determination Teaching Guide for faculty.
This guide provides practical, evidence-based strategies to support students with diverse needs, including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, sensory impairments, and other conditions. It equips faculty with tools to create accessible, inclusive, and supportive learning environments that enable all students to succeed.
The Teaching Guide plays a critical role in ensuring the effective implementation of accommodation plans and strengthening collaboration between Student Counselors and faculty members.
Inclusive Campus Experience
ADU goes beyond academic support by fostering leadership and engagement opportunities for Students of Determination through:
- Participation in student clubs and leadership roles
- Involvement in awareness campaigns and inclusive initiatives
- Representation in national programs and university events
Our Commitment
At ADU, Student Counseling and Students of Determination Services are not just support functions, they are essential pillars of student success and inclusive excellence. By integrating wellbeing, accessibility, and empowerment into every aspect of university life, we ensure that no student is left behind.
We are committed to building a resilient, inclusive, and thriving university community where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Support and Services Provided
- Individual assessment based on medical, psychological, and educational reports
- Development of personalized accommodation plans
- Coordination with faculty to ensure academic adjustments
- Provision of specialized equipment, services, and learning support
- Continuous follow-up and support throughout the student journey
- Collaboration with internal and external professionals (e.g., doctors, psychologists)
How to Access Our Services
Students can connect with Student Counselors through MS Teams, email, or phone. Support is available across both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain campuses.
| Name | Phone | Campus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ms. Nariman Naji | nariman.naji@adu.ac.ae | +971-2-5015725 | Abu Dhabi |
| Ms. Tamara Saridar | tamara.saridar@adu.ac.ae | +971-3-7090919 | Al Ain |
