Abstract

This article reviews the theoretical foundations of university students’ need for psychological counseling from three perspectives: clarifying the core concepts, examining major areas of need—including academic matters, social relationships, and career development—and identifying influencing factors related to both individual characteristics and the service system. The analysis indicates that although the need for psychological counseling is genuine and urgent, students’ help-seeking behavior remains constrained by social stigma, fear of negative evaluation, insufficient confidentiality, and inadequate counseling facilities. The article thus provides a scientific foundation for assessing current needs and developing effective psychological support measures for university students.

Keywords: Counseling needs, psychological counseling, psychological support, university students.