Frequently Asked Questions

Is WHPS different from the RWC?

Yes; it is part of a comprehensive health promotion office newly merged with the Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Programming (AOD) office.

How do I get help at WHPS?

Call the staff at the Front Desk to schedule an individual massage, biofeedback, or HIV testing appointment; learn about workshops available for your group; or find out what special programs are coming up.

Where do I go?

WHPS- alcohol and other drug intervention services are located in the Counseling Building (next to UCF Health Services Pharmacy). The door to our office is located on the backside of the building. Once you arrive, let reception staff know you are scheduled for an "AOD assessment".

How long will my appointment last?

Your initial screening appointment will last about an hour, and you must bring all referral information with you.

How many times will I be coming back after my initial screening appointment?

The length of time to complete clinical services will vary by the individual.

Are the therapists students?

No, they are all Florida Licensed Massage Therapists who have been working for a minimum of 2 years in the field of massage therapy.

What do I wear during my massage?

You can discuss this with your massage therapist and decide based on your comfort level and areas to be worked on. You will be covered with a sheet at all times. It is suggested that you do shower prior to your massage and take a long bath following your massage.

Can you provide chair massages for my event?

Yes, the fee is $1.00 per minute, payable directly to the LMT following the event. Please provide a 2 week advanced notice to schedule this.

How Does Biofeedback Work?

The therapist places sensors on the body that provide a variety of readings (feedback) which are displayed on the computer for you to see. They can measure skin temperature, muscle tension, heart rate, and sweat produced. As the therapist coaches you through relaxation techniques, these changes are so subtle at first that they cannot be consciously perceived and can be noticed only on the screen. They signal you to continue practicing and soon you will notice that your body's new relaxation responses and behaviors will become automatic. These new habits can help to bring relief and improvement to a variety of conditions.

What Are the Uses of Biofeedback?

At UCF, biofeedback is used for relaxation training and stress management purposes. Additionally, it can be used by educators to help people function better and by clinicians to help treat many disorders including anxiety, migraine headaches, tension headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, non-cardiac chest pain and pain from improperly functioning muscles in the jaws, shoulders, back, etc.

Does It Hurt?

Not at all. The small sensors feel like the adhesive on a bandage. The sensors amplify your body's signals and translate them into digital information for view on the computer screen. Our goal is to help you reduce the stress responses that are compromising your body's systems.

How long does it take to get results?

The Relaxation Training program at UCF consists of 6 one hour sessions. The majority of students report feeling more relaxed immediately. Approximately 85-95% decrease their score on the Perceived Stress Scale which is administered at the beginning and end of the program.

How lasting are the effects?

Once the training is complete, most people find that the benefits continue indefinitely. As with any new healthy lifestyle behavior change, you will need to continue to be mindful of your responses to stress and keep up with your relaxation skills by practicing them regularly.

How much does a session cost?

The introduction session is free and the program is $15 for up to 6 sessions for UCF students. The number of sessions needed is decided upon jointly by the counselor and client. Non-students can call for details and cost. There is no charge for the self-monitored Stress Relief Stop computer games

Can I get my HIV test results over the phone?

No. It is actually against the law to provide this highly confidential information over the phone. You must come back to get your results. You are able to schedule your post-test appointment immediately following your pre-test appointment.

How does WHPS promote health and wellness to the UCF community?

We offer workshops on a variety of topics to student groups, classes and organizations. Our Health Huts (health information gazebo’s) can be seen all over campus most days of the week. Check out our list of in-office services on this website and visit our health and wellness blog site at www.bewellucf.com. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with all of our activities and check out our calendar on our home page for upcoming events.

How do I schedule a workshop for my group?

You may schedule a workshop by completing and submitting the request form on our Wellness Workshop web page.

Our Registered Dietitian will respond to student questions on our bewellucf.com blog. Feel free to check out that site for the latest nutrition blog posting, information on healthy options on campus and to submit your own nutritional questions.