Personal Counseling
Many students need to get a little more information about counseling before they feel comfortable making an appointment. Below are answers to some questions students ask about counseling.
- What is counseling?
- Do you see students like me?
- What can I expect in counseling?
- Is it really free?
- Is it confidential?
- How do I schedule an appointment?
What is counseling?
- a growth process
- a place to be heard and supported
- a place to explore issues and possible solutions
Counseling is a growth process through which a student and a trained counselor work together to address the student’s needs and concerns. The student is an active participant in establishing goals for the therapy process, exploring possible solutions, and experimenting with new and potentially more effective ways of perceiving or behaving.
Do you see students like me?
Think of all the stress and challenges college students face: family problems, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, financial problems and the list goes on. Everyday we see students who are dealing with these sorts of personal and emotional issues. We also see students who are trying to choose a major or career path that fits them best. In addition to seeing students individually, we also see couples who want a stronger relationship, who are having trouble communicating, or who are contemplating marriage. About 10% of the student body receives services at the Center each year.
Here are some examples of reasons a student might come to the Center:
- depression and anxiety
- relationship or roommate issues
- procrastination/ time management
- college adjustment
- body image and self esteem issues
- substance abuse issues
- trauma and grief reactions
- test, public speaking, and math anxiety
- choosing and researching a major or career
The Counseling Center provides: personal counseling, crisis intervention, study skills, and career counseling. Some common issues students come in to personal counseling for are: relationship or roommate problems, depression, college adjustment problems, eating concerns, and anxiety just to name a few. Some common concerns students have that bring them to the academic and career counseling area are: how to deal with test anxiety, procrastination, time management, or how to research or choose a major or career.
What can I expect in counseling?
While in counseling, you can expect to do most of the talking. You can talk about whatever is concerning you at the time. The counselor may ask specific questions to better understand your situation. Then they will help you examine your concerns and assist you to find a means to fulfill your goals. Some students do experience painful feelings before they start feeling better. The Counseling Center has many methods of counseling such as individual counseling, couple’s counseling, relaxation training, assertiveness training and group therapy.
Is it really free?
Yes, The Counseling Center provides free counseling services during the academic year. Students can schedule an appointment if they are enrolled for the semester.
Sometimes a student needs in depth services, beyond what the Counseling Center can provide. If this occurs, the counselor will discuss possible referrals to another mental health professional in the
Is it confidential?
First, you need to know that what you talk about with the counselor is confidential. Your professors and parents will not be informed about what you discuss during the sessions. There are some limits to confidentiality, such as when a student is at imminent risk of harm and their safety is threatened. At those times, a counselor would need to make arrangements to ensure no one is harmed. These circumstances will be explained and provided to you in writing at your first visit.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Students may schedule an appointment by calling or stopping by the Counseling Center. Every attempt is made to schedule appointments as soon as possible, usually within a day or two from the time of the request. During times of heavy demand, however, students may have to wait longer, especially if they wish to meet with a particular staff member.
How to make an appointment