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> Winona State University > Student Life > WSU Counseling Center > Counseling FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What is counseling?
The life of a college student is exciting and stimulating; however, it can also be stressful and bring academic, interpersonal or intrapersonal challenges. Counseling can provide an opportunity to sort through these concerns with a trained, objective, and nonjudgmental person. Counseling is a process with the goal of helping students gain more positive control of their lives. Counseling is not magical, nor will a counselor solve students’ problems for them. Rather it is an opportunity to gain information, explore alternatives and clarify thinking. If used well, it can offer insights that can be applied to future life situations. Successful counseling involves a commitment from the student and a willingness to try new ways of thinking or acting. Good mental health is not the absence of problems, but an ability to use appropriate resources to help resolve problems.
Can’t I just talk to a friend? You can and should talk to friends. Social support is very important for emotional health. However, there are times in life when what a professional can offer – objectivity, confidentiality and years of professional training and experience – is needed.
Don’t I have to be pretty messed up to be in counseling? Absolutely not! College is a time of great change. There are developmental concerns and academic pressures, and everyone responds differently. It is rare for a person to not experience some challenges as he or she learns to navigate through this new world of college. Family and friends can be very supportive during these years, but sometimes getting professional help is desired or needed. People see counselors for a wide variety of reasons. It is often a wise choice and a sign of strength to seek out professional help.
What are some concerns people bring to counseling? Counseling is aimed at helping students understand and manage life’s stressors. Any personal issue can be discussed. Students are also seen for career and major decisions. Typical concerns include: Depression
How effective is counseling anyway? Counseling is not magical and change doesn’t happen overnight or without effort. However, virtually all students surveyed who used the WSU Counseling Center feel counseling was beneficial and state they would return in the future if a problem arose.
How often do people meet with a counselor? It varies. Sometimes people meet with a counselor only once and don’t need to continue. Others meet with a counselor a few times throughout the semester. While five sessions is our general limit, your counselor may use his or her discretion to adjust this slightly. These appointments are often spaced out over the course of the semester. In order to meet the best interest of the students, individuals who will need significantly more than five sessions or counseling on a weekly basis are generally referred to the community for long-term counseling.
What can I do to make counseling more helpful?
What can I expect from my counselor? At the WSU Counseling Center you can expect to see a qualified, licensed professional with experience in college mental health. While counselors’ styles differ slightly, all will:
Can I see a different counselor? Last Modified: Friday, January 25, 2008 14:19 by Deborah Dickenson |