COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGY

Counseling Psychology is a specialty within professional psychology that maintains a focus on facilitating personal and interpersonal functioning across the life span. The specialty pays particular attention to emotional, social, vocational, educational, health-related, developmental, and organizational concerns. The practice of Counseling Psychology encompasses a broad range of culturally-sensitive practices that help people improve their well-being, alleviate distress and maladjustment, resolve crises, and increase their ability to function better in their lives. With its attention to both to normal developmental issues and problems associated with physical, emotional, and mental disorders, the specialization holds a unique perspective in the broader practice-based areas of psychology.

Counseling Psychologists serve persons of all ages and cultural backgrounds in both individual and group settings. They also consult regularly with organizations seeking to enhance their effectiveness or the well-being of their members.
Interventions used by Counseling Psychologists may be either brief or long-term; they are often problem-specific and goal-directed. These activities are guided by a philosophy that values individual differences and diversity and a focus on prevention, development, and adjustment across the life-span.

Why See a Counselor?

Personal or psychological counseling offers you the opportunity to talk about social, emotional, or behavioral problems that are either causing you distress or interfering with your functioning. Counselors are trained professionals who can respond to your concerns in an objective and non-judgmental manner. The counseling relationship is unique in that it provides a safe forum for you to speak freely, knowing that what is shared will be kept private and confidential.

Some of the most common problems for which students seek help include the following:

  • difficulty concentrating or completing academic tasks
  • family or relationship problems
  • procrastination and other self-defeating behaviors/habits
  • issues of grief and loss
  • difficulty managing stress
  • coping with traumatic events
  • domestic violence or sexual assault
  • depression or lack of motivation
  • anxiety or acute panic attacks
  • problems with alcohol or other drugs
  • issues with eating behavior and/or body image
  • problems with anger
  • sexual concerns
  • compulsive behaviors
What to Expect from Counseling

Personal and psychological counseling is, generally, available on a short-term basis. The length of treatment will vary according to several factors including your needs, our expertise in treating your particular problem, and the availability of our staff and other resources. Your initial session provides an opportunity for problem identification and treatment planning.

Typically, appointments are scheduled once every week or every two weeks. In cases where more intensive treatment is needed, we will assist in making referrals to other treatment providers in the community. We may also recommend the use of other support services both on and off campus to assist you in reaching your treatment goals.

Potential Benefits of Counseling

The counseling process is, in many ways, like an educational experience. The client not only learns more about themselves, but also acquires new skills. Sometimes, counseling involves learning more about a particular condition (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) by which the client is affected, so that they can better understand treatment options.

Below are some examples of what students can gain from personal/psychological counseling:

  • improved communication and interpersonal skills
  • greater self-acceptance and self-esteem
  • ability to change self-defeating behaviors/habits
  • better expression and management of emotions, including anger
  • relief from depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
  • increased confidence and decision-making skills
  • ability to manage stress effectively
  • improved problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities

Do you want to be the best version of yourself ?

We take a modern approach to helping you be the best version of yourself and specialized in mental care and support for adults, couples, children, and groups.