Counseling is a chance to talk over what is on your mind with an objective person. The counselor can help you learn new skills and ways of looking at situations so that you will be more capable of solving problems on your own. Individuals are helped to understand their feelings and behaviors, their relationships with others, their particular situation, choices, and decisions. During the first meeting with a counselor, you will be asked to describe your concerns and what you hope to gain from counseling. This is an opportunity for you and the counselor to decide whether campus counseling is the best help for your problem. If not, you will be referred to another resource, either on or off campus. Many students find that the initial interview itself is all they need to explore and clarify their feelings and options.

Confidentiality

Your visit, inquiries and discussions are private and confidential. No information of any kind is given to anyone unless you specifically request it in writing. The only exception to this is if you express threat to yourself or to someone else.

Cost

There is no cost for a student, staff or faculty member to work with the campus counselor.

Why Do Students Come for Counseling?

The college years are an exciting, but sometimes stressful time. Many students encounter problems that are not easily resolvable... or, their usual ways of handling problems aren't working well for some reason.

Among the most common concerns which students bring to the Counseling Services are:

• Low self-confidence
• Finding, helping, or losing a relationship
• Getting along with others
• Puzzling or distressing emotional states
• Self-defeating behaviors
• Controlling use of alcohol and drugs
• Studying more effectively 
•  Life purpose and direction
• Making better decisions
• Examining career options
• Sexual identity concerns

Professional counseling is available on the Barton campus to help students with personal issues or academic concerns that would ultimately affect the achievement of their academic goals. Counseling is also available to assist students in exploring choices, recognizing consequences, and assuming personal responsibility. Referral services are available for career counseling on campus, as well as for community resources. If you feel uncertain about whether counseling is for you, make an appointment for an introductory meeting and discuss your reservations with the counselor. There is no obligation to continue, and the sessions are free and confidential.

Below is a list of commonly shared reasons why a student might want to make use of Counseling Services:

• Counselors are non-judgmental, objective, professional, experienced helpers.
• Counselors try to make you comfortable in talking -- they understand and help with your initial anxiety.
• Counseling involves the concerns and problems of normal students.
• Lots of students are using Counseling Services.
• Initiating counseling and remaining in counseling is voluntary.
• All counseling is confidential. No information is released to anyone without written consent.

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