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Getting the Most Out of Individual Counseling

College students seek counseling for a variety of reasons:

• because they are in crisis or feel overwhelmed by academic and other stressors
• to address specific concerns that are impacting them academically, personally, or socially
• to learn new coping skills so they can function more effectively and get the most out of their college experience

In a recent national survey, 32.9% of college students reported that stress impacted their academic performance. In the same survey, 91.6% of college students reported feeling overwhelmed in the past 12 months and 43.2% felt so depressed they had difficulty functioning. Sixteen percent of these students reported being diagnosed with depression, and of these students 24.2% were currently in therapy.

Individual and group counseling are effective in treating a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. Research suggests that persons who attend even a few counseling sessions function more effectively than those who choose not to seek treatment.

Recent data suggests that only 8.5% of enrolled students sought counseling within the past year. Unfortunately, many students are reluctant to seek services because of the stigma associated with counseling and mental health treatment.

Many students assume that a counselor will assess their needs and tell them what to do. Counseling is a collaborative relationship between a client and a mental health professional that is trained to assist clients in understanding and changing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Counselors employ scientifically validated approaches and techniques. There are a variety of different approaches to counseling. Regardless of the approach, effective counseling is characterized by open communication and a positive working relationship.

Some students have concerns about confidentiality. CAPS staff adheres to professional and ethical guidelines that allow disclosure of information about you only with your written consent. Exceptions to confidentiality include when your life or someone else's is in imminent danger or if there is a threat to the University community. When possible, you will be notified in advance if disclosure is deemed necessary. For more information read our Statement of Confidentiality.

Clients typically experience a wide range of emotions during counseling and at times some of these emotions can be intense. You may be asked to discuss difficult or painful experiences. While this can be challenging, clients who have a good working relationship with their counselor often feel relief and find that they are more fulfilled and productive.

CAPS is staffed with licensed professionals (psychologists, clinical social workers) and postdoctoral fellows or practicum students who are under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Our clinicians are skilled in addressing a wide variety of college student concerns.

It is important that you feel comfortable working with your counselor. If you have a preference for working with a certain type of counselor (e.g., a male or female) you may request to work with this therapist but keep in mind that availability may be limited based on current demand for services and availability of counselors.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Counseling

• if you have questions about your counselor's qualifications or your treatment, do not hesitate to ask
• decide what issue(s) you would like to address and what your goals are for counseling
• communicate openly and honestly with your counselor, ask questions, share your expectations, and express any concerns that may arise
• attend all sessions and give thought prior to the session about what you would like to discuss
• be patient, keep in mind that some issues take longer to work through than others and that you may need to be flexible regarding your goals
• periodically review your progress with your counselor
• if you feel inclined to discontinue counseling prematurely, discuss your thoughts and feelings with your counselor

Sources

American College Health Association (2007). National College Health Assessment, Fall 2007: Reference Group Executive Summary.

American Psychological Association (2004). Finding Help: How to Choose a Psychotherapist.

American Psychological Association (2004). How to Find Help Through Psychotherapy.

Gallagher, R.P. (2007). National Survey of Counseling Center Directors 2007. American College Counseling Association.