Counseling FAQ

What is counseling/What to expect?

Although counselors may differ somewhat in their approaches, there are certain similarities that characterize the helping relationship. In the beginning stage of counseling, your counselor will ask you about your concerns to gain a deeper understanding of you and your issues. As counseling proceeds, trust between you and your counselor builds and a working partnership is developed. Your counselor will help you to explore your feelings, make your own decisions, formulate goals and address your concerns. As you gain an understanding of yourself and your feelings, your counselor will work with you to develop and improve your life skills. Counseling will not magically solve your problems, but as a team, you and your counselor will work together to make the positive changes you need and desire.

Keep in mind that as you begin the counseling process your stress level may increase temporarily as you begin to address and work through potentially sensitive matters. Counseling at PBA is provided in an open, honest and supportive atmosphere. Your counselor will respect you and your difficulties and is concerned that you receive the best possible treatment. We look forward to assisting you with your personal concerns.

How do I know if counseling is for me?

If you are questioning whether or not it would be helpful to talk with a counselor, you are always welcome to schedule an appointment to see if counseling is a good fit for you.  Some common reasons that students seek counseling include:

• Emotional struggles, such as sadness, anxiety, anger, etc.
• Relationship problems
• Sleep or eating disturbances
• Declining academic performance
• Traumatic event or loss
• Substance use concerns
• Depression and/or suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty functioning on a day-to-day basis

Is counseling confidential? 

Services are available to all students and all conversations are confidential. We do not release information about you without your written permission, except in the case of imminent danger to self or others, child/adult abuse, court orders or where otherwise required by law. Counseling documents are not a part of your university record. At the PBA Counseling Center, your confidentiality is of utmost importance to us.  We do not release information about you without your written permission, except in the following cases:

• If you are assessed to be a danger to self or others
• If you reveal any threats of harm to self or others
• If you reveal information about abuse or neglect of minors and/or the elderly
• If your records are ordered by a court of law
• Supervisory purposes

 These specific exceptions to confidentiality will be discussed with you during your first session with a counselor.