Why do students come for counseling?
Counseling makes sense if you're having trouble coping with a stressful situation or solving a personal problem. We can offer emotional support, new perspectives, and possible solutions, all within a Christian framework.
Students come for counseling for a variety of reasons, including:
- Difficulties adjusting to college
- Relationship problems
- Self-injury behavior
- Suicidal thoughts
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Coping with medical problems
- Indecision
- Anger
- Abuse (physical, sexual, emotional)
- Rape/sexual assault
- Pregnancy
- Eating disorders
- Self-esteem issues
- Uncertainty about career goals
- Lack of motivation in classes/schoolwork
- Learning difficulties
- Grief or loss
- Guilt
- Drug or alcohol problems
This isn't a comprehensive list, but gives you an idea of the range of issues we can address at the Counseling Center.
How much does counseling cost?
Counseling services are free to all enrolled students, faculty, and staff.
Treatment needs that involve services outside the scope of the Concordia Counseling Center, such as a psychiatric consultation, medication evaluation, or specialty counseling (e.g., substance abuse counseling) result in appropriate referrals. In these cases, the individual is responsible for any costs associated with outside services.
If I go for counseling, does it mean there's something wrong with me?
No, it doesn't. For the most part, the people who use our services are interested in their personal growth and adjustment to the world around them. Many students face normal developmental concerns and academic pressures while at Concordia and, at times, they may feel acute anxiety, anger, sadness, or depression.
For these problems, as well as for more serious crises, it's helpful to gain the perspective of an unbiased person. The Counseling Center staff members are trained to help you think about alternatives or options to your behavior and ways of dealing with life's issues in a Christian context.
How do I get started?
The Counseling Center offices are located in Albrecht 111. Hours are from 7am-5pm with evening hours by appointment. Appointments can be arranged by calling or e-mailing our staff. Contact our counseling staff members here.
If you have questions about the Counseling Center or are uncertain about whether counseling is right for you, please contact us with questions.
How long does counseling take?
That depends. Often, a situational problem or concern about a friend may require only one or two sessions. A more substantial crisis or recurring relationship problems may take more time.
We generally try to provide enough help for you to make progress and move forward with the issues on your own, even if they aren't fully resolved. If this isn't sufficient to address the problem, we may make a referral to a provider in the community.
What if I'm concerned about a friend or roommate?
It is not uncommon to be concerned about a friend or roommate. The Counseling Center offers consultation services to those who want to help another person but are unsure about how best to do so.
What is my responsibility?
Your main responsibilities in counseling are to:
- Attend your regularly scheduled sessions
- Talk about what's bothering you as openly and honestly as you can
- Complete any "homework" assignments
- Let your counselor know if you can't attend a session
- Let your counselor know when your problems have been resolved or if you don't feel like you're making progress.
Counseling is a healthy way to gain perspective, awareness, and personal growth. If you feel like you need someone to talk with, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff.