Counseling FAQs
What does counseling actually do? What does therapy look like?
Counseling looks a little different for each student because every person is different. A counselor will not tell you what to do or give you all the answers. Instead, they will ask questions, help you think through what you are experiencing and share strategies that may help.
Counseling can support you in many parts of your life, including school, work, relationships and home. Sometimes a counselor may ask about your past to help you better understand patterns that may still affect you today. If you have questions about counseling, you are welcome to speak with a counselor with no obligation.
Does seeing a counselor mean something is wrong with me?
No. Many students need support at some point during college. Counseling is part of the support available to help you succeed at STLCC. A counselor is not there to judge you or label you. They are there to help you better understand yourself, think through your options and support your personal, academic and career goals.
Are STLCC counselors like my high school counselors?
In some ways, yes. STLCC counselors provide personal, crisis and academic counseling. One major difference is that in college, you are an adult. That means your conversations with a counselor are confidential.
Can I walk in and talk to a counselor, or do I need an appointment?
If you are in crisis, the College will work to connect you with a counselor as quickly as possible. For non-urgent concerns, the best option is to make an appointment so you can choose a time that works for you and be sure a counselor is available.
Will counseling reach out to a referred student, or does the student need to make the first contact?
Usually, the student should make the appointment. Counseling is voluntary, so students cannot be forced to attend. All we can do is encourage you to come in and explain how we think counseling might be able to help you.
How is a crisis defined?
A crisis is defined by the individual. What feels manageable to one person may feel overwhelming to another.
Will the counselor make me go to the hospital?
Counselors will not force you to go to the hospital. If a hospital is the safest option, they will talk with you about it and try to help you go voluntarily. If there is an immediate safety concern and you may be a danger to yourself or someone else, a counselor may involve campus police and emergency medical services to help keep you safe.
Will my instructors, parents or partner know if I am seeing a counselor?
Counseling is confidential. What you share with a counselor will not be shared with others except in limited situations required by law, such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or someone else, or when child abuse or abuse of a vulnerable adult is involved.
If you are under 18, written consent from a parent or guardian is required before counseling sessions can begin unless you are experiencing a crisis.
Will the counselors give me a hug?
Counselors normally refrain from physical contact with students/clients as part of our professional ethical guidelines.
Are counselors available year-round?
In general, a counselor is available whenever the College is open. Appointment availability may be more limited during times when classes are not in session, such as winter or spring break.
Will a counselor talk to my instructor for me if I miss class?
No. It is your responsibility to communicate with your instructors about absences. A counselor can help you plan what to say and practice that conversation if needed.
Will the counselor work with my child because I am a student?
No. Unfortunately, counseling services are only available to STLCC students. However, counselors can support you as a parent and may be able to provide referrals for services for your child or teen.
Do counselors offer couples counseling?
Usually, counselors work one-on-one with you. In rare cases, a counselor may be willing to meet with you and your partner together if the issue is affecting your academic success. Counselors can also provide referrals to community providers for couples counseling.
Are counseling services available after I graduate?
Counseling services are generally only available to active students who are registered in credit classes during the current term or academic year. Graduates can still ask for community resource referrals.
Annual Assessment Report
International Accreditation of Counseling Services (IACS) Annual Assessment (RSMo. 173.2530) (PDF)
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