Counseling Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if I should seek counseling?
- What kids of problems are addressed at the CWC?
- Where is the Counseling and Wellness Center?
- Who is eligible for services at the CWC?
- How do I make an appointment and what will it cost?
- How often are appointments?
- What happens in a counseling session?
- What is the CWC's scope of practice?
- Will the CWC share information with my professors, parents, or other people at the college?
- Who are Sparky, Jynx, Emma and Moxie?
How do I know if I should seek counseling?
Counseling is an excellent way to get help and support if you're dealing with a stressful situation. Sometimes it may feel uncomfortable to discuss issues like relationship or family problems, depression, or homesickness, with friends, family members, or your RA. This is what counselors are for. Our role is to listen impartially and work with you to resolve or better understand your situation.
What kids of problems are addressed at the CWC?
Students come to the CWC for a variety of reasons. These may include:
- Homesickness
- Roommate concerns
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship problems
- Substance abuse issues
- Variety of other stressful situations
Students often find that the CWC is a comfortable place where they can come and talk to someone about anything — whether it is a life-changing event or they just want someone who is there to listen.
Where is the Counseling and Wellness Center?
The CWC is located in the Wilcox Medical Center building. Our entrance is on the north side of the building.
Who is eligible for services at the CWC?
All students who are enrolled at Alma College are eligible for services.
How do I make an appointment and what will it cost?
Students wishing to make an appointment should call the CWC at x7225 or stop the office. The CWC office is open from 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a break between 12 and 1 for lunch on weekdays. There is no fee for counseling services if you are currently enrolled at Alma College.
A typical counseling session lasts approximately 45 minutes. Scheduling is done on a case by case basis. College counseling is provided on a short-term basis meaning that most students find that they have reached some helpful clarity within five or six sessions.
In some cases students will only require one or two sessions and for others a longer time period is necessary. Counselors will assist students with outside referrals if necessary or in cases where counseling needs are not within the scope of practice of the CWC staff.
What happens in a counseling session?
'What happens in a counseling session' or 'what am I suppose to talk about' are common questions for students thinking about starting counseling. In most cases you, as the counseling client will determine the answers because your individual sessions will be personal, private and unique to your specific situation.
During the initial sessions, you and your counselor will likely get to know each other and talk about you, your strengths and resources. Your counselor will listen and work with you to clarify your own thinking rather than making decisions for you.
What is the CWC's scope of practice?
Because we are a college counseling center we provide short-term therapy. We do not offer treatment for serious or life threatening conditions. Anorexia and other serious eating disorders or ongoing psychotic disorders that may require hospitalization; substance addictions: serious personality disorders: and ongoing psychotic disorders are considered outside of our scope of practice. We will assist with referrals whenever feasible.
Will the CWC share information with my professors, parents, or other people at the college?
Information concerning counseling visits will not be disclosed to anyone without your written consent. If you are 18 years of age or older you are entitled to confidentiality except in the cases involving safety you self or others or where there is a court order.
Who are Sparky, Jynx, Emma and Moxie?
Sparky, Jynx, Emma and Moxie are our 'resident' pets. The dogs, Sparky and Emma often visit and offer a special kind of counseling for students who are need a 'canine fix.' Not to be outdone, kitties Jynx and Moxie do what cats do best—which is ignore us, but from time to time they'll let their presence be know to our student cat-lovers.
