What is Counseling? Counseling is a collaborative process which involves the development of a unique, confidential helping relationship. In this relationship, the counselor acts as a facilitator in helping the student to understand more accurately him/herself and the world around him/her. Individuals are helped to understand their feelings and behaviors, their relationships with others, their particular situation, choices, and decisions. Discussion of whatever is important and relevant enables individuals to grow towards greater freedom in making mature choices and taking responsible action with themselves, relationships, family, and studies. Students should look at the counselor‘s office as an open, receptive and secure forum to share all sorts of difficulties. There is absolutely no stigma whatsoever attached to a visit to the counselor‘s office. "Counseling" is a very broad category that encompasses many opportunities in any number of psychology subfields. Here are some of the most common types of counseling specialties:

In addition to the main specialties listed above, counselors can also assist their clients using techniques in areas such as these

• Debt counseling 
• Child development counseling 
• Eating disorder therapy                                                                                                                                                                                            Back to top 
• Grief counseling
• Art therapy 
• Musical therapy

Why do students come for counseling?

Among the most common concerns which students bring to the Student Mentor Programme are:

• Low self-confidence
• Finding, helping, or losing a relationship
• Getting along with peers
• Puzzling or distressing emotional states
• Self-defeating behaviors
• Controlling use of alcohol and drugs
• Studying more effectively
• Life purpose and direction
• Making better decisions
• Examining career options
• Family issues                                                                                                                                                              

Student Mentor Programme assists students in resolving personal difficulties and in acquiring those skills, attitudes, and resources necessary to both succeed in the college environment and pursue productive and satisfying lives. Student Mentor Programme strives to contribute to the overall educational mission of the Institute by facilitating the academic, emotional and social development of students and by serving as psychological consultants to the entire campus community. Respect for diversity and a commitment to students' personal growth are guiding principles in the work we do. 

• The Student Counselor‘s office should be your first call for any issue related to your emotional state, dealing with stress, handling a crisis, or coping with the transition to college. Students often come for help with concerns both large and small, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, addictions, relationship conflicts, grief, academic stress, and family issues.
• Student Mentor Programme can also be a referral resource when situations require off- campus care or longer-term therapy.
• Counselors act as facilitators to help students better understand themselves and the world around them. Open and honest discussion of feelings, behaviors, relationships and life experiences with a trained counselor in a safe, confidential environment helps you make healthy choices and achieve more satisfying life goals.
• Counselors work with students to help them understand and explore how their feelings and thoughts influence their choices, decisions, and actions.

Substance abuse counseling is arguably the most challenging career choice for mental health counselors. People suffering from drug and alcohol problems are likely to have other behavioral or mental health issues, and the likelihood of relapse during a person's lifelong treatment is a harsh reality.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Back to top