Counseling Services for Students

SERVICES

BRIEF INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING
A limited number of one-hour individual counseling sessions are available to students with both academic and personal concerns. In this safe and confidential setting, students are able to discuss and receive help with concerns that they might not be willing to discuss or share with someone else.

SELF-HELP WORKSHOPS
These one-hour sessions are designed to introduce students to skills that can enhance academic and personal achievement. Workshops will be offered throughout the school year according to student interest and need. Workshop offerings include:

• Stress management
• Time management
• Relaxation training
• Ending procrastination

SUPPORT GROUPS
Groups are available to provide students with a supportive environment in which to explore their feelings, beliefs, and experiences on a variety of topics with peers who share similar experiences. The insights and feedback a student receives from other group members can help them learn how to better handle their difficulties and gain greater self-awareness. These groups can range in size from five to ten students and meet on a regular basis throughout the school year. Topics can include:

• Dealing with a disability
• Balancing family, work, and school
• Grief and loss support
• Relationship issues
• Adjusting to college life

IN-CLASS EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PRESENTATIONS
Any of the “Self-Help Workshops” can be adapted for in-class presentations. In addition, the Office of Counseling can tailor presentations to the specific needs or topic requests of faculty. Two weeks advance notice is appreciated. Please call extension 339 for more information or assistance.

REFERRALS
When a student’s needs are determined to exceed the level of service the Personal Counseling Office can provide, or when a student would prefer additional help, a referral to an outside professional will be made.

SELF-HELP INFORMATION
Brochures, handouts, and articles on various psychological issues and mental health concerns are free and made available to students outside the Office of Personal Counseling, 2nd Floor Sullivan Center.

A Note on Confidentiality
All information shared with and gathered by the Personal Counseling Office including notes, conversations, and personal data cannot be released without the student’s written permission. Confidentiality can be broken only:
1. If it becomes apparent that a student may harm his
or herself or another.
2. In cases of physical or sexual abuse or neglect.
3. When required by a court order.

Counseling Office Mission
The Office of Personal Counseling, as part of Medaille College’s Special Academic Services, is an on-campus resource that offers a variety of free services to enhance a student’s academic success and emotional well-being. These free services are designed to teach students skills that will help them to lead more personally rewarding lives, as well as guide them through the combined challenges of work, family, and education. These services are an integral piece of a campus climate that is committed to diversity, personal attention, and the development of the whole person.