Counseling Student Concerns

Students often have a number of concerns about seeking assistance that, if not directly discussed, can deter them from acting upon a referral.  It is useful to anticipate these issues and provide responses that are factual, encouraging, and appropriate.

 “Only crazy people go to counseling (and I’m not crazy).”

Response:  “I don’t think you are crazy.  People go to JHSAP for all kinds of concerns, including stress management, time management and study skills.”

 “Going for counseling is a sign of weakness. It shows I can't handle my own problems.”

Response:   “You are capable of handling most of your problems.  There are some, however, that are difficult to handle alone. Seeking out help is a sign of strength and courage because it is a lot easier to do nothing than to take action.

“Counseling won’t work for me. It’s not effective.”

Response:  “There are no guaranteed results, that is true.  There is a high probability, though, that counseling can be helpful.  It has worked for a large number of students and it could work for you.  Give it a try.”

 “The counselor will tell other people about my problem.”

Response:  “What you share with a counselor is considered confidential.  Information is not released to anyone (parents, friends, instructors) without your permission and does not appear on your university record.”

Professional ethics dictate that sessions conducted by JHSAP staff are confidential in nature.  Information about sessions or their content will be released only upon (a) a student's written request, and/or (b) circumstances where a clear danger to the individual, others, or the institution exists, or as may be required by law.  JHSAP adheres strictly to this policy.