Counseling FAQ
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What is Counseling?
Counseling is a process where a client meets with a trained helping
professional to discuss a troubling aspect of their life that is
impacting healthy functioning in other areas (school, work or play).
There are a wide range of concerns which may lead students to seek
counseling.
Many students have issues related to their normal development, such
as adjustment or relationship issues. Others are dealing with more
specific concerns such as depression, anxiety, or stress, childhood
or adult trauma, loss, substance abuse, or eating and body image
concerns. Some students are not sure what the problem might be—they
just know they are having a hard time studying, concentrating,
eating, sleeping, adjusting, or getting along in general. A
counselor can help a student sort out what’s wrong and suggest ways
for them to get back on track.
What type of services are provided?
The Office of Counseling & Wellness Services supports the academic,
personal, and interpersonal development of Wingate University
students by providing individual, group, and crisis counseling.
Outreach and educational presentations are offered to the campus
community, psychiatric referrals may be made for medication
evaluations, and consultation services are offered for faculty,
staff, students, and parents. Wellness programming and alcohol
education are also provided on an on-going basis throughout the
academic year.
Click here
for an overview on signs of student distress and steps you can take.
Who is eligible for counseling and how much does it cost?
Counseling services are free to all currently enrolled full-time
undergraduates Wingate University students.
Consultation and referral services are provided to
Wingate University graduate students.
How long and how often are the counseling sessions?
Counseling sessions are normally scheduled on a weekly or bi-weekly
basis depending upon the nature of the concern. Sessions are
typically 45-50 minutes long. Students will work with their
counselor to determine a treatment plan and frequency to best meet
their needs.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments may be scheduled by calling the Office of Counseling
and Wellness Services at (704) 233-8246. Students may also stop by
the Counseling and Wellness Services office located in the Jefferson
Clubhouse between the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm Monday through Friday
to make an appointment. If you need to cancel or reschedule an
appointment, kindly give 24 hours notice.
How long does it take to get an appointment?
Every effort is made to get students in and seen for their initial
appointment as quickly as possible.
Who will find out what I talk about in my counseling sessions?
NO ONE will know what you talk about in a counseling session without
your written consent. Everything you say in counseling is kept
confidential, unless your counselor is required by law to break
confidentiality to protect you or someone else from harm or abuse or
if your counselor is ordered to provide documentation for legal
reasons. Your counselor will explain the ethical limits of
confidentiality during your first session, and can answer any
additional questions you may have about confidentiality.
Are psychiatric services available?
No, but referrals for off-campus psychiatric services can be
obtained from the Student Health Center or the Counseling Services
office.
Why should I come to counseling and talk to a stranger about
my problems?
The fact that a counselor is not a friend or family member
actually makes it easier for them to help you. Unlike friends or
family members whose advice is often colored by biases and
preconceptions, counselors work to be non-judgmental and objective
helpers.
What if I’m having a crisis after you’ve closed?
The counselor-on-call may be reached by calling the after-hours
residence life staff member on duty at (704) 233-8000. They will put
you in touch with a counselor who will help assess and respond to
your crisis or concern.
