1. Eileen Thompson, LICSW Director of Counseling
Counseling services
Eileen Thompson, LICSW Director of Counseling
You might wonder why I am addressing the collective you – it’s because in the past when we’ve made it optional through signing up for the Counseling Center workshops given later on in the afternoon, only a self-selected few attend, ,too few and not reflective of who and how many students actually walk through our doors or participate in our many campus-wide awareness programs.

2. …And it begins
How many of you can relate to this? (point to slide) – my hand
So many cartoons that encapsulate this process, so little time…
This is one of my favorite with a genuine ring truth – this was really brought home to me last year when I was running through this power point with my then 17 year old daughter and began thinking back to our college touring.
And when I asked the question – she sheepishly raised her hand and said – me- …enough said.

3. A little information about counseling…
Use of college counseling services is up, nation-wide *
Nationally, 73% Counseling Center directors surveyed, indicated that the level of severity in presenting concerns had increased.
For Colleges with populations of 1500 and under
17.5 % of students access counseling service for an average of 175 students
Nationally, anxiety is the number one presenting concern edging out depression 47% to 40%
The Counseling Center at Wheelock
In the academic year, 20+% of enrolled students accessed counseling services
50% of the students came in for 1 – 5 sessions
The busiest months were March, April and October
Over 64% had their first appointment by the end of November
Orientation was the most commonly cited way by which students had learned of counseling services
*Information cited from the AUCCCD 2015 Directors’ Survey

4. EXACTLY WHAT DOES THIS SAY ABOUT THE STUDENTs WHO SEEK COUNSELING AT HERE AT WHEELOCK?
They might have the courage to ask for help when they need it.
They might be encouraged to contact us by a staff or faculty member.
They may already have benefitted from a past counseling relationship.
They have known histories of psychiatric or emotional challenges, and understand the importance of either getting connected to new services and/or having a place to help monitor existing treatments.
They might aspire to work as a counselor someday.

5. The Counseling Center Individual Counseling Group Work and Outreach
Adjusting to a new college or setting
Stress Management
Anxiety/Depression
Bereavement
Family Issues
Traumatic events
Sexuality
Relationship Difficulties
Body Image
Psychiatric and medication consultation
Group Work and Outreach
Roommate mediation
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Referral to community resources
Peer Support Groups for a variety of topics, Senior Transitions, De-stress, International Student Support
Relationships
Special topics related to identity