Student Counselling

What is Council ?

When we experience problems it is often helpful to talk over the situation with someone else.

In Institutions of repute Academic council plays a vital role. The Academic Council is responsible for the academic Quality and Standards. To implement the academic strategies and also monitor the effectiveness of these policies and procedures.

Counselling is a process whereby you can talk freely through an issue or concern that is troubling you with a person trained to facilitate understanding. The process helps things to become clearer, provides new insights that would have been inaccessible when thinking alone, and often releases energy that can lead to change.Counselling can also help with making decisions, choices or changes that are right for you. Some students come to counselling simply to grow as a person.

How does it help ?

Exploring an issue increases your awareness of it, and counselling helps by providing you with a safe environment in which to carry out this exploration. A counsellor can help uncover patterns, causes and symptoms attached to a problem. Through the counselling process you can discover new options and choices, and are then free to choose what changes, if any, you wish to make.

Benefits of counseling:

Sometimes problems can get in the way of achieving your goals and enjoying your life. At these times it can be helpful to talk with a counsellor. Counselling and therapy offer a variety of positive benefits which can enhance your life greatly. Counselling improves your self-knowledge, well being, health, and clarity of mind. It offers the opportunity to improve your life and comes with an overall feeling of positive change that manifests into a more fulfilling and productive life. Counselling will make you feel more inspired, motivated, and organized. You will be ready to tackle anything!

Many students are surprised at how beneficial counselling can be. Students come to counselling to talk about a wide range of issues (from study difficulties to coping with trauma). It does not matter how big or small these concerns may be.

Do I have to have a serious problem to go for counselling ?

No! If something is pondering on your mind, however slight it may seem, it is given weight by you counsellor. If something is bothering you, blocking you or preventing you from making the most of your life, then it is important. You don't need to fully understand what is causing the difficulty in order to make an appointment, and the nature of the problem might become clearer during the initial assessment/ first meeting.

Does visiting a Counsellor mean I am too weak to deal with my own problems?

A common fear! On the contrary, it takes courage to realise and admit you have a problem or difficulty. It is a sign of maturity and intelligence to seek outside help to resolve a problem when you have reached a dead end through your own efforts.

What sort of problems do students bring to a Counsellor ?

The list is endless! However no concern is too trivial or too serious. And practically nothing can shock a counsellor. People consult a counsellor for many reasons. Some of these include: problems with anxiety and stress; social anxiety; depression; loneliness; adjusting to a new culture; homesickness; problems with family, friends or intimate relationships; sexual problems; bereavement and loss; study problems, including difficulties with writing, speaking and putting things off (procrastination) and perfectionism; exam stress/anxiety; racism and harassment ,bullying; sexual abuse; coping with trauma; sexual harassment; feeling suicidal; eating disorders; addictions, including alcohol, drugs and gambling.

How many sessions do I need?

Usually 10-15 counseling session are given, but it may decrease or increase depends on the severity and chronicity of problem with the student is going through.

How long does a session last?

Generally a session lasts between 40 to 60 minutes.

Is it confidential?

Yes! Both the fact that you see a counsellor, as well as the information you give the counsellor, are confidential. This information will not be divulged to anyone else without your specific permission. The exception to this rule is if you are considered by your counsellor to be at risk of harming yourself or another. In that case a medical doctor will be informed, after you have been consulted. Part of the professional duty of counsellors involves seeking supervision. Your situation may be discussed in supervision but your particulars (and name) will never be mentioned.

What can't counselling do?

It can't make change happen for you. Unfortunately, we have no magic wand or quick fixes! At times making changes requires hard work and commitment. Counselling provides the framework and support to allow the changes, but you have to provide the energy and effort.

Does the Counsellor / Psychologist provide any other services or activities?

Yes, Counsellor/ Psychologist some time provide you group sessions, relaxation exercises, meditation and other required therapies.

How to make an appointment?

Generally a session lasts between 40 to 60 minutes.