Counseling Services

Counseling FAQ

What is Counseling?
Sometimes, people confuse counseling and advising. Counseling is not advising. Counselors offer much more long-term support and assistance with a variety impacting on personal, career, and academic life.

What is meant by Confidential?
Everything that is said to your Counselor is confidential, meaning that they cannot share this information with anyone else. This includes all records, maintained at the center. However, there are limits to confidentiality, and each client is informed of these before they begin counseling. Counselors are required by law to break confidentiality if: their client threatens to harm themselves or someone else; there is knowledge of sexual or physical abuse to a child; or, there is a court order mandating that the office release records. if you have any questions about confidentiality, feel free to discuss them with your Counselor.

How do I know I need Counseling?
If the difficulties you are having in life are impacting your ability to concentrate, relate with others, maintain a healthy lifestyle, or cope in general, then seeking counseling is an option to consider. Not everyone in these situations seeks the services of a Counselor, but many people need the help of a trained professional to sort out their situation. This does not mean there is something "wrong" with you if you do see a Counselor. One of the healthiest decisions that you can make is to acknowledge that there is a problem and take the first steps to see a Counselor.

What if I feel suicidal?
Call the counseling center at once and ask to speak to a therapist at 706-778-8500 ext 1259. If the center is not open, campus police can be called at 706-778-0105 or 706-778-8500 ext 1105 to stay with you until further help arrives. You may also call 911.

What if I am concerned about a friend?
Very often people will respond  to a friend's help before that of a therapist. So, call or make an appointment with the counselor and get some advice on what you might do at 706-778-8500 ext 1259. However, if your friend is in a crisis, seek help immediately by calling campus police at 706-778-0105 or 706-778-8500 ext 1105 or 911.

Is there any fee?
There is no fee for counseling services.

How do I make an appointment?

You are welcome to visit the office in the Admissions Building. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The phone number is (706) 778-8500 ext. 1259. In an emergency situation you can contact the campus police at (706) 778-0105 or ext 1105.

If you are an Athens or off-campus student, my office hours vary each semester, but you can call the main office at 706-548-8505, or email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it