How Does Counseling Work?

Confidentiality

Both Pennsylvania law and professional codes of ethics emphasize the importance of confidentiality in a counseling relationship. However, law and ethics also emphasize the sanctity of life and the protection of individuals. Confidentiality may be breached if the counselor has reason to believe that the client may pose a threat to him- or herself or to others. Confidentiality may also be breached if the counselor has reason to believe that a child is the victim of sexual or other forms of physical abuse or if the counselor is required to testify in a court of law.

Release of Information

Professional ethics concerning confidentiality prevent us from even acknowledging that we work with a particular individual. Therefore, if you wish for the counseling staff to confer with your family members, instructors, or other concerned individuals, you must sign a "Release of Information Form." A signed "Release of Information Form" will offer guidelines concerning with whom we may discuss your situation and will outline any limits on such a discussion. Of course, a release is not mandatory if confidentiality must be breached (as described in Confidentiality above).

Brief Therapy

Due to the number of students seen by a limited number of counseling staff members, we may utilize a time-limited approach to counseling. If it appears that a specific counseling issue will need longer-term therapy than we can provide, we will refer you to a professional or agency who is equipped to work with you for a longer period of time. When making any referral, we will consider the special needs of the student, including the identified problem and transportation, financial, and insurance circumstances.

Evaluation of Services

In an effort to constantly evaluate and improve our services to students, we need your feedback. Each academic year our Staff Assistants will provide you with a confidential assessment that will not be viewed by the counselors until the end of the semester. You can be assured your feedback is entirely anonymous. While your participation is voluntary, we do appreciate knowing how we can better serve you.

Medical or Psychiatric Consultation

In some instances it may be beneficial for the counselor to consult with a medical or psychiatric professional. For example, antidepressant medication may be in order for some students. Or the possibility of an underlying medical disorder must be considered in some instances. If a medical or psychiatric consultation is indicated, we will discuss that possibility with you.

What You Can Expect/What We Expect

It is important that you understand what you can expect from us and what we expect from you. Briefly, we want you to understand that confidentiality is taken very seriously by the counseling staff. However, there are limits as noted above. Please recognize that we may limit the number of times that we can meet. Note that we may ask you to sign a "Release of Information Form" if the situation warrants it. Also understand that certain counseling issues may be best considered in concert with a medical or psychiatric consultation.

We ask you to be prompt, to call ahead of time if you will need to postpone an appointment, and to be open with your counselor. You can expect us to be attentive, empathic, and honest.