By Elyssa Whaley/ne news editor
Sometimes, students need help, and that is what TCC’s counseling services provides.
The entire counseling staff at all five TCC campuses are qualified to handle everything from anxiety, depression, abuse, ADHD to eating disorders. If needed, counselors will find resources in the community to further aid students, said NE counselor Anita Peters.
Some misunderstanding seems to exist regarding the purpose of counseling centers.
“We find that there is often confusion between counseling for academic, personal or career counseling,” said NE counselor Mike Eason. “TCC counselors provide personal and career counseling in addition to academic advisement.”
Counselors say it’s free and easy to make an appointment.
“Walking into the office is welcome, but making an appointment by telephone especially during high peak registration season is best,” said NE counselor Lilian Mabry.
Students hear about counseling services through word of mouth, campus workshops, the new student group advisement and the required student orientation for incoming freshmen, Mabry said.
“If something is bothering you, ask, ‘What am I feeling? Where?’ Determine where and ask yourself how to deal with it. ‘I could do this or that.’ Address the issue, resolve it and move on,” Peters said.
That doesn’t always happen. Sometimes, people take detours and use less constructive ways of coping with problems, Peters said.
“All of us are held to ethical standards regarding confidentiality, and we maintain the privacy in all manners except if someone is in physical or life-critical danger,” Mabry said. “We are required by law to report it.”
Students choose what they want to talk about. Peters said they won’t be told what to do. Students are given choices and options for handling things.
Eason said the counselors love working with the students and helping them through personal issues and crises.
“We believe in a holistic approach to student success which encompasses mental health and wellness in addition to academic success,” he said.
