Programs and Services

The following services are provided at Counseling Services:

• Intake evaluation and disposition
• Emergency services, 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
• Individual counseling
• Couples counseling
• Time-limited Psychotherapy groups
• Structured psycho-educational groups
• Consultation with students, faculty, and staff
• Psychiatric consultation, evaluation, and treatment
• Programs and workshops for campus groups
• Off Campus Referral

The actual number of counseling visits is determined individually. All currently enrolled Albion College students are eligible for services.

Cost of Services

There is no charge for utilizing Counseling Services. Students with concerns that may require long-term individual therapy may be referred to mental health professionals in the community. If you are referred off campus for psychological service, you will be responsible for any fees that you may incur. You may be covered by your family insurance or by the College insurance plan for these services. If you have question about your specific situation, please discuss this with your counselor before accessing off-campus services.

Making the Most of Your Experience

1. Keep appointments. If you find you are unable to keep an appointment, please call to cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
2. Be prompt. If you are going to be late, please let us know so that your counselor can wait for you or reschedule if appropriate.
3. Be an active participant. Take an active part in deciding how you want to use the time. Give feedback to your counselor and be honest with yourself and your counselor.
4. Discuss your needs. If you want to discontinue counseling, or you have other concerns, share this with your counselor instead of just dropping out.

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

Q: If I go to Counseling Services, does it mean that there is something wrong with me?
A: Absolutely not. For the most part, people who use our services are interested in their personal growth and adjustment to the world around them. Many students face normal developmental concerns and academic pressures while at college. A student may want to improve his/her skills in many areas. At times students may feel acute anxiety, anger, sadness, or depression. Counseling can be helpful to students with these feelings. As with any other group of people, a certain portion of the student population has difficulties of a more serious nature. At times more intensive therapy and/or medication may be appropriate.

Q: What if I feel very upset and need immediate assistance?
A: CS has 24-hour emergency services. During office hours, you can call or stop by the office; you will be seen as soon as possible. If you experience a crisis or emergency after hours, you may access the Director of Counseling by calling Campus Safety at ext. 1234 on campus or 629-1234 off campus.

Psychiatric Consultation

Medications are often useful in treating and managing symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and other conditions. Often times, students are already taking psychiatric medications. In some circumstances, they may need to have follow-up and refills taken care of locally while they are at school. There is a psychiatrist on site at the College one half-day a week to provide these services.

To schedule an appointment with the psychiatrist, you need to talk with a counselor first. You will then be referred to the psychiatrist for a psychiatric assessment and if appropriate, medication management.