Myths about counselling

Myth: People in counselling are weak.
Fact: There is nothing weak about a person who enters counselling. The individuals who enter counselling are, in fact, taking the first step in solving their difficulties. A lot of people would view this as courageous.

Myth: The counsellor tells you what to do with your life and how to 'fix' your problems.
Fact: The counsellor is there to help you achieve the goals you set and help you resolve your problems. While counsellors will NOT tell you what to do, they will help you explore the potential ups and downs of your choices.

Myth: Counsellor's can prescribe medications, such as anti-depressants.
Fact: Neither counsellors or psychologists prescribe medications. A psychiatrist or doctor is the only person that can prescribe medication. The counselling service does not dispense any medications. If you need a prescription drug, the doctor at the Mt Helen Campus Health Centre or your own Doctor will be able to assist you.

Myth: Change is simple.
Fact: Change is not always simple and may take some time and effort to put into place. Counselling is not a 'quick fix' cure to your problems, but is part of an ongoing process of change.

Myth: Counselling is only for people who have emotional and psychiatric problems.
Fact: While counselling can help people to deal with emotional and psychiatric problems, it can also:

  • help you to select a major
  • assist you in deciding on a career direction
  • suggest ways to develop better relationships
  • teach you techniques to become more assertive
  • help you to develop better ways to deal with anger
  • encourage you to discover more effective ways to study
  • suggest better ways to manage the demands of study, employment and parenting.
  • support you in dealing with homesickness
  • support you in making the change from home/school to university
  • assist you when considering your options before deferring/leaving
  • support your application for Special Consideration/Extensions.