Q: What type of counseling do you provide?
Our counselors provide biblically based, clinically informed counseling addressing most emotional and relational challenges, such as depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, trauma/past abuse, pornography, marital and family counseling, grief/loss, identity, and spiritual doubt.
Southeastern does not have the resources to provide counseling for substance abuse cases requiring detox or mental health diagnoses or for eating disorders. Our counselors are happy to provide recommendations for local resources and qualified professionals to address any concerns that are beyond the resources we have available.
Q: What can I expect from counseling?
You can expect…
- Biblical counseling. Our counselors believe that God’s Word speaks to life and its problems. Our counselors are committed to walking through this process with you and desire your commitment as well.
- Regularly scheduled sessions. You can expect around 50-55 minutes for each session, unless otherwise discussed. If an emergency arises and you cannot attend a session, you can contact your counselor to reschedule.
- Be as open and honest as you can. The guidance given in counseling is dependent on the information you share; honesty and transparency help your counselor to best serve you.
- Be patient. Often, problems do not develop in a day, so they take time to be resolved. Additionally, it may take your counselor several sessions to obtain a good understanding of your situation. It is vital for them to carefully listen and gather needed information in order to build understanding and trust with you.
- Commitment to work outside of counseling sessions. One hour a week will not suffice on its own. Part of our counselor’s goal will be to equip you to handle the struggles of life through skills discussed, the support of the church, and the care of others. However, that requires effort on your part outside of the counseling room. Prayer and reflection about matters discussed, as well as putting into practices the tools and resources provided by your counselor, will help the process of counseling progress effectively.
Q: What is the cost?
Southeastern provides counseling as a free service to currently-enrolled students and their families. We do not charge for this service, but we provide counseling as part of our desire to equip our students and their families for ministry.
Q: Who is eligible for your services?
Counseling is available for currently enrolled Southeastern students and families. However, we will evaluate on a case-by-case basis whether or not we are able to provide counseling services for minors under 18 years old. If we are unable to provide counseling for a child or teen, we are happy to provide referrals to other qualified counselors in the area as well as helpful resources for parents.
Q: How do I make an appointment to begin counseling?
The first step to begin counseling is to complete the online information form here. Once your form has been submitted, you will be contacted by one of our counselors to schedule your first session or to discuss options due to a waiting list. From that point forward, you will communicate with your counselor directly regarding your scheduled sessions and any adjustments you need to make.
Q: How long is the session, frequency, and what are your operating hours?
You can expect each session to be 50-55 minutes. Typically, counseling sessions take place weekly at first but may shift to biweekly as progress continues. However, your counselor might make adjustments to the length or frequency of your sessions. Any changes will be discussed directly with you.
The counseling office is open 8 AM-8 PM Monday-Friday. However, the schedule and availability of each counselor varies. Your counselor will work with you to try to find a time that will work with both of your schedules.
Q: Where is the counseling office located?
The counseling office is located on the first floor of the Ledford Center, Room 105.
Q: Do you provide counseling services for students taking classes at a distance?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide counseling services for students participating in distance learning at this time. We would highly recommend reaching out to churches or pastors in your area. Many times they have counseling services available. They would likely be able to provide a list of counselors in the area who have worked with their church in the past.
Q: I am a counseling student. Am I eligible for counseling services through Student Life?
Yes. However, there are a few considerations. It is important to note that students in the CMFIC licensure program will be required to receive certain number of personal counseling hours within a clinical setting. The counseling that we provide in this office does not qualify for those personal counseling hours. If you have questions or clarifications, please feel free to reach out to the counseling office or the counseling professors regarding those requirements.
