Counseling is cooperative. Counselors do not solve people's problems, but rather they serve to enhance the efforts the person is already making, whether that be through discussing new approaches to solving a problem, giving needed information, helping to clarify thoughts and feelings, or just through listening. Counseling is self-improvement. The reasons people come to counseling are as varied as the individuals involved. Some of the reasons include a desire to increase self-confidence, clarify values and priorities, cope with stress, overcome depression, improve relationships with friends and family, improve motivation, or become more assertive.
Counseling is preventive.
The cognitive, emotional, and behavioral modifications achieved through counseling can continually be applied to new life situations, safeguarding against the future development of serious problems, and enhancing coping strength when problems arise. It would be an unusual student who at some time did not experience problems adapting to new situations and changes taking place within himself or herself. Most students face normal developmental concerns and academic pressures while at Concordia and might at times feel intense anxiety, anger, sadness, or depression. Very often these concerns can be worked out by oneself or with a friend. Occasionally, however, because of the nature or magnitude of the personal concern, getting help may be desirable.