Old Main 540. What our counseling isn't Some uncertainty and confusion exists about what counseling is, probably because counseling in its modern sense is relatively new.
People doing many different things call themselves counselors.
In the above list the counselor is a person who helps a client identify needs, wishes or goals and then supplies specific advice. For example, a loan counselor assesses the client's requirements and budget, then advises the client on a loan package. We do help clients identify needs, wishes and goals, and this makes us somewhat like those in the above list. However, we also are very different because we also help clients clarify, problem-solve, plan, practice, express feelings, be honest, gain insight, understand themselves, accept, work on changes, and so forth. Our expertise includes the ability to help you deal with your concerns without you having to worry about dealing with our advice.