It is a common misconception to think that only seriously ill or "crazy" people need counseling help. Studies show that over eighty percent of people can benefit from counseling at some time in their lives. So, it is normal to need counseling when special concerns or difficult feelings arise. Most people have a problem with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, etc., at some point. Students come to counseling with a range of problems. Many have issues related to their normal development such as identity or relationship issues. Others are dealing with more specific psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bereavement, substance abuse, or eating and body image issues. Some students are not sure what the problem might is but just know they are not functioning or feeling the way they normally do. They might notice having a harder time studying, eating or sleeping too little or too much, or otherwise just not meeting their day-to-day obligations. A counselor can help students sort out what is wrong in order to help get students back on track. Don't put off seeking counseling or therapy. If you are considering it, this is an indication that you probably could benefit from the experience. 

Counseling sessions tend to be about 45-50 minutes in length. Counseling is a collaborative effort between the therapist and the student. Licensed providers support people in embracing the changes they would like to make to achieve a greater sense of well being. They also diagnose mental illnesses, refer to appropriate providers as needed, and support you in processing difficult events and identifying sources of distress. It is normal to feel apprehensive about therapy! You should typically become more comfortable within the first session or two.  

All currently registered FRC students are eligible for services. Students who want or need more frequent or longer-term contact with a licensed clinician are referred to off-campus resources. Faculty and staff are not eligible for FRC’s counseling services but may contact our professional staff for consultation regarding student concerns. 

A spouse or partner is eligible for services if they are also a registered student. Students will be referred out for couples counseling requests. 

Sessions occur within the Student Wellness and Success Center on the Feather River College campus.  Telehealth sessions can be arranged on a case by case basis. The SWSC is open Monday – Friday between 8:00–4: 30 pm. To set up an initial appointment please call 1-530-283-0202, ext. 205, or schedule online here. Initial paperwork is required and takes approximately 10-20 minutes to complete in our office. Assessments will be done at your initial appointment.

As a student, you do not need insurance to receive services from the FRC mental health provider. If you wish to use services off campus, many insurance and coverage plans cover mental health services by a licensed provider. Call your insurance company to ask about your mental health coverage options. 

The FRC Wellness and Success Center does not perscribe medication.  Being seen for psychotherapy does not necessarily mean you will need to take medications. Many psychological problems can be successfully treated without the use of medications. If the therapist determines that medications might be an option for you to consider, referral options for a consultation for medication will be discussed with you.  You will need to see a physician (such as a psychiatrist) off campus to be prescribed any medications. It is important to let ythe therapist know about any medications you have already been prescribed.

All members of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) subscribe to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice which require counselors to protect the confidentiality of their communications with clients. Most state licensure laws also protect client confidentiality. As a client, you are guaranteed the protection of confidentiality within the boundaries of the client/counselor relationship. Any disclosure will be made with your full written, informed consent and will be limited to a specific period of time. The law in the State of California provides the following exceptions to confidentiality, but even in these circumstances you will be informed before confidential information is revealed whenever possible: 

• If the counselor has knowledge of abuse of a child, elder, or a person with a disability.
• If the counselor has knowledge of intent to harm himself/herself or others.
• If the counselor receives a court order to the contrary.

You can maximize the progress you make in therapy by being actively involved in the work you are doing. Some suggestions include: 

• Be on time and try not to miss any of your scheduled meetings, consistency is important 
• Between sessions, set aside time to think about the things you have discussed with the therapist. Journaling about topics discussed will be helpful.
• Invest in following through on any homework assignments, readings, or books your counselor has suggested for you
• Be honest and open in sessions

No. All counseling records are confidential and are not part of the academic record.

We follow the state and national guidelines for retaining confidential records. All such records are required to be kept on file for seven years after your last session. If you are a minor, your records will be kept for seven years after you reach the age of 18. After that seven years, your records will be destroyed.

It can be very difficult when someone you care about is in pain. You might find yourself feeling helpless, frightened, frustrated or angry. It is very hard to make a person seek help if they don’t want to or don’t feel they need it, and counseling with an unwilling client is usually not very effective.  Here are some things you might offer as a friend:

•  Let your friend know that you are concerned. Suggest that he or she make an appointment with a counselor to see if we can be of help. Try to phrase the communication using “I’ language, rather than “you” language. For example, “I care about you and I am sad to see you are hurting” rather than “You are in trouble and need help.”
• Offer to sit with your friend while he/she makes an appointment.
• Offer to accompany your friend to their first appointment, and either wait in the waiting area or go to the appointment with him/her.
• Call or come into the counseling center yourself, and talk with a counselor about your worries about your friend. You will not need to tell the counselor your friend’s name, and you do not necessarily even need to let your friend know you came in. The counselor may be able to offer you suggestions about how to interact more effectively with this friend, as well as to manage your own feelings about the situation.

However, remember that you cannot force anyone to get help, you can only encourage, support and offer resources. If you find yourself becoming too involved or your friend’s problems are overwhelming you and affecting your life or work negatively, please contact the counseling center for a consultation and for your own support.