Frequently Asked Questions About the Counseling Center

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Who uses the counseling center?

About 15 percent of students make counseling appointments each year. By the time they graduate from Whittier, one in five students will have used our services.

Why do students typically come to the counseling center?

Students' most frequent complaints are feeling depressed or unhappy; having relationship problems; or feeling anxious and uncertain about the future. The counseling center can help address a wide range of psychological issues that people may encounter including:

  • Relationship problems
  • Stress management
  • Family issues
  • Adjustment to college life
  • Academic problems
  • Substance abuse
  • Eating disorders
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Anger management

If I see a counselor, will I have to keep making appointments for a long time?

Use of our counseling services is voluntary. The number of times a student returns to the counseling center is determined by the student and his/her counselor. Many students feel better after talking to a counselor the first time, and do not return for a second visit. The majority of students come for an average of five sessions. Sessions can be scheduled weekly, monthly, or at any frequency that makes

Does counseling really help?

The majority of students who come to the counseling center report that counseling has helped them to sort out their concerns and improve the way they feel about their situation.

Why are there different counselors every year?

Counseling center staff includes graduate students in their last years of training. The experience they gain at Whittier College is a valuable part of their education. They are required to work under the close supervision of the counseling center director, a licensed psychologist. After their time at Whittier, counselors typically graduate with their doctorates in psychology and go on to jobs or further postdoctoral training.

How do I set up an appointment?

Call or email the counseling center 562.907.4239 or ​counselingcenter@whittier.edu to set up an appointment with one of our counselors. Appointments can also be made in person. The Counseling Center is located in Haverhill A, next to Campus Safety. Our regular business hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are closed daily, from noon to 1 p.m.

How much do counseling services cost?

Counseling services are FREE to currently enrolled students of Whittier College.