Advice and referrals on personal issues

By Connie Park

All ACC counselors are licensed or license-eligible professionals. They can help you to objectively evaluate difficult life situations that may hinder your academic progress; assist in problem solving and goal setting; and guide you to accomplish your educational goal. To that end, a short term individual counseling (up to six sessions) is available; you and your counselor can decide on the best course fitting your need so you may continue to pursue your academic plan. If your situation calls for a treatment requiring a specific expertise or long-term counseling, a list of community resources will be provided for you. 

In addition to the individual sessions, counselors also offer free college-success workshops in the areas of academic, career, and personal effectiveness. If you wish to attend or learn more about a workshop, please call the listed phone number. (Link?)

Sometimes a situation calls for an immediate response: If you are at risk of suicide, help is available 24/7 at 472.4357 or 454.3521 for Austin and Travis County; (800) 841.1255 for Williamson County; or (800) 273-8255(TALK) for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Don't hesitate to call.

Even if you're not in need of services today, it's helpful to know the assistance that is available. Check out 2-1-1 Texas, a free, confidential information and referral line answered by nationally certified specialists 24/7.

Taking steps to deal with unpleasant issues before they become major problems can be very challenging. However, we all know that procrastination and avoidance will only perpetuate the problem. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to speak to a counselor if you find yourself: unmotivated to go to class; experiencing anxiety/depression; faced with an interpersonal conflict; procrastinating; stressed; unable to focus; having difficulty balancing school and other obligations, etc. There are, of course, many more life scenarios that can cause you to want to give up and we all feel that way one time or another. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or lethargic about your school work for whatever reason, we invite you to come and talk with a counselor. We are here to help you to realize your educational dreams come true!