Counselling Services offer a wide variety of services to assist individuals (e.g. students, applicants, prospective applicants and members of the community) with educational, academic, career, vocational and personal issues. The counselling function is often a problem-solving activity involving an action plan where a counsellor assists the individual in resolving various concerns. This may be followed up with other supportive resources including on-going counselling or referrals. All interviews are kept strictly confidential.
Academic and Educational Counselling
Academic and Educational Counsellors can provide assistance on any education related topic. They can assist individuals in determining the programs and/or courses that best suit the needs of the student. The assessment testing process helps individuals to identify realistic educational choices. Planning beyond graduation from a Portage College program can also be explored. Counsellors can provide information on the entrance requirements of other post-secondary institutions. Assistance with making applications to these institutions will be provided as necessary.
Career Counselling
Career Counsellors provide information on career options. Having realistic occupational goals is important in order to receive the greatest benefit from college studies. Information on over 1,200 occupations is available on career computer programs. Interest inventories such as Self-Directed Search and Career Decision-Making System are also used.
Personal Counselling
Individual counselling is available for personal concerns such as family relations, alcohol or drug abuse, depression, loneliness, interpersonal relationships, decision-making and returning to school. Dealing with personal issues in positive ways can increase academic success. Crisis intervention is provided on an as-required basis.
Another component of the counselling unit is the presence of Aboriginal Counselling. It is important that students feel comfortable in seeking assistance with issues such as bereavement or relationships in the context of their own culture. The Aboriginal Counsellor provides the range of counselling services previously mentioned. An extended role is to connect all students with the Aboriginal culture, in a cross-cultural learning experience. Portage College presents a wonderful opportunity for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students alike, to become more aware and familiar with traditional Aboriginal culture. Many workshops, activities, events and opportunities for this learning are presented throughout the year.
Other Counselling
The following topics can be addressed through individual or group sessions:
Job Search Techniques - Learn how to identify skills, look for work, write a resume and cover letter, complete an application and prepare for an interview.
Relaxation - Learn how to cope with stress through relaxation and refocussing.
Conflict/Anger Management - Acquire skills to resolve conflicts, deal with feelings of anger and improve communication.
Assertiveness - Learn communications skills that promote respect for self and others, and help express one's needs and wants.
Peer Support Program - Learn to hear and support other students under supervision of counsellors.
Time Management - Learn tips on how to better juggle school expectations with family responsibilities.
Loneliness and Depression - Learn how to take charge of your situation, meet new friends and acquire a positive outlook.
Additional workshops on such topics as parenting, grief, smoking cessation, and personality type can be tailored to meet individual or group needs.
