formerly University of Missouri-Rolla
General Information

 

  Confidentiality

The counselor/psychologist is legally and ethically required to maintain confidentiality to provide a safe, trusting working environment. In order to disclose any information shared in the course of receiving services, the counselor/psychologist must obtain written permission from the individual. There are specific situations, however, when the counselor/psychologist is required by law to breach confidentiality - when there is a possibility the person may harm himself/herself, harm someone else, when child or vulnerable adult abuse is indicated, or when subpoenaed by a court of law.

  Staff

Erma Brand
Senior Secretary
counsel@mst.edu


Patti J. Fleck, Ph.D.
Director - Counseling and
Disability Support Services
pfleck@mst.edu


Gene Gianladis, Ph.D.
Psychologist
geneg@mst.edu

 

Ross Gubrud, Ph.D.
 Psychologist
 gubrudr@mst.edu

 

Jamie Myers
Licenced Professional Counselor
 myersja@mst.edu


Diane B. Stutts, M.A., L.P.C.
Outreach Coordinator and Counselor
dianes@mst.edu

  Common Counseling Misconceptions

"If you're in counseling you must be crazy"
While people suffering from serious mental disorders can benefit from therapy, they do not make up the largest percentage of individuals who take advantage of the services provided by the Counseling Center. It often helps to talk with a counselor when "stuck" in some aspect of life - academic functioning, relationships, social life, career choice, etc. In addition to uncertainty or confusion about college-related issues, students also may address anxiety, depression, or a recent or past trauma. These issues are very common and can range from mild to severe.

"I'll have to lie on a couch and be analyzed by a " 'shrink' "
Most forms of therapy do not involve extensive analysis or lying on a couch. At the Counseling Center, we believe in a collaborative approach in which you and the counselor sit on comfortable chairs and discuss your issues cooperatively.

"Once you start on medication, you stay on medication."
A certain percentage of people do need medication long-term. However, in many cases, medication is a short-term intervention that provides much needed relief from anxiety and depression (among other problems). The Counseling Center staff may facilitate a referral to a medical professional to determine if medication is warranted.

"I will be forced to reveal everything in my past"
Counseling is a collaborative process whereby individuals choose what to reveal at a time and pace that is comfortable for them. In fact, some forms of counseling focus much more on the present than the past.

"Therapy is only for certain ethnic groups and socioeconomic levels"
People from all cultures and socioeconomic groups benefit from counseling, although some cultures have norms that may make it difficult to seek outside help. A competent counselor is sensitive to issues of diversity and will respect the diverse backgrounds.

"I'll have to take a battery of psychological tests when I begin counseling at the Counseling Center"
During the initial appointment at the Counseling Center, the circumstances that prompted you to contact us will be explored and we will work with you to set goals. Occasionally, inventories may be suggested to explore career interests or interpersonal preferences. The "testing" component of the Counseling and Academic Support refers to standardized tests, such as the GRE and PRAXIS. If you are interested in seeking information about such a test, call 341-6655.

"Information shared in therapy will be placed in my University record and discussed with my professors"
The information that you share in counseling is confidential within the limits of the law and ethical standards. There are a few exceptions in which a therapist may break confidentiality, for example when a person is in danger of seriously harming him/herself or others.

"Most people, who are in therapy, stay in therapy for years"
The Counseling Center utilizes a short-term model. Often significant progress is made and necessary skills are gained within the twelve-session limit. However, if someone needs additional assistance, a referral can be made to a private practitioner or community agency.

  Presentations

About the Counseling Center and Academic Support Programs