University of Georgia Athletics
Counseling
June 21, 2007 | General
Counseling services are provided to offer student-athletes the opportunity to speak one-on-one about various issues that might be affecting them personally or preventing them from functioning at an optimal level. These services are provided from an objective, strengths-focused standpoint that seeks to help the individual gain insight, develop a possible course of action, and then implement a plan.
Material discussed during counseling sessions is strictly confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone without an individual’s written permission. This means that session content will not be shared with coaches, teammates, parents, or any other people without the individual’s permission. Any exceptions to confidentiality (mandated by Georgia law) are always discussed during the first session.
Counseling services can be an excellent outlet for student-athletes as they negotiate the many roles they fill. It is not necessary to be experiencing severe distress in order to make a counseling appointment. The THIRVE Program is designed to assist individuals who are experiencing a wide range of concerns. Possible presenting concerns include (but are not limited to):
Anger
Anxiety
Body image concerns
Career transition
Conflict (e.g. with teammate, coach, roommate)
Depression
Eating behaviors
Family problems
Grief/loss
Homesickness
Identity issues
Injury
Loneliness
Relationship issues
Stress
Substance abuse
These listed issues are considered from a perspective that understands the role that sport plays in a student-athlete’s life. We understand that sport is often closely intertwined with personal concerns. Lastly, we also provide referrals when necessary to access the appropriate services (e.g. specialized treatment, medication evaluation/prescription, inpatient treatment, etc.).
