We also provide crisis counseling, group counseling, and outside referrals to students who may be experiencing psychological, social or behavioral difficulties. The Counseling Center’s approach incorporates a developmental perspective with a Humanistic orientation, and supports the cognitive, psychosocial, and emotional needs of all of our students.
Our goal is to assist students in reaching their full potential by fostering the healthy development of the mind, body, and spirit of every student. In line with our counseling model, we realize that college is a time to grow, become more self-confident, and prepare for challenges that life can bring.
Common reasons gifted students seek counseling include, but are not limited to:
- Relationship Issues
- Stress and Anxiety
- Adjustment to Change in Environment
- Loss and grief
- Self-esteem (Body Image, Perfectionism, Confidence, etc.)
- Sexual Assault or Harassment
- Bullying
- Disordered Eating
- Depression
- Personal Identity (Small Fish in a Big Pond Experience, Gender, Sexuality, etc.)
- Substance Abuse Prevention & Treatment
The Advanced Academy, MOWR Program, and Honors College have a dedicated counselor to meet the emotional and developmental needs of the students. Austen Bingham is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) and received his Masters of Arts in Psychology from the University of West Georgia with a focus on counseling and clinical intervention. He attended the Honors College at the University of West Georgia for his undergraduate degree in Psychology. He has experience in community mental health, individual and group counseling, and working with the gifted population.
The Counseling Center also houses 12 other counselors to provide high-quality services to the students of the Advanced Academy, MOWR Program, and Honors College.
Commonly Asked Questions