SCI exists for three reasons:
Services of the Institute are available to individuals, couples and groups with a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioral or educational problems. Staff counselors help clients, for example, to deal with the following types of concerns:
Consultation services are also available to teachers or other agency staff members. While the Institute is the primary location for counseling, some of the work may be conducted in the home, school, or site of the problem.
The staff consists of experienced counselors who are doctoral candidates in Counseling Psychology (and Health Psychology). Although counseling or consultation is usually performed by one counselor, each counselor is part of a supervisory team composed of a professional psychologist, advanced doctoral students, and other counselors. Each client thereby profits from the consultation of the team. We also have working relationships with the Shyness Clinic in Portola Valley
We believe that each client's problem is unique, and we therefore tailor counseling to the specific needs and goals of each client. In order to clarify the problem, we explore the client's behavior, thoughts, emotions, and environment.
We see counseling as an educational intervention. The counselor can be seen as a facilitator of the learning process--a coach for the client to learn new ways of thinking, acting and feeling. The counselor strives to increase the client's personal strengths and skills for problem solving.
Collecting relevant and concise information also provides the counselor and client with a clear picture of observable improvement. We want the client to see real gains. If progress is not evident, then other approaches are tried until improvement clearly emerges. Follow-up is an integral part of our counseling process and is directed toward lasting changes.
Counseling is confidential in accordance with the provisions of California law.
Individuals may call 650-723-2113. Voice mail usually receives messages although the recorded announcement may specify times when a counselor is available to answer personally. Clients will be called back--usually within one day. An appropriate counselor will be assigned and an initial interview will be scheduled. The Institute is neither a 24-hour clinic nor does it provide drop-in services. Appointments are required but hours are flexible.
At the initial interview, the counselor and client discuss the presenting problem and decide jointly on a tentative plan for counseling. If SCI is not a best place for a client, appropriate referrals are made. There is no charge for the initial interview.
Our fees are based upon ability to pay. Fees range from $15 to $50 per session for individual counseling. Group and workshop fees vary depending upon the topic and number of hours.
The SCI main office is located in Room 64 (basement) of the School of Education (Cubberley Building) on the Stanford University campus. The School is next to the Stanford Main Library. Campus maps showing the location of the School of Education can be viewed on the Internet, and/or a map of the campus will be mailed to new clients upon request to help them find the building and nearby parking spaces.