Simply we can define counseling as talk therapy. But it is different from normal talking. Let’s see why it is different;
Talking with a normal person vs. talking with your counselor
Talking with a normal person
Normally, we talk about each other With our friends, family, partners, etc., and sometimes they also give solutions to our problems. They may make us feel comfortable when we are in trouble. But how much can you rely on them? Think a little bit. There is a risk that they may tell your personal things to anyone else, and they may judge you (I don’t say it happens all the time, but it is possible).
Talk with your counselor
The counselor is a qualified person to do the talk therapy and he/she knows how to emotionally handle you. And never jeopardize your confidentiality. They never ever judge you. If your mental health is not good, they exactly know when you want to see a physiatrist. Actually, they are active listeners who can make you feel better and relaxed.
I think this small description is enough for you to understand the difference between normal talking and talk therapy as well as the difference between a normal person and a counselor.
When do you need to go to a counselor?
Most people believe that going to a counselor implies that the person has a mental illness. Actually, that is a 100% wrong statement. It is not true.
In most developed countries, each and every person has their own personal counselor. They are there to visit when they feel bad. When they feel too much stress. We all need that kind of talk therapy at least once a year.
As a psychology student, I think it is really good for you to maintain your mental health.
How can you find a counselor?
In Sri Lanka, with my knowledge, I can suggest two places to you.
If you cannot bear any payment (simply, if you want free counseling), you can go to the "Sumithrayo" organization. They have so many branches in so many cities. Go there, if you feel like you want to kill yourself, if you feel like you want to harm yourself, if you can't handle the stress any longer. What you need to do is go to Google and simply type "sumithrayo", near me" in the search box. Then Google will show you the nearest Sumithrayo branch to you and their contact numbers also.
If you can bear the counseling fees, then you should definitely go to IMH (Institute of Mental Health) in Bambalapitiya Srilanka. I know this place well because I studied for my counseling and psychology diploma there. And I personally know Professor Romesh, the founder of IMH, and he is a great, well-experienced counselor.
So I believe you gained a thorough understanding of counseling, and I believe you will now move beyond the traditional frame.
Let’s change our minds first. Then we will be able to change our world as well.
Just go for counseling once. It’s a totally normal thing. After going there one time, you will practically experience what I shared with you.
Good luck 
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