How to ask for time off for counseling?

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I really think that I should be in some kind of counseling program, but my schedule is basically 8-6, and I don't think that many offices are open past 6:00.

I also don't want my employer to know that I'm in counseling, since it will likely carry negative stigma, especially given the attitudes of my boss.


Any suggestions?

Sometimes larger employers will have something called an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which is counseling for employees. It's also possible to find offices open later than six.

Is it possible to change your work schedule? Would it be possible to get counseling during a lunch break?

At my job we have flexible working hours, so when I want to go somewhere on friday morning I work longer days at the days before. As long as I make at the end of the week my 40 hours.
Maybe your boss has similar arrangements?

This depends where you are living... You could also say you are going to a specialist for your health. For example, under Dutch law you do not have to disclose the nature of your medical problems. But that differs widely between countries.

I had a similar dilema ; in the end I just said I had a regular hospital appointment to attend (which was technically correct as it was in a hospital).
Luckily for me, my boss was not the kind of bloke who asked any more questions, so I was fortunate. I don't think you need to tell your boss exactly what the appointment is for ; maybe you have to tell an HR department if you have one, and they can keep it confidential (that might be easier said than done).
If you can offer to make the time up so that you don't cost the company time, that might help.