Difference being, you were forced to see the counselor (because you were caught in school, I'm guessing at least). Under those circumstances (which I have been in myself and had the same thoughts), of course it didn't work for you.

Counseling or parents are a great venting mechanism. I've only recently started talking to my parents about my personal life (excluding certain topics of course) and other problems, and they are actually great at hearing me and giving good feedback. I wish I would have known long ago.