Increased oil consumption at ~65K miles?

Misnomer

The shop I use is close to where I used to work, but is 16-17 miles from where I live and work now. I've used them regularly for the past few years, after problems with both the local dealership and a local Meineke. I was relieved to feel like I'd found a good place: as a woman who doesn't know much about mechanics (and sees no point in trying to act like I do) it can be hard to find a shop to trust, and it's been worth the 30-minute drive a few times a year. But now I'm wondering (a) why the guy said the thing about the car using more oil after 65,000 miles, and (b) why no one there mentioned the possibility that my engine could be damaged. Might be time to head to the Mid-Atlantic Region forum and see if there are any recommendations for shops closer to me.