Counseling and Psychological Services provides a safe and confidential environment for students to address mental health concerns

College life is often a time of transition and challenge. Students face these developmental changes by tapping into internal resources, family, friends and mentors. In some cases, help is needed from trained professionals. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the mental health department of Student Health Services, provides a safe and confidential environment for students to address concerns. Mental well-being, just like physical health, is necessary for students to meet academic and life goals. The staff at CAPS is committed to facilitating students' personal growth and well-being while celebrating individual differences.

Types of Services and Programs

CAPS offers a wide array of services and programs along a continuum of intensity for various psychological issues.

Types of therapy services:

• Solution focused individual counseling services
• Support and therapy groups to discuss specific issues and identity concerns
• Workshops to learn different coping skills
• Therapy Assistance Online (TAO) - a free, private, online library of mental health resources, including interactive modules and practice tools to help you understand and manage how you feel, think and act; learn stress management, mindfulness skills, problem-solving, relationship skills; strategies to avoid dwelling on your concerns and develop more helpful thinking patterns
• Outreach to educate students about mental health issues and promote a healthy environment

Specific programs:

• Alcohol and Other Drugs Counseling: Assessment, Choices, Treatment and Transitions (ACTT)
• Counseling, Advocacy, Referrals, Education and Support (CU CARES) - Relationship and Sexual Violence Services
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - intensive therapy and skills-based learning program

How to Access Services

To access CAPS for the first time, call the reception desk at 864-656-2451 during business hours (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MTThF, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m W). Counselors will be available to conduct a brief phone screen to determine the best way to serve your needs.

What to Expect on an Initial Visit

During your first visit, the counselor will get a good understanding of your needs, understand your history and develop a treatment plan. Care options, along the stepped-care continuum, may include accessing self-help resources, participating in skills-building workshops, online treatments or individual counseling. CAPS treatment recommendations are very individualized and aimed at serving your individual needs.

Cost

When you pay the health fee, you have access to CAPS services at no cost.

How to Know if You Need Counseling

Counseling is appropriate for anyone who is troubled by a specific problem or has a general concern. Most students will use existing coping skills to resolve their concerns. If, after using these skills, you are still struggling, accessing professional services is recommended.

Help After-Hours

For psychological emergencies after hours and on weekends, a counselor can be reached by calling 864-656-2451 and selecting option 2. In case of emergency where immediate police or emergency medical services are needed, call 911.

Learn more on the CAPS website: clemson.edu/caps