Penn State Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides a variety of services, available in a different modalities, to help address the psychological needs and personal concerns that may interfere with the academic progress, social development, and emotional wellbeing of our students.
If there is an emergency after hours, contact the 24/7 Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400.
How do I get started with counseling?
First time client appointments:
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Request an initial screening appointment here.
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You will be asked to fill out forms through your email using a HIPPA compliant link
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Once the forms are completed, you will meet with a counselor in-person or via Zoom.
What to Expect
During the first appointment you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns in more detail. Some students find that this first appointment meets their needs and require no further services. The counselor may however recommend additional counseling and/or additional resources, such as other CAPS services or other-campus offices that offer specialized support. At the end of your first session, your counselor may recommend options or next steps.
Next Steps
Your counselor may recommend counseling at CAPS and/or referral to other resources on campus or in the community that can help address your concerns.
CAPS is a short-term counseling center. If you need or are interested in a longer-term therapy relationship, we can help you to access our web-based community provider locator and advise you about setting up services in the community.
NOTE: Students should not pursue services at CAPS for the sole purpose of obtaining a letter of support. CAPS does not provide letters at the first appointment and cannot provide documentation regarding a student's mental health without a history of services at CAPS during the specified time period. If necessary, students are encouraged to seek letters of support from individuals directly involved in their care such as past or present psychological/psychiatric providers, medical doctors, or family members.
Current Student Clients
Schedule an Appointment
Current students can schedule an appointment for counseling with CAPS August through May.
Crisis
Students in crisis and experiencing emotional distress can:
- After hours, call the 24/7 Penn State Crisis Line: (877) 229-6400
- Text the 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text “LIONS” to 741741
- For emergencies, please contact 911