Resources for Concerned Others
Consultation with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) staff is available Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. by phone or appointment. Consultations are available for students, family members, faculty, staff, or any concerned person who wishes to talk with a CAPS professional about a student suffering from emotional stress, counseling referrals, or other issues.
If a consultation is needed outside of CAPS normal business hours, please contact the Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400.
The Red Folder initiative is a guide to help faculty, staff, and others who interact with students to recognize, respond effectively to, and refer distressed students at Penn State.
Information for Parents and Families
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides a range of mental health services. The first step typically begins with a phone screening appointment. For more information about what your student can expect at CAPS, we encourage you to explore our website.
Keep in mind, we can talk with you about your concern for your student. However, we are only able to share specific information about your student’s treatment if they have signed a written release allowing us to do so.
Information For Faculty & Staff
Advice on Assisting Students
• Visit the Red Folder website for resources and guidelines
• Contact CAPS for a consultation
• Visit our Crisis Intervention page or contact the Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400
What to do if you are concerned about your student
Students are adults and should schedule their own appointments. However, a CAPS counselor can help you figure out how to talk with your student about your concerns and, when indicated, encourage scheduling an appointment at CAPS.
If you are concerned about a mental health emergency after CAPS business hours, you or your student can contact the Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400 or visit the Emergency Department at Geisinger Community Center in Scranton.
See more information for crisis intervention.
Referrals to Community Providers
CAPS provides short-term individual services. We often refer students with ongoing or chronic conditions to local providers. Help your student by sharing insurance coverage details or helping them to access that information.