Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers a variety of services to the campus community, including, but not limited to, individual and group counseling, workshops, and consultation.
Individual Counseling
Students seek individual counseling for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to:
- Relationship concerns
- Stress
- Chronic mental health issues
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Homesickness
- Grief and loss
Students who schedule an intake session for CAPS will meet individually with a staff therapist to determine the services which will best suit their needs.
Counseling sessions may be spaced out across the academic year. We will also facilitate referrals to practitioners in the community when it is appropriate and/or upon request.
We are unable to provide psychological assessments for emotional support animals/comfort animals, housing accommodations, and academic accommodations. We will facilitate a referral to practitioners in the community who can provide these services and encourage students to utilize home providers when appropriate.
Couples counseling is also offered. At least one partner must be a full-time registered SMCM student. Similar to individual counseling, relationship counseling also follows our short-term approach. If the couple requires on-going or longer term treatment, we will facilitate referrals to practitioners in the community.
Group Therapy
One of the most important aspects of Group Therapy is the trust that is built between members. Each member must be prepared to make a commitment of confidentiality and respect for each of their fellow members. Depending on the group, some other commitments might include agreeing to come for a minimum number of sessions, coming to every group meeting or calling if you have to miss a group. As in any relationship, the development of trust, cohesion, and a sense of safety allows people to talk personally and honestly. Group offerings change throughout the academic year. Check out our Group Therapy page for information regarding our current groups.
Psychiatric Evaluation
St. Mary’s College has a psychiatrist available for eligible students 8 hours a week during the academic year. Students are referred to the psychiatrist through CAPS staff only. In order to continue utilizing psychiatric services a student must continue therapy with a counselor in the center no less than two times a semester or as determined in consultation with the psychiatrist.
Consultation/ Referrals
CAPS staff are available to students, families, faculty, and staff who may be concerned about a student, friend or loved one. CAPS is bound by limits of confidentiality when participating in consultations.
CAPS will facilitate referrals to practitioners in the community when it is appropriate and/or upon request.
Outreach Programs and Workshops
Advocacy Services
The Advocate is a confidential resource for student affected by any unwanted sexual experience or form of interpersonal violence. The Advocate provides support and referrals to on-campus resources including:
- Counseling and Psychological Services
- Filing a report with the college
- Housing assistance
- Academic support
The Advocate provides support and referrals for any other survivor services and resources, both on and off campus.
The Advocate supervises the Sexual Misconduct Advocacy and Resource Team (SMART) and works with them to provide education and outreach programming to aid in the campus’ efforts to prevent sexual violence.