Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need counseling?
There is no absolute formula to answer this question, but something to think about are:
Are there negative changes in how you handle academics and relate to others that have lasted for approximately two weeks or more?
Are you experiencing negative consequences of alcohol or drug use?
Simply put, have you been feeling bad for at least two weeks or so?
Are your friends commenting that you do not seem yourself? That something seems wrong?
If I took some of my room mate’s medicine for ADD and it helped me focus better, does this mean I have ADD?
No, it does not. Many medicines used to treat ADD are stimulants and would give anyone a brief increase in energy. They also have a number of unpleasant side effects for people who do not need them. They can contribute to anxiety and jitteriness as well as sleeping problems. Furthermore, it is illegal to take prescribed medicines not prescribed to you.
For how many counseling sessions do students usually come?
While CAPS does not have session limits, the emphasis is on brief, problem focused counseling. Our average number of sessions is between four and five. Students with very complex problems may have more spaced sessions, biweekly or monthly, after their initial crisis is resolved. You and your counselor will work out a good treatment plan.
Will it become part of my academic record that I have been to CAPS?
No. Information about you is not shared by CAPS, except in very rare circumstances when protection of human life is at stake. For further information about confidentiality, see Confidentiality.
What kind of training does the CAPS staff have?
All CAPS staff are appropriately trained and licensed. See CAPS Staff for details. In addition to this formal training, CAPS staff engage in ongoing educational activities in areas such as multicultural understanding and evidence based approaches to treatment.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist? Does CAPS have both?
A psychiatrist is a physician who has completed a medical degree and a residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists assess the complex causes of emotional problems and have prescribing authority. Psychologists have completed a doctoral degree in psychology. They are trained in the assessment of psychological difficulties and practice as “counselors” or “therapists” at CAPS. The latter terms are interchangeable.
CAPS has both as well as Clinical Social Workers and Counselors. Both of these groups have Masters’ Degrees in Social Work or Counseling.
See Psychiatric Care for further discussion of psychiatric services.
Do I need to make an appointment ahead of time?
You can make an appointment by calling 812-855-5711. If you feel that you are in a Crisis and need to be seen immediately, you can use our walk in service, daily between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.. For further information see Location and Hours, Making an Appointment, Crisis Walk-In.
My previous counselor suggested that I join a counseling group. Does CAPS have group counseling?
Yes, CAPS has a variety of counseling groups. Some are general
counseling groups for undergraduate or graduate students. We also offer groups with a specific focus such as stress management, disordered eating or dissertation support. More detailed information is found at Groups.
Are there services for survivors of sexual assault?
Yes, part of CAPS is the Sexual Assault Crisis Services. Its counselors offer educational and prevention programs on campus. They take crisis calls on a 24 hour, 7 day a week basis. Crisis number is 812 855-8900. They also provide individual and group counseling. For further information: Sexual Assault Crisis Service.
What if I want to try to help myself first before signing up for counseling?
CAPS offers a variety of self-help resources including informational pamphlets and screenings. Check out: Help Yourself-Useful Information, Relaxation-Self Assessment, Alcohol Self Assessment.
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