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A graduate student’s daily schedule can sometimes feel overwhelming, as you make an effort to balance coursework with teaching, employment, relationships and other responsibilities. As a result, it can be difficult to seek in-person counseling to address mental health issues.

To help meet this need for graduate students, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) has launched a number of telehealth programs to help those who are facing mental health challenges on and off campus.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is a form of care that allows you to access mental health services virtually rather than in-person. Whether you are looking for one-on-one counseling or something more informal, there are telehealth resources to fit your needs.

Online one-on-one counseling

CAPS offers one-on-one telehealth therapy sessions to qualifying graduate students through private video sessions with their counselors. The telehealth program is a great option for those who are not regularly on campus or have a schedule that limits their ability to seek in-person counseling. However, some restrictions apply:

• Graduate students must go through the intake process at CAPS (walk-in evaluation)
• Graduate students must speak with their individual counselor to determine if telehealth is appropriate for them

Telehealth is not suitable for those who are in crisis, having suicidal ideations or other risk factors (e.g. homicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, certain types of anxiety, etc.). Suitability for telehealth is up to the discretion of individual counselors and the clinical needs of each student.

e-Let’s Talk

e-Let’s Talk allows you to receive free access to informal and confidential consultations with a counselor through video sessions. You do not need to go through the intake process or be established clients to use e-Let’s Talk. Additionally, e-Let’s Talk allows you to talk with a counselor on an “as needed” basis without committing to a regular counseling schedule. This service is a great for graduate students who:

• Aren’t sure about counseling or are curious about what it’s like to speak with a counselor
• Aren’t interested in ongoing counseling but would like the perspective of a professional counselor
• Have a specific problem or concern and would like someone to talk it through with
• Have a concern about a friend or family member and would like ideas about what to do

To use e-Let’s Talk, fill out the form on the website during operational hours (Monday through Friday from 2 to 3 p.m.). A counselor will reach out to you directly with a secure video link.

SilverCloud

If you are looking to move at your own pace, CAPS also offers , an online portal that is free for students, graduate students, staff and faculty. This self-paced tool allows users to explore three emotional health topics: anxiety, depression and stress.

Each module offers information, tips and techniques for improved emotional well-being. The program helps individuals identify and enhance strengths and skills, learn techniques to overcome and manage symptoms of low mood and depression and develop coping skills to combat anxiety and anxious thoughts.