The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a comprehensive counseling program through its Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) department. This program is designed to provide students with a safe and supportive environment to discuss their personal concerns, academic struggles, and mental health issues. The counseling services at UMass Amherst are staffed by licensed therapists and counselors who are dedicated to helping students achieve their personal and academic goals.
Counseling Services Offered
UMass Amherst鈥檚 CAPS department offers a wide range of counseling services, including individual counseling, group counseling, and couples counseling. These services are designed to address a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and academic stress. The counselors at CAPS are trained to work with students from diverse backgrounds and are sensitive to the unique challenges faced by students from underrepresented groups.
Individual Counseling
Individual counseling is a one-on-one therapy session between a student and a counselor. These sessions are designed to provide students with a safe and confidential space to discuss their personal concerns and work through challenging issues. The counselors at CAPS use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy, to help students achieve their goals.
| Type of Counseling | Description |
|---|---|
| Individual Counseling | |
| Group Counseling | Therapy session with a small group of students who share similar concerns |
| Couples Counseling | Therapy session with a student and their partner to work through relationship issues |
Specialized Counseling Services
In addition to individual, group, and couples counseling, UMass Amherst鈥檚 CAPS department offers a variety of specialized counseling services. These services include crisis counseling, which provides students with immediate support during times of crisis, and trauma counseling, which helps students work through experiences of trauma and abuse. The counselors at CAPS are also trained to work with students who are struggling with substance abuse and eating disorders.
Support Groups
UMass Amherst鈥檚 CAPS department also offers a variety of support groups, which provide students with a safe and supportive environment to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. These groups are led by trained counselors and are designed to help students build relationships, develop coping skills, and work through challenging issues.
- Anxiety Support Group: A support group for students who are struggling with anxiety and stress
- Depression Support Group: A support group for students who are struggling with depression and mood disorders
- Trauma Support Group: A support group for students who have experienced trauma and abuse
How do I schedule an appointment with a counselor at UMass Amherst's CAPS department?
+To schedule an appointment with a counselor at UMass Amherst's CAPS department, students can call the CAPS office at (413) 545-2337 or visit the office in person. Students can also schedule an appointment online through the CAPS website.
Are the counseling services at UMass Amherst's CAPS department confidential?
+Yes, the counseling services at UMass Amherst's CAPS department are confidential. The counselors at CAPS are bound by professional ethics and state laws that protect the confidentiality of student records and communications.
What if I am in crisis and need immediate support?
+If you are in crisis and need immediate support, you can call the UMass Amherst CAPS crisis line at (413) 545-2337. This line is available 24/7 and provides students with immediate access to a trained counselor.
In conclusion, the counseling program at UMass Amherst鈥檚 CAPS department is a valuable resource for students who are struggling with personal, academic, or mental health issues. The counselors at CAPS are trained to work with students from diverse backgrounds and are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for students to discuss their concerns and work through challenging issues.
