Student talking to a student worker at the field of memories.

Getting Started Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact CAPS?

If you are interested in CAPS services, please call us at 765-494-6995.

During business hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Purdue University Counseling and Psychological Services
601 Stadium Mall Drive, Room 224
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2052 

After hours and on weekends:

  • Call CAPS and press 1 to speak with an off-site clinician.

For emergencies:

  • Call 911 and ask to speak with a CIT officer.
Who will I be speaking with?
The person answering the phone will ask you if this is an emergency. If it is an emergency, you will receive further instructions. All other callers will be invited to schedule a 20-minute phone consultation with a CAPS clinician. Based upon your availability, this phone appointment should occur same day or next day.
What is a brief phone screen?

If you are seeking a consultation with CAPS, you will be scheduled for a brief phone screening appointment with a CAPS clinician. This brief discussion helps us assess the nature and urgency of your concern and identify the most appropriate next steps.

This appointment is for a specific time, reserved just for you. Usually, appointments are available the same day you call or the next day. During the brief phone screening appointment, you will be asked a variety of questions and invited to briefly talk about your situation. Because this is a phone appointment, it is important that you be available and are in a location that allows you to talk freely when the clinician calls you.

For those seeking a medication consultation with a psychiatric provider, CAPS asks that you go through the brief screening process described above. At the end of the assessment, which may include an initial consultation, your clinician will help refer you to a psychiatric provider, as appropriate.

Students who have never utilized our services in the past or are returning after an absence from services can call (765-494-6995) to schedule this brief phone screening appointment. 

What happens after my scheduled phone consultation?

There can be multiple outcomes to the call, including suggestions for self-help resourcesTAO (Therapy Assistance Online), a referral to a workshop or group at CAPS, an appointment for initial consultation at CAPS and/or referral to other campus resources or community resources. If your situation is critical or if you are experiencing a mental health crisis, CAPS also offers crisis appointments as needed. 

What services are available through CAPS?
CAPS services include educational workshops, group treatment, short-term individual therapy, substance use evaluations, care management, specialist consultation, case management, emergency response and psychiatric consultation.
What other campus resources are available?
There are numerous resources on campus available to help you through areas such as the Office of the Dean of Students, Steps to Leaps, Recreation & Wellness, the Veterans Success Center, Residential Life, cultural centers and peer support groups. CAPS can help you find an organization or program that can help you with the problem you are experiencing.
Will my insurance cover outside treatment
In the event CAPS refers you to an outside entity, CAPS will work directly with you to identify and recommend providers while taking into account the student’s insurance, whether the insurance is privately held or purchased through the University.
Can I meet with a clinician in person?
Yes, CAPS offers both in-person and virtual services options. If you have a preference for mode of services, please inform the clinician during your phone consultation.
What if I need medication?
For those seeking medication or medication consultation, CAPS asks that you go through the brief phone consultation and initial consultation process. If appropriate, your clinician will refer you to the psychiatric service that is the best fit for you.  
What if I'm seeking a specific type of treatment?
You do have the option to request a specific type of treatment. CAPS will work with you to coordinate the treatment you desire, be it at CAPS or elsewhere. 
What if I'm experiencing an emergency?
Clinicians are available for mental health emergencies. CAPS Clinicians are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and can be reached by calling (765)-494-6995. Clinicians are also available by calling (765)-494-6995 and pressing 1 outside of normal business hours. Students who are experiencing an immediate mental health crisis can also call 911 and ask to speak to a CIT officer or call 988, a national suicide and crisis lifeline.