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What is CAPS?

Welcome to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)! CAPS serves as the primary mental health service at Northwestern University with offices on both the Evanston and Chicago campuses. CAPS provides a set of core services, including clinical services, educational workshops, and consultation with faculty, staff, and parents.

There is no charge for CAPS services. CAPS is based on a short-term model. All full-time matriculated students who come to CAPS will receive a personalized care plan tailored to their specific needs. Initial assessments will be used to determine the best fit between students' needs and all available CAPS and community resources to ensure the best possible treatment outcome. A personalized care plan may result in one or more of the following outcomes:

  1. Short-term individual counseling at CAPS;
  2. Group therapy at CAPS;
  3. Connection to other on-campus programs/services;
  4. Connection to specialized and optimal community providers/care, facilitated by a CAPS provider;
  5. Referral to CAPS workshops or other educational programming.
Here is how you can schedule your Initial Assessment at CAPS.

 

Learning Outcomes

Students who engage in programs, activities, and services provided by CAPS will [or will be able to] . . .

  • Prioritize and manage their own mental health so they can achieve their academic and personal goals. (Personal Development)
  • Develop personal life skills that lead to an integrated sense of self, well-being, and resilience. (Personal Development & Cognitive and Practical Skills)
  • Develop interpersonal skills that will help them form meaningful and healthy relationships. (Interpersonal Competence and Cognitive and Practical Skills)