How To Refer a Student

In an Emergency, call 911.
Examples of emergencies include:

• Situations in which a suicide plan has been enacted, as when someone reports having taken a substance in an attempt to kill themselves.

• When a credible threat is received from someone who refuses your assistance.

In some instances it may be difficult to determine if an emergency situation exists, for example, if a confused person becomes uncooperative, refuses help after sharing suicidal intent, then leaves your office. In such instances, you are welcome to call CAPS to consult with a professional staff person. Inform the receptionist that you wish to discuss a crisis or emergency situation with a counselor at once.

When referring a student for mental health counseling,

it is best to have the student call CAPS at 243-4711. By mid-semester is not uncommon for students to have to wait a week or more for the first “regularly” available appointment. When the problem requires more immediate attention the student should plan to walk-in to CAPS during the next regularly scheduled walk-in time, typically 10 AM and 2 PM daily when school is in session. After hours and on weekends, crisis calls are taken by the staff of the Curry Health Center Medical Department. Students wishing to be seen immediately may come directly to the Health Center, (634 Eddy). At night, students should use the after-hours entrance on the West end of the building.

If you are concerned about a student’s reluctance to keep an appointment, please feel free to accompany them to Curry Health Center or CAPS and wait with them until they meet with their counselor or medical professional. When possible, please advise the staff of the reasons for the referral, emphasizing in particular any concerns about suicide or other forms of dangerous behavior.