Quick Answers

Are services confidential? 

• All services are confidential in accordance with California Law and ethical guidelines established by the American Psychological Association (APA).
• CAPS cannot confirm or deny whether a student is being seen without written permission.
• CAPS records are completely separate from a student's academic record.

Exceptions to confidentiality (rare):

• Imminent risk of harm to self or others.
• Reports of child abuse, dependent adult abuse, or viewing child pornography.
• Student is "gravely disabled" and unable to meet basic needs.

Who is eligible for CAPS?:

• Full-time undergraduates and graduate students: Eligible for individual or group counseling.
• Part-time students:  Limited services for evaluation and referral. 

How do I refer a student to CAPS?

• Encourage the student to call, email or schedule online.
• You may call CAPS with the student present to help them connect. 

What is the cost?

• All services are free.  
• No insurance is used or accepted.

How many sessions can I have?

• CAPS offers short-term care. If short term care isn't appropriate for your needs or goals, CAPS will refer you to a specialized therapist in the community. CAPS has an extensive list of vetted community providers that offer sliding fee scale and accept SMC student insurance.
• Group therapy has no session limit.
• Summer services are more limited due to reduced staffing. 

What is the cancellation policy?

• Two no shows or cancellations without 24 hour notice may lead to suspension of services for that semester and a referral to community providers.

Documentation Policies:

• Therapy hours for the MFT Program:  CAPS cannot sign off on hours; students should use Timely Care.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs):  CAPS does not provide documentation; students must begin with Student Disability Services (SDS).
• Disability Accommodations:  CAPS can provide documentation only if the student is a current CAPS client, the therapist deems accommodations necessary, and the student provides written consent.

When are students referred off campus?

• Require long-term or open-ended therapy.
• Have severe, chronic symptoms.
• Do not comply with treatment, (e.g. repeated no shows, repeated requests for a different clinician).
• Request services outside of CAPS scope (e.g. court-ordered assessments).
• Displays threatening or inappropriate behavior toward CAPS staff.
• Withdraw, are suspended, dismissed, or medically withdrawal from the college.