FAQ

What can I expect during my first visit?

When you arrive for your first visit, you will be warmly welcomed and asked to take a seat in our comfortable waiting room which features massage chairs. Then you will meet with a provider for up to 30 minutes to discuss the reason(s) for your visit. You will have the opportunity to talk about your concerns in your own words. Your provider will have some questions to help clarify your situation; by the end of the initial consultation, the two of you will create your Personalized Well-Being Plan.

Who can use CAPS, and how much does it cost?

Services are available at no additional charge to any student enrolled at Longwood University. Testing for ADHD and/or SLD is the only fee-based service. 

How do I get started and how long will it take?

Most services are available by appointment. You can schedule an Initial Consultation and Single Session Therapy appointments through the secure Online Portal.

You can make an appointment either in person (in the upper level of Pierson Hall), by phone (434-395-2409), or by email ([email protected]).  Typically, you will be able to meet with a provider within one week. Often, when there are scheduling delays, it is due to the student’s limited availability; however, if you prefer to be seen sooner, Single-Session Therapy is an option. If for any reason you are unable to keep an appointment, please call CAPS to let us know. We appreciate as much advance notice as possible for any cancellation or rescheduling of appointments.

If you are a student experiencing significant distress or a crisis, contact our Mental Health Crisis Support Line via the WellTrack Boost app or by calling (434) 395-2409 and selecting option 2. For an emergency, call 911.

Is my information kept confidential?

In compliance with ethical, legal, and professional standards, counseling is confidential, and CAPS staff places the highest level of importance on protecting your private information. We do not share information about a student without their explicit, written permission, except when required by law, such as in the case of suspected child or dependent abuse, imminent danger to self or others, or a court order.

All counseling records are confidential and are not part of your Longwood academic record.

How does counseling work?

Counseling is a collaborative process that includes your input every step of the way, from determining what your goals are to deciding when it is time for your counseling experience to come to an end. You and your provider will work together to explore your thoughts and feelings, to examine relationships, and to create your Personalized Well-Being Plan. Counseling can be hard work, but the rewards you will gain from making positive changes in your life are priceless.