CAPS Outreach Program Gives Students More Access to Mental Health Resources

Increasing access to key mental health services continues to be a top priority for the Pat Walker Health Center's Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), which is why after last year's successful pilot of Let's Talk, CAPS will continue to offer the mental health outreach program on an on-going basis.

Let's Talk was designed to reach more students in distress, especially those who could benefit from mental health resources. The informal outreach program provides students the chance to meet one-on-one with a licensed mental health professional for brief, informal consultations at two different sites on campus.

"During 'Let's Talk' consultations, we can help students with specific problems and provide insight to what it's like to speak with a counselor," said Kendra Glasper, outreach coordinator for CAPS. "With the demand for rapid access and general mental health services increasing on college campuses, 'Let's Talk' brings helpful resources right to our students."

Let's Talk Location & Times

  • Mondays – 2-4 p.m., Gearhart 206, Graduate Student Lounge
  • Thursdays – 2-4 p.m., Arkansas Union 404, Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education

Consultations are free, no appointment is necessary, and students are seen on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Why visit Let's Talk?

Any student can take advantage of a Let's Talk consultation, but it's best for students who:

  • Are unsure about counseling or want to see what it's like to speak with a mental health clinician;
  • Want mental health expertise, but are not interested in ongoing counseling;
  • Have a specific problem/concern and would like to talk it through with someone; or
  • Have a concern about a friend or family member and would like ideas about what to do.

At the U of A, the most common reasons students seek CAPS services are for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues and academic struggles.

How is Let's Talk Different from formal counseling?

Even though Let's Talk clinicians are licensed mental health professionals, this program should not be considered a substitute for individual counseling or other mental health treatment.

Let's Talk counselors can also help students decide whether formal counseling at CAPS would be more beneficial and impactful.

"We want to create an environment on campus where students feel empowered to discuss mental health concerns and needs," said Glasper. "We encourage all students to drop by and talk about what's important to them."

All Let's Talk consultations are confidential, and mental health records will be taken in accordance with state and federal laws and privacy rights.

Learn more about Let's Talk and other great CAPS resources!

About Pat Walker Health Center: Pat Walker Health Center supports students along their academic journey by providing efficient and convenient access to quality medical care, mental health care, and wellness and health promotion programs and services. The health center strives to enrich the academic and personal development of students by creating an inclusive environment that promotes positive behavior and lifestyle changes. Pat Walker Health Center is a department of the Division of Student Affairs.

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports students in pursuing knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers, exploring diversity, and connecting with the global community. We provide students housing, dining, health care resources, and create innovative programs that educate and inspire. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time.

Contacts

Zac Garrett Brown, assistant director of communications
Pat Walker Health Center
479-575-4649, zacharyb@uark.edu

Headlines

Four Students Named Goldwater Scholars; Two Earn Udall Honorable Mentions

Four U of A students have received the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, an award for top students in mathematics, science, and engineering.

Cross-Campus Collaboration Culminates in New Outdoor Geological Installation

Grand opening event to celebrate the new GeoLab installation at the U of A’s Gearhart Hall courtyard is set for May 3. The installation will be open to the public year-round.

First Students to Use Online Degree to Hone Nursing Leadership, Elevate Patient Care

Hanna Baxendale and Wendi Kimbrell will begin coursework in the Doctor of Nursing Practice-Executive Master of Business Administration program offered by the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing and Walton College.

Join the Office for Sustainability on a Final Cruise to Campus

Cruise to Campus Wednesdays have fostered a gathering space for individuals interested in biking to campus. Drop by the Old Main Lawn from 7:30-10 a.m. Wednesday for coffee, something to eat and conversation.

Fay Jones School Student Ambassador Program Gives Voice to Design Students

The student ambassador program at the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design is built to connect top design students with their school, its alumni, its future students and others inside and outside the school.

News Daily