Drop-In/Crisis Screening
CAPS offers tailored services to honor the unique needs of each student. As an enrolled MSU student registered for one or more credits, you are eligible for our services.
Just drop in to the CAPS main location and check-in at the reception desk. We are located on the third floor of Olin Health Center (463 E. Circle Drive). If you are not in crisis, learn how to get started with CAPS here.
Students who are in a crisis or extreme distress are usually given first priority.
See our hours of operation for more information about availability. Crisis services are available 24/7.
Types of Screening Appointments:
- Urgent/crisis needs
- Counseling and/or medication at CAPS
- You'll be asked to complete a few forms to better understand you, your concerns and preferences. The most appropriate available clinician will meet with you for about 30 minutes (with some flexibility, as needed, for urgent/crisis needs). During this collaborative dialogue, your clinician will gather more information help make the most appropriate clinical recommendation for your needs. Recommendations might include:
- Referral for medication
- Referral to off-campus or university services
- Ongoing counseling (e.g., individual, relationship/couple or group) at CAPS or in the community.
- You'll be asked to complete a few forms to better understand you, your concerns and preferences. The most appropriate available clinician will meet with you for about 30 minutes (with some flexibility, as needed, for urgent/crisis needs). During this collaborative dialogue, your clinician will gather more information help make the most appropriate clinical recommendation for your needs. Recommendations might include:
- Consultation (e.g., assistance with helping others; getting help through a one-time conversation if ongoing services are not desired). Students who receive consultation are not asked to complete any additional forms.
- Assistance with referrals and connecting students with other resources, such as the MSU Center for Survivors, Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD), Safe Place (domestic violence shelter and services), and Student Health Services (primary care/general medical services).
- For students requesting consultation, referral services or assistance in getting connected with other resources, a brief conversation with a clinician may be the most appropriate first step. Often, consultations do not require students to complete any additional forms and are designed to help students who are not interested in ongoing clinical services quickly.
With this screening process, our goals include:
- Enhancing the student experience, including prioritizing safety, quality, and continuity of care.
- Offering tailored services for every unique student through a streamlined and consistent process.
- Assessing the unique needs of each student and offering the most appropriate type of screening service for them.
- Matching students with the most appropriate clinician at CAPS at the screening appointment, based on client preference and the clinical expertise of staff.
- Connecting students with the most appropriate clinician at CAPS as soon as possible, based on student preferences and clinical needs.
- Providing a clinical recommendation following screening within one to two business days and, whenever possible, during the actual screening appointment.
- Enhancing continuity of care (e.g., ensuring that, whenever possible, students receive services, referral notifications and ongoing planning from the same clinician, as frequently as possible.
- Same-day access for any issue or concern, including urgent needs.
CAPS, as part of Michigan State University, is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Call (517) 355-8270 to request accommodations to use our services if needed.