How do I know whether I should go to counseling?
Each year 1 in 5 students come to CAPS for help. While just about anyone could benefit from taking the time to reflect and gain insight or self-awareness, there are many people for whom participating in therapy or other CAPS services would improve their quality of life. We recommend that a student contact CAPS if distress in your life has recently increased or if your overall life satisfaction is not where you want it to be.
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
We are committed to assuring that students are seen as quickly as possible. Appointments are often scheduled within a day or two from the time of the initial request. During peak times of the semester it may take a little longer to schedule an appointment. Students who are in crisis are seen immediately, including the use of a daily drop-in hour from 2-3pm (no appointment needed).
How much does counseling cost?
Health services at the Student Health Center, including mental health services, are free for eligible students and paid for by student health fees.
Is counseling confidential?
All sessions are confidential. Only CAPS counselors have access to CAPS records. Others outside the Health Center, on or off campus, do not have access to your health records without your written permission. Additionally, your legal status will never be included in your records. Please note, CAPS counselors are mandated reporters in certain situations (see Confidentiality for more information).
Will going to counseling prevent me from obtaining my Merchant Mariner Credential or Coast Guard license?
No. Counseling in and of itself will not prevent credentialing or licensure. The medical and psychiatric guidelines used to review credentialing and licensure applications are contained in the Merchant Mariner Medical Manual.
How can I get the most out of counseling?
- Attend all of your appointments, and when needed cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
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Between appointments, be mindful of the issues you are working on, even tracking or writing notes between session.
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Write down feelings, thoughts and insights about to your issues and share them with your counselor.
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Set realistic and specific counseling goals.
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Be open to new ways of thinking and approaching challenges.
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Give feedback to your counselor, especially if your expectations are not being met.
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Know Your Rights when receiving healthcare.
What if I'm concerned about a friend?
We encourage students to call (707-654-1170) and talk with a CAPS counselor about your concerns. They will share information and resources as well as help you identify options for how best to help.
Will my parents, faculty, or others know that I met with a counselor?
No. Only if you sign a written release of information for CAPS to communicate with a specific person(s) will anyone else be informed of your attending counseling. For exceptions to confidentiality visit the Confidentiality page.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and psychologist?
Both psychiatrists and psychologists work in the mental health field. A psychiatrist possesses a Medical Degree (MD or DO) and can prescribe medication, whereas a psychologist earned a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology and provides talk therapy.
Does CAP prescribe psychiatric medication?
CAPS counselors do not prescribe medication but can provide referrals and recommendations for medications that can alleviate mental health concerns. Referrals may be within Student Health Services or in the community. If you're only looking for medication management, check with your insurance company or give us a call and we can assist you with locating a provider in the community.
Can CAPS help me find a counselor off campus?
One of the services CAPS provides is assisting students in connecting with appropriate services in the community. Our Referral Information page is a good place to start. You may also call us to discuss further. We can assist you in locating a therapist or psychiatrist who will best be able to address your needs.
What are some reasons why people don't see a counselor?
There can be barriers to meeting with a mental health professional. However, they can often be overcome. Check out 10 Reasons Why People Don't Go To Counseling to learn more about common barriers and how to not let them prevent you from seeking help.
Why does the USCG medically evaluate students?
Service on vessels may be strenuous and impose unique physical demands on mariners. The public safety risks associated with the medical and physical conditions of mariners on vessels are important considerations for the safe operation of vessels and the safety and well-being of the crew. (Merchant Mariner Medical Manual)
Can a medical condition affect my licensure?
Per the NMC (National Maritime Center), less than 2% of all medical evaluations (719K Forms) sent for final review are found not fit for certification. (NMC Medical Evaluations Brochure)
The U.S. Coast Guard’s expectation is that you disclose all current and past medical conditions on your 719K form. Reporting of medical conditions, including mental health, is likely not an excluding factor for licensure, however, not reporting them can have serious implications.
Top 5 Medical Conditions that might delay mariner applications if not disclosed
The below are the most common medical conditions that can delay the processing of a mariner’s application if the appropriate information isn’t submitted. (NMC Medical Evaluations Brochure)
- Cardiovascular Conditions
- Seizure Disorders
- Psychiatric Disorders
- Sleep Disorders
- Chronic Use of Impairing Medications
Mariners with medical conditions should work with their medical evaluator to see if they qualify for a medical waiver. (NMC Medical Evaluations Brochure)
What's a medical wavier?
Medical Waivers are granted by the NMC Medical Evaluations Division for conditions documented on the 719K form that do not pose a significant risk to maritime safety. The waiver is an acknowledgment by the Coast Guard that the condition was identified and places a responsibility on the mariner to immediately report any significant change in the identified condition(s). (NMC Medical Evaluations Brochure)
Objective medical evidence must indicate that the condition is sufficiently controlled and the effects of medication pose no significant risk to maritime and public safety. (Merchant Mariner Medical Manual)
Waivers are issued in conjunction with your Medical Certificate, so you WILL receive a medical certificate. Your waiver will be issued in the form of a letter, which will accompany your actual medical certificate.
What restrictions or limitations can be placed on my license if I have a medical condition?
Common restrictions/limitations that may be implemented include, but are not limited to (Merchant Mariner Medical Manual):
- “Must carry self-administered medications” (for mariners with conditions requiring medications to ensure safe functioning)
- “Daylight operations only” (for mariners unable to pass the color vision standards)
- “25 nautical miles from Harbor of Safe Refuge” (if the medical condition creates a need for surveillance and/or availability to obtain medical assistance)
- “Special equipment required while sleeping” (for mariners with obstructive sleep apnea)
What is it important that I report all current and past medical conditions listed on the 719K form?
Reporting of medical conditions, including mental health, is likely not an excluding factor. However, not reporting them is far more serious, as your signature on your Merchant Mariner Credential application attests that all information is true and correct.
