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What to Expect

When you call the counseling center to make an appointment at Extension 18202 you will be greeted by the receptionist. The receptionist will schedule an intake appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist according to the information you provide.

If you prefer to see one particular psychologist, inform the receptionist and she will strive to make a timely appointment; however; a requested therapist may result in a longer waiting period before your first appointment. The receptionist will ask you to come to the center early for your first appointment in order to complete the necessary paperwork. This provides important information to the center about your history, your family, and your current concerns. Some students find this paperwork burdensome, but it is quite valuable in determining the best way for us to meet your needs, so thank you in advance for your cooperation.

When you first meet with a therapist he or she will ask you about your reasons for seeking help. The therapist is getting to know you and also working to understand how to be most helpful. Some students find it very reassuring just to be able to speak with someone openly and confidentially.

With your therapist you will discuss and establish a treatment program and be given recommendations. The Center can only provide brief therapy for student and those students who would benefit from long-term treatment are referred to outside qualified community clinicians. There is no limit on the number of visits allowed for medication management; however stimulant medication cannot be prescribed by MCAPS. If you or your therapist thinks that a longer treatment is needed, you can obtain a referral to a psychologist in the Claremont area. You will have to make your own financial arrangements, but often psychologists accept health insurance or a sliding payment scale. Alternatively, your therapist may refer you to group therapy or a psychiatric consultation for the possible use of medication. In some cases, longer treatments can be accommodated during the semester.

Our professional staff includes Board Certified Psychiatrists (MD) and licensed psychologist (PhD or a PsyD). Also on staff are Post-Doc Therapist, Psychology Interns and Practicum Trainees who are working towards their doctoral degrees and are supervised by licensed psychologists. Our psychologists/therapists are required to be California licensed, or are in the process of obtaining licensure.

Our desire is to provide our clients with the best individual counseling available. If a client would like to change therapists, we follow an established policy to make the change. All you have to do is contact the receptionist or your therapist of record to request a change; however, multiple changes cannot be accommodated in a brief therapy model.

If you feel that you have any commendations or concerns you can contact the Dr. Gary DeGroot, gary_degroot@cuc.claremont.edu