Counseling Services
While at ISU, you might encounter unexpected challenges, leading to confusion, anxiety, anger, or sadness. Life events can be overwhelming, but remember, you don't have to face them alone. Student Counseling Services can help you navigate these moments with free and confidential services tailored to your needs.
Triage - Your Initial Appointment with SCS
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Your first appointment is a friendly chat designed to understand your needs better. It's called a 'triage visit,' a common practice in healthcare and mental health settings. Our counselor will spend 20-30 minutes with you, listening to your concerns and working with you to figure out the best way forward. They'll then offer recommendations tailored just for you, which might include services you can find on this page or other helpful resources available on campus.
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Counseling Services Appointments
All other appointments will be scheduled either directly through your Counselor or by calling (309) 438-3655.
For helpful information about appointments at SCS, cancellation policy, rescheduling, and more, visit our FAQ page.
Student Counseling Services
The services below require an initial Triage visit before sessions can be scheduled.
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Individual Counseling
Short-term therapy is all about giving students the tools and techniques they need to tackle their worries. During these 50-minute sessions, our counselors can help you with immediate concerns, set specific goals, and support you through working towards achieving those goals. Attend up to 12 sessions an academic year, or 20 sessions throughout your degree journey.
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Group Counseling
Join small groups (up to 10 students) for 90-minute weekly sessions led by a counselor. Share, receive support, and grow with peers facing similar challenges in a confidential setting. We provide two group options: General Process Groups or Topical Groups (Students of Color, LGBTQ+, Eating Disorders/Body Image). Attend as many sessions as you need throughout your degree journey.
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Relaxation Room
Come unwind in our cozy space, equipped with comfy chairs, bio-feedback tools, soothing music, art supplies, and more. Our team offers personalized relaxation sessions with deep breathing, mindfulness, and art therapy. To use the Relaxation Room, you'll need to be in Individual or Group Counseling with SCS. Simply connect with your counselor or give us a call at (309) 438-3655 to schedule.
The services below do not require an initial Triage visit.
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Same-day Crisis Walk-in Services
If you're facing life-threatening situations, traumatic crises, or serious mental health challenges, we offer walk-in crisis appointments Monday through Friday, starting at 10 AM until our doors close. For same-day crisis appointments, come visit us in room 320 on the third floor of the Student Services Building or call (309) 438-3655.
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"Let's Talk" Drop-in Sessions
Our virtual sessions are a great way for students to have relaxed chats with a counselor and explore if counseling may be a good fit for them. If you have a specific concern on your mind, our 'Let's Talk' sessions are here to provide helpful perspectives. Counselors hold virtual walk-in hours on:
If after attending a "Let's Talk" session you feel that counseling may be a good fit for you, an initial Triage appointment can be scheduled.