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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

Student Counseling Services

The services below require an initial Triage appointment before sessions can be scheduled.

  • Individual Counseling

    Short-term therapy is all about giving students the tools and techniques they need to address their concerns. 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.

  • Group Counseling

    Join small groups (up to 10 students) for 90-minute weekly therapy 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.

  • Relaxation Room

    Discover relaxation techniques in our cozy space for stress relief. With comfy chairs, bio-feedback tools, soothing music, art supplies, yoga mats, pillows, and gentle lighting, it's designed for your comfort. Let our staff guide you through a personalized journey, including deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, full-body relaxation, and more.

The services below do not require an initial Triage appointment.

  • Same-day Crisis Walk-in Services

    If you're facing life-threatening situations, traumatic crises, or serious mental health challenges, we offer  Same-day Crisis Walk-in Services,  Monday through Friday, 10am through close. Some examples of mental health emergencies may include: suicidal/homicidal thoughts or actions, a recent incident of sexual assault, or the death of a significant person in your life. For same-day crisis appointments, please visit us in room 320 on the third floor of the Student Services Building or call (309) 438-3655 .

  • Confidential Advising

    If you have experienced a recent incident of sexual assault or relationship violence, our Confidential Advisors offer emergency and ongoing support. Confidential Advisors are trained to assist students, explain rights, and communicate with campus authorities as requested by the student. Importantly, they don't have to report of incidents of sexual assault and/or relationship violence to the University, unlike other faculty and staff. For Confidential Advising appointments, come visit us in room 320 on the third floor of the Student Services Building  or call  (309) 438-3655 .

  • "Let's Talk" Drop-in Sessions

    Virtual "Let's Talk" 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.