Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

What does CAPS offer?

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) has been an integral member of the UCSD community since the late 1960's. CAPS is accredited by the International Association of Counseling Services (IACS). CAPS' integrative and student-centered services are designed to support students towards their academic success and personal development and well-being while at UC San Diego. CAPS also curates this helpful resource page specifically aimed at supporting the unique needs of graduate and professional students. CAPS services include the following:

• High quality, culturally-sensitive, and confidential counseling services, including individual, couples, family and group counseling, crisis/urgent care interventions, and referral services FREE of charge.
• Psychiatric services and consultation.
• Psycho-educational workshops and drop-in forums grounded on the latest science of optimal well-being and peak performance to support students in their life and leadership skills acquisition.
• A Wellness Peer Education Program, nationally recognized as a model of best practice for empowering students to develop leadership and helping skills.
• Campus mental health and prevention programming focused on stigma-discrimination reduction and community-building.
• Student mentoring and advocacy.
• Outreach and consultation services to faculty, staff and University administrators.
• An APPIC-approved post-doctoral fellowship training program.

Registered undergraduate, graduate, and professional school students are welcome for all these services. During the summer, students who were enrolled the previous Spring quarter and are intending to return in the Fall quarter are eligible for services. 

When to Use CAPS

Students also consult with CAPS about a variety of more specific personal, academic and relationship problems. No problem or concern is too big or small. Common issues students bring to CAPS are (but not limited to):

• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Stress and anxiety
• Poor academic performance and stud skills
• Roommate conflicts
• Homesickness and difficulty adjusting to the university
• Disappointing social relationships
• Alcohol and other substance use and abuse
• Difficulty in love relationships
• Loneliness and isolation
• Eating and body image problems
• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Cultural identity
• Sexuality and sexual identity
• Family conflict
• Grief and loss

To schedule a counseling appointment, please call (858) 534-3755. For more information about appointments, please visit the appointments page.

For more information and resources, visit the Counseling and Psychological Services website.