What to expect in the Initial Consultation

Update: As of January 21, 2025, a $25 No Show Fee will be applied to all unattended and uncancelled appointments. Students who have not cancelled their appointment prior to the start time will be notified via email.

We strongly encourage students who cannot attend their scheduled appointments to call the Wellness Center at 856-256-4333, if they cannot make their designated time.  

It is important to arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment in order to complete paperwork; as there are many appointments scheduled each day, appointments will not be extended in order to accommodate a late arrival or incomplete paperwork. In your Initial Consultation (IC), you will meet with a counselor for 30 minutes. The IC is a brief meeting, and not a therapy session. The counselor will ask you questions about your current concerns and safety, and collaboratively make decisions for the most effective next steps for treatment that include the following possible options:

1. Participation in a CPS therapeutic group
2. Participation in a clinical workshop or skills-training group
3. Participation in more in-depth screening services for alcohol/other drug issues or eating issues
4. Participation in individual therapy
   1. Most students would receive up to 12 sessions per calendar year, although there may be a waiting period to receive individual therapy if you choose to get individual therapy at CPS; exceptions are made based on clinical need.
5. Connection to other Rowan resources that support well-being and academic success
6. Referral to a community mental health provider for therapeutic treatment 

Your initial consultation counselor at CPS can help connect you with services that best meet your individual needs.

Please review Know Before You Go for additional information and resources.

I am a student, but have never had a therapy appointment at the Wellness Center before. What can I expect? 

Consultation Information:

Counseling & Psychological Services Staff serve as consultants to individuals and groups in the Rowan community. Consultation involves sharing knowledge and expertise to assist others in responding effectively to mental health issues impacting the campus community. Consultation may take many forms, from a single contact over the phone, through email, or in person. In might also involve an ongoing relationship, for example, with a student organization seeking assistance in helping members to communicate more effectively together.