Are services available in any language other than English?
We have counselors who speak Spanish. At times, we have other counselors who speak other languages. Feel free to call and ask.
How long is each appointment?
Counseling appointments are generally 45 minutes long. The total time period required for the initial consultation or intake appointment is approximately 90 minutes, so be sure to keep this in mind when scheduling your appointment.
Psychiatric Appointments are usually one hour for the first appointment (more time might be needed if additional paperwork is required) and 30 minutes for follow-up appointments.
Do you provide after-hours emergency mental health services?
Yes. If a problem arises after business hours or on the weekends, call our 24-Hour Telephone Counseling line at 512-471-3515. A counselor is available to talk with you about your concerns 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
In the case of a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 immediately.
What if I'm concerned about another person's behavior?
Call the Behavioral Concerns Advice Line (BCAL) at 512-232-5050 if you are concerned about the behavior of a UT student, faculty, or staff member. Trained staff will assist you in exploring available strategies, and will also provide appropriate guidance and resource referrals.
If you have concerns regarding an individual's behavior who is not at UT, or even your own behavior, call our 24-hour Telephone Counseling service at 512-471-CALL (2255) (UT Students Only).
Do many students use CMHC?
Yes. In fact, it is quite common for students to come for a talk with a counselor. Being in college or graduate school entails many changes and challenges: leaving home, choosing majors, negotiating intimate relationships, and moving on when graduation approaches. It is natural for people to want to talk with someone about these complex developmental issues. And, of course, other students may have additional concerns such as depression, anxiety, eating concerns, self-esteem issues, sexuality, family illnesses, and so on. The CMHC staff is sensitive to the broad range of concerns that students have.
Is there a charge for your services?
All our services are free of charge to currently enrolled UT students. Faculty and staff are not eligible for services at CMHC, but can contact the UT Employee Assistance Program.
What if I can't make a scheduled appointment?
Call the front desk at 512-471-3515 or e-mail cancel@austin.utexas.edu as soon as possible after you become aware that you cannot come to your appointment. You can leave a message on the voicemail if you are calling outside of business hours. Please try to call at least 24 hours before your scheduled meeting. There is a $25 fee for appointments that are not cancelled by noon the day before the appointment.
Will my privacy be protected?
CMHC takes student privacy and confidentiality very seriously. Our records are separate from your academic records and cannot be released without your permission. See our confidentiality policy
What if I am not happy with the counselor I am assigned, or with my experience at CMHC?
Generally, it is possible to change counselors if you do not feel you are well-matched with the person you are seeing. If you have difficulties with any aspect of your service at CMHC, call 512-471-3515 and ask to speak with Dr. Marla Craig, Assistant Director for Clinical Services. You can also submit an electronic feedback form.
