Making the Initial Appointment


We are currently offering all of our services remotely via Zoom PHI, a HIPAA-compliant video platform, to protect the health and privacy of students and staff. Please call (217-333-3704) with questions rather than physically coming to the Counseling Center.

The Counseling Center provides a same-day appointment system. We ask that students call on the same day they would like to meet with a counselor. We use same-day scheduling for first-time appointments because we believe this allows us to reach students at the point of their greatest need. This approach allows us to offer support to as many students as possible each day. We are dedicated to providing accessibility and support services to our students.

How do I make an appointment?


The Counseling Center schedules first-time appointments on a same-day basis.* You can schedule a first appointment by calling us at 217-333-3704. We’re open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The earlier in the day you call, the more likely it is that you will get an appointment. If appointments have already filled for the day when you call, you can speak with a triage counselor who will listen to what’s going on and help you figure out the best solutions for you at that moment.

*Special note: Please stay on the line until your call is picked up. You will hear ringing until your call is answered; if you hang up, your call will be moved to the order in which it was received.

What should I expect?


This video explains what you can expect. Your first appointment will provide you with an opportunity to talk confidentially with a counselor about your immediate concerns. Your counselor will talk with you about some of the reasons you scheduled the appointment and will work with you to evaluate what services and campus resources will be most helpful for you. Some students find that this initial appointment is sufficient to resolve the immediate concern, while others require ongoing support. If further services would be beneficial, your counselor will talk with you about why this recommendation is being suggested and work with you to answer any questions you may have. These additional services may include resources offered by the Counseling Center or referral to another campus or community resource.

What if I need to come to the Counseling Center immediately?


The Counseling Center also provides emergency consultations to students with urgent mental health concerns between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. These consultations are focused on stabilizing the current crisis/emergency and providing immediate support to the student while assisting them in linking to our services. Please note that during Fall 2020, we encourage you to call us at 217-333-3704 rather than physically coming to the Counseling Center. We can offer the support you need via phone.

What if I need to talk to someone after 5:00 pm?


The Counseling Center collaborates with the Rosecrance Crisis Line to provide support and referrals for individuals needing mental health support after 5 p.m. and on weekends. Please call 217-359-4141 to speak with a counselor.