Frequently Asked Questions

What is counseling?

Counseling or psychotherapy is a method of treatment with a professional therapist who in meeting with you and discussing your troubling problems and feelings during regularly scheduled visits, will help you clarify and understand issues, and help you find solutions to deal more effectively with your problems.

Does it mean by seeking counseling that I am crazy?

Absolutely not! In fact by recognizing that you have a problem and seeking help is a sign of health.

Shouldn't I be solving problems on my own?

A counselor doesn't solve your problems for you. Your counselor helps you clarify issues so you can solve problems on your own. Counseling is designed to make you more self-sufficient, not more dependent.

Is counseling expensive?

Counseling provided by PsyACS is free for any Rutgers-Newark student who is currently enrolled.

What kinds of problems are appropriate to present for counseling?

We will be glad to talk to you about whatever troubles you.

Common concerns of many students include: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, academic problems, roommates, alcohol or other drugs, sex, romantic relationships, shyness, loneliness and identity.

What are some mental illness warning signs?

• Marked change of personality or behavior
• Inability to cope with problems of daily life
• Excessive anxiety or suspiciousness
• Prolonged or excessive sadness or apathy (not caring)
• Marked change in eating or sleeping habits
• Thinking or talking about suicide
• Extreme or alternating "highs" and "lows" of mood
• Abuse of alcohol or drugs
• Excessive anger, hostility or violent behavior
• Excessive fear of people, places or events
• Difficulty with memory and concentration
• Strange ideas or hallucinations

Who can use PsyACS?

Rutgers-Newark students who are currently enrolled are eligible for our services .

Will what I say be kept confidential?

Psychological and counseling services are confidential. Counseling information or records is not part of your academic transcripts. No information is released without a student's written authorization.

Certain exceptions do apply, as in a case of a psychological emergency requiring hospitalization, a serious and immediate threat to someone's life or in instances of suspected abuse of a child, elder or mentally disabled person.

Who are the Counselors?

Counselors are psychologists, certified alcohol and drug professional and psychiatrists. They are both male and female counselors who represent different racial and ethnic backgrounds.

How long does counseling last?

PsyACS operates on a short-term therapy model. In general the number of visits is based on a limit of 8 sessions.

What if I need long term psychotherapy?

PsyACS has information and knowledge about various outside services agencies and providers in Newark and other nearby counties. We will be happy to assist students who seek an outside referral. Students who have the Rutgers University student health insurance plan are eligible for mental health benefits.

What if I need medication?

Psychiatrists are on staff who are available to evaluate and discuss medication options with the student.

Please note that students are responsible for the costs of filling their prescriptions.