Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I make an appointment with CAPS?

  To schedule your initial consultation, call us during business hours at (631) 632-6720, or come to our main office at the Student Health and Counseling Center, 2nd floor.

• What are CAPS' hours?

  Fall & Spring: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed 12:00-1:00)

  Summer: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed 12:00-1:00)

   

• Can I come to CAPS without an appointment if I'm in crisis?

  Of course. If you're in crisis, you may come to CAPS without an appointment. Please be aware that you may need to wait until a counselor is available.

• What if I'm in crisis but can't come in, or my crisis occurs while CAPS is closed?
  • If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call University Police at (631) 632-3333.
  • If you’re in a crisis but not in immediate danger, call the CAPS Crisis Line at (855) 509-5742 (available 24/7).
  • If it’s not a crisis, but you’d like to speak with someone right away, you can use TalkNow, provided by TimelyCare.
• Do you offer tele-counseling?

  CAPS services are provided in person. However, if you are seeking tele-counseling, all students are eligible for 12 free tele-counseling sessions per year through TimelyCare.

• I don't have a private space for a tele-counseling session. What can I do?

  Stony Brook offers Zoom Pods - private spaces where you can attend telehealth appointments. Reserve a pod today: Zoom Pods

• Is there a fee to use CAPS?

  No. CAPS services, including psychiatric care, are free for students who:

  • Are enrolled in six or more credits
  • Have paid the health & counseling fee (included in your tuition)

  Students taking fewer than six credits may still request a consultation for a referral to off-campus providers.

• Do I need medical insurance to use CAPS?

  For appointments - no, all CAPS services are covered by the Health and Counseling fee, which is part of your tuition. 

  Services for which you may require medical insurance are:

  • If you are prescribed medication, that medication may be covered by your health insurance.
  • If you are referred to an outside provider, they may require medical insurance.
• Are there charges for medications?

  Yes. Medications prescribed by CAPS psychiatrists should be paid for out of pocket or through your insurance.

  • Many medications are available through the SBU Campus Pharmacy, except for controlled substances.
  • Prescriptions can also be filled at nearby off-campus pharmacies

  Be sure to check your insurance policy for details about prescription coverage.

• Are counseling sessions confidential?

  Yes. All counseling sessions are confidential. Information is shared only when:

  1. You provide a written consent to release information to someone (for example, another provider).
  2. There’s concern for your immediate safety or the safety of someone else.
  3. There’s a report of physical or sexual abuse of a child.
  4. The information is required by a court order or applicable law.

Other Questions? Call Us at 631-632-6720.