Below is a list of frequently asked questions that the Counseling Center often receives from the university community and families. We have attempted to answer each question as best as we can. If the specific question that you have is not below, please feel free to contact us at (414) 288-7172.
How long do I have to wait to get an appointment?
When you initially call, you will usually schedule a brief phone consultation, or triage appointment, on the same day or within a few days. Assignment to an ongoing counselor tends to happen about a week later except during busy times of the year. The earlier in the year that you schedule with the Counseling Center, the less likely it is that you will have to wait to see a counselor. We do not have waiting lists.
What happens during individual counseling appointments?
Your first individual counseling appointment is called an intake. Prior to this appointment, we will ask you to complete some paperwork, which will give us some general information about you. During the appointment, your provider will ask for detailed information about your background, complete a mental health screening, and discuss the reason(s) that brought you to the Counseling Center. After obtaining a fuller picture of your concerns, you and your provider will discuss treatment options and goals to address your concerns.
During individual sessions, you will work with your provider to work toward the goals you identified during the intake appointment. This may involve exploring patterns, understanding relationships, or learning a new problem-solving or coping skill.
Does the Counseling Center have a limit on the number of sessions a student can be seen?
Services at the Counseling Center is based on a short-term, brief model.
What if I want to be seen more frequently or see a provider longer than a semester? Can the Counseling Center help me find a community provider?
For students who need longer term, specialized treatment, referrals will be made to community providers; options are largely driven by insurance, but we have an updated list of community clinics and clinicians we can recommend. We can also help find referrals for those with limited or no insurance or desire out-of-pocket options. You can also search for providers on your own at or your health insurance web portal.
How much does a Counseling Center appointment cost?
There is no charge for Counseling Center services.
Will my parents, faculty, and/or others be informed I am seeing a provider at the Counseling Center?
If you are 18 years of age or older, unless you have signed a written release of information for the Counseling Center, our confidentiality policy does not permit the Counseling Center to disclose who is seen here without a client's permission.
What if I am worried about a friend? What can I do to help them?
If you are worried about someone else's safety and want to know how to help them, please call us to consult.
