Schedule an initial appointment with an SHCS Counselor at 219 North Hall.
The initial appointment will help clarify if short-term individual counseling is recommended, and an appointment will be made with a staff member as soon as possible. If longer term counseling services are needed, referral to a community professional will be made.
UC Davis Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
If you have SHIP insurance, you will need to speak with a counselor at SHCS to request authorization before you meet with a therapist in the community. After speaking with a SHCS counselor and obtaining authorization, go to the office of Insurance Services (530) 752-6055 at the Student Health and Wellness Center to pick up a form you will take to your first visit with a community counselor. Insurance Services can also answer questions about your coverage such as the amount of your co-payment.
Private or Other Insurance
If you will use private insurance, you will not need authorization from SHCS. You may consult directly with your insurance company about providers. You may also consult with a SHCS counselor about specific recommendations based on your insurance providers.
Finding a counselor who will be a good fit for you is important. Often this relationship is one of the most important aspects of counseling. You have an opportunity to speak with referrals on the phone and can ask questions to help you determine if they might be a good match for you.
Some aspects of a counselor that might be important to you: therapeutic style, theoretical orientation, cultural identities (e.g., ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation), areas of expertise, language, or other factors. You might want a counselor who is more directive or one who lets you take the lead.
If it makes a difference to you, just ask.
Sample scripts for initial call
Introduction
Hi, my name is ___________ , and I was referred to you by ___________ at SHCS for counseling/assessment.
Are you taking new clients?
Insurance
What kind of insurance do you accept? Would you bill my insurance directly?
Would you be able to provide billing statements for me to submit for insurance reimbursement?
Do you have a sliding fee scale? If so, how much do you charge per session?
Assessment
Do you do ___________ testing?
What kind of documentation are you able to provide? (e.g., disability)
Match
What is your general style in working with clients?
Do you have particular training or experience in working with clients with my concerns?