CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services)

Support Student Wellness at Saint Mary's College: Donate to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

SMC is committed to the mental and emotional well-being of our students. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) plays a crucial role in helping students navigate life’s challenges, from academic stress to personal struggles, all within a confidential, culturally sensitive, and supportive environment. Our mission is not just to provide counseling, but to ensure that every student has the resources and support needed to thrive at SMC—personally, academically, and socially.

Why Your Donation Matters:

Our 2023-2024 survey data shows the vital role CAPS plays in student retention. In fact, 89% of students who accessed CAPS services reported that the support they received helped them stay enrolled at SMC. As mental health challenges continue to rise across college campuses, your donation can directly support the well-being and success of our students. With mental health issues affecting students’ ability to focus, learn, and perform academically, CAPS is more critical than ever.

The Growing Need for Support:

Recent surveys indicate that nearly half of all students report that their mental health significantly impacts their academic performance. Over the past decade, the number of college students facing depression has nearly doubled, with more than 40% of students now reporting symptoms*. This increase is mirrored by a rise in the demand for counseling services, with many centers, including CAPS, facing waitlists and overwhelming demand.

In response to this growing need, CAPS has seen a 13% increase in students seeking support compared to last year, with urgent appointments spiking dramatically. At a time when 1 in 4 students experiencing mental health challenges leave school*, the work of CAPS becomes even more critical to student retention and success.

How Your Contribution Helps:

Your donations will directly support the ongoing efforts of CAPS to meet the increasing mental health needs of our students. Funds will be used to:

• Develop Staff Expertise: As student mental health challenges evolve, we need to develop new skills and competencies so that we can offer the most effective, culturally sensitive care.
• Create a Welcoming Environment: Enhancing our office space will ensure that students feel comfortable and supported when they come to CAPS. For example, we would like to create a space where students can de-stress and practice some of the emotional regulation strategies that they learn in therapy.
• Support Operational Improvements: Donations will allow us to invest in new tools and technologies to better serve students, streamline operations, and improve access to care.

The Impact of Your Gift:

When you donate to CAPS you’re investing in the success and well-being of our students so they can thrive and continue their studies at SMC. In addition to supporting students directly, CAPS offers consultation services to parents and faculty, equipping them to better support students and strengthening students’ overall support network. This collaborative effort ensures that students have the resources they need to succeed.

Through CAPS, students develop better coping strategies, improve their academic performance, and foster meaningful connections with their peers and the broader SMC community. Your generosity helps CAPS remain an effective and critical resource for all students by providing individual, group, couples, and friend therapy. CAPS also leads outreach and educational initiatives that promote mental health awareness, ensuring that every SMC student benefits from CAPS' work—even if they don’t seek counseling directly.

Thank you for helping us create a supportive and empowering environment for every SMC student!

As we continue to adapt to the changing needs of our community, your donation is a powerful way to help us support students’ mental health, prevent burnout, and foster a stronger, more resilient SMC.

Join Us in Supporting Student Wellness:

Your contribution can make a lasting difference in the lives of SMC students. Please consider making a donation to CAPS today, and help us provide the care and support that every student deserves. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, grow, and thrive.

Donate Now and make a direct impact on student wellness at SMC. Thank you for your support!

To learn more about CAPS visit our website and follow us on Instagram

* Data is from the Healthy Minds Network of the American Counsel on Education