CLC team offers students emotional support remotely

During times of uncertainty, College of Lake County continues to provide students the resources they need, especially for their mental health.

When the campus shifted to the distance learning model in March, Counseling and Psychological Services, or CAPS, began providing confidential telehealth services to assist students with navigating current stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to typical challenges students may face, such as anxiety, depression, sleep disruptions and relationship conflicts.

Katy Robb, a licensed clinical social worker at CLC, is working remotely on a team of three full-time therapists to fulfill the needs of the campus community.

The multidisciplinary team started in 2018 to grow the staff it is today. CYN Counseling Center in Grayslake is contracted for after-hours service, so CAPS can respond any time, any day.

"Our services are 100 percent free and no one is turned away," said Robb. "We provide multi-holistic care to any CLC student so they can be academically, personally and professionally successful."

The priority of CAPS is to continue providing culturally responsive, ethical and high-quality mental health services to students during this time.

Fully, 80 percent of students who received help reported they are better prepared to work through future problems on their own.

"The shift to the remote model means we have no waitlist and can assess students very quickly," Robb said.

Most of the sessions are for immediate support, unlike traditional therapy consultations which are longer term. Due to fewer ongoing therapy sessions and outreach workshops in person, the CAPS team has more flexibility to talk with students sooner.

"A lot of students have been open to phone therapy, demonstrating their strength and ability to adapt and flex with this new model," Robb said. "They are willing to cross this bridge with us."

While campuses may be closed, virtual learning and support for students continues to thrive in response to community needs. Resources, such as a tip sheet for managing COVID-19 concerns - available at dept.clcillinois.edu/CAPS/Psychological_Tips_for_Managing_Coronavirus_Concerns.pdf - help everyone navigate challenges successfully.

To request an appointment with CAPS, leave a message at (847) 543-2032 and they will reply within 24 hours.

For information about the College of Lake County, visit www.clcillinois.edu or call (847) 543-2000.