Caring for Minds. Strengthening Well-Being.
Your well-being matters, and we're here to support you. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) supports Penn State students through life’s challenges with care that’s personal, confidential, and grounded in growth. Our staff provides counseling, crisis intervention, workshops, and resources to help students manage stress, strengthen resilience, and build the skills needed to thrive.
Whether you’re seeking one-on-one support, learning strategies for balance, or connecting with peers who understand, CAPS offers a safe space to explore, heal, and grow. Because at Penn State, well-being is the foundation for success, in the classroom and beyond.
Scheduling an Appointment
The first session with CAPS gives you space to talk through concerns, identify goals and priorities, and explore personalized support options. Some students find one appointment is enough, while others continue care or access additional resources.
- CAPS cannot provide letters of support at the first appointment or without a treatment history during the requested time frame. For documentation needs, students should reach out to current or former health care providers.
If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Kevin Debow, Mental Wellness Counselor, at 412-675-9475 or by email at [email protected]. Students may also drop by Kevin's office located within the Commuter Lounge, Student Community Center, Room 110
If you or you have a student in need of urgent service, please call or encourage your student of concern to call our Penn State Crisis Line.
- Crisis services are confidential and available 24/7 by calling: Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400
- Text the 24 hour Crisis Text Line: text “LIONS” to 741741
- If you are dealing with a life-threatening emergency, call 911 for immediate help.
Confidentiality Notice
All information shared between the student and the counselor is strictly confidential. All calls and requests for information are strictly confidential. No contacts are made without the student's written permission, unless the student is a risk to themself or others.
Supporting Your Growth, One Conversation at a Time.
Your emotional and psychological well-being is an important part of your Penn State experience. Whether you're managing stress, building resilience, or navigating life’s challenges, CAPS offers support that aligns with your academic and personal journey. Our services help you develop lifelong skills, foster healthy relationships, and strengthen your sense of belonging and purpose.
Self-Care Resources
Sometimes you just want tools and support you can access on your own schedule. CAPS offers self-guided resources, online programs, and wellness tips you can use anytime to check in with yourself and manage stress in healthy ways.
Crisis Intervention
If you're in a mental health crisis or need urgent support, you don’t have to handle it alone. CAPS and the 24/7 Penn State Crisis Line are always here to help—any time, day or night.
The Red Folder
The Red Folder initiative is a resource for faculty, staff, and others who interact with students. It offers guidance on how to recognize signs of distress, respond appropriately, and connect students with help.
Well Track
Well Track is an online interactive self-help therapy site available to students at any time of day, from any location. Well Track features a wellness assessment that students can take one time or on an as-needed basis, to help them understand the activities associated with when they feel better and worse and to identify patterns in their daily activities and how they are feeling.Download Well Track
CAPS Virtual Library
The CAPS Virtual Library offers informative videos on a variety of mental health topics to help students feel informed, supported, and validated, while also providing an introduction to strategies for coping with specific concerns.
