Health Services

1. What is a Nurse Practitioner? Can they write a prescription?
   A Nurse Practitioner is an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) who has completed graduate level education (either Master's or Doctoral degree). They have received special training in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of medical conditions. If appropriate for your treatment plan, the Nurse Practitioner can write a prescription.

2. Is the bacterial meningitis vaccine required? How much does it cost? How can a student get one?
   Yes, the meningitis vaccine is required for all entering or returning students under the age of 30 as of the university’s first day of class.  For other students, it is highly recommended but not required. All students who want the immunization should contact Health Services (448-8686) for information about the availability and cost of the vaccination. 

3. Can a student get allergy shots at the Health & Counseling Center?
   No. We can provide information about allergists close to the university where students can get their allergy shots. 

4. Can you do blood work?
   Yes, the Nurse Practitioner can order blood tests if it is appropriate for your treatment plan. The Health & Counseling Center does have a lab where blood and other tests can be obtained. A medical provider from outside the University can order labwork to be done here if no special handling is required. There is a charge for our staff to collect the lab specimen. You must also provide current insurance information for our laboratory's billing purposes.

5. How does a student find Student Health Insurance information (such as providers, facilities, coverage)?
   Insurance brochures are available at Health Services, Lady Bird Johnson Hall, 512-448-8686 (on campus x8686) or online at AHPCare.com/stedwards. You may access the Brouchure to the Student Health Insurance Plan by clicking here.

Counseling Services

1. What is my first appointment (Initial Consultation) like?  Typically, the first appointment is an information-gathering meeting that will help you and your counselor determine how the center can best meet your needs. This may include resolving your concerns in a single session, scheduling additionlal individual sessions with your counselor, or referral to off-campus mental health resources. Depending on your needs and interests, your counselor may suggest group therapy at the Health & Counseling Center or may put you in touch with other on and off-campus resources.

2.  How much do counseling sessions cost?
   All counseling services are free for currently enrolled students. A copayment of $25 is usually required if you are referred to the SEU Consulting Psychiatrist.

3. How confidential are your services? Will any information be put in university files?
   All information and the fact that you are in counseling is kept confidential. Except for specific legal situations, no information leaves our office unless you provide a written request for us to do so.  Our records are separate from university educational records.

4. How long can I use the Counseling Services?
   As long as you are currently enrolled at St. Edward's University, you can use our services. We provide short-term therapy based on your needs and goals. When psychotherapy needs exceed our campus resources, we provide referral assistance to locate appropriate and affordable community resources.

5. What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
   Psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers are all trained in the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral problems. There are some differences:  Psychiatrists attend medical school and may prescribe medications.  Psychologists have doctoral degrees and are typically trained in assessment, psychotherapy, and research.  LPCs and LCSWs are generally master's level psychotherapists.

6. What do I do if I'm worried about someone?  How do I refer them?
   If you are asking yourself these questions then you are close enough to someone to realize they may be in need of some help. Even though that person may come to you with a problem and you are willing to help, there are circumstances which may indicate the need for professional guidance, especially if you feel like you are "in over your head" and unsure what to do for the person.

   Some people accept a referral to a mental health professional more easily than others. It is generally best to be frank with the person about your concern for them and any limits of your ability to help--limitations of time, energy, training, objectivity, etc. It is often reassuring to hear that you respect their willingness to talk to you and that you want to see them get the best and most appropriate assistance available.  If you are concerned about a student and want to refer them to Counseling Services:

• Inform them about our services and help them make an appointment by calling 512-448-8538.
• During office hours you can have the student come (or bring them) to our office in Lady Bird Johnson Hall. Identify the situation as urgent or a crisis in order to be seen immediately. If possible, call ahead so we can be ready for them when they arrive.
• Call the Health & Counseling Center to discuss your concerns with the a psychologist.
• If you have an urgent concern after our regular business hours, call the University Police (512-448-8444) and the dispatcher will initiate contact with the on-call psychologist or other appropriate assistance.