About us

About Us

Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is one of a range of complementary specialist health and wellbeing areas that together contribute to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our community at the University of Melbourne.

We aim to facilitate the work of the University by:

  • Providing students and staff with a professional counselling service. This involves initial assessment of presenting issues and the development of appropriate therapeutic interventions, including short-term counselling, referral to in-house groups and workshops, self-help resources, or an external provider for long-term or specialist assistance.
  • Providing the University community with a variety of psychological services including workshops, training, online resources, mental health promotion, and consultancy activities. This includes:
    • Workshops and groups for students on a range of personal development, mental health and wellbeing issues each semester. These workshops aim to enrich and enhance skill development and contribute to the student experience and psychological wellbeing.
    • Mental Health First Aid for both students and staff, and related training programs for staff (e.g. Supporting Student Mental Health).
    • Other services for staff and the university community including secondary consultation regarding student mental health concerns and psychological support as a response to critical incidents.
    • Online self-help resources and information.
  • Our mission

    To provide high quality services and consultancy to all levels of the University on psychological processes, mental health and developmental issues, especially in relation to learning and the learning environment.

  • Our aims
    • To provide counselling, training, and personal development opportunities to students and staff, and so assist them to find their full academic and/or working potential.
    • To promote the overall mental and physical wellbeing of all members of the University community.
    • To help students participate fully in campus life, and prepare for life outside of university.
    • To assist the University to achieve its strategic objectives by contributing to the planning, implementation and evaluation of strategies, policies, and programs, through consultation with academic and professional staff.
  • Our vision

    To have a positive influence on every student and staff member during their university experience, through:

    • Leadership and professional expertise in the provision of psychological services
    • Contributing to the evolution and development of the university
    • Meaningful and enduring networks with academic and other service areas
    • Service delivery influenced by research and quality control indicators, in conjunction with a commitment to ongoing service development
    • Being accountable, purposeful, and passionate in our work.
  • Our values

    We believe in and are committed to respect, professionalism, and community.

    Respect
    At all levels of relationship 
    For inclusiveness and diversity
    For the inherent processes of growth and development

    Professionalism
    The highest levels of skill, insight, and efficiency 
    Valuing knowledge, empathy, and wisdom 
    Ongoing professional development

    Creating Community
    Connectedness is a necessary basis for mental health and all human functioning 
    Responsiveness, equity, and accessibility to University students and staff 
    Being informed by creativity and innovation