Frequently Asked Questions

Who can be seen in counseling and health services?

All enrolled SIUE students paying general student fees are eligible for services.

Do I need an appointment to be seen for medical or mental health concerns?

No. Walk-ins are welcome, however students with appointments are given priority. To schedule an appointment please call 618-650-2842.

What do I do if there is a mental health emergency?

Our staff is available for emergencies and consultations from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Friday. Students are encouraged to walk in for a same day Behavioral Health Consult.

For assistance after hours, call SIUE Campus Police at 911. Please read our emergency information for more details.

Do I need insurance coverage to attend SIUE?

SIUE requires student health insurance for:

Full-time domestic students with at least one on-ground class.
All Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Pharmacy students.
All international students if they are enrolled in (1) or more credit hours or are enrolled in University 500. The credit hours can be on-campus or off-campus.

What is the cost? Can I use insurance?

All students who pay general student fees are entitled to use all services at the on-campus clinic for that entire semester. The Student Health Insurance plan is not needed to access care. We do not bill any insurance plans. There are minimal charges for procedures, laboratory work, pharmacy items, physical exams, and immunizations.

What payment options do you offer?

We accept payments of cash, credit, debit, cougar bucks, SIUE bursar bill, and apple/android pay.

What if I have a drug or alcohol problem?

Personal problems related to substance use are frequently addressed in counseling. Counseling Services does not provide substance abuse treatment, but we will assist in referring to a community provider.

What about confidentiality?

We will not give any information to anyone without your written consent. This includes your parents, other offices or departments in the university. Our records are defined as confidential by both state and federal law. There are a few exceptions in cases of child/elder abuse, neglect, court orders to release information, or situations where we believe the client is a serious and immediate danger to self or others.

How do I request my records?

Current students have access to their records through their patient portal at CougarCare.

If the records are going to be released to a third party, a Release of Information form needs to be completed and submitted to the SIUE Health Center via email, fax, or in person. Please allow at least 24 hours for the task to be completed.

Does Counseling and Health Services write letters of support for ESAs (Emotional Support Animals)?

Counseling and Health Service clinicians do not provide documentation advocating for approval of Emotional Support Animals. Student must see their Primary Care Provider (PCP), Psychiatrist, or a qualified mental health professional off campus. For additional information about accommodations made for ESAs, please contact ACCESS.

Does Counseling and Health Services write letters of advocacy for financial aid appeals, scholarship appeals, housing accommodations, or housing contract releases?

Counseling and Health Services clinicians can provide this service if the student is, or has been, under the clinical care of a provider in our office. It is important to mention, the contribution the letter provides to an appeal process will be guided by the degree-and scope-of contact we have had with the student. Please contact our office (618) 650-2842 for additional information or to schedule a consultation appointment to further discuss what is needed.

Counseling and Health Services