Campus Connection

The Counseling & Testing Center provides services for student mental health, well-being

At UW-La Crosse, the Counseling & Testing Center plays a vital role in helping students care for their mental health and thrive throughout their college journey. 

Since 1979, the International Association of Counseling Services, Inc. (IACS) has accredited the UWL Counseling & Testing Center (CTC).  This accreditation certifies that the CTC meets or exceeds criteria and standards that are applied exclusively to college and university counseling centers. 

The CTC’s core services include individual and group counseling, crisis services, and consultation for faculty, staff, family members or peers concerned about a student’s well-being.

“We design our services to serve as many students as possible, as quickly as possible,” says Crystal Champion, counseling services director for the CTC. 

To begin the process, the CTC uses a triage system that starts with a brief screening phone call for all students seeking counseling services. 

“Triage appointments help us explain our services and set expectations before students begin counseling,” Champion explains. “They also allow us to better understand each student’s needs so we can recommend the most appropriate type of counseling — sometimes even suggesting a specific counselor for their care.” 

Currently, scheduled appointments have an average wait time of about three days, though longer waits may occur during busier times, such as around holidays. 

For students experiencing a crisis, an urgent care counselor is available for walk-in appointments Monday through Friday. 

“Regardless of any wait time for scheduled services, students never wait for crisis care,” Champion says. “All students requesting urgent care are evaluated by a clinician the same day.” 

Champion encourages students who may feel hesitant to reach out for help. 

“The CTC is never the wrong place to start when you have a question about your well-being,” she says. “If you’re wondering if counseling might help, we can connect you with the right support.”

Student feedback highlights the impact of CTC’s services. 

"Of UWL students who used CTC in fall 2024 and responded to our satisfaction survey, 84% reported improvement in the issue they sought help for, and 94% rated our services as good, very good or excellent," Champion says. "Additionally, 93% said they would recommend CTC to a friend." 

Students not currently seeking counseling can still take advantage of CTC’s many offerings. Self-help resources are available through the CTC’s self-help webpage and an in-office lending library. Additional programs include educational presentations on topics like mental health awareness and suicide prevention, informal “Let’s Talk” consultations, mindfulness classes and free app subscriptions. 

"If you are actively supporting your mental well-being, you are more resilient to stressors and unexpected changes," Champion emphasizes.  

Connect with the Counseling & Testing Center: 

• Schedule a triage appointment online or call 608-785-8073. 

• Discover self-help resources here. 

• Take an anonymous mental health survey here.