Counseling Services

FAQs

• How is mental wellness promoted on campus?

  Campus Outreach:

  • Mindful Monmouth Student Organization-
    • Students and Counselors promote and advocate for mental well-being.  
  • Campus-wide Mental Wellness Programs and Activities-
    • Images of programs and events:(slideshow pending)

  • Other ways we promote mental wellness:

    • Early detection and support of students in distress.
    • Mental Health Consultations for students, faculty, and staff.
    • Mental Health Training for Residence Life, Peer Leaders and Campus Safety.
    • Faculty Colloquiums
• Why seek counseling?

  It is not unusual for a student to feel anxious seeking counseling!

  You may feel that it is a sign of weakness, or indicate that there is something seriously wrong with you. However, you don’t have to be in crisis or have a mental illness to benefit from counseling.

  In recent years, college counseling centers across the country have reported significant increases in the number of students seeking services for a variety of personal issues.

  We believe that knowing when to ask for help is an indicator of personal wisdom and courage.

• How long do I have to wait for an appointment?

  If it is an emergency you will be seen immediately.

  If you are experiencing a crisis, you will be seen within 1-2 days.

  For an initial appointment you will typically meet with a counselor in approximately 1-2 weeks.

• How is mental wellness promoted on campus?

  Campus Outreach:

  • Mindful Monmouth Student Organization-
    • Students and Counselors promote and advocate for mental well-being.  
  • Campus-wide Mental Wellness Programs and Activities-
    • Images of programs and events:(slideshow pending)

  • Other ways we promote mental wellness:

    • Early detection and support of students in distress.
    • Mental Health Consultations for students, faculty, and staff.
    • Mental Health Training for Residence Life, Peer Leaders and Campus Safety.
    • Faculty Colloquiums
• Why seek counseling?

  It is not unusual for a student to feel anxious seeking counseling!

  You may feel that it is a sign of weakness, or indicate that there is something seriously wrong with you. However, you don’t have to be in crisis or have a mental illness to benefit from counseling.

  In recent years, college counseling centers across the country have reported significant increases in the number of students seeking services for a variety of personal issues.

  We believe that knowing when to ask for help is an indicator of personal wisdom and courage.

• How long do I have to wait for an appointment?

  If it is an emergency you will be seen immediately.

  If you are experiencing a crisis, you will be seen within 1-2 days.

  For an initial appointment you will typically meet with a counselor in approximately 1-2 weeks.

• How long is an appointment, and how often can I meet with a Counselor?

  Counseling appointments can range from 30 to 50 minute.

  Typically students meet with Counselors weekly for up to 8 sessions a semester.

• Are sessions confidential?

  For counseling to be effective, students must trust that the information they share at MC will be kept strictly confidential.

  Any information disclosed during your contacts with MC, or records maintained in written and/or electronic form, will be kept strictly confidential as required by State and Federal law, and by applicable ethical standards.

  Your written permission is required before any information about your contacts with MC is released to anyone outside of MC. According to current Illinois law, there are a few exceptions to the above rules of confidentiality and disclosure. Counselors are required by state law to report any instance of suspected child abuse to appropriate agencies.  

  Counselors also have a duty to take action if they conclude that a student intends to harm him/herself or another person. Finally, if a student cites counseling records in any lawsuit, MC may be required to release information related to your lawsuit. In all cases, your counselor will make every effort to resolve these issues with you before any action is taken.

  Please keep in mind that due to the non-secure nature of e-mail, the MC Counseling Services staff cannot ensure the confidentiality of such communication. Please use discretion when sending information that is sensitive in nature. Also, please note that we do not maintain 24-hour access to e-mail or cell phone accounts.

• What happens in an emergency?
  • In the event of a mental health emergency, 911 may be called to assist.
  • Campus Safety and the SCOT Phone will be contacted.
  • The 24/7 Counselor on Call will be contacted regarding the situation, and will help assess and manage the emergency.
• Who are the Counselors?

  Cindy Beadles, M.S.Ed., Director of Counseling Services

  Ms. Cindy Beadles is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a certified Employee Assistance Professional. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Western Illinois University. She has 30 years professional experience in counseling, wellness programming, and child welfare.

  Ms. Beadles has expertise in psychological assessment and in working with youth in short-term individual, couple, family and group therapy. In addition, she is trained and specialized in the treatment of alcohol/substance abuse and other addictions, relationship and dysfunctional family issues, behavioral problems, depression/anxiety and adjustment disorders.

  Tom Caudill, MS, Counselor

  Mr. Thomas Caudill is a licensed professional counselor. He is a graduate of Western Illinois University with his master’s and bachelor’s degree in psychology, with an emphasis in clinical community mental health. Mr. Caudill has expertise in individual, couple, family, and group therapy. In addition, he is trained and specialized in the treatment of depression/anxiety, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, relationships and dysfunctional family issues, and personality disorders.

• Do Counselors have diversity training?

  Yes, both Counselors have received extensive training respective to all types of diversity.

  Every student will be treated with care and respect.

• What if I have a disability?

  You will receive counseling like any other student.

  Your course of treatment will be coordinated with the Office of Student Success and Accessibility Services.

  Students may be screened and/or tested for accommodations in the Counseling Center.

• Will I benefit from counseling?

  One student writes: “”Thank you ______ for helping me get through so much this year! It means a lot to have someone here who truly cares about making me a happier and healthier person. I hope you have a great summer!”