Ah mental relief! Counseling for Graduate Students

With classes, research and jobs, students can get overwhelmed and sometimes need someone to talk to, a massage chair to sit in, or a nonacademic book to read. Mental health is important for all college students. "It includes taking care of your body and mind," says Dr. Thomas Roe, a psychologist in Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), a branch of Student Health and Counseling Services. "CAPS is large and robust," Roe says. The staff of the department has a wide range of experience, knowledge, expertise and interest.

The international graduate student and other graduate student counseling groups joined the other services that CAPS offered, which include "What's Going On?", a space for African American male students, as well as an Injured Athlete Support group, to name just a few.

In addition to his CAPS office, Roe has a second office location that's handy for graduate students and privately located in the Office of Graduate Studies at Mrak Hall. If you're lucky, little Snoop (his adorable therapy dog) may also be in session!

Roe has also been heavily involved with the Graduate Ally Coalition, which seeks to enhance access, awareness, and availability of campus resources and information to students and groups who may experience oppression, harassment or isolation due to identity.

Roe who enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking and camping, prides himself on using humor. He also sees himself as very casual and is open to students running ideas by him. "If someone has an idea of a group they want to start on campus or needs advice, I am very receptive to new ideas," Roe encourages.

Another resource where students can receive assistance or relieve their stress is The House, a smaller division of CAPS located near the Segundo Dorm Area. At this location, students can use a massage chair (which receives raves from users), get peer counseling or just take a nap. Biofeedback and stress management resources like articles and books are also available, as well as in the HealthSpa located in the Student Health Center, says Roe.

To use the resources offered at CAPS, drop in during their office hours of 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you would like to set up an appointment with Dr. Roe, you can contact him directly at troe@shcs.ucdavis.edu.