KU Counseling and Psychological Services receives prestigious accreditation

LAWRENCE — KU Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) has been accredited by the International Accreditation of Counseling Services (IACS), the premier leader in setting the benchmark for the full range of professional counseling services on college and university campuses worldwide. 
 
The rigorous accreditation process involves detailed documentation, a comprehensive site visit evaluation and multiple peer reviews in five areas: relationships within the college/university community; counseling and clinical services; ethical standards; personnel; and resources/infrastructure. 
 
“We are excited to welcome CAPS as our newest IACS-accredited counseling center,” said Ann Patterson, executive director of IACS. “Conducting a self-assessment, meeting over 100 industry standards and completing a rigorous on-site evaluation — including passing the muster of four independent peer-reviews — is proof of KU’s dedication to student mental health. IACS standards are not minimum baselines. They are industry-developed best practices.

"KU’s ability to meet this high bar ensures these same best practices are provided throughout their campus community, and we could not be happier for their achievement,” Patterson said.
 
CAPS was evaluated by IACS and was found to offer competent and reliable professional services to its clientele. In addition to therapy services, CAPS provides support for psychiatry, urgent drop-ins and remote teletherapy through a partnership with the Telus Health Student Support program.

Approval by IACS also depends on evidence of continuing professional development and demonstration of excellence of counseling performance.

Chris Corbett was appointed as the director of CAPS in July 2023.
 
“We are honored to receive this accreditation,” Corbett said. “Not only is it a testament to the CAPS team, but it also recognizes that a department of this caliber is only possible when all of KU is committed to the mental health and well-being of its students. Anything is possible when we are working together, and we are inspired everyday by the trust and support of our students, faculty, staff and leadership. Thank you for being the best part of KU.”