Psychological Counseling Center

Let's Talk Frequently Asked Questions

What is Let's Talk?

Let's Talk is a program that provides drop-in access to one-on-one, informal conversations with PCC staff members at campus sites outside of the PCC offices.  No appointment is necessary; "first-come, first served."

How is Let's Talk different from a traditional PCC therapy appointment?

Typically, individual and group therapy appointments at the PCC are traditional psychotherapy sessions in which a counselor will facilitate exploration of moods, feelings, thoughts and behaviors.  Let's Talk is a drop-in service that allows students to have brief, informal conversations with a trained mental health professional. Let's Talk is not a substitute for counseling; it may be considered a "pre-counseling" conversation. The PCC Let's Talk consultant may provide a different perspective or understanding of an issue, and will help students locate services and resources to address a specific concern.

Who should visit Let's Talk?

The Let's Talk service is open to all registered SUNY New Paltz undergraduate and graduate students. Those who may benefit the most are:

  • students who are not sure about counseling and wonder what it might be like to talk to a therapist
  • students who are not interested in weekly counseling, but would like the perspective of a professional to solve a problem
  • students who have a specific concern and would like to talk it through with a professional
  • students who have a concern about a friend and would like to discuss what to do

I'm in crisis and wonder where to go for help.  Can I go to Let's Talk?

If you or a friend is experiencing a mental health crisis or danger during regular business hours, please contact the PCC at 845-257-2920.  After hours, please contact University Police at 845-257-2222, and request access to the PCC Emergency Contact counselor. Let's Talk is not designed to be a crisis intervention service.

I called the PCC and was offered an appointment next week.  Can I stop by Let's Talk in the meantime?

If you believe you need to be seen sooner than the appointment you were given, it is best to call the PCC directly and explain your urgent situation.

I'm currently seeing a PCC counselor and I would like to talk to someone sooner than my next appointment. Can I go to Let's Talk?

If your next scheduled appointment is not soon enough, please contact the PCC directly to discuss a crisis appointment.

I'm currently seeing a PCC counselor and I'm not happy with how things are going.  Can I go to Let's Talk instead?

The best thing to do in this situation is to speak directly with your counselor about your concerns.  Often, an open conversation with your therapist will smooth out wrinkles. If, after speaking with your therapist, you prefer to transfer to someone else, you and your therapist may be able to arrange that directly.

Is Let's Talk confidential?

Yes, your Let's Talk conversation will be confidential, with some rare exceptions. Counselors may need to share information in an emergency, such as threat to harm self or others. Counselors are also required by law to report current instances of abuse of a child, elder, or incapacitated person.