Counseling and Psychiatric Services
The University of Northern Iowa offers counseling and psychiatric services to students. Read more about each of the services to determine which would be best for you.
At UNI, we provide comprehensive counseling and psychiatric services designed to support students' mental health and well-being. Our team of licensed psychiatrists and mental health professionals offers individualized assessments, medication management, and therapy options tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges, our services aim to promote emotional resilience and academic success. We understand the pressures of college life and are committed to providing a compassionate and confidential space where you can seek help. Your mental health is a priority—let us support you on your journey to wellness.
What is the difference between Counseling and Psychiatric Services?
At UNI Counseling and Psychiatric Services, we recognize that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. Two key components of our approach are counseling and psychiatric medication management, each serving distinct purposes.
Counseling focuses on providing a safe space for self-exploration, coping strategies, and emotional support. Through talk therapy, trained professionals help you address life challenges, develop skills, and foster personal growth. This process emphasizes understanding your thoughts and feelings to promote mental well-being.
Psychiatric Medication Management, on the other hand, involves a clinical evaluation by a licensed psychiatrist who can prescribe and monitor medications. This service is aimed at addressing specific mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. Our providers ensure that medications are tailored to your individual needs, with ongoing assessments to track effectiveness and adjust as necessary.
While counseling and medication management can be used independently, they often complement each other for a more holistic approach to mental health care. Together, they empower you on your path to wellness.
Emergency Services
After Hours Crisis/Emergency
In case of immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
For urgent situations outside of office hours, call the Counseling Center at 319-273-2676 and press 2 to speak to a crisis counselor.
Download the TELUS Health Student Support app for iOS or android then search for the University of Northern Iowa
Statewide Crisis Line 1-800-332-4224
988 Suicide & Crisis Line: Call OR Text 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Your Life Iowa Text Line: Text TALK to 855-895-8398
Private Spaces for Teletherapy
- On Campus
- Rod Library Study Rooms: Available by reservation on website
- Schindler Hall Study Rooms: Walkiin availability
- Towers Center: First come, first served availability
- Bartlett Hall Study Rooms: Walk-in availability
- The Quads Private Study Rooms: Walk-in availability
- Student Health Center: Walk-in availability (ask front desk for a room for teletherapy)
- Off Campus
- Cedar Falls Public Library
- Monday - Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Thursday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
- Waverly Public Library
- Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- *A $10 fee is requested at booking but will be refunded provided the room is returned in the same condition as received.
- Cedar Falls Public Library