Out-of-state Ohio U students cannot access university counseling telehealth services
Hudson Health Center at Ohio University. Photo by Emily Crebs.
Ohio University students who live out-of-state will be unable to receive telehealth counseling from Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), according to a university press release.
Out-of-state students cannot receive counseling because of state licensing laws. According to the press release, mental health providers have to be licensed in the state their clients are in, and CPS counselors are licensed only for Ohio.
“This is an issue faced by all states. There are efforts underway to pass laws at the federal level to allow mental health professionals to practice across state lines,” CPS Director Paul Castelino wrote. “Currently, we continue to provide phone consultation to students who are residing out of state to help them connect with services in their local communities.”
University spokesperson Jim Sabin did not comment on CPS counseling for out-of-state students and instead sent a link to the university release.
Since March, CPS has turned to telehealth counseling for students. There is no in-person counseling currently available for students on or near campus.
All Ohio U students, regardless of their permanent residence, usually have access to counseling and psychological services at Hudson Health Center without additional cost.
Out-of-state students can still access two CPS workshops and its Coping Clinic. In-state students can call CPS at (740) 593-1616 to set up counseling and other services.
