FAQ

Student Care Services is a solutions-focused approach to assisting students with a wide variety of needs, where multiple resources may be beneficial to meet those needs. We look to empower students to take an active role in their wellbeing and engage in effective problem solving to identify and implement appropriate solutions. At FGCU, Student Care Services is the first point of contact for any undergraduate, graduate, or professional student who may have an academic, personal, emotional, medical, and/or other concern. Our office assess each student’s need and explores resources within the campus and community to connect the student to the appropriate support. 

Student Care Services may also offer follow-up meetings with students to evaluate successes, barriers, and/or gaps in support. It’s important to note that Student Care Services is not counseling or therapy. Rather, Student Care Services is here to support and guide the student toward appropriate resources, self-care, and self-advocacy.

At FGCU, Student Care Services is the first point of contact for any undergraduate, graduate, or professional student who may have an academic, personal, emotional, medical, and/or other concern. 

You may complete the Care and Concern Form. Upon completion, you will be contacted to schedule an initial meeting in person, telephone, or virtual. In addition, you may walk-in, call 239-590-7900, or email care@fgcu.edu. Our office hours are Monday-Friday (8:00 am-5:00 pm). 

The services of the Office of Student Care Services fall under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This means the content of meetings with Student Care Services will be kept private to the extent possible; however, information may be shared on a need-to-know basis with appropriate personnel within FGCU in order to coordinate and provide you with the best care. If it is necessary to share information with off-campus providers or others, you will be asked to sign a release of information.

If you would like to speak with a confidential resource, Student Care Services can guide you to appropriate campus resources.

• If there is an emergency on campus, call the University Police Department (UPD) at 239-590-1900 or 911.
• If there is an emergency off campus, call 911
• If someone you know needs immediate medical assistance, they should visit the nearest emergency room. The closest emergency room to campus is the Gulf Coast Medical Center at 239-343-1000.
• If someone you know needs to speak with a professional counselor immediately, Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) is available 24/7/365 at 239-745-7277

It’s important to remember that you are not alone. We have numerous resources available to support students and we encourage you to reach out to Student Care Services for assistance. Faculty, staff, students, and other community members can also report their concerns pertaining to the personal, physical, or emotional wellbeing of a student using the Care and Concern Form.

Yes! The Office of Student Care Services is happy to speak with incoming students about our services and resources. Please contact us via email at care@fgcu.edu or call 239-590-7900.

Student Care Services work closely with students to identify needs and concerns and explore the most appropriate resources available to address these concerns. If therapy is recommended, Student Care Coordinators can assist with scheduling an appointment or connecting you with Counseling & Psychological Services at FGCU.

If you prefer an off-campus provider you should check with your insurance provider for services in the area or we can provide options to consider. Many students need or want ongoing mental health support that may be more specialized, personalized, or for longer duration than is available.

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It is not uncommon for students to experience challenging life situations, medical conditions, psychological conditions or other circumstances during their time at FGCU. Students may consider a withdrawal for extenuating circumstances when these concerns significantly impair or limit their ability to function safely and perform successfully as a student. Support and additional information is available through Student Care Services.

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