Bailey Hajny , HIST 250: Historian’s Craft, Spring 2024

The Mental Health and Psychology Center program, also known as CAPS, at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) embarked on its journey as a modest initiative, primarily catering to the needs of freshmen students, and heavily focused on solely educational needs. With a simplistic beginning, the faculty administrator committee studied and aimed to create a more comprehensive resource center for students that “brings personal counseling privileges characteristic of small colleges into the life of a great university”.[1] The center's mission was clear: to provide essential support, advising, and guidance to those transitioning into college life. Over time, fueled by a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and evolving itself to better meet the needs of its students, CAPS expanded its reach and services, gradually becoming a cornerstone of the campus community. However, this did not come without its challenges of solving problems with the group having autonomy and adequate funding.[2] hat once started as a small endeavor has flourished over time into a comprehensive resource. Despite having a rather basic and rudimentary beginning in 1940, UNL’s CAPS program has overcome adversity to become an essential asset to the students who are struggling with mental health problems.

Historically, mental health services were not heavily prioritized in United States colleges and universities at the start. It wasn’t until 1910, when Princeton University organized the first fully dedicated mental health service for its students, that a shift began to emerge. Throughout the following decades, more institutions started to adopt this idea of emphasizing the importance of mental health on their campuses by opening their own mental health counseling departments.[3] Between the years of 1935 to 1939, UNL’s faculty saw this change in attitude and developed their own mental health program. As a result of this, the Junior Division was created and went into effect in September 1940. This program was led by a policy making board that consisted of ten counselors, one to represent each of the six colleges that admit freshmen, along with four counselors for special groups. The colleges include the College of Ancient and Modern Literature, Mathematics, and the Natural Sciences; the College of Agriculture; the College of Law; the College of Medicine; the College of Practical Science, Civil Engineering, and Mechanics; and the College of Fine Arts.

To further assist students, UNL’s Chancellor had also appointed an additional Special Consultation Board that worked to aid veterans and other war workers that attended the university who were affected by the second World War.[4] In a letter from the Director of the Junior Division, Lee W. Chatfield, he outlined the three main functions of the Junior Division: to induct all new students in UNL, to assemble and provide information to advisors so that they may properly advise the students, and to counsel all entering freshmen students.[5] Unfortunately, by solely being directed towards freshmen, this meant that much of the student body was left out of the support and services that the Junior Division provided.

Even though the services were highly restricted to only UNL's freshmen, the Junior Division remained dedicated to ensuring the well-being of these students. The "Manual for Registration Advisers" served as a crucial resource for advisers. This comprehensive six-part manual offered essential guidance to create effective student support. Part one introduced the diverse data sources available, including guidance examinations, application materials, and conference reports. Part two delved into the nature and utility of guidance examinations, aiding advisers in interpreting student assessments. Part three provided insights into data from admission applications which aided advisers in understanding student backgrounds and achievements. In part four, it provided a summary of all agencies that were on campus who were concerned about the students’ wellbeing and meant to serve as a list of places where advisers may refer students to for specialized help. Part five outlined student classification criteria and academic standards, alongside eleven different case studies that worked to aid advisers when faced with diverse scenarios. The final part offered an index of student welfare agencies on campus, ensuring advisers could easily access other support resources for students.[6]

Another valuable resource that was available to advisors was the Grade Prediction and Expectancy Tables document. The Robert D. Brown Counseling Service and the Henry M. Cox Examination Service collaborated to develop Grade Prediction Aids and Expectancy Tables, providing additional support for advisors. These resources incorporated data from Scholastic Aptitude Test scores, high school rankings, and first-year college grade point averages. The stated aim of this report was to offer a method for predicting the academic performance of freshman students at UNL. By analyzing various data points, it identifies students who are surpassing or falling short of expectations, as well as those meeting expectations. Advisors can then initiate personalized advising programs based on this information.[7]

Despite achieving success since its establishment, CAPS encountered challenges over the years. In its initial stages, the program faced opposition from faculty. Wm. DeBaufre, then Chairman of the UNL College of Engineering, expressed concerns in a letter to an associate professor at Yale University, fearing that the creation of the Junior Division would introduce new problems and complications. He argued that establishing a separate counseling service outside of the College of Engineering might detract from direct advising and supervision, potentially harming students and generating additional issues. DeBaufre suggested that students would be better served receiving counseling in their high school institutions rather than at UNL.[8]

Moreover, the UNL College of Pharmacy expressed differing views regarding the establishment of the Junior Division. In a letter, the college asserted that the Junior Division should exclusively serve students entering UNL from low-income backgrounds or those with unfavorable reports from their high school principals.[9] This stance would significantly narrow down the pool of eligible students for the Junior Division's services, potentially denying crucial help and advice to those in need. Despite encountering direct opposition to its creation, the program persisted and was ultimately founded to support all incoming freshmen.

In addition to facing opposition during the establishment of the Junior Division, the program encountered ongoing challenges with funding and budgeting throughout its years of service. Initially, the Junior Division relied on federal aid and student tuition funds for financial support. "The University" magazine reported that UNL received $4,642.95 from the Nebraska Emergency Relief Administration for student aid scholarships and assistantships, some of which was allocated to assist the Junior Division. However, the specific date of this allocation was not provided.[10] Moreover, in 1992, the program experienced a budget reduction of approximately $76,623, by which point it had evolved into the CAPS program known today. This significant cut led to the closure of the Counseling Center, which had been the primary resource for student support. Despite this closure, students still had access to counseling services through the Career Planning and Placement Center and the University Health Center’s Counseling and Psychological Services. Former counselors from the Counseling Center expressed concerns about UNL students feeling abandoned, as the center had served approximately 902 students at the time. Jake Kirkland, one of the former counselors, and Vernon Williams, the former director of the counseling center, emphasized their greatest concern for the "under-served populations," including students of color, those with disabilities, adult learners, LGBTQ+ students, and international students attending UNL.[11]

During a personal interview with John Goldrich, Assistant Director of CAPS, he noted that state funding for CAPS was completely cut off since the late 1990s, and it now relies solely on student fees at UNL for funding. However, he highlighted additional significant changes CAPS has undergone over the years. An illustrative instance occurred in 2015, when UNL opted to hand over management of CAPS to Nebraska Med (formerly UMNC), effectively removing them from the university's oversight. Under this new leadership, CAPS had to adopt a different approach to student outreach, aiming to see 25 students per week on a quota-based system. This shift significantly impacted employee morale and the overall effectiveness of CAPS until they eventually transitioned back to being under university administration several years later.[12]

Later in the interview, Goldrich provided insight into how the program had to adjust to the challenges presented by the global Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. During this time, CAPS had to predominantly operate through online appointments using Zoom, a widely used virtual meeting platform. While three staff members continued to work from the physical office on campus, the remaining staff had to work remotely, conducting client sessions virtually. This online mode of operation persisted for a year until CAPS could safely return to its physical office and resume operations as they are today.[13]

Today, CAPS continues its presence on the UNL campus, steadfast in its commitment to aiding students who seek support. The organization diligently works to enhance students' mental health and overall well-being through a range of offerings. Among these are crisis care appointments, individual counseling sessions, and couples or partner counseling services.[14] Mirroring the offerings from 1999, CAPS continues to offer a range of groups and workshops to support students in various ways. In 1999, Luis Diaz-Perdomo, a psychology counselor at University Health Services, observed the evolution of discussion groups at UNL. Initially, they were general in nature, but over time, they diversified into specific support groups tailored to meet different needs. These now include the Gay Men’s Discussion Group, the Grief Support Group, and the African American Women’s Discussion Group.[15] CAPS also has their own news page, where writers report to the public about various mental health current events, such as how to stay motivated and providing information about REACH suicide prevention training.[16]

Furthermore, CAPS provides a range of additional resources aimed at aiding UNL students facing mental health challenges. Among these is the "Let’s Talk" program, offering informal consultations. Designed for students seeking brief and relaxed discussions with CAPS professionals, this initiative provides a pressure-free environment to address potential concerns. It enables students to receive support through advice, suggested solutions, and access to resources, potentially including therapy sessions at CAPS.[17] Once again, echoing CAPS' approach in 1997, they continue to extend assistance to students grappling with disordered eating and body image concerns. An advertisement featured in The Daily Nebraskan newspaper highlighted the university's provision of services for students contending with eating disorders and exercise dependency. These services included a workshop titled "Accepting Our Bodies, Accepting Ourselves," aimed at fostering acceptance and understanding. Additionally, an accompanying support group, the "Eating Disorders Education Group," welcomed friends and family of those affected. However, participation in these programs incurred a fee of $25 for students and $50 for non-students.[18] Equally as important, CAPS also offers alcohol and other drug problem related resources.[19]

Looking ahead, Goldrich expressed his ideal scenario of relocating the CAPS building to a more centrally situated spot on the UNL campus, enhancing accessibility for students. Currently, there are no immediate plans for significant alterations. However, Goldrich noted that they are awaiting developments under UNL's new chancellor to gauge potential changes.[20]

After years of dedication, CAPS has evolved into a comprehensive hub of resources and assistance for the UNL students it serves. Though not flawless, it stands as a reliable resource for students seeking help, support, or guidance. Originating as a modest program primarily assisting freshmen, it has surmounted numerous obstacles to expand into the extensive program it is today.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues and needs assistance, please reach out to a mental health professional, or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at [988] for confidential support and resources. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.

Notes

[1] Chatfield, Lee, W, Lee. W. Chatfield to Joseph G. Svoboda, 29, June 1972, Letter. Box 1, Folder 1, RG 50-19-04-11
[2] Goldrich, J, Bailey Hajny to John Goldrich, Personal Interview, 11, April 2024
[3] Kraft, D, “One Hundred Years of College Mental Health”, Journal of American College Health, 8 June 2011. 478.  
[4] No Author, The University of Nebraska Plan for Guidance of College Students, March 1941, Published Report. Box 1, Folder 1, RG 50-19-04-11
[5] No Author, The University Junior Division and Counseling Service, 24, May 1949, Published Report, Box 1, Folder 1, RG 50-19-04-11
[6] The Bureau of Instructional Research and the University Junior Division, Manual for Registration Advisers, 1, September 1941, Manual. Box 2, Folder 1, RG 50-19-04-12
[7] Brown, R, & Cox, H, Grade Prediction Aids and Expectancy Tables for the University of Nebraska, No Date, Published Report. Box 1, Folder 1, RG 50-15-05-23
[8] DeBaufre, Wm., L, Wm. L. DeBaufre to Dr. W. J. Wohlenberg, 7 December 1938, Letter. Box 1, Folder 8, RG 50-19-04-11
[9] Burt, J, Holck, H, Wible, C, Burt, J, Holck, H, Wible, C. to the Committee on Lower Division, 3 February 1937, Letter. Box 1, Folder 8, RG 50-19-04-11
[10] No Author, The University. N.D.  Magazine. Box 1, Folder 1, RG 50-19-04-11
[11] Bradsky, J, “Counseling Center Exit Concerns Past Advisers”, Daily Nebraskan, 22 October 1992. 3
[12] Goldrich, J, Bailey Hajny to John Goldrich, Personal Interview, 11, April 2024
[13] Goldrich, J, Bailey Hajny to John Goldrich, Personal Interview, 11, April 2024
[14] No Author, Counseling and Psychological Services, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Student Affairs, No Date, Online Webpage
[15] Stickney, D, “Groups Give Students ‘Safe’ Place to Talk”, Daily Nebraskan, 10, September 1999, 6
[16] No Author, Counseling and Psychological Services, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Student Affairs, No Date, Online Webpage
[17] No Author, Counseling and Psychological Services, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Student Affairs, No Date, Online Webpage
[18] Daily Nebraskan Staff, “Programs Provide Counseling Treatment”, Daily Nebraskan, 20, November 1997, 3
[19] No Author, Counseling and Psychological Services, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Student Affairs, No Date, Online Webpage
[20] Goldrich, J, Bailey Hajny to John Goldrich, Personal Interview, 11, April 2024