Faculty wellbeing and health

FAQ about CARS

• What kinds of issues can I see someone at CARS for?

  CARS counselors can help with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, challenges related to personal or professional transitions, stress, substance use, and more.

• Are the counseling services free?

  Yes.

• Do I need an appointment for CARS services?

  Yes, you must call CARS to make an appointment.

• How quickly might I be able to get an appointment for counseling?

  CARS appointments are available either the same week or within five business days from the time you call CARS.   Urgent appointments are available each day. Appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday,  8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Do I need to take time off from work for counseling?

  No. You do not need to use leave to utilize any of the CARS services.

• Can my supervisor require me to attend counseling?

  No. Supervisors may refer an employee to CARS, but cannot mandate that an employee attend CARS. Receiving CARS services is voluntary.

• Does CARS work with psychiatrists in case I think I need medicine to help me?

  A CARS counselor may determine that a medication evaluation would be helpful. If a client agrees to pursue that path, we suggest utilizing resources within UNM and in the community. We also make general suggestions as to how to access an employee’s health insurance plan for referrals for a medical evaluation.   

• Are CARS services really confidential?

  Confidentiality is a foundational element of counseling, so it is important to know that what you share with your counselor at CARS will remain private. We purchase a proprietary software that is separate from UNM and UNM Health Sciences  and no one outside of the CARS staff has access to your CARS record. However, there are exceptions to confidentiality: If you disclose imminent risk of harm to yourself or to another, we must act to protect you or them. If you disclose abuse or neglect of a child, an elder, or a vulnerable adult, we are mandated reporters.

• How many times can I visit CARS for counseling?

  Our counseling and coaching services include up to six sessions in which to explore your concerns. In some cases, two additional sessions may be granted.  You may return to CARS six months after your last session and receive six sessions again. 

• What kind of training do CARS staff have?

  CARS counselors are licensed at the highest level of licensure in their respective disciplines:  LCSW (Clinical Social Work) or LPCC (professional clinical counseling). Please visit the CARS website for a description of counselors’ clinical training, areas of focus and clinical background.

   

• Does CARS provide services to post-docs?

  Yes, post-docs can utilize CARS services.