Counseling and Psychological Services

Religious/Spiritual Diversity Statement

CAPS is committed to providing an experience for students that honors, appreciates, and values diversity in all its forms. This includes religious/spiritual identities and practices as well. It is our goal to understand students as a whole person with attention and consideration given to all important aspects of their lives and the ways these parts contribute to their health and well-being, as well as relate to presenting concerns and struggles they may be facing. We strive to create an environment that is respectful of the various faith perspectives, beliefs, and practices represented among the students at Kansas State University and welcome opportunities to discuss with students the role religion and spirituality has played in their lives and how this can or may be incorporated into their counseling experience. The following is a list of things that you can expect from a clinician who is sensitive to your spiritual beliefs and practices:

  • A nonjudgmental, accepting, and empathic relationship with you
  • An openness and willingness to take time to understand your spirituality as it may relate to your emotional difficulties
  • Some familiarity with values, beliefs, and practices that are common among people residing in a particular area of the country
  • Comfort in asking and talking about spiritual issues with you
  • A willingness to seek information from appropriate professionals and clergy and coordinate care concerning your spiritual traditions

(List taken from excerpt on Wright University website regarding religious/spiritual diversity.)

While it is the desire and goal of CAPS to provide mental health care that makes space for relevant religious/spiritual issues, concerns, and resources, we are also mindful of the limits and boundaries of our expertise and training. With this in mind, we do not offer counseling based on specific religious/spiritual or faith traditions, but would be happy to discuss campus and/or community options that may be a better fit for you if this is your preference.