April 15, 2026
U of A announces no-cost counseling services for students beginning July 1
TUCSON, Ariz. — Beginning July 1, counseling services provided by Campus Health's Counseling & Psych Services will be available to students at no cost. This step removes financial barriers and expands access to mental health care, reinforcing the University of Arizona's longstanding commitment to supporting the whole student.
The university recognizes that mental health is foundational to academic success, persistence, and overall well-being. This initiative, which has been in development for several years, reflects thoughtful planning, collaboration and strategic investment. With strong support from both university and student leadership, the university has allocated resources to ensure sustainable, no-cost counseling services moving forward.
"This is an exciting and meaningful milestone for our campus," said Aaron Barnes, CAPS director. "We know that when cost is no longer a barrier, students are more likely to reach out early and engage in care when they need it most. This change strengthens our ability to support students in thriving both academically and personally."
The transition to a no-cost model aligns with national best practices in higher education. Research consistently shows that reducing financial barriers increases help-seeking behavior and supports stronger student outcomes. By expanding access, the university is making it easier for students to prioritize their well-being without added financial stress.
"This decision reflects our deep and ongoing commitment to student success," said Amanda Kraus, vice president for Student Affairs. "Caring for the well-being of our students is central to our strategic priorities and our guiding vision as a university. Investing in accessible mental health services is an investment in the future of our students and our community."
Student leaders have long advocated for expanded access to mental health services, emphasizing the importance of equitable support for all students.
"Students have been asking for this because mental health care should be accessible to everyone," said Associated Students of the University of Arizona Student Body President Adriana Grijalva. "Seeing this become reality shows that student voices matter."
"This is a win for students and for the university as a whole. When students feel genuinely supported, the entire campus community becomes stronger, more connected and better positioned to succeed. Investments in student well-being and belonging create a more vibrant, resilient and successful university for everyone," said Graduate and Professional Student Council President Mourad Abdennebi.
While counseling services will be provided at no cost beginning July 1, assistance funding remains available to help offset the cost of services accessed prior to the July 1 start date.
Psychiatry, the ADHD Clinic and the Intensive Outpatient Program will continue to carry a cost. However, CAPS is committed to ensuring that financial concerns do not prevent students from receiving needed care. Students interested in these services are encouraged to speak with a CAPS provider about available assistance funding or referrals to low-cost options in the community.
Media contact:
Aaron Barnes
Counseling & Psych Services
520-621-3334
atbarnes@arizona.edu
Established in 1885, the University of Arizona is the state's flagship, land-grant institution. The U of A ranks among America's top institutions, focusing on student access and success while driving a $1 billion research enterprise and engaging communities throughout the state, nation and world. As a leading Research 1 institution and member of the Association of American Universities, the U of A advances the frontiers of interdisciplinary scholarship and entrepreneurial partnerships. With two accredited medical schools, designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education, recognition as a premier university for service members, distinguished programs in management information systems, planetary sciences, dance, photography, and public and applied humanities, the U of A offers the world to its students while uplifting Arizona.