Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when to call the CARES Team?

If you have concerns, tell someone. CARES is available to consult and help plan interventions when necessary.

Who can make a referral to the CARES Team?

Anyone including faculty, staff, students, and community members. The CARES Team may follow up to ask additional questions to better understand the challenges involved and therefore require the ability to identify and contact the referrer make a referral.

What happens to the student in the CARES process?

CARES provides students with respectful and proactive support while offering resources that balances the educational needs of the students with the overall mission of CSULB.

Can CARES provide training for my unit?

Yes. Contact CARES to arrange training tailored to your situation and needs with our Presentation Request Form.

Will I violate student privacy rights if I contact CARES?

No, CARES members are CSULB employees with whom may share information from student records with other campus employees if there is a “legitimate educational interest.” If safety is at stake, the campus can disclose information as needed to prevent harm. Additionally, all CARES records maintained in a secure and confidential database.

How do I know if a concerning behavior is a CARES issue, or is more appropriately handled by other campus resources?

The most important step is that you refer the student exhibiting the behavior or experiencing challenges. If another campus resource is more appropriate, the CARES Team will refer the student and handle the transfer of information.

Can CSULB do anything about acts that take place off-campus?

The CARES Team can provide some resources and support for off campus concerns

Who/Where should I call after hours?

During emergency situations outside of business hours, call University Police at (562) 985-4101 Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) has an after hours phone crisis counselor at (562) 985-4001.

How to Refer a Student to the CARES Team

Submit a referral to the CARES Team through our secure online form or call the Dean of Students office at (562) 985-8670. If this is an emergency, please call 9-1-1 or University Police (562) 985-4101.