Therapy for College Students Overview

Before considering outside therapy for college students such as I provide, here are some key aspects to consider:

The Role of Counseling Services on Campus

Most colleges and universities offer counseling services for their students. These services are provided by talented clinicians with particular training and expertise in young adult counseling. These services are often free or available at a low cost and are very helpful in helping students navigate academic, personal, and emotional challenges. I have many close colleagues who do this work, and I am continually impressed by their compassion, talent, and insightfulness.

Some college counseling centers refer to outside providers like me because of their mission and approach. When a student has a concern that is best addressed throughout the year, not just while the student is on campus, I often get a referral. When a student’s concerns go beyond affecting their educational pursuits, some college counselors refer to me. Finally, I may have a clinical specialty, such as sports psychology, fear of public speaking, or a clinical approach unavailable at the college counseling center.

Types of Therapy for College Students

I offer the following young adult counseling approaches:

Individual Therapy for College Students

The most common type of therapy for young adults I provide is one-on-one therapy sessions. Individual online therapy for college students provides a safe and confidential space for students to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I use a variety of techniques, which I go over later in this post, to offer support, guidance, and coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more.

Group Therapy for Young Adults

Group therapy for young adults allows students to connect with peers experiencing similar challenges. It can provide a sense of community, validation, and support as students share their experiences and learn from one another. I can open the group to students from colleges nationwide, giving them feelings of community and privacy.

Workshops and Support Groups

Often at the request of college counseling centers, I offer workshops and support groups on stress management, mindfulness techniques, self-esteem, and interpersonal skills. These can be valuable opportunities for students to learn new skills and connect with others in a supportive environment.

My Approach to Therapy for Young Adults

My approach to therapy for young adults is multifaceted, considering the uniqueness of each student’s background, challenges, and strengths. Here’s a general framework:

Comprehensive Assessment

I start by thoroughly assessing the student’s mental, emotional, social, and physical well-being. This may include exploring family dynamics, cultural background, academic or vocational goals, and past traumas or challenges. This occurs in a safe and non-judgmental space where the student feels comfortable. I work hard to acknowledge the student’s need for autonomy, exploration, and independence while providing support and guidance.

Strengths-Based Approach

We will focus on identifying and leveraging their strengths and resilience. I help clients recognize their abilities and resources to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Together, we will set meaningful and achievable goals for treatment. I want to ensure I fully understand what they hope to gain from the process and how they envision improving their lives.

Evidence-Based Therapy for Young Adults

As with all approaches, therapy for young adults should lead to powerful, obvious, and, if possible, measurable results. I utilize various therapeutic techniques and modalities tailored to my client’s needs and preferences. I can combine aspects of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I often work to facilitate the exploration of identity, values, beliefs, and life purpose. This helps clarify their priorities and make decisions aligned with their authentic selves.

I try to equip young adults with a “toolkit” of practical coping skills and strategies for managing stress, regulating emotions, improving communication, and navigating relationships effectively. I greatly respect young adults’ intelligence and wisdom, so I work to allow for greater autonomy and self-reliance while providing guidance and support as needed. The goal is not to rely on a therapist but to navigate life’s challenges independently.

Cultural Sensitivity in Therapy for College Students

I respect and integrate their cultural background and identity in young adult counseling. I’m mindful of cultural factors influencing their experiences, beliefs, and help-seeking behaviors.

By integrating these principles into my approach, I hope to effectively support young adults in navigating the complexities of this transitional phase and facilitate their growth, resilience, and well-being.