what is it like to get therapy at college? I’m going back to school in August and the counseling services open on the 17th. I think I should make an appointment bc my mental health was really bad like a month ago. But like I’m doing better now? And I don’t know if I need to talk to anyone at the moment. But I also feel like things will get bad again. And I think that a lot of my apprehension is bc I’ve never done therapy and my parents really don’t believe in it. So I’m just nervous
top of page
bottom of page
Hey there,
I think that it’s a great idea that you are thinking about taking this step. Remember, you don’t have to reach out to someone only when things are bad. Counseling can be for a variety of situations. I think you are very wise by considering going if things take a negative turn again. Being nervous is completely normal—I was nervous before going to my first therapy session. Some people are very apprehensive about talking about personal aspects of their life with someone who is not involved, but talking to an outsider can be very liberating. There is no bias. Unlike talking to friends or family who has known you longer, there are no preconceived ideas based on past experiences. It is a clean slate. Here is some information on what to expect from your first therapy session:
https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/faq/what-will-happen-in-my-first-therapy-session.
One session with a counselor isn’t going to eradicate your symptoms right away, but simply having a conversation about what’s going on can be a big help. There are still a lot of people out there who do not believe in counseling, and that’s okay. What is important is you. You have to do what is best for yourself. You are responsible for your own well-being, and if you think that counseling will help, I think it’s worth a try.
If you are worried about what people think, you can wait to tell them if/when you are ready. If you do decide to speak to your parents about counseling, be prepared for their disbelief in it. They may not feel that you need counseling, and that is okay. This decision is yours, and though their input can be helpful, it is not the final decision. This may help you decide if you need to go to counseling:
https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/why-should-i-go-to-therapy-8-signs-its-time-to-see-a-therapist-0118197.
I did not go to therapy on a college campus, but I think there are many similarities. I was nervous at first, but my counselor made me feel at ease. It was a difficult time in my life, so I started talking about what was going on, in detail, during my intake. Intake is when the counselor evaluates you, gets to know you a little, and figures out what you need and how best to help you. Be honest with yourself and your counselor, and be aware of how you feel during and after your session. These tips may help you prepare for your first session:
https://www.topcounselingschools.org/lists/5-ways-prepare-first-counseling-session/.
Hang in there, and good luck!
Andrea