So You Want to Try Therapy in College

If you’re debating whether or not to sign up for an appointment with your school’s counseling services, this is your sign. You should, and here’s why we recommend biting the bullet and reaching out to a professional, especially in college. 

A common misconception about therapy is that it’s only a resource for individuals with diagnosed mental health issues. In reality, therapy is a resource for anyone, no matter your experiences. Even if you feel that what you’re going through isn’t as serious as what someone else experiences, any issue inhibiting your clarity and happiness is worth talking about. We’re sure you’ve already heard friends and family rave about it, so take their advice and at the least give therapy a try.

In my experience, I quickly learned that my problems, no matter how seemingly small, are as valid as anyone else's. While talking to close friends and loved ones can play a helpful part in individual growth, it’s only a viable option to an extext. Getting an outside, judgement-free opinion and setting goals for yourself with the help of a professional allow you to stay on track and motivated, knowing that in two weeks someone will ask you how your goals are going.

But, therapy does look a bit different in quarantine. Instead of sitting across from your therapist on their couch, you’ll be at home, face-to-face through Zoom. It’s definitely a different feeling, but it’s still one-on-one and you will still feel heard.

Elon offers their appointments through a secure Zoom call. To make an appointment, you can call counseling services at (336)-278-7280. From there, you’ll give them your name and contact information and set up a time that works for you. Make sure that whenever you schedule your appointment you’ll be able to call in from a private location with no interruptions.

On the day of your first appointment, you’ll receive an email with instructions for filling out a few forms before your first session. Don’t be intimidated— they just provide your therapist with information about what you want to talk about. The forms include a few statements regarding depression, anxiety, eating disorders and substance use, and you’ll mark answers based on how much each item sounds like you. They’ll also ask you why you’re coming to therapy so they can better prepare to guide the conversation.

At the time of your appointment, your therapist will send you a Zoom link to log into, and then you just talk! It can be scary, but know that your therapist is prepared for anything and will help you through the process if you feel nervous. Don’t be afraid to open up at the first appointment, because the more you talk about them, the more your therapist will be able to get to know you.

If face-to-face (or Zoom-to-Zoom) therapy feels too overwhelming, there are definitely other options out there. There are many online and text services available if you would prefer to use messaging as opposed to video chat.

Starting therapy can be intimidating, but in the end, it is so worth it for many. Adapting to college is more difficult than people like to let on, so you shouldn’t be embarrassed about wanting to reach out to a professional.