As adults, we often forget what it is like to totally start anew. New location, new friends, new work, new pecking order, new ideas, and increased pressures. While we have moves as adults and changes in our jobs, our breadth of experience is much greater. We have past experience to help through the adjustment period. Going to college in today’s world is much more difficult than just getting to class and getting the paper in on time.
College students are experiencing anxiety and depression at levels that are truly alarming. How to fit in, how to succeed, how to manage time and energy are big issues among others for college and to some degree, graduate students. While there are counseling centers on most large college campuses, there can be limits on the number of sessions that a student can participate in or an extended wait time to see a mental health professional.
College and Graduate students are coming to see Dr. Chester to discuss the following among other topics:
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Concerns
Career Choice
Substance and Alcohol Issues
Fraternity and Sorority Concerns
Family Dynamics
Academic Performance
Life Management
Dr. Chester was on staff at the SMU Counseling Center for 5 years and is a recommended provider for students at SMU. She has taught at the Graduate level and understands the struggles that college students face. Additionally, while getting her advanced degrees, Dr. Chester was working and attending classes, and as such knows the pressure of trying to do both and succeed. It is not easy.
If you are a parent from another area and are concerned about your college student, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Chester. While therapy with the student is confidential, it is helpful to have the parents’ input if the student feels comfortable and allows the parent to do so. Many parents travel in to the Dallas area to support their college aged son or daughter as they begin and progress through therapy.