Walking into your first counseling session in college can feel intimidating, especially if you are not sure what to expect. The reality is that counseling is a safe place to process stress, emotions, and questions about your future. Curious about the support available to GLCC students? Contact us here.
Starting college brings a whirlwind of new experiences, challenges, and responsibilities. Between classes, friendships, and future plans, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. For many students, therapy becomes a vital tool for staying grounded and supported. But here’s the challenge: with so many options, how do you know which therapist is the right fit?
Ms. Mahrley Parks, Professor of Psychology & Counseling at Great Lakes Christian College, offers practical advice for students who are exploring therapy for the first time. Her insights form the foundation of this guide, written to encourage students to take those first steps with confidence.
Why Choosing a Therapist Matters
Finding the right therapist is not about simply booking the first appointment available. Therapy is a relationship. You are opening up about personal thoughts, struggles, and goals, so it matters that you feel safe, heard, and respected.
For college students, this decision can be especially important. The transition to higher education often brings:
- Academic stress from heavier workloads.
- Homesickness or adjusting to independence.
- Social pressures, from making new friends to navigating relationships.
- Anxiety about future careers and calling.
A therapist who understands these unique challenges can help you build resilience, manage stress, and stay grounded during your college years.
Step 1: Decide How You’ll Pay for Therapy
Before you begin your search, it helps to clarify how you will cover the cost. Many students use health insurance to pay for therapy, while others choose to pay out of pocket.
- Insurance: Check your family plan or student insurance to see which providers are covered. Websites like Psychology Today allow you to filter by insurance.
- Out of pocket: Some therapists offer sliding scale fees or student discounts. This can make therapy more accessible even without insurance.
Taking a moment to sort this out will narrow your search and prevent surprises later.
Step 2: Start Looking for Options
Once you know your budget, it is time to search. Google and PsychologyToday.com are excellent places to begin, along with campus counseling referrals.
When reviewing profiles, ask yourself:
- Do they take my insurance or fit my budget?
- Does their bio mention the issues I am struggling with, such as stress, anxiety, or adjustment to college life?
- Do their photos or descriptions give me a positive first impression?
This initial “vibe check” is an important part of the process. Therapy is personal, and your gut reaction matters.
Step 3: Schedule a Consultation
Many therapists offer a short phone call or video consultation before the first official session. Take advantage of this opportunity.
During the consult, you can ask questions such as:
- How do you usually work with college students?
- What is your approach to therapy (structured, conversational, faith based, etc.)?
- Do you have experience helping students with the challenges I am facing?
- What does scheduling look like, and are sessions flexible around class commitments?
This first conversation gives you a clearer picture of whether you feel comfortable moving forward.
Step 4: Meet for Your First Session
The first therapy session is like testing the waters. You will share a bit about yourself, your goals, and your concerns, while your therapist explains how they work.
Remember: this is not a lifetime commitment. It is okay if the first therapist you meet is not the perfect fit. What matters most is whether you feel listened to, respected, and encouraged to grow.
If something feels off, that is valuable information. Therapy is most effective when you trust your therapist and feel a sense of partnership.
Step 5: Keep Looking Until It Feels Right
Ms. Parks reminds students that “not all therapists will be the right fit for you, but there is always a right fit for you out there.”
If the first or even second therapist does not feel right, keep searching. Switching therapists is not rude or disrespectful. It is a normal part of finding the right support. Therapists themselves want you to succeed and will not take it personally if you move on.
Think of it like finding a mentor, coach, or professor whose style matches your needs. When you find the right therapist, you will know because sessions feel more like a safe space to grow than a task to get through.
Ms.. Parks also reminds students:“Don’t worry about hurting a therapist’s feelings. We want you to find the right fit where you can do your best healing. You are worth it.”
That reminder is especially important in college, where it is easy to minimize your own needs or try to handle everything alone. Reaching out for therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness.
GLCC’s Commitment to Student Wellness
At Great Lakes Christian College, we believe your mental and emotional health are just as important as your academic and spiritual growth. That is why GLCC offers counseling and wellness resources designed to support students through every season of college life.
Whether you are dealing with stress, navigating relationships, or seeking spiritual encouragement, our campus provides a faith-centered environment where you are never alone in your journey. Wellness at GLCC means caring for the whole student: mind, body, and spirit.
Take Your Next Step
If you are exploring therapy and want to know what resources are available at GLCC, we would love to connect with you.
Visit glcc.edu to begin your GLCC journey. Questions? Fill out our inquiry form, email admissions@glcc.edu, or call 800-937-4522 (800-YES-GLCC)—we’re here to help!