Young adulthood is filled with exciting new opportunities, life transitions, and unexpected risks and challenges. Many young adults, ages 18 to 30, find that it is not so easy to meet school, early career, or relationship expectations. They may find it difficult to ask for help.

 

When things don’t go as planned, people often find themselves feeling a little lost, lonely, and unsure how to move forward.

 

Common presenting concerns with young adult clients include:

• Depression, loneliness and homesickness

• Anxiety about academics, socializing, performance

• Making new friends and forming social networks

• Stress management

• Developing independence and competence as an adult

• Transitioning from high school to college and college to career

• Navigating school transfers

• Adapting to campus life, living alone or with roommates, juggling a less structured schedule, taking care of daily needs (eating, sleeping, exercise, medication management, etc.)

• Goal setting and planning

• Adjusting to a new job and career

• Managing high expectations for self

• Difficulty asking for help and identifying / utilizing resources

 

Therapy for young adults often includes psychoeducation and skillbuilding to help the client learn how to help themselves through the rough spots: understanding mental health, developing self-care strategies, and using self-talk for problem solving, perspective-taking, and motivation. Clients learn to identify and build upon their strengths and interests, develop skills necessary for adulting, and chart a course that is unique and satisfying to them.