Dear Soon-to-Be College Freshman: You’re About to Begin Something Big
Dear Soon-to-Be College Freshman: You’re About to Begin Something Big
Let’s just take a breath for a moment, because wow — here you are. High school is wrapping up, and everyone keeps asking, “Are you excited for college?” You smile and nod, because yeah, there is some excitement. The idea of decorating your dorm, picking out classes you actually get to choose, making new friends, maybe even leaving your hometown for the first time — it all sounds like an adventure.
But if you’re being honest, maybe there’s also this weird undercurrent of nervousness running alongside the excitement. Maybe it creeps in late at night or when you're alone with your thoughts. What if college isn’t what you expected? What if you miss home more than you thought? What if everyone else seems to adjust faster than you?
If this sounds like you — I want you to know something right now: you’re not broken, behind, or dramatic. You’re just human. And transitions like this one? They bring out all the feelings.
You're Not Alone in This Shift
So many incoming freshmen feel this way, even if no one’s really talking about it. It’s hard to move from a place where you know the halls, the routines, the people — to one where everything is new. It’s not just a new environment, it’s a new version of yourself you’re stepping into.
Some days you might feel unstoppable — confident, full of energy, ready for what’s ahead. And other days, the weight of change might feel a little heavy. That’s okay. Both experiences are part of the process. You don’t need to have it all figured out to move forward.
Let’s Talk About Tools — Not Perfection
You don’t need to wait until things feel hard to take care of yourself. Here are some gentle tools you can start practicing now:
Emotional Check-Ins: Create a routine of asking yourself, How am I, really? Your answer might shift day to day, and that’s normal. You can journal it, say it out loud, or even text it to a trusted person if that feels easier.
Set Boundaries with Compassion: You’ll have lots of new opportunities — clubs, social invites, study groups. Learn how to say “yes” when it feels right and “no” when you need rest. That’s part of self-respect, not isolation.
Create a “Comfort Toolkit”: Think of things that help you regulate when you’re overwhelmed — a playlist, cozy socks, photos from home, a favorite scent, a breathing exercise. Keep them close.
Find Connection (Not Just Social Media): It’s easy to scroll and feel like everyone’s adjusting faster than you. But real connection happens offline — in quiet chats with your roommate, group projects, or joining that club even if you feel awkward at first.
Know When to Ask for Support: It’s not weakness to reach out. Whether it’s a trusted adult, a counselor, or a therapist — having someone to talk to can help you stay grounded in the middle of big emotions.
You Deserve Support That Grows With You
If you’re reading this and thinking, “I wish someone could just walk through this with me…” — that’s what therapy can be. I work with teens and young adults who are navigating these exact kinds of transitions — the messy, beautiful, confusing ones. Together, we explore tools that feel good to you, build confidence, and help you navigate college not just as a student, but as a whole person.
Whether you’re excited, unsure, nervous, or all three at once — you don’t have to figure it out alone. This new chapter is a big one, and you deserve space to grow, process, and feel supported every step of the way.
If you or someone you know is preparing for college and could use support during this transition, feel free to reach out. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where your story matters — and your growth is the goal.
Here’s to the beginning of something beautiful.
What Is Therapy (Really)? My Take on Finding the Right Fit
It all begins with an idea.
If you’ve ever wondered what therapy actually is or if it’s something you could see yourself trying you’re not alone. As a licensed therapist supporting clients in Massachusetts and Florida, I often hear questions from people who are curious, unsure, or new to therapy.
This post is just my personal perspective on what therapy can look like and how to start finding a therapist who feels right for you.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, just a gentle guide based on my own experience working with clients through anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and faith-based concerns.
What I Believe Therapy Is
In my view, therapy is a supportive space where you can be honest, explore what’s going on in your life, and feel heard without judgment. It’s not about “fixing” you. It’s about having a space to grow, reflect, and process life’s challenges with support.
People come to therapy for many reasons. Some want to heal from trauma, manage anxiety or depression, or work through family and relationship issues. Others just want a place to feel more grounded or learn new coping tools.
I see therapy as a useful tool not a quick fix, but something that can help you better understand yourself and feel more equipped to face life with clarity and care.
Every Therapist is Different
No two therapists are exactly the same. Some are very structured, others are more relaxed. Some therapists, like me, offer faith-based therapy and are trained in approaches like EMDR or trauma-informed care. Others may focus more on specific techniques or take a different approach.
What matters most, in my opinion, is that you feel safe, seen, and respected. That connection can really shape the experience.
How to Find a Therapist That Feels Right
Here are a few things to consider when you’re looking for a therapist in Massachusetts, Florida, or anywhere else:
Do you want someone who understands trauma or childhood experiences? Look for trauma-informed care.
Is it important that your therapist honors your faith or spiritual beliefs? Faith-based therapy might be a good fit.
Would you feel more comfortable with someone who shares your background or lived experience? That’s valid, too.
You deserve to feel supported in therapy, and that starts with finding someone who feels like a good match.
Helpful Resources to Start Your Search
Here are some therapist directories I often recommend:
On sites like Psychology Today, you can filter your search by location (like “Therapist in Massachusetts” or “Online therapy in Florida”), specialty, identity, and more.
Some therapists offer a free consultation or phone call so you can get a feel for whether their approach works for you. It’s okay to ask questions and take your time.
A Personal Note
This post reflects my own outlook as a licensed therapist offering online therapy in Massachusetts and Florida. I believe therapy can be a supportive, healing space when you’re ready for it.
There’s no pressure to have it all figured out before starting. You’re allowed to be unsure. You’re allowed to ask questions. You’re allowed to go at your own pace.
Thanks for reading. I’ll be sharing more thoughts and resources soon—for anyone curious about therapy, healing, and what it looks like to care for your mental health while staying true to your values.
Looking for a trauma-informed or faith-based therapist in Massachusetts or Florida? Contact me here to learn more or schedule a consult.
