Blog Highlight: Understanding Anxiety – Including Anxiety About College
Anxiety can affect people at every stage of life — and major transitions often make it more noticeable. For many students and families, starting college brings excitement along with worry: academic pressure, social uncertainty, being away from home, financial stress, or fear of the unknown. College-related anxiety may show up as racing thoughts, sleep difficulties, avoidance, perfectionism, or feeling constantly on edge.
Beyond college transitions, anxiety can also appear as persistent worry, physical tension, panic symptoms, or difficulty concentrating in daily life. When anxiety begins interfering with functioning or well-being, professional support can make a meaningful difference.
Therapy for anxiety uses evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, and skills training to help individuals manage overwhelming thoughts, regulate emotions, and build confidence during times of change. With the right tools and support, it’s possible to approach new seasons — including college — with greater calm and resilience.
Therapist Spotlight: Luke Marks, MS, LPC-IT
Luke Marks works with adolescents and adults to address anxiety, life transitions, stress, and emotional challenges. His collaborative, strengths-based approach helps clients develop insight, build coping skills, and navigate change — including stress and anxiety related to major life events like starting college or entering new phases of life.
He emphasizes a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore thoughts and feelings, learn evidence-based strategies, and build confidence in facing daily challenges.
Therapist Spotlight: Julie Gotsch, MS, LPC-IT
Julie works with children and adolescents, and supports clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. She uses a variety of therapeutic approaches — including CBT, DBT, ACT, person-centered therapy, and creative approaches like art and play therapy — to tailor treatment to each client’s needs. Julie is especially passionate about helping build resilience and confidence as they navigate life’s challenges.
Book Recommendation:
The Anxiety and Worry Workbook: The Cognitive Behavioral Solution by David A. Clark, PhD & Aaron T. Beck, MD
The Anxiety and Worry Workbook: The Cognitive Behavioral Solution by David A. Clark, PhD & Aaron T. Beck, MD
This practical, evidence-based workbook guides readers through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to understand and manage anxiety and worry. With easy-to-follow exercises, it helps individuals:
- Identify unhelpful thought patterns
- Challenge anxiety-fueling beliefs
- Develop coping strategies for real-world situations
- Build confidence in handling stressful life transitions (like college, work, and relationships)
Podcast Pick: Anxiety Slayer
“Anxiety Slayer” is a calming, supportive podcast designed to help listeners manage anxiety, find peace in the present moment, and build tools for daily life. Hosted by experienced practitioners, episodes explore topics like breathing techniques, mindfulness, cognitive strategies, stress reduction, and real-life coping tools — all in a gentle, accessible format.
Perfect for: Students navigating college stress, adults managing daily worry, and anyone seeking practical, soothing anxiety support.
🎙️ Search for “Anxiety Slayer” on your favorite podcast app (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.)