Julia Hogan

From the second we hit adolescence, we are in a near state of constant transition. That doesn't stop when we hit what society considers to be "adulthood." When we hit college, the world expects us to magically become fully functioning adults. But we are dealing with one of the biggest transitions yet, and mostly on our own. We might be experiencing things such as transitioning from living at home, to living on our own. Relying on family for financial support to having to support ourselves. Having a secure and safe social circle to having to start again finding our "people." Balancing classes, work, social obligations, and self-care. Deciding if we want to carry forward the identity we held onto in adolescence into adulthood, or reinvent ourselves. Living in the moment and enjoying our experience while constantly planning our futures and making plans for when we REALLY hit adulthood. And doing all of this completely untethered from the safety and security we once knew.

College is a lot. Period. It's normal to struggle through some of this, and to need some extra support in managing it all.

I speak from experience. I faced a lot of challenges in college that tested my mental health. A close family member passed away two months into my freshman year, and navigating my grief amidst my difficult college classes challenged my focus and caused my grades to slip. I had what I lovingly call a "mental breakdown" returning from spring break my sophmore year of college, when I literally couldn't stop crying for a week straight for no apparent reason. Did I reach out for professional support, you may wonder? You bet I did! I met with a counselor at my college who helped me understand that I was feeling very isolated and helped me figure out some steps I could take to feel less alone. In the end, I found my "people," who are still my best friends nearly 20 years later, and had an amazing college experience. I am so glad I reached out for support, and persevered through that challenge.

I specialize in supporting anxiety, depression, difficult transitions, navigating family and social conflict, and simply finding your place in this world. Sometimes we know we need therapy, but we're not really sure what for, and I am happy to lend an ear to what you are experiencing, and help you find your way, regardless of any labels.

It takes strength to reach out for help, especially during a period of life you are expected to be grown up and independent. But there is no point in life during which you should ever feel ashamed to seek help. College can be an amazing and formative time, and managing your emotional and mental health can help you access all of the beautiful experiences available to you.

Please don't hesitate to reach out for any reason at all. I'm looking forward to working with you!