In today’s discussion with Madelyn Dobbins (Brake), LPC, we focus on issues faced by the young adult demographic.
Younger Austinites Seek Therapy Often: Here’s Why You Might
Your late teens and twenties can be an exciting and overwhelming time all at once. You’re figuring out who you are, where you’re headed, and how to manage everything that comes with growing into adulthood. Therapy can be a space to slow down, sort things out, and get support while you find your footing.
Here are some of the most common reasons college students and young adults reach out for help:
To Manage Stress, Anxiety, or Depression
Feeling anxious, unmotivated, or weighed down by pressure is really common at this stage of life. Therapy can help you learn how to manage stress, quiet the constant “what ifs,” and rebuild energy and confidence.
To Navigate Relationships
From family tension to breakups or confusing dating dynamics, relationships can bring both comfort and stress. Therapy helps you build healthy boundaries, improve communication, and make sense of what you want and need from others.
To Figure Out Who You Are
It’s normal to question your direction, values, or identity in early adulthood. As a young adult, you might be exploring your sense of self, gender or sexuality, cultural identity, or simply what makes you you. Therapy offers a safe space to explore those questions without judgment.
To Sort Through Life Transitions & Big Decisions
College, jobs, independence, “adulting”—it’s a lot. Many young adults feel lost trying to make big decisions about school, career, or relationships. Therapy can help you find clarity and confidence in your choices.
To Cope in Healthier Ways
Maybe you’re stuck in patterns that don’t serve you—overthinking, avoidance, substance use, or people-pleasing. Therapy helps you understand what’s underneath those habits and replace them with skills that actually work.
To Build Confidence & Resilience
You don’t have to have everything figured out. Therapy is a place to grow, gain tools, and learn how to handle life’s ups and downs with more strength and self-compassion.
Let’s Get Started
Yur late teens and twenties can be full of excitement and possibility—but also uncertainty, pressure, and growing pains. You’re figuring out who you are, what matters to you, and how to manage everything that comes with becoming an adult. It’s a lot to carry, and you don’t have to do it alone.
I have a special interest in helping college students and young adults navigate these important years with greater clarity, balance, and confidence. I work with both individuals and families, supporting clients as they build healthier relationships, strengthen communication, and find direction during times of change.
