HELPING UNDERGRADS THRIVE IN THEIR FIRST YEAR IN COLLEGE
SYNOPSIS:
Dr. James Geisler, a graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling program, is the author of a new mental health workbook designed to assist undergrads adapt to college life.
Published November 5, 2024
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“When we tell our undergrads how college is going to be the best four years of their life, it’s often self-defeating,” said Dr. James Geisler.
Dr. Geisler is a 2021 graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling program. He is also the Executive Director of Wellness Services with Sacred Heart University and the author of Thrive Year One: The Essential Mental Health Workbook for First-Year College Students.
“I wrote this book specifically because I wanted to address that what we tell our college students and what they are feeling and experiencing when they start college may be worlds apart,” Dr. Geisler said.
Indeed, a new undergrad who is anticipating “the best four years of their life” only to be troubled with everything from homesickness to social isolation may feel like they’re failing before their academic career begins in earnest.
“When we talk about college prep, it’s usually about the academics and logistics, like testing or meeting application deadlines,” said Dr. Geisler. “Very few high schools or even parents anticipate the emotional reaction of young people when they’re away from home and largely functioning on their own for the first time in their lives. The anxiety is normal. We just need to prepare them better for it.”
Since 2020, there’s been increasing attention on the “mental health crisis” on college campuses. However, Dr. Geisler says this term often shifts focus away from innovative solutions that prioritize early intervention.
“Without this early intervention, energy is spent in response to the suffering instead of preventing it. My book equips students with essential mental health exercises to help them succeed in their first year. It’s designed by someone who has witnessed these challenges firsthand and is motivated to address this gap,” Dr. Geisler said.
Dr. Geisler also noted that the book could be valuable for university advisors, first-year programs, admissions staff, high school counselors, etc. who are working to help undergrads, improve retention rates and reduce demand for on-campus mental health resources.
Thrive Year One: The Essential Mental Health Workbook for First-Year College Students is available through Amazon and through bulk orders on Dr. Geisler’s website.
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This hybrid online program prepares students to work as advanced practitioners, counselor educators, and supervisors in clinical and academic settings.