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College Students

How CBT Therapy Can Help College Students Thrive

J

Julie Hingsbergen

LMFT, CBT & ERP Specialist

June 21, 2025
1 min read

College life can be exciting—but it also brings intense pressure, uncertainty, and emotional ups and downs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a powerful tool that can help students manage the mental health challenges that often arise during this time.

CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. For students, this might mean working through test anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem, or feelings of isolation. Through CBT, students learn how to reframe negative thoughts, develop healthier coping skills, and build emotional resilience.

What makes CBT especially effective for college students is its practical, short-term structure. Many students see improvements in just a few months, and the skills learned can be applied throughout life. Whether managing academic stress, social anxiety, or bouts of depression, CBT empowers students to feel more in control of their emotions and actions.

With growing access to campus mental health services and online therapy options, CBT is more accessible than ever. Investing time in therapy during college can lead to better mental health, improved academic performance, and a more balanced, fulfilling experience.

In short, CBT gives students the tools to not just survive college—but to thrive.

CBTcollege studentsanxietymental health
J

Julie Hingsbergen, LMFT, CBT & ERP Specialist

Reframe CBT is a specialized group practice offering evidence-based CBT and ERP therapy for anxiety, OCD, phobias, and BFRBs. We work with children, teens, college students, and adults in San Rafael, Marin County, and via telehealth throughout California.

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