Stressed at University? You’re Not the Only One
If you’re a university student in Vancouver struggling with stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The late teens and early 20s are one of the most challenging stages for mental health—and many students experience this during their university years.
I am a counsellor based in Vancouver who works with many university students and young adults navigating this phase of life. While I’m not affiliated with a university, I regularly support students from University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and other local colleges.
Why University Years Feel So Overwhelming
A Major Life Transition
University is a time of rapid change:
Moving away from home
Forming new relationships
Making decisions about your future
This stage—often called emerging adulthood—is naturally uncertain and emotionally intense.
Academic Pressure & Burnout
Students in Vancouver, including those attending UBC and SFU, often face high expectations, which can lead to:
Anxiety and ongoing stress
Perfectionism and self-doubt
Burnout and loss of motivation
The transition to university-level academics can feel unexpectedly difficult.
Mental Health Challenges Often Begin in Early Adulthood
Most mental health conditions begin before age 25, including anxiety and depression. This makes early support especially valuable during university years.
Loneliness in a Busy City
Even in a vibrant city like Vancouver, students often feel:
Disconnected or isolated
Unsure where they belong
Pressured by social comparison
How Counselling Can Help University Students
Working with an independent counsellor provides a private, consistent space to:
Manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelm
Build emotional regulation skills
Navigate relationships and boundaries
Explore identity and direction
Develop resilience during a period of change
A Different Way to Understand This Stage
Struggling during university doesn’t mean something is wrong with you!
It often reflects:
Growth and identity development
Increased responsibility
Adapting to a new environment
With the right support, this period can become a foundation for long-term well-being.
Student-Focused Counselling in Vancouver
If you’re searching for student counselling in Vancouver, I offer therapy tailored to university students and young adults.
Whether you’re attending UBC, SFU, or another school in the Vancouver area, sessions are available in-person and online with flexible scheduling.
Feeling Stressed or Overwhelmed at University? Let’s Talk.
You don’t have to navigate university stress on your own.
Reach out today to book a consultation call and get support that meets you where you are.
FAQ: Student Counselling in Vancouver
Do you offer counselling specifically for university students?
Yes. While I am not a university-affiliated counsellor, I work with many university students and young adults in Vancouver, including those attending University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.
Is this the same as student counselling services at UBC or SFU?
No. This is independent counselling outside of university systems. Some students prefer working with a counsellor who is not connected to their school for greater flexibility.
What issues do you help university students with?
I commonly support students experiencing:
Anxiety and stress
Academic burnout
Depression and low mood
Relationship challenges
Life transitions and identity concerns
Do you offer online or in-person counselling in Vancouver?
Yes. Sessions are available both in-person in Vancouver and online, making it easier to fit counselling into your academic schedule.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Many students seek support simply because they feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure about their direction.
Research References
American College Health Association. (2022). National college health assessment III: Undergraduate student reference group executive summary Spring 2022. American College Health Association
Kwan, M. Y. W., Faulkner, G. E. J., Arbour-Nicitopoulos, K. P., & Cairney, J. (2013). Prevalence of health-risk behaviours among Canadian post-secondary students: Descriptive results from the National College Health Assessment. BMC Public Health, 13, 548. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-13-548
Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2017). The mental health of emerging adults: A consensus statement. Mental Health Commission of Canada
Wiens, K., Bhattarai, A., Pedram, P., Dores, A., Williams, J. V. A., & Fiest, K. M. (2020). A growing need for youth mental health services in Canada: Examining trends in youth mental health from 2011 to 2018. Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, 29, e115. https://doi.org/10.1017/S2045796020000281
Wong, M. M., et al. (2024). Identity processes and mental health in emerging adulthood: A systematic review. Journal of Adolescence. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2023.11.012
