Introduction

The Counseling Center offers support to JMU students dealing with the challenges of being a university student in the United States. We offer a variety of services to help students, including individual, couples, and group counseling as well as psychiatric medication. If you are interested in learning more about a particular mental health concern, visit our Self-Help Resources. Learn more about the Counseling Center in general by watching our commercial and reading our Frequently Asked Questions.

If you are concerned about a student and want to consult with a Counseling Center clinician, review How to Help A Distressed Student. If you are concerned about a student's immediate safety, follow the instructions in Emergency Assistance.

The idea of talking with a clinician about personal issues may seem unfamiliar or strange. If you believe that seeking counseling means you are weak, unsuccessful, or "crazy," it may prevent you from receiving necessary support. Dealing with personal and emotional concerns by talking with a professional is a very common experience in the U.S. Many U.S. students view these services as a helpful and effective way of dealing with current situations and problems. In fact, 50% of U.S. college counseling center clients received counseling before coming starting college. The Counseling Center sees 1 in 5 JMU students before graduation. 

If you aren't sure what counseling looks like or if you would benefit from it, take a look at our individual counseling services for more information.

You may experience a variety of adjustment issues when transitioning to life in the US. Some of them happen quickly and others develop later. Here are some examples that our clinicians discuss with international students:

• Difficulties with time management
• Sleep problems
• Loneliness and homesickness
• Language difficulties
• Culture shock
• Adjustment to new academic styles and pressures
• New social situations
• Discrimination
• Developing new friendships and relationships
• Keeping in touch with loved ones at home

For more information, read about Adjusting to Life in the United States.