Students With Mental Health Needs: College Counseling Experiences and Academic Success

In this study, we examined college counseling experiences and academic outcomes. About 10% of college students seek counseling for mental health needs, and many would be unable to persist without support. Building on previous research, we found that participating in counseling was beneficial to academic success. Students who visited the counseling center and then remained in counseling as recommended were more likely to experience GPA increases and graduate than were their peers who either did not complete further counseling after their first visit or were referred off campus. Attending a greater number of sessions appeared to have greater benefits. We discuss implications for professionals across campus.