Young Adult Therapy and Life Transitions

The First Years on Your Own

Early adulthood brings big changes all at once: more independence, new expectations, and questions about who you are becoming. You may feel caught between who you have been and who you want to be while juggling classes, a first job, or both.

It can leave you doubting yourself, tired of making decisions, and alone with it. It is common to feel as if everyone else has a clear direction while you are still looking for steady ground.

How Therapy Builds Independence

We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you sort out decisions that feel too big and get clear on what matters to you. Therapy is a steady place to practice problem-solving, set boundaries, and ease up on self-criticism.

When focus or organization feels scattered, we can coordinate with our ADHD services for assessment or coaching. Biofeedback is also available for stress and headaches when academic pressure builds.

What to Expect

To get started, call (928) 774-7997 and schedule an intake conversation with Alethea Braun-Dunagan, M.A., LPC. We will talk about where things stand and sketch out a first plan together. Students and young adults may also work with Dr. Della S. Lusk, whose practice has supported Northern Arizona University students and faculty for many years.

Sessions follow your priorities, whether that means managing deadlines, improving communication in a relationship, or building a routine that feels balanced. Each week we look at what happened and choose practical next steps.

Care That Moves With You

Students and young adults move often, between terms, for internships, or for a first job. We meet in our Flagstaff office, close to Northern Arizona University, and by secure video in more than 40 states; our state pages explain how to keep seeing your clinician when you travel or relocate.

Questions people ask

Can my parents be involved, and what stays private?

If you are 18 or older, what you share in therapy is confidential, and we do not speak with your parents without your written permission. Some young adults choose to invite a parent to a session; that is your decision.

Can I keep my sessions if I travel or move between terms?

Often, yes. Video appointments are available when you are in a state where your clinician is authorized to practice. Let us know before you travel so we can confirm.

Do you work with university students facing academic stress?

Yes. We regularly support students with heavy coursework, time management, independence, and the social changes that come with college life.

Can we work on relationship conflicts in individual therapy?

Yes. CBT can help you understand your communication style, clarify what you want from your relationships, and feel more confident setting boundaries.