College is a time of growth and self-discovery — but it can also bring emotional challenges, stress, and unhealthy coping. STR Behavioral Health offers evidence-based treatment for college-aged adults (18+) facing mental health or substance use concerns, helping students stabilize, heal, and move forward with confidence.
What We Treat
We provide compassionate, personalized care for college students facing mental health and substance use challenges. Our programs support young adults from crisis stabilization through long-term recovery, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Why College Students + Their Loved Ones Choose STR
+ Age-appropriate, peer-supported care
Our programs are designed for young adults, fostering a sense of community among peers who are navigating similar life transitions and academic pressures.
+ Academic coordination + support
We partner with schools to support medical leave, re-entry, and academic planning — while protecting your privacy.
+ Comprehensive continuum of care
From residential care to intensive outpatient programming, we tailor our treatment to meet your unique clinical and developmental needs.
+ Evidence-based, trauma-informed approach
Programming encompasses therapy, psychiatry, medication management, life skills, and additional services.
+ Compassionate treatment environment
Experienced professionals deliver care in a compassionate, judgment-free space where healing and personal growth can flourish.
+ Flexible treatment scheduling
Multiple levels of care from residential to outpatient, with access to computers for schoolwork and communication when necessary.
Fast Facts: College Students + Behavioral Health
>60%
of college students did not receive mental health counseling or therapy in the past year
Common Causes of Mental Health Issues + Substance Use in College Students
Academic Pressure
Heavy workloads, high performance expectations, and competitive environments can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and academic anxiety — fueling depression or substance use as a way to cope.
Identity Development + Life Transitions
Navigating a new level of independence, forming social identity, and adapting to new roles can trigger emotional strain, uncertainty, or mood instability.
Social Isolation
Feeling disconnected or struggling to make meaningful relationships can increase loneliness, a known risk factor for depression and maladaptive coping strategies.
Unresolved Trauma or Past Experiences
Past trauma — whether from family, relationships, or early life — can resurface during the transition to college, contributing to PTSD symptoms, anxiety, or substance use.
Perfectionism + High Expectations
The drive to excel socially, academically, and personally can lead to self-criticism, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion — often masked by overachievement or withdrawal.
Peer Influence + Substance Experimentation
The drive to excel socially, academically, and personally can lead to self-criticism, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion — often masked by overachievement or withdrawal.
Limited Coping Skills or Mental Health Awareness
Many young adults enter college without the tools to manage stress, setbacks, or emotional dysregulation — leading to avoidance behaviors, isolation, or unhealthy coping patterns.
Navigating a Leave of Absence from School
Taking a leave of absence to focus on treatment — whether for a mental health or substance use concern — is a brave and essential step. With proper planning, you can safeguard both your academic progress and your overall well-being.
Here are some helpful steps to guide you through the process:
1. Understand your school’s policies + your rights
Research your college’s leave of absence guidelines and meet with the appropriate administrative offices to fully understand your options and responsibilities.
2. Communicate with key contacts
Submit a formal leave request and notify the necessary campus contacts, such as the Dean of Students, disability services, or residence life staff. Maintain open communication while protecting your privacy.
3. Coordinate your academic plans
- Meet with your academic advisor to discuss next steps
- Consider options like course withdrawals, incompletes, or pass/fail grading
- Let professors know what they need to — on your terms — to ease transitions
4. Prioritize your recovery
- Follow the treatment plan outlined by your healthcare team
- Establish daily routines that support your emotional, mental, and physical well-being
5. Prepare for a smooth return
- Collaborate with your academic advisor on a reintegration plan
- Consider a reduced course load or support services for your first semester back
- Stay connected to therapy, peer support, and campus resources as you re-engage
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this affect my academic progress?
We can provide documentation for medical leave or accommodations and help coordinate a smooth transition back to school when you’re ready.
Do I need to struggle with addiction to qualify?
No. We treat a range of behavioral health conditions, including mental health concerns, substance use, or both.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on your individual needs. Residential treatment typically lasts several weeks, whereas outpatient care provides ongoing support with greater flexibility.
Can my family be involved?
Yes. With your consent, we offer family therapy and involvement options to encourage communication and healing.
What support is available after I finish the program?
We provide personalized aftercare planning, alum support, and referrals to outpatient providers or campus-based resources near you.
Our Locations
Our Pennsylvania treatment centers provide a safe, supportive, and private environment where college students can focus on recovery. From residential to outpatient care, we offer programs tailored to meet the distinct needs of every individual.
Contact Us
Take the first step toward recovery today. Call now to connect with a compassionate team member who will answer your questions and guide you through the admissions process.
Prefer we reach out to you? Please complete our contact form, and we’ll be in touch with you soon.
Admissions
