In this episode, I am welcoming Joanna Lilley back to the show. If you are a loyal listener you might remember Joanna from episode 33, titled Transitioning from Parent to Partner. If you missed that episode, I highly recommend checking it out as it is packed full of great information to help parents to transition to a new dynamic as teens and young adults move on after high school. Today, Joanna and I talk about what to do when your college student returns home, and I’m not talking about after graduation. They might be leaving college for academic reasons, mental health reasons or something else, but no matter the reason, there are important steps that parents can take to help their kids get back on track. During our conversation Joanna provides helpful tips on how to set healthy boundaries with your young adult children, why a plan and a timeline are critical for success and where to find alternatives to college that are the right fit for your young adult. As always, Joanna is a wealth of information and resources.
About Joanna Lilley
Joanna holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. Before entering the consulting field, Joanna collectively worked with struggling adolescents and young adults for over ten years. Joanna guided off and on for six years with both state-run and private wilderness therapy programs. She coached students on academic probation at two institutions of higher education, as well as served on a university treatment team for students who deferred their suspension by opting into an in-house recovery program. After working with so many struggling young adults, Joanna made the professional leap to start supporting this population and their families in a consulting capacity. Her balance between being empathetic and caring yet direct and transparent is what allows her to easily connect with both the family and young adult. Joanna has been told time and again that her honesty and upfront demeanor is what has been most valued and appreciated. She hangs her hat in Gunnison, Colorado but works with families from across the world. No matter where you live, Joanna can be of assistance to you and your loved ones.
Episode Highlights
- When your teen or young adult has “failure to launch”
- College isn’t going anywhere
- When “fine” isn’t really fine
- How to set healthy boundaries between parents and young adults
- Why you should NOT have your college student’s school login
- Helping your young adult with a pre-existing mental health diagnosis
- When your young adult decides to leave college
- Why a plan, including a timeline, is critical
- There are plenty of great alternative for students home from college
- Therapeutic programs and peer communities are valuable options
- Joanna’ advice for parents
Resources
Six Forms You Really Want Signed Before Your Student Enrolls in College