Examination of Treatment Progress Among College Students in a University Counseling Program

Abstract

This study evaluated an academic counseling program called the University Turn Around Program (U-Turn) for college students experiencing mental health concerns and low academic achievement. Forty-three (27 men, 16 women) college students ranged in age from 18–25 years old (M = 19.65, SD = 1.46), with 29 freshman, eight sophomores, and six juniors. Thirty-four students identified as Hispanic (79%), two students identified as African American (5%), and seven students identified as White/Caucasian or other (16%). Depression, generalized anxiety, and academic distress were measured on the CCAPS-34, and anxiety, concentration, motivation, self-testing, and time management were measured on the LASSI-3. Paired samples t tests revealed statistically significant improvements for each measure that were characterized by medium to large effects (d = 0.55 to 1.18) but were not clinically significant. These results support the need for additional inquiries into the use of the U-Turn program’s inclusion in university counseling centers.