5 REASONS WHY SUMMER IS THE BEST TIME TO START COUNSELING

It seems like just yesterday we were navigating the hectic pace of the end of the school year and now it’s mid-summer. Time sure does fly. But here's some exciting news: this is the perfect time to start counseling for kids, teens, college students, and adults! Yep, you heard me right. Whether you're enjoying the lazy days of summer or prepping for the next chapter in your life, now is the perfect time to prioritize your mental well-being. 

So grab a cold drink, cozy up, and let's dive into why mid-summer is the prime time to embark on a transformative counseling journey. It's time to put yourself first and make the most of this wonderful season.

While starting counseling may not be top of mind in the summer months, let me break it down for you with five awesome reasons why summer is an ideal time to kickstart your counseling journey.

1. Break from the Usual Grind

So, you know how summer is all about chilling by the pool, firing up the grill, and just embracing that laid-back vibe? Well, that means a break from our usual hectic routines and daily struggles. Kids are free from school stress, and adults often get a reprieve with more flexible schedules or even vacations. It's the perfect opportunity to focus on your mental well-being by starting counseling. Without all the usual chaos, you can really dive deep and make some serious progress in your journey to personal growth.

2. More Time on Your Hands

Now think about it, when summer hits, school's out for the kiddos and adults often have more free time on their hands too. So, why not take advantage of that and dedicate some of that extra time to therapy? Kids can fully commit themselves to counseling without the added pressures of schoolwork and extracurriculars. And adults can savor their flexible summers, making it easier to find counseling appointments that fit into their schedules. It's like a summer gift to yourself, prioritizing your mental well-being and embarking on a transformative journey.

3. Getting Emotionally Ready

Summer, my friend, is the time right before big changes. Kids move up to the next grade, and adults might be facing exciting career shifts or other major life milestones. This is where counseling comes in to save the day. It offers a safe space to explore any anxieties, fears, or emotional baggage tied to these upcoming changes. By starting counseling during the summer, you're emotionally preparing yourself to tackle those new challenges head-on. You'll be like a superhero ready for action!

4. Building Coping Skills

Life can throw some serious curveballs our way, right? And summer is the perfect season for honing those coping skills we all need. Through counseling, both adults and kids can learn healthy ways to handle stress and maintain their emotional well-being. So when those rough times hit, you'll have these new tools in your back pocket to keep you going strong. Starting counseling during the relaxed summer season means you'll be well-equipped to face any future hurdles with grace and resilience.

5. Smooth Sailing into Back-to-School Mode

This one's for the kids, teens, college students and adults too! Starting therapy sessions during the summer creates a seamless transition into the school year. They establish a solid therapeutic foundation that effortlessly carries them through the challenges they may face during the academic year. And don't worry, adults can benefit from that too! By starting counseling during summer, any progress made can continue to positively impact your daily life once the fall rolls around. It's like having a secret weapon for the upcoming adventures.


So, whether you're a kid, a teen, or a grown-up, summer is the absolute perfect time to give your mental health the attention it deserves through counseling. Embrace the break from the usual routine, build those coping skills, and get emotionally ready for whatever lies ahead. 

Don't miss out on this golden opportunity, my friends! Take that leap and start your counseling journey today. Remember, your mental well-being is just as important as savoring the sun on a glorious summer day. So, let's make this summer all about personal growth, transformation, and self-discovery - because that's what this season is all about, right? Cheers to an amazing summer journey of self-improvement!


If you or someone you know is interested in starting counseling this summer, I am pleased to share that we have openings and are currently accepting referrals for new clients. Not sure if you’re ready or want to learn more about how we can help? CALL TODAY for a FREE 15 minute consultation - (860) 255-4017. 

We’ve got an exceptional team of therapists at the practice offering in person and Telehealth counseling to clients of all ages and we’re here to help. 

Marla Dakin, LCSW helps children, adolescents, young adults and parents who are struggling with anxiety and other mental health challenges. She is especially passionate about helping parents learn skills and strategies to help their children overcome worries and fears so they can live full, happy lives. Marla has over 20 years experience working in the schools as a school social worker and in her private practice, Farmington Valley Counseling Center, in Avon, CT, and she is mom to two young adults herself. In addition to her work in the therapy office, Marla offers a variety of online workshops and webinars for parents. Follow Marla on Instagram @marladakin and join her private Facebook group for parents “LIVING IT TOGETHER” to stay informed about upcoming events, offerings and speaking engagements.