Students typically encounter a great deal of stress during their university years (i.e. academic, social, family, work, financial). For some the pressures can become overwhelming and unmanageable. Students can feel alone, isolated, helpless, and even hopeless.

Many common student concerns include:

  • Difficulty in adjusting to college
  • Problems with friends and/or family members
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief or loss
  • Self-confidence
  • Lack of motivation
  • Time management
  • Stress management
  • Identity issues
  • Substance use issues
  • Eating disorders
  • Physical/Sexual/Emotional abuse
  • Trauma
  • Concerns about your major, career, and/or future
  • Difficulty in concentrating or studying
  • Trouble coping with academic pressures
  • Uncertainties about personal values and beliefs

Short-term counseling support exists for Penn State York students who are experiencing difficulty. Student Affairs and the Advising and Career Development are staffed with professional staff members who have master's degrees in counseling and counseling-related fields. Students wishing to access the Counseling Center can contact Sarah Bender, licensed professional counselor in the Student Affairs Suite.

The Counseling Center is open and provides a combination of in person and virtual, telehealth services. Decisions regarding the appropriate format of services will be made after screening and assessment is completed. It is recommended that you reach out by telephone or email for a meeting.

The Counseling Center is open for contact:

  • Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. by appointment

Counseling services provided are confidential and free to Penn State York students. Information will be released ONLY with a student’s written permission or if a student’s condition indicates clear and imminent danger to him/herself or to others. The decision of the degree of danger is up to the counselor's professional judgment. Services provided to students of Penn State York include:

  • Individual counseling
  • Community referrals
  • Programs on topics of well-being
  • Support with accessing psychiatric care
  • Additional counseling and support services, as needed

For more information, or to access counseling services, contact Sarah Bender.

Ethics Information

Diversity Statement

The staff at the Counseling Center welcomes all students and embraces a philosophy respectful of diversity. We are supportive of clients' gender, race, sexual orientation, cultural and religious backgrounds, and abilities. We are committed to helping all students deal with discrimination and identity issues.