
Therapy for Michigan Tech Students & Houghton, Michigan Residents: Navigate Academic Pressure, Isolation, and Mental Health Challenges
Living in Houghton, Michigan, as a student at Michigan Tech University can be a rewarding but challenging experience. MTU offers a world-class education and resources, but students often struggle with unique mental health challenges, from high academic pressure, anxiety, to feelings of isolation. Houghton’s remote location, and dark frigid winters can exacerbate stress, which can leave students feeling far from home, disconnected, or overwhelmed.
The Unique Mental Health Challenges Faced by Michigan Tech Students
Many Michigan Tech students excelled in high school, often known as the “gifted” or “smart” ones, but find themselves struggling with the intense academic environment at MTU. You may feel like a small fish in a big pond, surrounded by other equally intelligent students. This can fuel feelings of impostor syndrome, making you question your abilities despite your hard-earned achievements. Women, in particular, pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated STEM fields, often report heightened pressure to perform, perfectionism, and self-doubt. These internal struggles can make it difficult to focus on academics, and anxiety may take hold.
Combatting Isolation and Finding Connection in Houghton
Houghton, nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is known for its stunning natural beauty and close-knit community. However, it’s not uncommon for students to feel isolated, especially during the long, cold winters when outdoor activities are limited. Far from home, some students struggle to find meaningful connections in a small town that lacks the big-city conveniences they might be used to. You might feel like there’s no one who truly understands your experience, or you might be missing the sense of community you once had.
But you don’t have to go through this alone. My therapy practice offers virtual counseling specifically for students like you—those who are feeling the weight of perfectionism, anxiety, or academic stress, and who need support navigating these complex emotions. Together, we’ll work to ease your stress, improve your mental health, and help you reconnect with yourself and others.
How Therapy Can Help Michigan Tech Students Thrive
You might be wondering if therapy is the right step. Whether you’re dealing with constant stress, academic burnout, feelings of isolation, or simply not feeling like yourself, therapy can provide you with the support you need. In therapy, we’ll focus on developing strategies to help you manage the unique pressures of being a Michigan Tech student. Whether you need tools for stress management, anxiety reduction, or simply want to feel more confident in yourself, I’m here to help.
Working with me can help you:
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Overcome impostor syndrome and self-doubt
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Manage academic pressure without feeling overwhelmed
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Build a support system and deepen connections, even in a remote setting
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Learn practical tools to reduce stress and anxiety
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Find joy and balance in the everyday, even during challenging winters
I understand the academic culture at MTU and the difficulties students face. With experience working with college students from Houghton and throughout Michigan, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative therapy can be in helping students find relief, reconnect with themselves, and create sustainable mental health habits.
Here’s why Michigan Tech students and young adults choose Bloom Counseling in Houghton, Michigan:

Support for Residents in Houghton, Michigan
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If you’re a resident of Houghton, you know how special this community is. With its rich history, small-town charm, and access to outdoor adventures, Houghton has much to offer. But it’s also understandable if you sometimes feel the effects of isolation, especially during the long winter months. The remote location, while offering peace and beauty, can also limit access to mental health services. That’s where virtual therapy comes in—I offer convenient, accessible online therapy for Houghton residents seeking support for anxiety, depression, loneliness, or other mental health challenges.
Through therapy, we’ll work to:
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Address feelings of isolation and loneliness
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Improve your relationship with yourself and others
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Manage the unique stressors of living in a small, remote town
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Find ways to maintain mental well-being throughout the long winters
How Virtual Therapy Works
Whether you’re a Michigan Tech student or a Houghton resident, my virtual therapy services offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to receive the mental health support you need from the comfort of your own home. We’ll meet via secure, HIPAA-compliant video sessions, and you’ll have the space to explore your concerns, build coping skills, and work toward your mental health goals.
I believe in making therapy accessible for everyone, regardless of location or life circumstances. Whether you’re facing stress, anxiety, impostor syndrome, or simply feeling disconnected, I’m here to support you.
Ready to Begin Therapy in Houghton?
If you’re ready to improve your mental health and navigate the unique challenges of life in Houghton or as an MTU student, reach out today. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your needs. You don’t have to struggle alone—I’m here to help you find balance, confidence, and joy in your everyday life.
Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more connected life.

MEET SARAH she/her
Licensed Professional Counselor
National Board Certified Counselor
Owner | Bloom Counseling & Wellness
I show up as my authentic self, inviting you to do the same. While I take my role as a therapist quite seriously, I believe therapy doesn’t have to be only serious. Together, we’ll navigate the tough stuff—yes, there will be deep, tearful moments—but there will also be laughter, joy, and plenty of space to just be. In our sessions, you can drop the mask and explore what it feels like to truly be yourself in a space that feels so safe, you can find who that really is. Therapy is one of my greatest passions, and it’s an honor to walk this journey with you.
WOMEN OWNED & OPERATED SMALL BUSINESS IN MICHIGAN
As a proud, women-owned and operated small business in Michigan, I feel grateful to live and work in this beautiful state. Born and raised here, I have a deep connection to Michigan’s stunning shores and the warmth of its people. My practice is dedicated to helping clients from across Michigan, supporting their mental health and well-being. Whether you're in Marquette, Traverse City, Ann Arbor, or attending one of Michigan's many wonderful colleges and universities, I’m proud to offer support to those seeking to improve their mental health.