Our goal is simple: help students feel better and function more effectively as quickly as possible.
We offer two levels of support designed to help students not just get to college, but succeed once they're there.
Comprehensive College Readiness DBT Program
This structured, DBT-based college readiness program is designed for students who need more than weekly therapy to feel prepared for the transition to college.
Treatment is individualized and may include:
- Individual DBT therapy focused on emotion regulation and behavior change
- Weekly DBT skills group (learn more: https://sagemindpsychology.com/groups-intensives)
- College readiness group
- Parent involvement and coaching when clinically indicated
- Higher-frequency sessions when needed to build stability and momentum
This is a strong fit for students experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning challenges, or difficulty maintaining consistency and independence.
We focus on building the skills required for real-world functioning, including managing academic demands, navigating social environments, and maintaining stability with increased independence.
For students needing a higher level of care, this program can also connect with our intensive services: https://sagemindpsychology.com/intensive-outpatient-programs-at-sagemind-psychology
The program is offered virtually, with hybrid options available, including in-person sessions in Brooklyn when clinically appropriate.
College Readiness Skills Group
This weekly virtual college readiness group is designed for students who are generally functioning well but would benefit from additional structure, skill-building, and support before starting college.
The group focuses on practical, evidence-based skills that directly impact success in school and social environments:
- Executive functioning, including time management, organization, and follow-through
- Interpersonal and social skills, including communication and relationship-building
- Emotion regulation and distress tolerance
- Decision-making, identity development, and independence
- Daily routines that support consistency and accountability
Sessions are active and skills-based, helping students apply what they learn in real time across academic and social settings.
A Flexible, Targeted Approach to College Readiness
Students can participate in the college readiness group as a standalone service or as part of a more comprehensive DBT treatment plan. This allows us to match the level of care to the student's needs, whether they are looking for targeted preparation or more intensive support.
For many students, this kind of structured preparation can change the trajectory of the first semester, helping prevent academic decline, social isolation, or the need to withdraw due to difficulty adjusting.
We regularly work with college-bound students and see meaningful improvements in consistency, emotional stability, executive functioning, and the ability to manage both academic and social demands independently.
Neurodiversity- and LGBTQIA-Affirming Care
All services are neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA-affirming. We adapt pacing, structure, and teaching style to meet a wide range of learning styles, identities, and lived experiences.
Students are not expected to fit into a rigid model. We tailor treatment so they can engage in a way that is both effective and sustainable.
Parent support can be incorporated when helpful, particularly for students who benefit from additional structure and accountability during this transition.
Meet Our Team
Our clinicians are extensively trained in DBT and evidence-based care, with deep experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating high-stakes transitions.
Learn more about our team here: https://sagemindpsychology.com/team
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a student start a college readiness program?
Ideally, students begin several months before the transition to college. This allows time to build and consistently apply skills related to executive functioning, emotional regulation, and independence.
Is this only for students who are struggling?
No. Some students join for proactive support and skill-building, while others need more structured intervention. We offer both a standalone group and a comprehensive DBT program to match different levels of need.
What is the difference between the program and the group?
The group is a weekly, skills-based service focused on building structure, coping, and independence. The comprehensive program includes individual therapy, group work, and additional supports to help students stabilize and build momentum before transitioning to college.
Do you work with neurodivergent students or LGBTQIA students?
Yes. All services are neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA-affirming, and clinicians adapt their approach to meet a range of identities and learning styles.
Can parents be involved?
Yes. Parent involvement can be incorporated when helpful, particularly for students who benefit from additional structure, accountability, and support during the transition.
Is this virtual or in person?
The group is fully virtual. The comprehensive program is primarily virtual, with hybrid options available, including in-person sessions in Brooklyn when clinically appropriate.
Getting Started with College Readiness Support
We offer a brief intake to determine the most appropriate level of care and help students get started quickly.
To learn more about our DBT groups, visit: https://sagemindpsychology.com/groups-intensives
To explore intensive treatment options, visit: https://sagemindpsychology.com/intensive-outpatient-programs-at-sagemind-psychology
To learn more about our team, visit: https://sagemindpsychology.com/team
For an overview of all services, visit: https://sagemindpsychology.com/