Thriving Through Transition: A Mental Health Guide for College Parents

College is a time of incredible growth—and often,

growing pains. This presentation is designed for parents and caregivers of current or soon-to-be college students who want to better understand how to support their child’s mental health during this major life transition.

Presenters Jennie Bernstein, PsyD, and Alie Bernard Garza, LCSW, bring deep clinical expertise and personal insight into the realities of student mental health care. Jennie has worked across a range of university settings—including the University of Hartford, Wesleyan University, UNC Chapel Hill, and Cornell University—where she focused on student well-being, clinical services, and mental health education.

Together, they will help families understand what to expect from college mental health services—what’s available, where gaps exist, and how to plan ahead.

Alie is the founder of OCD & Anxiety Colorado in Louisville, where she leads an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adolescents and young adults. Raised in Superior, CO, she has worked across all levels of care—including IOP, PHP, residential, and inpatient—at nationally recognized programs such as the Portland Anxiety Clinic, the McLean OCD Institute Texas, and the University of Colorado School of Medicice Anschutz OCD Program. Alie is nationally known for her neurodivergent-affirming, family-centered approach to treating OCD, anxiety, and complex mental health challenges.

Topics include:

  • Navigating campus counseling, medical, and disability services

  • Outpatient therapy and higher levels of care (IOP, PHP, residential)

  • Medication access and management

  • Academic accommodations and documentation

  • Talking with your student about mental health and when to intervene

This session is practical, evidence-based, and designed to help families feel prepared—not just for move-in day, but for the ups and downs that follow

Terms & Conditions

This presentation, Thriving Through Transition: A Mental Health Guide for College Parents, is intended for educational purposes only. The information provided is general in nature and is not a substitute for mental health treatment or professional medical advice.

By attending this event, participants acknowledge and agree to the following:

  • This presentation is not therapeutic in nature and does not establish a therapeutic relationship or constitute clinical care with either presenter.

  • The information shared is intended to provide general guidance and education, and is not tailored to the specific needs of any individual student, patient, or family.

  • If you or your student are in need of mental health support, please contact a licensed mental health provider to establish care.

  • In the event of a mental health crisis, please call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, visit your nearest emergency room, or call 911.

  • The resources and processes discussed may vary based on location, school, and institutional policies, and may change over time. Attendees are encouraged to confirm details directly with relevant institutions or providers.