First-Generation College Students’ Experiences in Counseling

Research suggests that first-generation college students (FGCS) may have unique concerns regarding seeking out mental health services on university campuses. However, less is known about how FGCS experience the counseling services they receive. This qualitative study examined experiences of FGCS who had received counseling services at their university. Thirteen FGCS were interviewed for the study. Interview questions addressed participants’ experiences accessing services, reflections on positive and negative experiences in counseling, participants’ intersecting identities in counseling, and suggestions for improving counseling services for FGCS. Codebook thematic analysis (TA) was used to interpret codes and themes from the data. Data analyses resulted in four themes: Scaffolding Access: Building Safety and Trust of Counseling Services; Institutional and Cultural Friction: Navigating Barriers to Mental Health Support; Identity (Dis)Similarity and Responsiveness; and Authentic and Expansive Counseling Relationships as Catalysts for Growth. Findings have implications for meeting the mental health needs of FGCS on university campuses.