College Student Success

Dr. Kathleen McMahon served as dean of students at multiple universities on both the east and west coasts for over 20 years, with her last tenure at Cal Poly SLO. In these capacities she supported hundreds of college students helping them successfully navigate the college experience. As a result, she “gets” college students, and has the expertise to help them navigate daily and major life challenges. She has two college students herself (one recent graduate and one in college).  Dr. McMahon holds a doctorate from UCLA, a master’s in clinical social work from Boston College, and a coaching certification from Fielding Graduate University Evidence Based Coaching program. She resides in SLO County with her husband, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 4 goats, and 11 chickens!

Today’s young adults face many life decisions and are continually

navigating challenging situations, sometimes for the first time on their own. I use evidence-based practices known to be effective for depression and anxiety in young adults, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As their coach and a supportive person in their corner, I can help students create actionable steps towards what is important to them, making the college experience more enjoyable and successful. I work with the whole person, considering all the parts of their selves and their lives, as these different areas inevitably impact one another.

I can help with:

• Anxiety and depression
• Planning and goal creation
• Navigating social, classroom and workplace challenges
• Developing a growth mindset and positive habits
• Achieving goals through a unique, supportive, consistent, accountable relationship

I work with students who:

• Seek support with the transition to college and navigating new social, academic, and career goals.
• Are overcoming a setback, academic challenges, failures, and developing self-confidence and resilience to move forward with a new sense of self and coping skills.
• Want help in navigating a major or career path change.
• Are experiencing identity exploration and seeking a sense of belonging.