Dealing with Overbearing Parents During the College Process

Unfortunately, part of this position requires counselors to deal with overbearing parents during the college process . Much of the time they are grateful and kind, but at the same time some others simply cannot let go of the process. Every parent will admit that the college admissions process does not resemble the same college application procedure they experienced. The feeling of having no control tends to influence their actions and sometimes it seems like they cannot control themselves. So often counselors must take on a dual role as they mediate between the student and the parents.

 Many times parents worked diligently to afford the lives they have offered their children works against them rather than in their favor. In fact, many want for their children what they wanted for themselves, but this often leads to adolescent rebellion. The best way to handle the situation is mediate, always reminding the student that as a counselor, you are on their side. Otherwise, you lose their trust.