Tennessee Tech hosting a series of weekly workshops Thursdays in October to help students develop the practical skills necessary for building and maintaining healthy connections in all areas of life.
Center for Counseling and Mental Health Wellness Counselor Karolina Strain said the sessions focus on mindfulness and communication to support student well-being during a significant developmental stage.
“College is a significant developmental stage when students are learning more about themselves,” Strain said, “Becoming more independent, developing the skills needed to build and maintain healthy relationships, so we saw that need.”
Strain said the workshops are structured as a skills group rather than a formal class or psychotherapy session. The curriculum covers several core areas including emotional regulation, collaborative problem solving, and the ability to repair relationships after a disagreement.
“The goal is if they come to this skills group, they’ll learn about healthy relationship skills and how they can better communicate openly, listen empathetically, set respectful boundaries, manage conflict constructively, take responsibility for their own emotions and actions,” Strain said. “The skills in this group will help promote self-respect, mutual respect, understanding, connection, and growth.”
Strain said the techniques taught in the Roaden University Center are applicable to family dynamics and friendships in addition to romantic partnerships. The program emphasizes that healthy connections are built on a foundation of trust and emotional safety.
“It’s not meant to be a wall, it’s meant to be something that helps each person feel respected and understood,” Strain said. “I think overall, the skills group offers benefits for students to feel like they can connect.”
The workshops take place every Thursday in October at 1pm in Roaden University Center.
