PSYCHOLOGICAL PRACTICE IN THE UNIVERSITY CONTEXT: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT ON STUDENT RECEPTION AND SUPPORT

Abstract

This article aimed to present the experience of psychological practice in the university context, carried out in the COAPA Sector of the State University of Southwest Bahia (UESB), responsible for student assistance, between 2024 and 2026. The objective was to provide reception and brief psychological support to university students facing emotional and academic demands. The activities developed in reception and individual psychological care, based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, are described, as well as guidance and referrals to health and social services and to the COAPA multidisciplinary team within the university student assistance context and academic support services. The experience revealed demands related to anxiety, stress, academic and adaptation difficulties, socioeconomic vulnerabilities, and grief. Limitations of brief psychological support were also identified in cases involving persistent or more complex demands, particularly regarding continuity of care and access to external services. The results reinforce the importance of multidisciplinary and intersectoral practices and of expanding preventive and collective strategies for mental health promotion. It is concluded that Psychology plays a relevant role in student assistance by contributing to reception, guidance, and the strengthening of conditions for academic retention.