<p>OP, I’m sorry you are going through this. I know you said you’ve already laid this out fully for your dad and it’s gone nowhere. You indicate he tends to be reserved. Perhaps if you ask your step-mom to join the next call, her participation will faciliate a more productive conversation? If he’s still not forthcoming, it’s okay to tell him directly that this is a time you need for him to lay everything out–his feelings and the practical considerations. You have expressed yourself thoughtfully and maturely here. I know you can handle the conversation equally as well and get to the bottom of the “travel home” issue. Even if what you discover is not news you want to hear, it will enable you to re-set your expectations to a travel schedule they agree to support. You deserve that consideration. </p>
<p>Re: the suggestions to see a counselor, I just wanted to add that you don’t have to be experiencing anything more than homesickness to go in, i.e., don’t think you have to be suffering a particular type of emotional distress to make an appointment or that you are wasting their time or resources–that’s what they are there for! At my freshman’s orientation, they made a big point of inviting kids to come in for a homesick talk and cry session. (I think a cookie bribe might have been offered, too!) But a lot of kids take them up on it–it’s understandable you don’t want to share those feelings with peers, RAs, teachers, etc. The counselors said the feedback has been great–students report it really helps just to have that safe place to go vent, cry and get it all out. I hope you’ll try it!</p>