Therapists for college students near Duke University

Perhaps you’ve been keeping your head above water in your day-to-day life, but find yourself worrying a lot or feeling stuck in a “funk." Maybe you’ve been carrying something heavy for long enough, and are finally ready to talk through it in a supportive space. Or maybe you simply want to feel heard and understood as you navigate a tough transition in your life; you just need someone to be there with you while you do it. While anxiety and trauma may leave us feeling depleted, I believe that counseling can help us find our most authentic and resilient selves through these experiences. My aims are to listen with non-judgment, to help you identify the goals and steps toward them that feel right for you, and to offer support, tools, and even a gentle nudge when you need it. We will co-create a space that feels safe enough to talk about the hard stuff in life, while also shining plenty of light on what helps you feel hopeful and positive. The decision to start counseling is not an easy one, and I know feeling a good connection with your counselor matters. I am passionate about building genuine and effective relationships with my clients and find that empathy, authenticity, and even humor are helpful tools in doing so. Please feel free to reach out about setting up a free phone consultation. I offer a combination of in-person and telehealth sessions based on the needs, preferences, and health status of both myself and my clients. Rates listed below are cash pay rates as of May 2022; out-of-pocket expenses to clients using insurance will vary based on their specific insurance plans, so please confirm the coverage of your specific plan prior to initiating services.

Drawing from 10+ years of clinical experience, I use a solution-focused approach to teach skills to overcome worry, depression, anger, stress, guilt, low self-esteem, sleep issues, relationship struggles, and parenting challenges. My clients and I work on improving their wellness and their lives by exploring helpful solutions, perspectives, and habits.

Often, everyday transitions and the stressors of life can be overwhelming. Sometimes what has worked before just isn't working anymore, which may cause you to feel you are failing in some areas of your life. As your therapist, you and I will seek to discover attainable goals, strive after a healthier and more grounded sense of self, and bring you peace toward a more fulfilling and hopeful future. I can help you manage whatever life throws your way through proven therapeutic techniques. I am a board-certified telemental health provider, and I administer individualized therapy to each of my clients. I utilize cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapeutic techniques as well as Brainspotting within my sessions. I work in the treatment of anxiety, depression, anger management, social skills, difficulties with transitions, Trauma, and ADHD. I believe all individuals deserve a place where they can speak openly and feel safe and free of judgment. My goal is to provide an intimate and calming environment for my clients where they can express themselves freely from the comfort of their own homes.

As a therapist my very first priority is to ensure a safe environment free from judgment and filled with positive regard. Together we can explore varying perspectives and possibilities throughout your life experiences and the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors attached to those experiences. I hope to empower you to engage with life intentionally and with meaning and to care for yourself along the way. Sessions are meant to be your time to invest in yourself, and to learn. In counseling I use a responsive approach, meaning, we will use pieces of different counseling theories that will best fit your goals and needs. The concepts that I use most include theories surrounding CBT (cognitive behavioral theory), systems theory, interpersonal relationship models, neuroplasticity, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. The space I cultivate is intended to be a laid back opportunity to find what works for you. With recognition that you know yourself and your experiences better than anyone else, that means you run the show at the end of the day. It is with this understanding that I mean to be an ally and resource on your path to knowledge and change.

College brings a lot—stress, pressure, tough emotions, and sometimes habits you’re not proud of. I support students navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, and self‑esteem challenges. We’ll focus on what matters most to you and help you feel more balanced and confident. You don’t have to show up perfect or know exactly what you want to say—just come as you are. If you’re curious about getting support, I’m here to help you take the next step.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

There may be points in our lives where circumstances, relationships or life events are impacting our well-being. My goal is to be a collaborative partner and a support as we navigate through the process of self-discovery, recovery and healing. It takes courage to take the first step and I want to respect and honor the vulnerability that comes with the process. However, there is hope and each client brings their inherent strengths and experience to the process. I work with various therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, and Prolonged Exposure (PE). I also use other evidenced-based interventions including Motivational Interviewing (MI), somatic and mindfulness-based practices to best address the needs of each client. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing life transitions, depression, communication challenges, relationships issues, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, family issues, peer relationships, social connection, and young adult issues. I value working with students and enjoy helping others navigate what can be a challenging stage in life. Your journey is meaningful, and I am excited to share the process of discovery and growth with you and be a support by offering tools and skills to help you navigate through to reach your goals. I invite you to contact me today.

I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, even in the face of life’s challenges. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I am passionate about helping you navigate issues such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and life transitions. I believe therapy is a journey we embark on together, and I approach each session with curiosity and compassion. My aim is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, uncover behavior patterns, and develop practical tools to lead a more fulfilling life. Reaching out can take immense courage, and I admire your strength in seeking support. I believe each person has the power to grow, heal, and embrace the changes they desire. Together, we can work towards meaningful change and improved well-being.

College should be challenging, not crushing. Meru Health helps you find balance, clarity, and confidence so you can actually enjoy this chapter of your life. When achievement becomes a weight you can't carry When you need more than campus counseling can provide When homesickness feels like heartbreak When anxiety steals experiences you should be having When exhaustion becomes your identity. When the future feels like a storm cloud When old wounds won't heal on their own More support than weekly therapy alone Patients connect with a dedicated therapist and receive daily support between sessions, not just once a week. This ensures continuity through the unpredictable emotional shifts that follow major change.

Are you navigating academic stress, burnout, perfectionism, or life transitions? At Neurodiverse Counseling, we provide neurodiversity-affirming therapy and adult ADHD and autism evaluations for students and young adults. We specialize in working with autistic individuals, ADHDers, and LGBTQIA+ clients. Clients often seek support for anxiety, depression, sensory processing differences, masking, executive functioning challenges, and difficulties with communication or relationships. Others come to us for help with low self-esteem, chronic illness, or processing trauma. We offer a compassionate space to heal, grow, and reconnect with your authentic self. Our team understands the unique pressures students face. We use evidence-based approaches including ACT, CBT, DBT, EFT, IFS, and trauma-informed care, alongside neurodiversity-affirming practices to support emotional regulation, executive functioning, and meaningful growth. We offer teletherapy across Massachusetts, Florida, and North Carolina. Our diverse team includes neurodivergent, BIPOC, multilingual, and LGBTQIA+ clinicians, bringing both clinical expertise and lived experience to our work. If you’re looking for therapy that is collaborative, affirming, and tailored to your needs, we invite you to schedule a free consultation.

The decision to start therapy is a courageous one. I create an open and safe environment for you to embark on your therapeutic journey. In my practice I take a strength-based approach to help you learn and grow. I am interested in exploring who you are as an individual and helping you get where you want to be. Together I hope to build a respectful and collaborative therapeutic alliance. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I specialize with working with young adults dealing with life transitions. I have experience working in the university and hospital setting. I have an interest in working with young adults, college students, and adults. I use both CBT and DBT in my practice. My colleagues would describe me to have a calming presence and open mind. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

School can be some of the most rewarding years of your life but they can also be overwhelming. Between classes, internships, work, relationships, family expectations, finances, and figuring out who you are and where you're headed, sometimes it's good to have some extra support. Therapy gives you a place to talk openly about what's going on, without judgment. Whether you're feeling anxious, stressed, burned out, stuck, lonely, or simply trying to make sense of a major life transition, you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with college and graduate students on concerns such as anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, identity exploration, gender identity, academic stress, life transitions, binge eating, and body image. Many of my clients are also learning how to manage life on their own for the first time and are discovering that no one ever really taught them how to handle the emotional side of money. As a Certified Financial Social Worker, I can help you develop a healthier relationship with money, spending, debt, budgeting, and financial decision-making. Together, we can explore both the practical and emotional aspects of financial wellness so you feel more confident and in control. My style is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I'll meet you where you are, help you build on your strengths, and offer practical tools along the way. If you're curious about working together, I'd be happy to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we're a good fit.

Therapy offers a safe place to turn when life feels overwhelming. People often come with concerns around trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or substance use. Beneath these struggles is often a desire to feel at home in their body, to quiet self-doubt, and to experience more connection. Together, we can create a path toward healing, resilience, and greater compassion- for yourself and in your relationships. I take a holistic, trauma-informed approach that draws from EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, DBT, ACT, and somatic therapies. By integrating mind, body, and emotion, I help clients process painful experiences, build resilience, and reconnect with themselves in a way that supports lasting healing. My approach blends warmth, compassion, and practical strategies you can carry into everyday life. My goal is to help you reclaim the time and energy that’s been lost to hypervigilance, fear, and self-criticism, and replace it with connection, meaning, and freedom. You don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode. Reach out for a free consultation!

I want to take a moment to thank you for being here. If you are thinking of starting therapy, then you have already accomplished the first step on your journey towards healing and growing. I am a strong believer of the power of a person and empowering people through therapy. If you are feeling as if you have exhausted all other resources and you need some extra support. Just know that I see you and that I am here to help you on your journey towards healing and embodying your most authentic self. My therapy style is holistic and I utilize somatic therapy (breath work, grounding exercises, meditation, etc.), strengths-based approach, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy .I utilize approaches that best help me to look at my clients as a whole by incorporating the mind, body, and spirit into therapeutic healing. I am committed to providing you with a safe space that is accepting, healing, and judgement-free. I believe that your life experiences are uniquely your own and you are worthy of authentically embracing and expressing all of you. I am here to support you on your journey towards transcendence. If you are ready to heal/grow, feel free to reach out to me.

The Circle is a warm and caring virtual mental health and wellness practice serving individuals (18+) across North Carolina. We specialize in supporting college-aged people who may be navigating stress, transitions, academic pressure, relationships, and emotional challenges during this important stage of life. Our approach is gentle, nonjudgmental, and grounded in compassion. We know that asking for help can feel overwhelming, so we’ve made the process as easy and accessible as possible. All visits are held online, allowing you to receive support from the comfort and privacy of your own space. At The Circle, You can receive therapy and medication management with the same provider, creating a consistent and supportive relationship throughout their care. We help people who are experiencing: Anxiety or persistent worry Depression and low mood Bipolar disorder Postpartum or perinatal emotional struggles Trauma, stress, and overwhelm Self-esteem problems and Body Image issues Relationship problems (we get it... we know they can be complicated) Life changes, identity challenges, and academic-related pressure Our goal is to offer a safe, grounding place for people to be heard, supported, and understood. We meet each person exactly where they are, helping them feel empowered, balanced, and capable as they move through the ups and downs of college life. To learn more or request an appointment, visit: 🌸 www.thecircleformentalhealth.com The Circle A gentle place for you to find support, healing, and connection... wherever you are.

My name is Rachael, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker striving to provide a warm, caring, and down to earth atmosphere where clients feel supported, understood, and free to be themselves. I understand that beginning therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming or uncomfortable, but I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I value working alongside clients at a pace that feels comfortable and empowering. I truly enjoy helping people set goals, solve problems and create positive change in their lives; I look forward to working with you.

Cat Salemi (they/them) is a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate (LCMHCA) who provides counseling services to adults (18+) in North Carolina via telehealth. As an autistic therapist & ADHDer, Cat is especially passionate about helping other neurodivergent folks, and uses a non-pathologizing and neurodiversity-based approach. Cat is experienced in treating clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, executive dysfunction, sensory sensitivities, and OCD, among other concerns. Cat identifies as nonbinary and is a proud part of the LGBTQIA+ community. They are kink-affirming, polyamorous-allied, use a Health At Every Size (HAES) informed approach, and are committed to anti-racist practice.

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just trying to get through the day, I want you to know you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I work with people navigating all kinds of life transitions and stressors, and I have a special place in my heart for LGBTQIA+ folks, military families, and college students. Maybe you’re carrying expectations that don’t match who you are, in a shifting relationship, or juggling school, work, and identity exploration all at once. Whether you’re dealing with frequent moves, dorm life, or just the daily task of trying to stay afloat, you deserve support that actually gets it. Whatever brings you here, I’m not interested in “fixing” you, because you’re not broken. Therapy with me is a space to slow down, explore what’s beneath the surface, and find new ways of showing up for yourself and the people you care about. I show up as a real person in the room and I believe healing happens in genuine, respectful connection. My style is collaborative, down-to-earth, and trauma-informed. I use research-backed approaches, but I also trust the power of humor, storytelling, and being witnessed just as you are. I honor the identities, histories, and communities you bring with you, especially if you’ve been told those things are “too much,” “too complicated,” or “too political.” You’re safe to bring all of that here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSW-A), trained at Pittsburg State University (BSW) and The University of Kansas (MSW). That academic foundation matters, but what matters more to me is meeting you with honesty, care, and respect for your lived experience. If this sounds like a space you’d like to explore, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

I work with students, adults, couples, and veterans who are seeking respite and levity for whatever issues they may find themselves mired within. I believe that healing cannot occur in isolation and the role of therapist is to serve as a guide and confidant in the healing process. I will help you in discovering your own wellness touchstones that will assist in promoting your unique therapeutic needs. Some of the therapeutic interventions and modalities that I base my work on include client/person centered therapy, expressive arts therapy, substance abuse and addictions counseling, mindfulness based approaches, trauma focused therapy, men’s work, and psychodynamic theory. As your therapist, I will assist you in your personal process of healing and self-discovery. I look forward to hearing from you!