Therapists for college students near Duke University

College can feel exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. I work with students navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, identity concerns, relationship stress, and big life transitions. My approach is attachment-based and trauma-informed, which means I focus on building a safe and supportive space where you can feel understood. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way and develop strategies that help you feel more confident, balanced, and connected.

If you've found your way here, something in you is already reaching toward healing. That takes courage. And I don't take that lightly. Maybe you're the one everyone else leans on. The one who keeps it together at work, at home, in every room that needs you while quietly wondering when someone is going to show up for you. Maybe you've been carrying the weight of trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or simply running on empty for so long that you can't quite remember what full felt like. You don't have to keep doing it alone. I'm Alexandria "Alex" Cooke, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and I created this space specifically for high achieving women, women of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, caregivers, and teens 16+ who are ready to stop surviving and start living. I know this world firsthand and I built this practice because I believe the people who spend their lives holding space for others deserve a space of their own. Here, you are not too much. You are not broken. You are not behind. You are a whole person who has been through real things and healing is not only possible for you, it is something you are already moving toward just by being here. No judgment. No pressure. No timeline that isn't yours. You belong here. Let's begin.

People often hear “just go to therapy” or “focus on healing” but not enough is said about how complex that process can feel. Healing can feel uncertain. You may know something needs to shift but not know where to start. It can feel like progress and setbacks are happening at the same time. It can also feel like wanting support but not yet having the words for it. If that sounds familiar you are not alone. As a Holistic Mental Health Therapist I support clients in reconnecting with themselves and building a sense of safety in mind body and spirit. I integrate evidence based practices with mindfulness breathwork meditation and trauma informed yoga to support nervous system regulation and emotional grounding. You do not have to figure it all out alone. There is space here for your story and your process.

I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples. Compassion, warmth, and objectivity are just some of the values I offer to clients I serve. My clients are accepted for who they are while receiving encouragement to become self-aware, grow and thrive within their communities. My goal is to create a safe space for reviving the soul, mind, will, and emotions. I strive to assist clients in rebuilding weakened relationships while also assisting them in their own personal restoration. I also have a passion for working with clients who identify themselves as members of LGBTQ+. System Counseling, as well as Cognitive-Behavioral and Cognitive Restructuring approaches, are blended with Motivational Interviewing techniques to form the basic theoretical foundation of my work with clients. I offer Individual, Couples, and Marriage Counseling, Christian Counseling, Life and Executive Coaching, Consultation, and Clinical supervision. I believe in your ability to find the answers to your life’s dilemmas. I see myself as a facilitator within the therapeutic relationship, providing objective guidance and support, as well as, challenging unhealthy thought processes while creating a warm, accepting, and soothing environment in which to work. Let’s redesign the life you were created to live.

Over the last 20+ years, I have helped children, adolescents, and adults of all ages discover new skills and healthy coping strategies to overcome trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe that everyone has a need to be heard without judgment. As a result, I practice active listening, treating everyone with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I acknowledge the amount of courage it takes to recognize the need to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. My technique combines cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, a solution-focused approach, motivational interviewing, and client-centered counseling. Our dialog and your treatment plan will be adapted to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe you deserve to live a healthier happier life. If you are ready to take that first step onto a healing pathway, know that you do not have to take it alone. I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to cheering you on as you embrace a new chapter of your life.

Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, or depression. At Cozy Cardigan Therapy, we specialize in helping women and young adults like you navigate these challenges with compassion and support. Our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, heal past wounds, and develop the tools you need to move forward with confidence. Using evidence-based approaches like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a warm, empathetic style, we’ll work together to uncover your strengths and create meaningful change. You don’t have to face these struggles alone—healing is possible, and you deserve a life of peace, balance, and joy. Take the first step toward the life you want today.

Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.

Are you the person that everyone else comes to for help, but you don’t quite know how to help yourself? Do you struggle with burnout at school or work, even though it's something you love? Is your loved one in the middle of a crisis, but you're not sure how to best support them while also protecting your peace? If any of these ring true, know that you've already taken the first step to help yourself by seeking therapy. Through our work together, we will develop a comprehensive plan that allows you to move towards what you want, rather than away from what you fear. I offer individual therapy that incorporates a range of therapeutic perspectives, tailored to your needs. Our sessions might include mindfulness, breath work, or other exercises that enhance the mind-body connection. I view therapy as one tool among many that you can use to help yourself, after spending so many years of your life helping others. Whether this is your first time starting therapy, or you're returning after some time away, I am honored that you're considering me. Our work together could be for a brief time (6-8 sessions) or longer term; it just depends on what works best for you!

Sometimes things happen that affect the way we see the world, the way we treat people, and the way we think about ourselves. This can happen to anyone. Sometimes, when life knocks you down, it can be tough getting back up. I help people get up. I currently specialize in relationship counseling not limited to intimate partner relationships, but also everyday interactions i.e., working, organizational, non-traditional, casual, mutually beneficial, and structural. I commonly assist with communication which is a major underlying issue found within relationship dysfunction. My preferred methodologies for treatment are Gestalt therapy, Autogenic Training, CBT, Existential Therapy, and grief counseling. My strengths lie in understanding, compassion, mutual respect, and experience. I am able to channel levels of comprehension in the following areas: Abandonment, depression, low self-esteem, jealousy, forgiveness, lack of trust, relationship strain, and everyday challenges. Other areas of proficiency include coping with life changes, communication problems, divorce and separation, emptiness, and intimacy-related issues.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that meaningful change starts with feeling truly seen and understood. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges and stress. My approach is warm, humorous, collaborative and grounded in evidence-based practices. Together, we will create a space where you can safely explore what's going on beneath the surface, build insight and develop practical tools to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I utilize CBT and MI in my approach to therapy while also being trained in CPT, a trauma based modality. I have been providing services since 2023 in a nonprofit setting. I have supported a diverse range of individuals, addressing a wide variety of experiences and clinical needs. I am committed to create a supportive and client-centered environment. Whether you are seeking relief from immediate stress or looking for deeper, long-term growth, therapy with me can be a space for both reflection and action. I aim to help you improve your relationships and navigate life's stressors. Therapy can be feel like a big step, but if you are ready, then I am here to support you.

✨ Meet April-Autumn Sparks Therapist. Sexologist. Real Talk Enthusiast. Hey! I’m April-Autumn—founder of "establisHER+empowerHIM=embraceUS Counseling & Consulting"—and I help students like YOU figure life out while holding space for your growth, your healing, and your identity. Whether you’re managing relationship drama, figuring out who you are, recovering from life’s hard hits, or just trying to breathe between classes—I’ve got you. This isn’t your traditional therapy vibe. It’s a *you-can-bring-your-whole-self* kind of space. Whether you’re navigating emotional overload, gender expectations, culture clashes, heartbreak, or pressure to have your future figured out—I’m here for all of it. 💁🏽‍♀️ For Women & Femmes: We’ll work on **identity, purpose, self-worth, and pleasure**—yes, that too. Together we’ll explore how to get unstuck, break generational habits, reclaim your voice, and build a solid foundation of self-love that doesn't rely on outside approval. Whether you’re tired of shrinking or trying to figure out what healing actually looks like—I’m here to help you feel *more you*. 🧠 For Men & Masculine Folks: We get real about the pressures of manhood—how you were raised, what society expects, and how you show up in the world. This is a space to unpack what’s heavy, ask hard questions, and build strategies for emotional clarity, confidence, and peace. We’ll work on relationships, stress, purpose, and how to be fully human—not just strong and silent. 🔁 For Everyone: My work is all about **Establishing, Empowering, and Embracing**: 🧠 *Establish* your identity 💥 *Empower* your growth ❤️ *Embrace* your relationships—with yourself and others This is therapy, but it’s also a space to evolve, exhale, and **be your whole self without judgment**. No need to have it all figured out. Just bring your curiosity, your truth, and a willingness to grow. 🧭 Let’s Get You: * Unpacked and unstuck * Grounded in who you really are * Focused on healthy relationships * And maybe even laughing a little along the way Ready to begin? Let’s talk. Let’s heal. Let’s evolve. Because this version of you deserves support, clarity, and care. 📍Serving college students virtually in **NC, TX & FL** 📧 aprilautumnsparks@gmail.com 🔗 www.aprilautumnsparks.com 📣 IG: @AprilAutumnSparks

Hi, I’m Elaina, a bilingual (Spanish/English), trauma-informed therapist who works virtually with college students navigating anxiety, family stress, cultural identity, and past trauma. I’m here for students who may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck trying to manage school, relationships, and expectations, especially first-gen students, students of color, LGBTQIA+ students, and those who carry the weight of childhood or generational trauma. You don’t have to sort through it all alone. My approach is gentle, supportive, and empowering. We’ll go at your pace and focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s setting boundaries, healing from the past, or finding your voice. Therapy with me is a space where all parts of you are welcome.

You deserve an authentic therapist that doesn’t rely on gimmicks and mind tricks. We believe in high-quality services (just like you would expect when paying for childcare, dental work, car maintenance, or pizza). We help you through your mental health journey in the way that works for you— because that’s the respect you deserve. Our online counselors in North Carolina are authentic people and know what it’s like to sit in the client’s seat. Using that experience and our knowledge, we provide you with what clients have proclaimed “the best counseling” they have received. Here’s the truth about therapy: you’re what really matters. And that’s exactly why we at C&C Betterworks have decided to put the focus back on you. You often feel like the odd one out. You don’t want to feel that way in therapy, too! With us you do not have to hide anything. With our online counseling in North Carolina, we encourage you to be authentic in therapy, no matter what that looks like. Let’s keep it real. You bring your whole, true self. And we’ll bring our whole, true selves to every session The only thing that matters is that you’re being the real you. No psychology jargon or “how does that make you feel?” here. We speak human, not bullshit. Masking is exhausting. Therapy is the last place that you want to hold it in. Your sessions are a mask-free zone. Autonomy + Accountability = Results Your autonomy is respected- meaning you choose the direction your mental health treatment takes. All people have the ability; sometimes you just need a nudge to get going. We get shit done. Healing takes work, and sometimes it’s tough. That’s why we’re on this journey with you. #cantstopwontstop #sorrynotsorry Book a free 20 minute consultation today: https://cc-betterworks.com

At Serenity & Grace Therapeutic Services, we believe meaningful change begins with a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. Our compassionate team provides evidence-based, client-centered care for individuals, couples, and families navigating life's challenges. We are committed to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can build resilience, gain insight, and move toward lasting emotional well-being. Wherever you are in your journey, we are honored to walk alongside you.

I offer individual, partners/couples (including polyamorous partners), and family counseling, in addition to letter of support services for gender transition, for anyone age 13+. My primary focus areas are exploring & supporting identity development (racial identities, LGBTQ+ identities, etc), developing healthy relationships, improving communication, processing trauma, understanding family dynamics, & resolving conflicts. I am open to working with anyone who thinks they would be a good fit, but in general, I tend to be process-oriented, often focusing on how different dynamics impact clients’ experiences. I most value building trusting relationships with my clients and strive to offer a nonjudgemental listening space. I believe that clients have the right, and the ability, to make the best decisions for themselves.

Do you feel you have the weight of the world on your shoulders and worry about how to handle the responsibilities in your life? Have you been feeling blue or had thoughts you are not good enough? Do you want to feel understood? Are you having trouble communicating your point of view/handling conflict? Anything you are experiencing; you do not have to discover the solutions on your own. With a fresh perspective, you will find your inner power, gain self-confidence, and know you are somebody who is enough. I have a passion to help those who desire a different perspective or want to see their lives through a different set of lenses.

Let me ask you a few questions. Let me know if any of this applies to you. Do you often find yourself feeling tired, stressed out, overwhelmed at work, unable to focus, or constantly feeling you need a break? How about this, when you finally take a break or vacation you notice that you don't enjoy the time away because there is a laundry list of things  you feel you should be doing or need to get done before you can relax? Have you found that you have a hard time getting to sleep or staying asleep because you are thinking or worrying about any and everything when you just need to get some rest? IF any of this is you, when would you like to get started working with me?

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Is worry or anxiety starting to overwhelm you? Are you having difficulty balancing your social life with school and other tasks? College can be a challenging change for many people. I can help you learn better ways to cope and find patterns that make your life a little easier. I provide online video therapy in addition to in person sessions for easy access to fit into your busy schedule. I also specialize in trauma, relationship concerns and substance use. Let's connect to see if I would be a good fit for your needs.

If you're feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed, you're not alone. Therapy can help you regain clarity and control—and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way. I offer therapy for children (10+), teens, and young adults who are looking for support, growth, and relief from life’s challenges. I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety, overwhelming emotions, trauma, and stress by providing a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered. I incorporate evidence-based practices to help clients build real-life tools to manage overwhelming emotions, improve coping skills, and heal from life's challenges. For younger clients, I use techniques to help them express themselves and process feelings in developmentally appropriate ways. Whether you're navigating school pressures, identity exploration, young adult transitions, or just feeling stuck—I’ll meet you where you are and walk alongside you toward where you want to be. Let’s work together and walk this journey toward healing!