Therapists for college students near Duke University

At Transforming Through Therapy, we believe healing happens through both science and connection. Our clinicians use evidence-based treatments grounded in trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral strategies, relational therapy, and addiction-informed interventions. But therapy here is never rigid or one-size-fits-all. We tailor sessions to your nervous system, your goals, and your lived experience. You can expect: A psychologically safe, non-judgmental environment Collaborative goal-setting Practical tools alongside deeper insight Honest, compassionate dialogue Care that respects your autonomy and pace ​This is therapy that supports transformation — not just symptom management.

Hi! I'm Heather, and I have been supporting young adults navigating life transitions for the past 11 years. I have worked with college students from many different colleges and universities and I know there can be a lot of challenges to face during this season of life! I find this work to be incredibly rewarding and would be honored to be a part of your journey toward empowerment and overcoming.

I believe that each and every one of us is the expert of our own lives, but sometimes we feel overwhelmed and need guidance as we navigate life's challenges. This gets more challenging if you're an LGBTQ+ person in the south, but working with an affirming, competent therapist can make a big difference. I help transgender folx and other members of the LGBTQ+ community explore their identity, develop self-esteem, and improve their relationships. My approach to therapy is queer competent, gender affirming, sex positive, kink affirming, and poly affirming. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to explore their problems fully without fear of judgment. It is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to stand by my clients as they courageously make changes necessary to live fulfilling lives. In addition to individual therapy, I also offer comprehensive assessments and letters of support for transgender folx who are seeking gender-affirming surgeries.

Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options. Dr. Faust specializes in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Bipolar disorders. He has honed his skills in various therapeutic modalities, incorporating evidence-based practices into his work. He places a strong emphasis on creating a warm and inclusive therapeutic environment where open communication is encouraged. Dr. Faust is a trusted partner for individuals seeking a collaborative and personalized approach to their mental well-being. His commitment to empowering patients ensures that each person's voice is heard, valued, and integrated into their treatment journey.

I believe there is no true beginning or end to Healing, working on ourselves, or trying to have forward motion in our lives (but that it DOES get better!), so any entry point into counseling as a tool in those processes is the right one. /"This is heart work, and you can't think your way around this; you've gotta feel your way through it." / /"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind."/ The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I will ask you to face hard things in our work together, so I expect of myself that same call for transparency and authenticity- I do my best to live out Brene Brown's concept of "getting in the arena" with you. I also try to instill hope and light (I know I sure need it); we will also laugh! Healing requires both grit and softness. This work is such an honor, and it has become built into the fiber of my being. Please come as you are- I hope you can trust yourself to take the next step, no matter how many steps have already been taken or how many you feel have yet to be taken.

College is often synonomous with stress. Adapting to independence. Figuring out your identity, beliefs, and preferences apart from family influence. Balancing classes and social life. You're living "Adulting 101." I work with lots of folks managing life transitions and stress. Sometimes this includes managing anxiety or working through past trauma, but it always includes working together to create a space for you to question and learn and grow into the person you desire. I want you to feel freedom to show up and take up space in your life. We'll collaborate to determine what that looks like for you.

Are you trying to keep up with classes, deadlines, work, relationships, and family expectations while quietly feeling like you are falling apart? Maybe you cannot turn your thoughts off. You keep procrastinating, missing assignments, losing motivation, or feeling anxious about your future. Maybe your romantic relationship has taken a turn and it has you feeling down or unlike yourself. You may look fine to everyone else, but inside you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, lonely, or unsure of yourself. College is supposed to be exciting, but right now it may feel like too much. I’m Teinesha Smallwood, LCSW, owner of Whispers of Serenity Counseling and Consulting PLLC. I provide online therapy for college students and young adults throughout North Carolina. I help students work through anxiety, depression, academic stress, burnout, trauma, grief, relationship problems, family conflict, low self esteem, difficult life changes, and more. Therapy with me is not about being judged, lectured, or expected to have everything figured out. It is a space where you can be honest about what is really happening. Together, we can work on calming your thoughts, managing stress, setting boundaries, rebuilding confidence, and finding practical ways to feel more in control of your life. Virtual sessions make it easier to receive support without traveling or adding another task to your schedule. Whether you are struggling to adjust to college, questioning your direction, or simply tired of pretending you are okay, you do not have to handle it alone. **Schedule a free 15 minute consultation. You don’t have to do college or life alone.**

At Rejuvenation House we assist individuals, couples, and families, in developing the tools needed to enhance, improve and empower. their lives and relationships The counselors, therapists, and staff at Rejuvenation House are dedicated to providing a professional, safe, and unconditionally accepting environment, where individuals, couples, and families can grow past their issues and pain, and build strong, long-lasting, resolutions. John Swails is an ordained minister, a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and Marine Corp Veteran, with military mental-health practice experience addressing traumatic stress, separation, family grief, and relationship issues, and civilian experience addressing physical and sexual abuse, single-mothers with dual diagnosed children, and group therapy for middle-school and teens to develop resiliency. As a therapist, John utilizes proven DBT, Strategic, CBT-Family, Solution-Focused, and other systemic techniques to address individual, couple, and family issues. As a minister John is sensitive to the beliefs of the client and is ready to explore spiritual solutions to any issue. Cherri is a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS) with a Master degrees in Clinical Addiction,Psychology,and Business Administration, as well as over 7 years of experience providing a nuturing, caring environment and applying proven techniques and approaches to assist clients in dealing with their addictions.

My work is grounded in the belief that no two people, and no two relationships, are alike in their stories and needs. As a result, therapy with me is highly personalized, and my priority will always be to understand you and/or your relationship within the context of your unique life experiences, beliefs, and goals. I approach therapy as a collaborative, human process and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to be present with yourself, rather than perform. In my experience, this paves the way for the curiosity, insight, and healing needed for real transformation. Though I see clients of all ages and stages, I specialize in working with young adults and couples to build or strengthen their relationships with themselves and others. Anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, low self-esteem, conflict with friends or family, and issues related to sexuality and intimacy are just a few of the concerns that we can explore and work through together. Using a whole-person, integrative approach, I hope to help you process what’s happening now, while laying the foundation for a more aligned and connected future. If you are looking for a therapist with big-sister energy, you found me! My style is compassionate as well as direct, often with a side of dark humor and always underlined by a commitment to ongoing learning. I know I’ve done my job well when you feel both understood and gently challenged toward lasting change. If you are considering therapy, I welcome the opportunity to learn more about your story and how I can help you move toward the life and relationships you want.

Hey there! I'm passionate about supporting teens and young adults as they rediscover joy, peace, and connection through life-giving attunement and fun. I also love collaborating with caregivers and family to support my clients' best. My approach to counseling is a balance of warmth and confidence in helping clients reach their goals, improve communication, and create sustainable, meaningful change. Healing doesn’t have to be heavy to be impactful. There's a lot of life and fun possible in counseling, so let's find it together! During our first session we'll get to know each other and see if we're a good fit. If not, then I'd love to help you find someone who is.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing ethical, evidence-based mental health care. My professional approach is rooted in a holistic, patient-centered model that respects your individual needs, experiences, and cultural background. I believe every patient is different, which is why I curate individualized care plans that may include psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle adjustments, or a combination of these approaches. My goal is to promote healing, recovery, and overall well-being while building a trusting therapeutic relationship. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from St. Thomas University and bring extensive knowledge and expertise in diagnosing, treating, and evaluating a wide range of mental health conditions. By combining clinical knowledge, patient advocacy, and the adaptability of telemedicine, I ensure that my practice continually evolves with the most up-to-date psychiatric nursing standards. The process begins with an initial consultation where we review your history, current symptoms, and overall wellness. From there, we develop a personalized treatment plan together, adjusting as needed through ongoing communication. I invite you to book your appointment today so we can begin working toward lasting progress and meaningful change.

During any stage of life we are faced with challenges of many kinds. And these trials can keep anyone in the dark, not realizing that hope can be found. If you're someone who is trying to figure out who you are in the world, trying to find their way, or who just needs a solid connection with a partner; if you recognize a problem and a longing for change or struggling with overwhelming thoughts and emotions that keep you pushed away, leaving you in the dark, then you’re not alone and I’m here to help. ​ I believe creating a strong connection is a major step towards healing. My approach to creating a therapeutic bond is person-centered and strength-based. As a family systems therapist, I long to understand how our present growth challenges are shaped by our history of connections. With that new awareness, we can pave the way for positive changes in healing. ​ The key to any therapeutic process is a successful connection within the therapist/client relationship. It is important for the journey to have a therapist who can provide a safe space for your story to be heard and the skills to harness inner strength. If you feel like you’re struggling recently, loosing power or control over your life in ways you could not possibly imagine or realize, then we encourage you to reach out here at Alta Terra, where we can provide an honest safe space for you to be accepted, to find empowerment, encouragement, and healing as you journey to your higher ground (your greatest potential), for a higher ground is within your reach, no matter what season of life you’re in. It would be a joy to speak with you and to explore this journey together if I may be the right fit. ​

Hey, I’m Ambrosia Spaulding, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, motivational interviewing, and strength-based interventions, customizing therapy to each individual with tailored treatment plans that align with your unique needs and preferences. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping clients manage stress and anxiety, navigate relationship challenges, cope with addictions, and overcome depression, fostering growth and healing every step of the way. I typically work with young adults, adults, and seniors, and I also have experience supporting teens. I am most comfortable treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate care tailored to each individual, helping clients navigate life’s complexities and find clarity, strength, and healing.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I believe everyone deserves a space to process, heal, and experience empathy and validation. Good outcomes in therapy can be expected if you feel the therapist genuinely cares and has your best interest in heart and mind. Your therapist must also have skill, knowledge, and experience with clinically proven therapy techniques. I provide both to you as my client. I offer an integrated approach that includes EMDR, person-centered, CBT, DBT skills, and trauma focused treatment; however, our time together is not limited to these theories of practice. Together, we can explore the barriers that are keeping you from living the life you want.

*While I am not in-network with the Dartmouth Student Health Plan, I do bill that plan directly as an out-of-network provider, and students only pay a $30 copay each session.* I have been working with college-age students and young professionals throughout my career, and have previously been employed at both The University of Vermont and Dartmouth College. My goal is to understand my clients' concerns through their lens while reflecting back what seems to be getting in the way of achieving their goals. I am a compassionate provider, who actively engages with my clients making every effort to provide direct and honest feedback. I understand the rigors and challenges of adjusting to college life and the real and perceived pressure that many college students face. I spend time understanding what my clients are hoping to get from therapy, and work hard to help them move from suffering to thriving. As a Mental Health Counselor and Registered Dietitian I consider a client holistically when assessing their needs and focus on the health of the body and the mind.

I'm passionate about helping individuals live more fulfilling, happier lives every day through their own decisions, on their own terms. I believe that each client is on a unique journey with their own specific needs, and I tailor my approach to be as helpful as possible to each individual person. I work mostly with adults dealing with depression and anxiety, and have done so for 7+ years. For the past 3 years I have also enjoyed working with individuals struggling with fertility, postpartum/perinatal depression/anxiety, miscarriage, and infant loss. As a person-centered clinician I strive to create a safe space for my clients where they can let it all out. Maybe that's working through traumatic events, processing emotions, or just having a big vent. I also help clients set goals, recognize patterns, build self-awareness, learn coping skills, and strategize for success. I believe the most important thing about a therapist and a client is "goodness of fit," so if you think I might be the right fit for you, please reach out to set up a free 15-minute consult call with me!

Cedar Tree Empowerment Center (CTEC) strives to empower and support individuals to overcome obstacles hindering their full potential in life. CTEC offers restoration and inspiration to those who feel hopeless and unmotivated to persevere through to life’s next stage of greatness. CTEC is currently an online space dedicated to encouraging mental wellness of individuals, ages 13 and up. We have exceptional clinicians that specialize in depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issue, hopelessness, young adulthood, parenting, self - esteem, communication issues, coping skills, identity Issues, grief, post-partum, and more. Visit our website at https://cedartreeempowerment.com/

Dr. Carmaletta Zandi provides compassionate, comprehensive care for people of all ages, drawing on her expertise to support a wide variety of needs. Her top practice areas include ADHD Evaluation and Therapeutic Care, Depression and Anxiety Management, Gold Years Wellness, Educators Resilience Therapy, and First Responder Support. Dr. Zandi specializes in thorough assessment and personalized treatment for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across the lifespan, integrating neuroscience with practical strategies to help clients enhance focus, manage impulsivity, and thrive. With a strong commitment to Depression and Anxiety Management, Dr. Zandi offers evidence-based therapies to help clients navigate challenging emotions, reduce symptoms, and build resilience. Her approach is empathetic and collaborative, empowering individuals to achieve greater emotional well-being and stability. Through her Gold Years Wellness program, Dr. Zandi supports older adults with a focus on cognitive health, emotional balance, and smooth life transitions, enabling seniors to enjoy vitality and fulfillment in their golden years. She also provides Educators Resilience Therapy, tailored to help teachers and school staff strengthen their mental health, manage stress, and boost emotional regulation—so they can sustain their passion for education. Recognizing the unique pressures faced by those in emergency services, Dr. Zandi delivers First Responder Support for law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other front-line personnel. She offers practical tools and therapeutic strategies to address occupational stress, trauma, and burnout, fostering resilience and overall well-being. Dr. Zandi is dedicated to working collaboratively with clients—whether children, adults, or seniors—addressing ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, emotional regulation, and the mental health needs of caregivers, educators, and first responders. Her client-centered, evidence-based approach ensures each individual is supported, heard, and empowered to achieve lasting well-being and personal growth.

We believe that individualized care is essential for positive outcomes. At CIC we recognize that every person has distinct needs, preferences, and strengths. Through collaborative efforts with our clients, we co-create personalized treatment plans that empower them to take an active role in their mental health journey. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic modalities that are tailored to meet each client’s needs and strengths. We offer individual, couples, adolescent, and teen, personal addiction, and EMDR counseling. We tailor modalities to meet each client's personal mental health needs. Life can feel overwhelming—whether you’re navigating a major life change, feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or simply trying to find your footing. If you’re struggling, know that you deserve support. You deserve to feel heard. And you don’t have to do this alone.