Therapists for college students near Duke University

Hello! I specialize in treating anxiety and anxiety disorders, especially those arising from life transitions, responsibilities and relationships. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help client’s stop struggling and achieve greater resilience and the psychological flexibility needed for a better quality of life. I also am a certified clinical trauma specialist who uses EMDR to treat trauma and toxic stress.

HI there, I'm Kristen, I've been working in mental health and addictions recovery for over 20 years. I enjoy working with people who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery. My work focuses on paying attention to our current thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and patterns, questioning or challenging our unhelpful thinking and behaviors, and shifting focus to what is already working in our lives. Teaching and practicing coping skills, mindfulness, and relaxations skills have been a useful part of my practice. my style is pretty informal and relaxed, and I love working with college students

Therapy is not a luxury, it’s a courageous step toward wellness. Are you a college student of color feeling the weight of expectations on your shoulders? Juggling classes, work, caregiving, or family responsibilities? Maybe you're navigating a painful breakup or divorce, feeling isolated, or burned out from always being the strong one for everyone else. You’re not alone and you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. Whether you're a first-gen student trying to find your footing, returning to school after years away, balancing school with parenting, or simply stuck in a cycle of stress, anxiety, or emotional pain, your experiences matter. Your healing matters. Therapy can be a powerful space to breathe, process, and begin again. You deserve support that sees and honors all parts of your journey. Take the first step. You’re worth it.

Many of the people we work with are thoughtful, caring, and capable individuals who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, burnout, self-doubt, identity questions, or feeling overwhelmed by the expectations they place on themselves. Some students come to therapy because they’re facing a specific challenge. Others simply want a better understanding of themselves and why they think, feel, or react the way they do. Whether you’re navigating college life, relationships, family dynamics, career decisions, or personal growth, we aim to provide a space that feels supportive, thoughtful, and genuine. Our approach combines practical tools with deeper self-reflection, helping you build insight, develop healthier patterns, and take meaningful steps toward the life you want to create.

Are the characters/themes in the Euphoria or Pixar films relatable? Do you find yourself connecting your feelings to movies, music, tv, or books? Maybe you're experiencing a recent life change of being in a new environment, newly found independence, a new job, relationship status, recent move, or exploring sobriety, and it sucks doing it alone. Can you relate to the “buzz” of anxiety Ted Lasso felt when his “panic” crept in. Are you the Nick Miller of the group, struggling with holding boundaries, overthink the little things, or feel you are your own worst enemy? How about Chidi Anagonye, uncertain of all your decisions? You feel motivated, yet unsure of how to get started? You’re trying to navigate this fucked up world, while just trying to have the "normal" college experience. Imagine feeling more confident and passionate in your pursuits like Leslie Knope. You want to be more present in your day to day and embrace a feeling of calm. Boundaries? You become a master of that shit! Implementing and enforcing them in your life.

College is a lot—and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. At Counseling Connections, we offer therapy that’s real, relatable, and designed to support you through whatever this chapter brings. Our diverse team provides personalized virtual care to students and young adults across North Carolina. Whether you're overwhelmed by classes, struggling in your relationships, facing anxiety or burnout, or just trying to figure out who you are, we’re here to help. No stuffy office vibes—just compassionate therapists who get it and real tools that actually work. Let’s make space for your growth. Visit counselingconnections.online to find your perfect-fit therapist and start feeling more like yourself again.

We are a holistic group practice located in Asheville, NC. We provide therapy virtually or in our office. Our clinicians have a variety of specialities and we offer free consultations to ensure you find the right therapist to fit your unique needs.

All of us face times when life brings more than we can manage alone. Asking for help—even when asking is hard—is the first step toward a different experience. I have faced my own struggles, and I find deep joy and fulfillment in walking with others on their journeys toward healing, connection, and reawakened hope. As a mental health therapist, I support my clients to grow and thrive, to move toward what wellness means to them, and to deepen their connections both to others and to their own strengths and resources. Above all, I prioritize building a safe therapist-client relationship in which clients feel seen, respected, empowered, and welcomed as their full and authentic selves. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, attachment-based, and experiential. In our counseling sessions, we will work together collaboratively to identify your goals for therapy and agree on strategies to move toward them. We may explore your thoughts, beliefs, and stories, your emotions, your body’s wisdom, and your creativity during our time together. We won’t just talk about what’s wrong—we’ll actively practice ways of making it better. Throughout it all, we’ll make sure our work together feels safe, supportive, and truly helpful to you. Whether you are facing the challenges of everyday life, navigating change and uncertainty, healing from deeper traumas and self-protective patterns, or seeking greater safety and security within relationships, I would be honored to support you.

Brittany, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA), is passionate about empowering adult individuals to overcome challenges and achieve emotional well-being. Her experience working with diverse clients from all backgrounds at a college counseling center in New York City has equipped her to address a range of mental health concerns. Anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem issues, and life transitions are all areas where Brittany can provide skilled and compassionate support. ​ Brittany strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly share their experiences and work towards self-discovery. Her therapeutic approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and person-centered, focusing on your unique strengths and goals. She integrates evidence-based methods like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques to create lasting change. Throughout the therapy process, Brittany strives to be authentic, professional, and validating, ensuring you feel understood and supported. ​ Brittany is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in NC (#A17944). She has received a Master’s in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness from New York University and her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Winthrop University. ​ Outside of the therapy room, Brittany finds joy in crafting pottery, exploring new destinations with her family, and savoring diverse cuisines of the world. College football is her favorite season. ​ Brittany sees it as a privilege to create a safe space for you, to hear about your lived experience, and to be a small part of your story. You are the expert on your own life and together, we can process your past and collaborate to create helpful goals for the future.

Maryanne is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who specializes in helping folks navigate challenges related to and the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression, identity exploration and life transitions, particularly amongst the high performance and student-athlete populations. Maryanne’s clinical work is person-centered, relationally driven and evidence-based, drawing from a combination of CBT and person-centered therapies within an intersectional framework. With a healthy dose of humor, compassion and authenticity, she strives to cultivate a non-judgmental atmosphere in which to explore the human experience.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

About me: I am a licensed psychologist focusing on work with trauma/complex trauma, eating disorder and body image recovery, relationship concerns, LGBTQ+ and polyamory, depression, anxiety, and college-related concerns. I am Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trained and offer this service virtually for clients as well as a registered yoga teacher and love incorporating yoga foundations into clinical and body work. As a queer, agnostic person looking to challenge diet culture/anti-fatness, racial discrimination, anti-queer and other justice issues, you'll see this perspective play out in our work together. I find working with those both with similar and different identities to be fulfilling and approach each person with curiosity and empowerment. I have a strong interest in and passion for helping individuals explore their intersecting identities and roles and the ways in which they move through and exist in the systems in place in the community and in the world. Education & Training: I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of complex/trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns, LGBTQ+/CNM concerns, religious abuse and deconstruction, and anxiety, depression, and stress. I am dual licensed in Colorado and North Carolina. I completed my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Oklahoma State University and completed my doctoral internship at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. I have worked in college counseling centers, working with college students like you, for over 8 years before entering private practice! Unique offerings for therapeutic support include Walk and Talk therapy (for in person clients) and EMDR therapy. -EMDR Training, The Road Less Traveled Counseling Center; EMDRIA-Approved Training Provider (2022) -Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Program Accredited by the American Psychological Association (2021) -Doctoral Psychology Internship, Appalachian State University Counseling and Psychological Services, APA Accredited Doctoral Internship (2021) -M.S. in Counseling and Counselor Education, Indiana University Bloomington, APA Accredited Program (2017) -B.S. in Pre-Art Therapy and Psychology, University of Indianapolis (2015) Approach to Clinical Work My integrated and collaborative clinical approach focuses on building a safe and comfortable space in order to show up authentically, honestly, and relationally with ourselves and one another. I orient my work with focusing on individual, cultural, and trauma-informed perspectives, with a focus on social justice and a system-oriented perspective. I combine various empirically validated approaches based on need, concerns, and preference, from foundational humanistic and multicultural-feminist frameworks to interpersonal, internal family systems, and/or third-wave approaches (ACT, DBT, or CBT). I specialize in working with the young adult and/or college student population, but enjoy all ages! I enjoy utilizing humor, creative approaches to therapy, and aim to balance support and challenge for personal growth. Personal I am a Hoosier native that fell in love with the Appalachian Mountains during my time in North Carolina and now love my time in the Rockies as well! In my free time, I like teaching yoga, hiking with my partner and dogs, snow skiing, brewing kombucha, trying new breweries, and pickleball!

In person sessions in Belmont, NC, virtual across Georgia and North Carolina. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of current events or past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? Restore works with adolescents, families, couples, and adults who are facing life transitions such as navigating college , parenthood, or career exploration; individuals struggling with anxiety; grieving individuals; those facing relational struggles; prenatal and postpartum moms, and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past traumatic experiences, among other things. We offer a multitude of approaches with multiple therapists available for you to find the right fit. Some of our approaches include EMDR, IFS, attachment work, and person- centered counseling. Book a free consultation through our website today!

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.

My name is EJ Joyner, I believe that every individual has the ability to change, grow, and work through life’s struggles. My job as your therapist is to partner with you to foster healing, introspection, and growth, and utilize the strengths you already possess while building upon them. I believe that you are the expert on what you need, I am simply a partner to help you get there. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University. My foundation is a collaborative and non-judgmental, person-centered approach to ensure clients feel empowered through their journey. Additionally, I utilize various evidence-based, or scientifically backed, techniques as needed for the client such CBT, mindfulness, and attachment theory. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, including stress, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relational and social issues, trauma history, other significant life changes, and more. My priority is to create a safe, respectful environment for clients in which they feel understood and heard. When you are ready, I will meet you where you are in your change process and walk with you along the way.

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.

Anxiety, stress, and sadness are a normal part of life. At times these feelings can take over and inhabit multiple area's of life in a profoundly negative way. As a therapist, I offer an empathetic, non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging space for emerging and young adults to explore area's of life that feel off. I work with my clients to understand the unique experiences brought to counseling. Treating someone as a person, not a diagnosis that needs to be fixed is essential in healing.

Life can be relentless and present challenges that feel overwhelming. It takes strength to ask for help and courage to become vulnerable with someone new. I recognize this and will work at your pace to form a trusting relationship with you where you can feel safe, validated, and respected. I have experience working with teens and adults who find themselves worrying about the future or things they cannot control. I have worked with people who are processing past hurtful and stressful life events so they can find a sense of strength and security in the present. I enjoy helping people see their worth so their self-talk transforms. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help clients explore the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while learning skills to better navigate their daily life. I also incorporate mindfulness exercises to build a stronger mind-body connection and stay grounded in the present moment. You are worthy of having an unbiased space where you feel safe to process your experiences.

To be human is to feel the ups and downs that life has to offer. I'm here to help you overcome and thrive! Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, angry, hurt, depressed, anxious, numb or maybe you aren't sure what you're feeling.. My goal is to give you a conversation that you won't receive anywhere else; to help you feel heard, understood, supported, and validated so that you can do your best work to make progress towards your goals. Whatever we are holding back or we aren't saying has power over us. That's what keeps us feeling stuck, unhappy, and unfulfilled. It's time to take the power back! As your therapist I can help you find solutions to what has been holding you back, make meaning in your life, and co-create a future that helps you thrive! I use a variety of techniques that are tailored to your specific needs including cognitive restructuring, emotion processing and reflection, trauma focused work, use of coping skills, and more. We all experience challenging times at home, work, and in the relationships we share with others. Finding a therapist that understands you and your needs across these areas of life can make all the difference! Take a positive step to build a life you love and reach out today. I return calls and emails regularly. I look forward to hearing from you!

Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma. I value equity, consent and boundaries in the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a space that is safe, non-judgmental and accepting. My approach is collaborative + holistic, centering around values of⁣ empathy, connection and deep listening. I’m Internal Family Systems-informed and incorporate somatic + mindfulness-based approaches into sessions. I provide an Autism-affirming perspective in therapy and believe Autism is a genetically-based neurotype, not a medical disorder. "I understand being autistic to be a cultural identity and recognize autistic people as experts on their own culture." (quote from Trauma Geek). Please visit my website for more information. Warmly, River (they/she)