Therapists for college students near Duke University

Are you no longer happy with your unhappiness? Have you realized that carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders gets heavier; with each situation or event that brings more responsibility and accountability? Do you need an emotional outlet where you no longer have to suppress your emotions? You do not have to continue to feel alone and unheard. The grace and space you provide to others, you deserve it too. I am passionate about working with women, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, and other life stressors. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities and interventions most suitable for my client. Starting this journey may feel unsettling, but I am here alongside you. I dedicate time to building therapeutic relationships to guide and help my clients explore vulnerable parts of themselves. I believe therapy is a partnership, and we can take this journey. It doesn’t mean it will be easy, but it will be worth it. I am here to support you in being your best, authentic self.

At Understanding U Counseling Services, we offer a range of individual counseling services to help people overcome their challenges and find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, post partum, difficult birth, grief/loss or relationship issues. I am a experienced therapists providing a confidential and supportive environment so that you can explore what is troubling you and work towards finding resolution. Contact us today to schedule a Free 15 minute phone consultation appointment!

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)

Welcome! I am Amy Castongia, a Nationally Certified Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Telehealth Provider and owner of Calm Blue Waters Counseling. I will work with you to help you find the tools to cope and manage obstacles that have kept you from obtaining your goals. My training is in treating adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety and depression. I strive to provide an open, nonjudgmental, and warm environment where clients can grow, including through online therapy. I want you to have a new perspective by the time your session is complete.

Hi, there. If you're ready to make meaningful changes in your life but are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start, this may be the place for you. Whether you're navigating new life transitions, struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship challenges, and seeking a deeper sense of peace and self-understanding, there's no better time to start than now. Let's build healthier coping skills, improve your emotion regulation, and foster stronger connections together. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work, and Ph.D. in Social Work. I am licensed in SC, NC, and TX so I am able to work with clients in all three states. With over 10 years experience supporting clients through issues such as trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, my goal is to help others build a life that they find fulfilling and enjoyable. I specialize in stress management, trauma, spirituality, and grief and loss. My aim is to help you feel comfortable, supported, and understood as we begin building a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust and collaboration. Together, we’ll start identifying steps toward healing and personal growth at a pace that feels right for you. If now feels like the right time for you, let's connect! I offer therapy sessions virtually and I'm available most weekdays. Book a free 15-minute consultation with me by clicking on my website link.

I am pleased that you are considering entering into a professional counseling relationship with me. To enhance the importance of trust, I want to share with you my professional beliefs, background, and, most importantly, your rights. Counseling is conducted in various ways, depending on the counselor. As my client, you have the right to know my qualifications, methods, and mutual expectations of our professional relationship. The information presented here is provided to help you decide if my services are suitable for your needs at this time. Please discuss any questions or concerns you may have before we begin our session. Qualifications: I obtained my Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2009. I am licensed in the state of North Carolina as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS - #8329) by the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (NCBLCMHC). Additionally, I am a National Board of Certified Counselors (NCC - #227001). Additionally, to keep current with various changes in the field of Counseling and mental health, I maintain memberships in numerous professional associations including, the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American College Counseling Association (ACCA), the North Carolina Counseling Association (NCCA). As a professional counselor, I adhere to the ethical codes put forth by the American Counseling Association in 2014. As it pertains to years working in the counseling field, I have worked as a professional counselor for over 20 years and have experience working in a variety of settings. I have worked in the field of academic/school counseling, mental health counseling, private practice, and college/university counseling. For the past 13 years I have served on the Counseling staff at Davidson College. Counseling Background: Counseling is a collective effort between the individual and the counselor to help the individual draw from their natural strength and resources to accomplish a personal desire or goal. I believe that individuals come to Counseling because they are seeking something to be different in their lives. They may want to change their personal or family situation, solve a problem, or bring about a healthier balance in their lives. It is in the counseling process that individuals, families, and couples have a safe and nurturing environment to self-examine very challenging and sometimes painful issues to bring about change. My area of experience has been with individuals within the area of Anger Management, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Border Personality, Chemical Dependence, Dependency, Depression, Grief/Loss, Intimate Relationship Conflicts, Low Self- Esteem, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and other traumatic events. Additionally, my experience includes working with individuals, families, adults, adolescents, persons of color, and couples. Confidentiality: All of our communication becomes part of the clinical record, which is accessible to you upon request. I will keep confidential anything you say as part of our counseling relationship, with the following exceptions: (a) you direct me in writing to disclose information to someone else, (b) it is determined you are a danger to yourself or others (including child or elder abuse), (c) I am ordered by a court to disclose information, (d) If you desire to seek reimbursement from a managed care company, the disclosure of confidential information may be required for reimbursement, (e) In case of a Medical Emergency, or (f) These rights are waived if accusations of misconduct are brought. However, even under these circumstances, only essential information will be revealed, and as much as possible, you will be informed before confidentiality is broken. In the event, the client is a minor, parents or legal guardians may be included in the counseling process as appropriate. Still, measures will be taken to safeguard confidentiality, always acting in the best interest of the client.

Life can feel overwhelming and confusing when we are met with expectations that do not align with our authentic self. I believe positive and effective change can happen once we become more confident and empowered within ourselves. I work with individuals to feel confident to make effective change within their life in order meet their personal and therapeutic goals. I primarily work individuals with disrupted attachments related to childhood trauma, and sexual trauma; in addition to PTSD, depression, anxiety, and OCD (specifically related to Relationships, Contamination, Perfectionism, and Health).

With 27 years of experience in the counseling field, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and move toward meaningful, lasting change. I have worked with diverse populations facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, grief and loss, addiction, relationship challenges, insomnia, and major life transitions. I also have extensive experience supporting individuals living with ADHD, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to cope, but motivated for change. I help by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space built on trust, empathy, and active listening. Using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Illness Management and Recovery, I tailor treatment to each individual. Reaching out for support can feel difficult, but you don’t have to face things alone. I offer a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and understood. When you’re ready, I invite you to take that next step toward healing and meaningful change.

Are you noticing changes in your mood but don't know where to start to get back on track? Do you feel burnt out due to struggles balancing multiple roles and responsibilities? Do you struggle with making your needs a priority? Are you noticing issues in your relationships with communication? Are you worried about making a change but know that you can't stay stuck where you currently are? Welcome to Harris Counseling Services, where we will walk with you on your journey to better. Welcome to a safe, nonjudgemental place where you can breathe, rest, be, learn more about yourself, and work to reach healing, balance, and wholeness. We meet clients between where they used to be and where there want to be. I work with clients to set goals that help them develop understanding, create a skill set to manage unhelpful thinking patterns, and create space for joy and connectedness. I also work to infuse spirituality and faith into the therapeutic practice for clients who are interested. Whether you are feeling scared, tired, depressed, or confused in your current situation, you don't have to walk this journey of change alone. We welcome all but have a special passion for serving Black women who desire to be seen, valued, and welcomed into the therapy space. Reach out today and get closer to the life you've been wanting to live. Note: I can accept insurance for clients in NC, but not GA.

Waking up each day to feel the weight of society’s expectations on your shoulders is overwhelming. There are times where you begin to wonder where you belong and if there is a place you can really be yourself. You were never given the opportunity to discover your true self and now you’re wondering who you really are! So many aspects of how you were raised and the things you experienced are holding onto you and keeping you from embracing new paths in your life. At times, it can be lonely navigating life while finding yourself, unlearning toxic beliefs, and learning to love the person you’re meant to be. But life is a journey! You deserve to wake up excited for the day and all of its possibilities. You are worthy of taking the time to stop and find yourself and discover who you want to be. It’s okay to acknowledge where you came from and the events that shaped you while also striving for a different path. It’s okay to question the ideals you grew up with and it’s okay to challenge the ones you feel don’t fit with who you want to be now! This is your life and you deserve to be in control of it. If any of that describes how you’re currently feeling, I would love to join you on your journey to self discovery. Finding yourself and your place in life can be challenging work but you do not have to do it alone. If you feel you’re ready to begin the journey, I am here to walk with you!

Our approach encompasses comprehensive care that goes beyond what you will find at your average mental health practice. We offer comprehensive psychotherapy services that go beyond the typical weekly appointment to include ongoing coordination with medical providers and stakeholders in your health/wellbeing, advocacy and consultation, connections with local and national resources, assistance navigating the complex system of mental health services, and incorporation of primary supports.  We also offer evaluations incorporating scientifically valid, reliable psychological testing, in-depth clinical interviews, review of medical/legal records, and completion of collateral interviews. Both of our doctorate level psychologists have extensive experience service as expert witnesses in the justice system and are specifically trained to complete clinical, civil, forensic, and psychoeducational evaluations to meet the specific client's needs.

Many of the students I work with are going through times of change, pressure, or uncertainty. You might be trying to balance school, relationships, and future plans, all while dealing with stress, anxiety, or questions about who you are. Maybe you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like no one really sees what you're carrying. I work best with students who are ready to explore those feelings in a safe, honest space, even if they’re not sure where to start. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be open to looking inward and having real conversations. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, identity questions, trauma, or the day-to-day weight of being a student, you're not alone. I’m here to listen without judgment, help you make sense of what you’re feeling, and support you in moving forward with more clarity and self-trust.

As a therapist practicing for over 15 years, I thoroughly enjoy working with students as they learn to navigate life. Many times, it can be incredibly challenging to balance school, social relationships, jobs and other responsibilities. My goal as your therapist is to allow you to express your feelings in a non-judgmental and safe space, as well as provide you with skills to improve your overall quality of life. I work with adolescents, adults, as well as couples and families. Additionally, I specialize working with all aspects of eating disorders from anorexia to binge eating. Licensed in Arizona and North Carolina.

I am adept at treating much of the human condition because my training is existential-humanistic. My approach is holistic, client-centered, and tailored to the specific place you are in the world. I will help you move to your place of purpose and meaning, as well as evoke your innate healing ability. I do not think there is an ideal client, but there is an ideal relationship that we establish together. I ensure that you feel attended to, heard and seen in the way you wish to be. You deserve stellar care. Visit or call for free 15 minute consultation. As a yoga instructor, I will draw (if you wish) from ancient healing techniques and practices; this includes breath work, mindfulness, meditation and philosophical teachings. As a specialist in primary care behavioral health, I am able to focus your treatment comprehensively, integrating your physical and mental well-being. No matter your ailment, I will provide you with focused, dedicated, experienced, and compassionate care. You will feel relief on your first visit, and after some time working together, you can expect tremendous growth and healing. This goes for individuals, couples, and groups.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina with a passion for helping young adults navigate life’s challenges. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Bowie State University and my Master’s in Counseling from Webster University. Since 1997, I’ve worked with adolescents, adults, and families across a range of settings, including outpatient and inpatient programs, schools, private practice, and the court system. I’ve also supported individuals in a substance use drug court program and worked with teens in day treatment and special education classrooms. College can be an exciting time—but it can also bring stress, anxiety, pressure to succeed, relationship struggles, and questions about identity or purpose. I offer a space where you can be heard without judgment and supported in building the tools to manage your mental health, make empowered choices, and grow into the best version of yourself. My therapeutic style combines Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and DBT to meet your individual needs and goals.

Contact us via phone call, text, or email if you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors can get us to realize our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.We utilize therapeutic tools to help with overcoming provoked fears, worries, and depressed moods. Our experience includes working with youth, adults and families focused on mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar II), behavior modification, interpersonal development (relationships), trauma, and substance abuse. It takes courage to ask for help. We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be. Therapists at SHINE work to strengthen, help, inspire, nurture and empower desired life changes. “Success is not final, and failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”

College can bring a lot: new freedom, pressure to succeed, and the stress of figuring out who you are and where you are headed. Many of the students I work with feel weighed down by anxiety, burnout, overthinking, imposter syndrome, or the pressure to be perfect. Others are coping with ADHD, past/current trauma, anxiety and social anxiety or just the everyday stress of classes, relationships, and big transitions. With 12 years of experience working in university counseling centers, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges of college and graduate students' lives. In our work together, you will find a supportive space to talk honestly about what is on your mind, learn coping tools to manage stress, and feel more grounded and confident. My goal is to help you feel less alone and more able to handle the challenges of college life.

In addition to my private practice, I also work at a university counseling center, which keeps me in tune and up to date on what today's college students are experiencing. I've worked with both traditional and non-traditional students throughout my career and enjoy helping students get back on their path to success. Many of the students I help are struggling with anxiety, depression, academic concerns, or family/relationship issues. My clients enjoy having a non-biased person to support them as they become more independent and explore who they are as a person. College is an exciting time, but can also be stressful and overwhelming. As human beings, we don't like change, and going to college means a lot of changes happening at once...again, exciting, but also scary! I help my clients learn the skills needed to feel capable, resilient, an ultimately successful in both their academic and personal life.

Mission: Our mission is to provide compassionate, client-centered counseling that integrates evidence-based practices with individualized care. We are dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families in overcoming challenges, building resilience, and fostering emotional well-being in a safe and supportive environment that promotes acceptance, belonging, and connection. Vision: Our vision is to be a trusted leader in mental health care, where individuals have access to quality counseling, stigma is reduced, and communities thrive through greater emotional wellness and connection.