Therapists for college students near Duke University

Big changes have a way of shaking loose questions you thought you had already answered-about who you are, where you belong, and who you want to be. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I work with students and young adults who are navigating these in-between phases that can be confusing and overwhelming.

Therapy is not always easy. But that doesn't mean it is without joy. In therapy, we get to come to an appreciation of both joy and sorrow that are the consequences of living a fully human life. Through appropriate challenge and support, we are able to expand the range of our humanity and our participation in the world. My approach is grounded in brief psychodynamic models of treatment. I believe that therapy can help make us conscious of the adjustments we have made to cope with our life circumstances and can shine a light on new possibilities towards greater authenticity. I continually seek to improve my own utility as a therapist, and I read voraciously towards that end. My understanding of psychology, sociology, and social work provide not only a foundation for understanding client struggles, but also a basis from which to conceptualize growth and solutions.

You are at your threshold and something has to give. Maybe you have been struggling for years, or maybe you have new stress that feels unmanageable. You've tried changing your diet, journaling, talking it out, and nothing seems to change. It may seem as though things will never be different in your life or your relationships. But, after years of experience working with others just like you, here is the truth: lasting change is possible. My clients come to me because they want a shift and are seeking support as they turn onto a new path. Together, we will explore your thoughts and feelings, using a goal-oriented, holistic approach. Imagine what it would feel like to finally be able to let go of the constant worrying, suspicion, anger, and resentment. To feel like you can set boundaries and have the energy to participate in your life and experience joy again. You would be a better partner, friend, and parent, someone who is capable of saying "no" clearly, or "yes" wholeheartedly. I am committed to helping you unravel old wounds as you strengthen and create a new direction in your life and relationships. My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental and safe space for self-reflection, recovery, and personal growth.

“Who in the world am I? Ah, that’s the great puzzle” -Alice in Wonderland As humans, we often carry complex emotions around with us as we move through life. That can be exhausting, especially when you haven’t had the time or space to fully process what you’re feeling, what you’ve been through, and how those experiences impact your life today. My hope is that therapy with me can be a place where you can find some reprieve from life's stressors, make sense of your experiences, and regain a sense of control. I enjoy working with folks who are navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, and interpersonal challenges. My background in social work influences how I approach therapy, including how identity, relationships, environment, and larger systems can impact overall well-being. In my practice, I tend to use an integrative approach, drawing from CBT, DBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing, while incorporating psychoeducation and strengths-focused interventions. In addition to these modalities, it’s important to me that our working relationship is built on trust, care, and mutual respect, so we can work together to figure out what works best for you. Being a pet parent of three rescue rabbits and a bearded dragon, I’m drawn to animals who are often misunderstood, have complex needs, and need patience and trust before they feel safe opening up. That experience has deepened my appreciation for patience, curiosity, and meeting others where they are. I especially enjoy working with folks who may feel “different” or “too much”. I’m here to help you better understand your patterns and explore your goals, understanding that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. If you think we might be a good fit, feel free to reach out!

Welcome to Becoming Counseling, PLLC! Becoming Counseling, PLLC offers psychotherapy services to individuals and couples. Becoming Counseling, PLLC is located in Durham, North Carolina close to Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill. If you’re here, it means you’re already on your path to becoming. Whether you’re looking to become accepting of your own skin or better equipped in your relationships, we’re here to help!

When we can sit with our feelings and examine our thoughts we have an increased ability to understand our decisions and behaviors as well as the choices that are available to us. We utilize a non judgmental and warm approach to fully understand where clients are in their journey. We believe our clients present us with an enormous gift by sharing their vulnerabilities and strengths; we take therapy seriously and hope that each session is productive and our clients leave with a broader understanding of themselves and what they can do in the moment to feel better. We openly welcome clients of color, immigrants, queer and trans* clients, and clients of all genders. We provide individual counseling to help each person identify their own strengths and contributions to creating a life worth living. We have many years of experience providing trauma focused work, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy. We are comfortable treating a number of diagnoses, histories, and symptoms, including, but not limited to: life adjustments, trauma, sexual abuse, adoption issues, attachment disruptions, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, difficulties with emotion regulation, issues of over control, self harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation.

My practice offers psychological assessments for children, students, families and adults. We focus on finding answers to your questions and help you figure out why things are challenging for you and then come up with a game plan to help you build on your strengths and work with your challenges. We offer all kinds of evaluations, but the most common concerns we receive are learning disabilities, ADHD and questions about the autism spectrum. We would love to connect with you and see if we can help you get some answers and next steps.

Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.

I want counseling to be a positive and collaborative experience for everyone who steps through my door. I primarily work with adults and young adults to address a variety of symptoms, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, intellectual disabilities, OCD, substance use, and more. Together, we will work toward embracing your differences and using your strengths to help accomplish your goals. I use an eclectic approach to counseling, meaning that I use methods from a variety of disciplines based on what will benefit each unique person. Some of the disciplines that I often draw from include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing. You are the expert in your own life, I am here to help you reach your full potential and achieve your goals. My ultimate goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and free from judgement during our sessions. Creating a space where you can be your true, authentic self is one of my top priorities. I believe that sessions should be a collaborative space full of honesty, genuineness, and even some humor at times.

I have current availability and will respond to inquiries within one business day. We all struggle at times to cope with the difficulties of life. Distress is a natural response to unsustainable pressures in our lives. Whether your symptoms are mental (racing thoughts, excessive self-judgement), physical (racing heart, headaches, stomach tied in knots), or a mix of both, our work together can help you to understand the source of your struggles and discover strategies to work toward a life of peaceful enjoyment. Together we can create a toolbox of strategies for coping with life’s stressors. As a counselor, I strive to affirm all identities and incorporate an awareness of social and cultural factors that may impact your lived experience. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer expressive arts therapy, which allows for processing, experiencing, and integrating therapeutic work on a deeper level. In our work together, I aim to create a safe space where you can feel truly heard and supported in your goals. I am passionate about helping people lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. I invite you to reach out to schedule a free 15-minute initial consultation to help in deciding whether we will be a good fit for your needs.

My approach as a clinician focuses on the idea that each individual has their own innate and unique strengths that make them powerful, and capable, as the experts of their own lives. My goal as a therapist is to create a shared space in which a client can reflect on and engage with their preferred way of being, in order to take steps towards authenticity. Through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness-based practices, I aim to assist clients in noticing, appreciating, and utilizing their own unique strengths to take steps towards goals or overcoming challenges in their everyday lives. If you are navigating the struggle of major life transitions like new jobs, moving from home, beginning higher education, ending a relationship, I can walk alongside you. With experience in working with the burnout and accumulated stress of students, I can provide individualized support and treatment. There is no need to take this journey alone. Together we can maneuver through the tough waters, embrace the joys we find, and Ride the Wave!

As a dedicated clinician specializing in anxiety, depression, and obsessive thinking, I offer compassionate support and evidence-based practices to guide individuals toward reaching their full potential. With a deep commitment to fostering a safe and empathetic environment, I aim to empower clients as they navigate life and discover inner resilience. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that each person's journey is unique, and I tailor treatment to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. Through a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and various other therapeutic approaches, I work with individuals to explore underlying issues, thought patterns, and work to uncover the strengths and resources within you to promote lasting change and emotional resilience. In sessions, you can expect a space where your experiences are honored, and your voice is heard. Whether you are seeking short-term support for a life event or a deeper exploration of your emotional landscape, I am committed to providing support every step of the way. I welcome you to reach out and schedule a consultation.

As a Licensed School Counselor and Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I know each of us face challenges, life transitions, and pain. The bulk of my work is dedicated to helping clients with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges. Additionally, I have a passion for working with clients who are academically gifted or twice exceptional! I work with clients to bring meaning and understanding to how their thoughts, beliefs and life experiences impact their actions and related outcomes. I draw on Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Exposure Response Prevention principles and interventions to encourage insight and behavioral change. I know seeking therapy and finding a therapist is a risk that feels scary to many. My goal is to honor that bravery, hold space for anything you bring to the table, and help you move forward in a safe and comfortable environment.

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We offer a collaborative therapy approach that is both supportive and challenging. We utilize only research-based therapies in an approachable and flexible way, taking each client’s goals into account.

The clients I work best with are often the ones who appear “put together” on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected on the inside. They’re typically reliable, high-functioning and used to being the person others depend on but privately, they may be dealing with anxiety, burnout, overthinking, or a sense that they’ve lost themselves in their roles. Many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or feeling responsible for others’ emotions. Some are navigating major life transitions like relationship changes, co-parenting, or figuring out their next steps in school or career. Others may not have a clear “reason” for therapy but know something feels off and want more clarity, balance, or a stronger sense of self. I work well with folks who are open to looking a little deeper, at patterns in relationships, how past experiences may still be showing up, and how stress or emotions live in the body. You don’t have to have it all figured out. If you’re willing to be curious about yourself and want practical tools alongside deeper understanding, this space can be a good fit.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a stress cycle of worry, sadness, or loneliness, you are not alone! These emotions can be natural responses to life circumstances. Sometimes it seems as though you can’t find your way out of these feelings. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am ready to join with you and offer support. Together we can identify your personal challenges, build upon your unique strengths, and develop healthier life patterns. Therapy offers the opportunity to work toward becoming unstuck. I have over 15 years of clinical experience. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, chronic illness and LGBTQIA+. My approach draws from relational, family systems, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies. I strive to provide a safe space where you can show up as your authentic self and feel heard, valued, and respected. I primarily meet via telehealth, with limited in-person availability. Give me a call to see if we are a good fit!

Welcome! Reaching out and embarking on the journey of the therapeutic process is vulnerable and incredibly brave. I work with folks who are experiencing a range of life's challenges, including OCD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relational challenges. I also have a special interest and experience in working with perinatal concerns. I build my practice around the belief that the most impactful therapeutic work occurs when there is a strong foundation of trust and understanding between the client and therapist. I will work to create a space with you where you can feel seen, heard, and safely challenged to grow and flourish.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Sometimes we reach points in life where we feel stuck. We might be trapped in loops of negative thoughts, or feel like we’ve hit a dead end in our career or intimate relationships. When we reach out for support and connection, we find that the technology that was supposed to connect us has left us more isolated than ever. Individually or as a couple, I will help you create a space to reflect and process difficult thoughts and emotions–cultivating hope and building a deeper sense of meaning in your life story. My work is informed by psychodynamic theory and existential therapy. Both are depth-oriented approaches that emphasize exploring unconscious behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. This exploration helps us better understand ourselves and integrate our difficult thoughts, emotions, and experiences to build more satisfying relationships with ourselves and others. Seeking help can feel very difficult, especially if we have been misunderstood or judged by others. If anything in my profile resonates with you I hope that you will reach out to schedule a free consult call! If you do, I promise to bring my authentic self to our work together.