Therapists for college students near University of Pittsburgh

Serenity Counseling, LLC, was created to provide competent psychological counseling while maintaining the utmost confidentiality, respecting the various cultural differences between clients and practicing ethically and responsibly. Serenity Counseling provides an objective, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients will be validated, empowered and encouraged. Serenity Counseling LLC consists of professional therapists, licensed in the State of Pennsylvania and Certified by National Boards. Serenity Counseling features support for a variety of stressors

At Purposefully Soaring we understand that life can get hard. We're here to support you with unpacking the many weights you carry, explore the barriers in your way that keep you stuck, and help you find your purpose. Our goal is to support you with learning how to soar, through and over the many ups and downs of life.

“The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.” ― Albert Camus. Choosing to be alive in our society and culture is a brave, daring, and difficult act. I enjoy working with people who want to understand and support themselves in healing from and with shame, disconnection, stagnancy, and trauma with the goal of becoming more alive, more true to themselves, and more genuinely connected to themselves and the world around them. I am a gentle person who enjoys using humor and delicately mixing the light and dark of the world in the healing journey. I am skilled in DBT and ITCT. I am currently pursuing training in Somatic Experiencing Therapy. I have specialized in working with young adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, BPD, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma. I am passionate about supporting survivors of child abuse/neglect, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence. I am dedicated to anti-racism. I am of the LGBTQ+ community and bilingual in Spanish and English. I accept Highmark insurance and am currently in the process of credentialing with UPMC, Medicaid, Cigna, Aetna, and United. I offer sliding scale sessions. I can offer free introduction phone calls to see if we are a good fit. Reach out with any questions or interests!

Helping people feel more connected, alive and easeful in a difficult world is what excites me about the therapeutic process. While living with mental health challenges, it is difficult to know how to get unstuck or even to remember a time when things felt okay. I work collaboratively with clients to build on their strengths and identify goals that align with their values. We all develop strategies for survival that can be limiting over time. We can create more options that go beyond old strategies through practicing new ways of relating, recognizing nervous system patterns and strengthening the mind-body connection. Some of the approaches and techniques I use include parts work, attachment theory, mind-body therapy, guided visualization, somatic and movement based therapy. I am trauma focused and informed with an understanding of how systemic oppression contributes to illness, especially for those whose identities are devalued or erased.

Do you struggle with self esteem, decision making, or just life in general? Are you ready to make a change? Often times our experiences can/have shape(d) who we’ve become. You may be in need of support and that’s ok. Congratulations to you for taking the first step in seeking support. My mission is to help make a difference in the lives of others one day at a time. As a certified Compassion Fatigue counselor, I can assist with emotional exhaustion. Life experiences can often leave us drained, stressed and or overwhelmed. Are you one who has always been there for others in their time of need? Who helps you? Do you have a healthy support system? The helper often gets neglected because they’re busy assisting others which can lead to Compassion Fatigue. Let me assist you.

Hello! I’m a Harvard-trained, board-certified general adult psychiatrist, based in Pittsburgh. My practice focuses on psychotherapy, and behavioral treatments. I also offer evidence-based behavioral treatment for insomnia. I see adults with with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, insomnia, and with most common mental health problems. Therapists who are warm, empathic, humble, committed to honing their skills, and who make effective positive working relationships with their patients, tend to be most effective. To paraphrase the psychotherapy scholar Leigh McCullough, a therapist should aim to do the most good, in the shortest time, with the least stress for the patient. I believe this is what it means to be patient-centered. I'm accepting new patients for telehealth visits throughout Pennsylvania, or for in-person visits at my office in Shadyside (in Pittsburgh). I accept private pay, and, through the Headway app, selected health insurances (including Aetna & Cigna).

Rachel Porterfield is a licensed clinical social worker who provides psychotherapeutic care to adults of all ages. She has years of experience working with individuals who struggle with a variety of challenges, including anxiety/panic attacks, depression, grief and loss, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and relationship concerns. Rachel helps others to share their intimate thoughts and feelings while guiding them to learn new skills that will encourage them to develop healthy life changes openly and collaboratively. Rachel has been extensively trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches/models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy. Rachel has worked in outpatient dual diagnosed programs, hospitals, and primary care offices. Rachel received her master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh with a certification in mental health.

Life is complicated with competing demands for our time, energy and resources. Whether you're struggling with a particular issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help you to develop balance in your life, relationships, and career. By providing you an open, affirming, and caring environment where you will be able to identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of a more rewarding life, career, or more fulfilling relationships. We invite you to take the first step to build your resilience and perseverance. We will work through the challenges you are facing to remove obstructions, open doors to improve relationships and social interactions, experience a calm and stable mood, and obtain clear thinking with a positive outlook. We want to help you find your inner motivation and grow toward your authentic life.

We believe that psychological well-being and healing come from our ability to foster awareness, understanding and acceptance of our experience of life as a whole - the good, the bad and everything in between. Talking with a therapist can often help facilitate this kind of personal growth. We believe that through developing a trusting relationship, therapist and client can explore aspects of the client’s struggle and the experience of relating to each other in deeper, more honest and productive ways. While each therapist in our practice has a unique approach to the work, we all share a deep appreciation for the importance of meaning making and lived experience in understanding human experience and effective therapy.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I strive not to be one of "those" clinicians who wear a fake grin while holding a clipboard. Life is not that simple, and it doesn't need to be approached that way. I firmly embrace a person-centered approach, which affords me the freedom to explore different perspectives. If you are contemplating seeing someone, I encourage you to take the first step towards bettering yourself and understanding your own emotional depth. I offer free 15-minute screenings to consult and see if I would be a good fit for you; otherwise, I am more than happy to help you find a provider that has the most potential impact for your needs.

I work with students who struggle with managing their emotional, behavioral, and social needs. I know that therapy can be initially uncomfortable and/or anxiety provoking, yet I create a safe and supportive space for my patients. The therapeutic relationship is extremely important in my practice, as I believe that we need to work together in order to meet your goals and improve your overall quality of life. I will always bring honesty and compassion into our sessions. I utilize various approaches and interventions to target each individual's needs and to create the best treatment for you. I utilize techniques from CBT, ACT, and mindfulness practices. However, I tailor my practice and choose interventions that best suit your symptoms. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, relationship difficulties, and depression. I am offering and accepting referrals for ADHD neuropsychological testing as well. Feel free to reach out to me directly by phone or email to see if we would be a good fit. I offer in person and virtual sessions. My goal is to teach you skills and offer a different perspective to lead a fulfilling life. Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions; I look forward to working together!

Hello! Are you feeling overwhelmed and tired of holding it all together? You don't have to do it alone! Many of the clients that I work with are young adults learning how to adult! Managing and balancing the demands of school, work, and relationships while still caring for yourself can be stressful. I would be honored to walk your path with you. Please contact me and together we'll figure out how to achieve a life balance.

Our goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to overcome life’s challenges and to achieve their goals. Our experienced therapists will work with you to find new ways to manage emotional or relational stressors that are impacting your ability to be your most confident and powerful self. We believe in a collaborative approach where you as the client are in the captain’s seat, and our therapist acts as your compass, guiding the way to achieving the healthy and vibrant life you deserve. We can’t wait to meet you!

The Counseling Center provides compassionate and professional outpatient counseling to anyone seeking support for life's many challenges. Our team of licensed professional counselors, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists are ready to help you work through issues such as trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, family/partner conflict, anger, life transitions, and loss and grief. We serve clients of nearly all ages and backgrounds. Our practice consists of a diverse group of licensed clinicians who have experience with a wide variety of treatment modalities and professional backgrounds. Treatment can be provided in-person, via telehealth, or via a hybrid option. We serve individuals, couples, or families. Allow us to support you on your journey towards healing and improving your mental health and wellness. We don't ask "What's wrong?" but rather "What happened? And how can we help?" Come to the Counseling Center to experience professional care in a confidential, non-judgmental, and supportive setting.

Ryan King is a state licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh, with a focus on Mental Health. Ryan works with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness including Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse and Crisis Intervention. In addition, Ryan works with anger, social skills, and stress management as well as crisis management. Ryan is trained in EMDR therapy used for addressing past trauma. Currently accepting clients.

Todd Pungratz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh, and over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life’s most complex and meaningful challenges. His career has taken him through hospital settings, primary care clinics, and community mental health, where he’s worked with people facing trauma, grief, mood and thought disorders, substance use, and neurodivergence. He draws from a range of evidence-based approaches – including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care – and collaborates with prescribers when medication is part of your healing process. Todd offers a safe, nonjudgmental space in which clients can feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward at their own pace.

We are currently accepting referrals and meeting clients virtually. Live Life with Purposeful Balance Life is complicated with competing demands for our time, energy and resources. Whether you're struggling with a particular issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help you to develop balance in your life, relationships, and career. By providing you a caring environment you will be able to identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of a more rewarding life, career, or more fulfilling relationships. Resiliency and persistence are characteristics of people who face challenges and traumas, and come out on the other side with new appreciations and well-balanced lifestyles. At times, even the most successful individuals have difficulty overcoming obstacles. We invite you to take the first step to build your resilience and perseverance. We will work through the challenges you are facing to remove obstructions, open doors to improve relationships and social interactions, experience a calm and stable mood, and obtain clear thinking with a positive outlook. We want to help you find your inner motivation and grow toward your lifelong pursuits. We also offer group therapy options, and executive functioning coaching. We welcome neurodiversity and Understand the unique challenges college brings. Our website provides further details about groups and the difference between coaching and counseling.

I believe each of us has deep intuition, wisdom and knows what we need in order to heal; I will help you clear that path to healing. Making peace with the changes in our lives and finding acceptance can be extremely challenging. I would be honored to be present with you as you navigate this experience. I work well with individuals who are motivated and ready to transform by providing practical, research based tools and interventions that can help alleviate symptoms like stress, anxiety, sadness or irritability. I often encourage clients to continue our work outside of the therapy hour to expedite progress. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and families across the lifespan in various settings including outpatient, home, school, community mental health, and crisis support. I help clients understand thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, blending somatic approaches, mindfulness and other therapeutic techniques to repair the body-mind connection and facilitate healing. Known for my calm, grounding presence, I bring authenticity, humor, and intuition into my work. Drawing on my knowledge as a Reiki Master and yoga teacher, I incorporate holistic practices such as relaxation, breathwork, and embodiment. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community with lived experience managing the chronic pain of endometriosis, I bring both clinical expertise and personal understanding to my work. I believe in the inherent dignity and worth that each of us carries and in our innate capacity for healing.

I founded Tranquil Trails with a vision to create a therapeutic space where young adults entering the "real" world feel safe to bring their whole selves into the room—without fear of judgment or dismissal, using unconditional positive regard and holistic therapy that encompass an individual and does not place people into boxes or make assumptions. I believe that when we as therapists approach our work with the vulnerability, compassion, and transparency of our humanness, we invite our clients to do the same. At Tranquil Trails, we specialize in working with youth and adults—as they navigate the ebbs and flows of transitional age, complicated by economic hardship, daily reminders of systemic oppression, access to violent videos occurring in real time across the world, AI and misinformation, fear of rights being taken away or have been, frequent complicated family histories with psychosocial stressors daily. And on top of that many of our clients are in college, graduate school, medical school or pursuing an academic career. We invite our clients into the process of collaborative treatment planning, using their own words to create positive and achievable goals. We notice when something is different and we highlight it. We teach them that to see the positives in oneself is to go against the grain of all we have been taught as members of the system. Overachieve, don’t rest, never stop producing, never slow down. We are missing out on life, and the ability to sit with emotions. The ability to notice any positive emotions at all. Our vision at Tranquil Trails is to create a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive community where individuals feel empowered to take charge of their mental health journey. We aim to foster a world where mental health struggles are not only normalized but seen as a trait of humanness, and where healing, personal growth, and resilience are accessible to all. We envision a future where every client, regardless of background or limitations, has the tools, support, and confidence to craft a life that works for them. Through authenticity, collaboration, and evidence-based care, we strive to break the stigma around mental health and create lasting positive change in the lives of those we serve.