Therapists for college students near University of Pittsburgh

I specialize in working with young adults struggling with anxiety. During your college years, there is a lot of pressure to figure out who you are and what you want to do with your life. It can seem like everyone else has it figured out or maybe you wonder if you're the only one who feels anxious or uncertain about the future. I will help you work through that anxiety and develop the skills and tools you'll need to feel more confident.

I've served college students in the university setting for over 20 years, as an academic advisor and counselor on multiple campuses. I have specific experience working with students to help them navigate personal, academic, career, social, stress, wellness, and relationship issues. I have enjoyed particularly assisting students in exploring their identities, managing stress, creating successful academic and experiential strategies and schedules, motivation, selecting a major, deciding up on a career focus, addressing anxiety and depression, navigating life changes, improving relationships, and growing their confidence and self-esteem. I implement practical, goal-oriented treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Psychoeducation to help clients recognize thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving them as they incorporate new strategies for moving forward. I want to enable students to achieve their best potential, question themselves less, and live their most joyful lives.

I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 8 years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. For individual and family therapy, I use a client-based, relational approach that focuses on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals. I have a strong background in trauma and in providing services for at-risk teens and young adults. I offer counseling for mood and personality disorders, grief and loss, separation/divorce and family issues, as well as for medically based diagnoses, such as ADHD, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and cancer. My style is person-centered and eclectic, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused interventions. I also enjoy providing group therapy for children, teens, and adults, and I believe that each group is an opportunity for growth, connection, and validation.

As an art therapist, I offer a space where creativity becomes a path to healing, self-understanding, and empowerment. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, those healing from trauma, and folks who identify as neurodivergent. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or life transitions, you're welcome here—exactly as you are. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and rooted in the belief that self-expression can be a powerful tool for insight and growth. You don’t need to consider yourself an artist to benefit from art therapy. Together, we use creative processes—drawing, painting, or exploring imagery—as a way to access what words alone may not fully capture. I know that therapy isn't one-size-fits-all. I aim to co-create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported in moving at your own pace. My hope is that this work helps you reconnect with your inner voice and build emotional resilience. If you’re looking for a therapist who brings warmth and creativity, I’d be honored to walk with you on your journey.

Hi there! I am Dr. Stacy Vance. I am a licensed psychologist who provides virtual counseling and sport psychology services to students and athletes across the US. I have a passion for supporting young adults as they navigate the beauty and challenges of college life. Whether you are looking for help with managing stress/anxiety, identity development, relationships concerns or interested in improving performance or enhancing your mental well-being, I am here to support you on your journey. At the heart of my practice lies a deep appreciation for the lived experiences of others. Gaining awareness into internal experiences and the patterns that keep one stuck facilitates insight, growth, and change. Using empathy, humor, collaboration, and curiosity I aim to support your goals while tailoring the therapeutic "process" to your needs. When you are ready, feel free to reach out. I would welcome the opportunity to chat!

Hi, I’m Michelle Wygant, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience supporting young adults through life’s challenges. College can be an exciting time—but it can also bring stress, anxiety, academic pressure, identity questions, grief, or relationship struggles. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need a safe space to talk, I’m here to support you with empathy, respect, and real tools to help you cope and grow. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s a space for you to show up exactly as you are. You don’t have to navigate this season alone.

College can be a wild mix of freedom and stress... with friend drama, missing home but wanting independence, figuring out what you want to do with your life, financial pressure, loneliness when friend groups shift, and the everyday weight of adult responsibilities starting to pile up. It’s a lot to carry, and it makes sense if you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure how to handle it all. And then, when you’re finally ready to reach out for support, finding a therapist can feel like another full-time assignment. Scrolling through endless profiles feels a little like online dating... you’re reading way too many bios, everyone sounds kind of the same, and you’re left wondering who you’ll actually click with. Add in the stress of costs, schedules, and trying to figure out if they’ll really get what you’re going through, and it’s exhausting before you even start. My goal is to make that step less overwhelming and give you a space where you don’t have to perform, pretend, or have it all figured out.

Hey there! So, imagine this: You're feeling like you're stuck in a whirlwind of confusion and self-doubt, thanks to a toxic relationship that’s drained your energy and confidence. You’re feeling like shit and wondering if you’ll ever find your way back to the strong, amazing person you once were. Right now, you're dealing with the aftermath of a relationship that’s left you feeling lost and unsure of yourself. Maybe you’ve experienced betrayal, manipulation, or constant criticism that’s chipped away at your self-esteem. You might be questioning your worth, your decisions, and even your sanity at times. You need clarity. You need to understand what happened, why it happened, and most importantly, how to heal from it. You’re craving validation for your feelings and experiences. You need a safe space where you can untangle the mess and start to rebuild your sense of self. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings and experiences openly. Through our sessions, I’ll help you become more self-aware. If you’re currently in a confusing or toxic relationship, we’ll explore your options together. Whether it’s making the tough decision to leave or finding ways to improve the relationship, I’ll support you every step of the way. I respond within 24 hours or schedule an appointment on my website!

Many of the people I work with are Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) who are struggling to navigate multiple areas of their life like work, school, family, relationships, or the intersectionalities of their identities. Many talk about often feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck. This then kicks off to what feels like a never ending cycle of confusion, frustration, depression, and anxiety. Therapy is an opportunity to find clarity and work through these obstacles to help people get their life back on track. My clients and I work together to develop more mindful behaviors to help lead a more meaningful and healthy life. People develop certain attitudes and perspectives based on their early life experiences to survive when they were younger. But these attitudes and perspectives are not helping now which is part of the reason why people might feel stuck. By looking at these attitudes and perspectives closely, people can learn to change how they talk to themselves, how they react to their emotions. and take more thoughtful actions to move forward towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. My practice integrates several evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that encompasses principles of person-centered, recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, multiculturalism, and strength-based values. With my compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, and down-to-earth style, therapy can address the things that are getting in the way of people’s life so that they can move forward. COMMON EXPERIENCES THAT I WORK WITH PEOPLE ON: - It feels like your mind is playing tricks on you - It feels like your eyes or ears are playing tricks on you - It feels like something odd is going on or hard to explain - Confused at times whether something is real or imaginary - You feel suspicious or mistrustful of others - It feels like you have little control over your thoughts - It feels like others can hear your thoughts or read your mind - Having thoughts or beliefs that you or others find strange - Race-related identity, culture, and intersectionality - Cultural and systemic trauma and oppression

Are you feel tired pleasing others and ignoring your own needs? Bold Brown Therapy is a culturally informed practice where healing speaks your language. You do not have to explain your culture as you begin your healing journey. I am aware taking the first step is hard and scary, at Bold Brown Therapy I focus on holistic and collaborative care. This is rooted in CBT,DBT,IFS,and EMDR modalities to go below the surface of the presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, body image, intergenerational trauma, people pleasing, and chronic health conditions.

Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a variety of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. Email or text is the best way to contact me directly or go to www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com to schedule an appointment. I specialize in treating individuals or couples, adults and adolescents 16 and older with anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, grief, substance abuse, relationship issues, and PTSD but, I treat and work with many others. Let's start today to make your better tomorrow, and put peace back into your life. You dont have to do it alone!

College is supposed to be some of the best years of your life—or at least that’s what everyone says. But what if it doesn’t feel that way? Maybe you’re constantly stressed about classes, worried about your grades, or overwhelmed by everything on your plate. Maybe you compare yourself to everyone else, feeling like you’re always behind or not doing enough. Or maybe you just feel stuck, unsure of what you want or where you’re headed after graduation. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. College is hard, and no one gives you a guidebook on how to manage all the pressure. That’s where I come in. I work best with college students who are: 🔹 High achievers who feel burned out—pushing themselves to the limit but still feeling like it’s never enough 🔹 Stressed and overwhelmed—juggling classes, work, and personal life while trying to keep it together 🔹 Struggling with self-doubt and imposter syndrome—feeling like they don’t belong or aren’t “good enough” 🔹 Navigating big life changes—adjusting to college, preparing for life after graduation, or figuring out who they are 🔹 Feeling anxious in social situations—overthinking conversations, avoiding conflict, or struggling with friendships and dating

The clients I work best with usually have one thing in common: they are tired of feeling like they have to hold it all together alone. Many are high-achieving students who look “fine” on the outside but are quietly dealing with anxiety, burnout, mood changes, family stress, relationship challenges, or just the pressure of trying to figure life out. Some feel overwhelmed. Some feel unmotivated. Some feel like they’ve lost parts of themselves along the way. I’m down to earth. You don’t have to show up polished or perfect with me. You can show up as you are. I’m highly skilled in mental health treatment, including therapy and medication management when appropriate. If medication is part of your journey, I will explain your options clearly so you feel informed and in control. But I also believe healing is bigger than prescriptions alone. I deeply value creative expression as a form of therapy. Art therapy doesn’t have to mean sitting in a formal art session—it can look like exploring crochet, dancing in your room, listening to music that helps you process emotion, or writing your thoughts out when your mind feels loud. These practices matter. They regulate the nervous system. They give voice to feelings that are hard to name. I practice what I teach. I’m relatable, and I personally use creative outlets to manage my own mental wellness. I believe in realistic, sustainable coping—not just clinical advice. If you’re someone who wants support that blends real conversation, clinical expertise, and creative exploration, we might be a good fit. You deserve care that sees your whole self. You can also connect with me on Instagram at @mothriftynp, where I share mental health insights and creative inspiration.

If you're feeling overwhelmed at times, reaching out for support is a great first step. I offer a nonjudgmental space where you can work toward your goals. My approach is collaborative, practical, and strengths-focused. With over 25 years of experience, I help students navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. I understand how much these challenges can impact daily life, and you don’t have to handle them alone.

Dr. Apraku is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, she specializes in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations for anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar disorder. Dr. Apraku also gives guidance for mental health concerns related to life transitions, mood swings, anger and traumatic events. As a holistic provider, her focus is on medication management (including for patients wishing to decrease reliance on medication) in combination with extensive psycho-education and referral to a trusted therapist where appropriate. Effective psychiatry requires a relationship between patient and provider founded on trust and mutual understanding. Dr. Apraku's goal is to build such long-lasting relationships to get your mental health as good as it can be. She has a particular interest in treating young adults with non-traditional backgrounds, including racial minorities. Through secure video, Dr. Apraku can treat anyone located in state. The practice does not bill insurance carriers directly but instead provides a superbill which patients may use to claim out-of-network benefits. New patients are welcome to self-schedule their first appointment directly at apraku.com/book. We look forward to working with you!

I’m a good fit for students who get trapped in their head—overthinking everything, replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, or feeling like they can’t relax unless everything is “handled.” You might be high-achieving, but constantly stressed, exhausted, or scared of messing up. Sometimes that turns into procrastination, avoidance, or feeling numb. In therapy, we’ll focus on helping you calm the mental noise, handle stress more effectively, and build confidence in your choices—so school and life don’t feel like a constant emergency.

Becoming a clinical psychologist grew out of my lifelong wish to help people lessen the emotional and psychological pain that any of us can be susceptible to. I provide a place where people can feel listened to and understood. Feeling heard by someone else can often be the first step to better understanding one’s own feelings and others. Once I understand your issues, I utilize psychological treatments that incorporate the latest findings from cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, neuroscience, and modern psychoanalysis. These treatments are now helping more people find effective ways to meet their emotional needs and have fulfilling and enjoyable lives and relationships. If you are interested in learning more about ways that psychological treatment can reduce your emotional distress and help you to have the life you want to live, please do not hesitate to contact me to arrange for an initial consultation.

Do emotions hit you like a tidal wave, or are you often stuck between feeling like you’re “too much” or “not enough”? Maybe you’re struggling to understand who you are or feel numb and disconnected from the world around you. Despite your best attempts at supporting yourself, are you still feeling stuck, anxious, and lonely? I can help you move towards a more peaceful and fulfilling life. As a therapist, I aim to help you understand your emotional patterns, strengthen your relationships, and feel more anchored in yourself. I work best with people who are seeking a cohesive sense of self, especially those who experience intense emotions, identity challenges, and the impacts of trauma. Much of my clinical experience has been working with college aged individuals. I have an affinity for working with neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. My primary orientation is psychodynamic therapy. I also utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and hold advanced training in the Flash Technique. My clinical interests include codependency, C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image, and disordered eating. I am Poly/Kink affirming and my approach aligns with the principles of Health at Every Size (HAES). In our sessions, we will explore how early experiences and relationships have shaped how you see yourself and others. I believe that true healing happens in the context of a safe and authentic relationship with a shared sense of purpose. My approach is collaborative, open, and direct. Together we’ll create a space where you can learn to unmask, explore, grow, and connect with your true self.

Do you desire to awaken to your deepest passion, to your life purpose, to your potential? Are you ready to craft a life and relationship of your own creative and bold design? Are you in the midst of a big life transition desiring to more fully align with your core values and live according to your own “true north”? Are you ready to up-level and transform your relationships and more masterfully connect, communicate and cohabitate? I'd be honored to partner with you and support you in creating a life that is in full alignment with your deepest desires, a life infused with joy and abundance, a life that you absolutely love. As an Intimacy and Relationship expert, my goal is to support you in shifting from conflict to connection as you develop deeper insights and understanding of yourself and your loved ones. I look forward to assisting you in developing new skills, tools and practices to consciously create more aligned, fulfilling, healthy and mutually satisfying relationships. Let me be your guide into personal growth, transformation and empowerment while you grow confidence, clarity, inspiration and effectiveness in every area of your life. I believe in your rise and can’t wait to connect. I am an LGBTQ+ ally and welcome clients of all ages, abilities, ethnicities, backgrounds, identities, orientations and relationships styles.

Feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or curious? Whether working through a new adjustment or struggling with communication, I offer a safe, inclusive space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. I am especially drawn to working with individuals, couples, and families navigating through life transitions, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and those searching for a unique approach to this journey at their own pace. As a queer woman and Philadelphia local I bring lived experience and understanding, emphasizing a nonjudgmental stance as we navigate through this therapeutic journey I emphasize a systems-based approach, highlighting the importance of patterns and interconnections of relationships. I also work through an intersectional framework, understanding the unique interactions of identities that shape individual experience. As you bring your unique self to this experience, we will begin to unravel the complexities and contexts that hold importance, and with it I hope to empower you in each step going forward. I am currently accepting new clients, please reach out with any questions, or for a free 20 minute consultation!