Therapists for college students near Howard University

I strongly believe in building a collaborative relationship with my clients in helping them overcome their personal struggles. As a clinical psychologist, I strive to create a safe and warm environment that is compassionate, person-centered, and promotes a person's unique individual strengths. I prescribe to an integrative approach to therapy that includes elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, person-centered, interpersonal, and strength-based approaches. More importantly, my approaches are tailored to the specific needs of individuals to help them achieve balance in their lives and overcome their struggles. My specialties include working with children, adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety, trauma, adjustment, grief, depression, and other mood disorders. I have a particular interest working with young adults who are experiencing difficulty adjusting with life transitions that often accompany emerging adulthood. Also, I have specialized training in complex trauma and trauma-focused interventions. My experience includes working extensively with diverse patient populations in a variety of settings including, hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice. I am credentialed as a national registered Health Service Psychologist and a member of the Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists, Northern Virginia Clinical Psychologists, and the American Psychological Association.

Life is sometimes overwhelming and therapy can help create possibilities! I am here to support you in identifying what is making you feel stuck and work with you to become the best version of yourself. I offer a warm and compassionate place for clients to talk about their pain and feel understood. I work with college students and young adults experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, family and personal relationship difficulties, and academic or occupational stress. I draw from a variety of theoretical frameworks to meet the needs of the person I am working with. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming and fat-positive therapist. I strive to create an inclusive and safe space for all clients. Looking for a therapist is a great first step towards healing and growing! Feel free to email me and I will then let you know my availability and next steps to setting up an intake session for us to get to know each other better. I look forward to hearing from you!

Therapy is a space to untangle patterns, fears, and old narratives so you can decide what actually serves you. I'm a doctorally-trained, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) who works with adolescents and adults through depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, life transitions and relationship struggles. Together we'll trace what's been keeping you stuck, work through experiences that still weigh on you, and build tools you can use in your daily life, so you feel steadier, clearer, and more yourself. Every process is shaped around your individual preferences and needs. I draw on evidence-based approaches with strong track records for lasting change, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD; which ones we lean on depends on what you're working toward. What stays steady through all of it is a grounded space where you set the pace, receive guidance shaped to your circumstances, learn to trust your own judgment again, and start living by your own design. I see clients in person at my Bethesda, MD office and online across Maryland, Virginia, Vermont, Colorado, and Washington, DC. If any of this resonates, please reach out. I'd be glad to hear what's on your mind and find out whether we're the right fit.

We are a mental health practice that specializes in providing quality therapeutic services. We strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment in which you can engage in a healing self-discovery. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy from a modern approach. Our clinicians are not only well-versed in their specialties and fields, but they are also from the same places you are from. The goal is for your mental health provider to be someone who looks like you and who does not sympathize, but can empathize with you life experiences.

This process of being and becoming that we engage with as humans can simultaneously be both beautiful and incredibly challenging. The decision to take part in therapy can begin a transformative process that allows you to develop greater insight as well as ignite necessary behavioral changes. This can help promote greater well-being, vitality, healing, growth, resiliency, and self-actualization. There is perhaps no greater gift to give yourself than to invest in a process of self-exploration. Such exploration will better enable you to develop a deeper connection with your authentic self so that you may reach your optimal potential. Ultimately, engaging in therapy can be an empowered step toward claiming a life that feels more fulfilling, intentional and aligned with your goals. In turn, there is no greater honor for me than to get to share a part of your journey. I believe therapy to be a collaborative and relational process. You can expecte me to treat you with compassion and respect. I am a licensed psychologist in private practice after working in university counseling centers since 2003. Most recently, I served as the Director of Counseling and Psychological Services at George Washington University since June 2020 after serving as Director of Counseling at Ursinus College since 2013. Prior to that I’ve worked in the counseling centers at Drexel, Columbia and Princeton University after completing my pre-doctoral internship at the counseling center at Johns Hopkins University and receiving my PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Georgia in 2010. Prior to that, I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Washington and Lee University and my master’s degree in psychological counseling from Teacher’s College, Columbia University Collectively, these roles allowed me to identify my passion for providing quality mental health services to the adult and young adult population, particularly in helping the undergraduate and graduate students navigate through identity, relational and transitional concerns and stressors. In these roles, I both provided direct therapy to university students as well as oversight for the delivery of counseling services- including staff supervision and management, evaluation and assessment of services and programs, establishing best practices for the centers that met the needs of the campus community and supported student development objectives as well as the academic mission. I most enjoyed working directly with students to address both clinical and developmental issues and frequently experienced that through therapy, they could better realize their potential. I am very excited to be returning to a purely clinical role to dedicate my energy to providing direct therapy. I provide a warm, compassionate, supportive and empowering environment in which I meet individuals where they are and help them to feel seen, heard, and affirmed in order to heal, learn and grow. I believe that each client must be understood as an individual whose sense of self has been informed through many social, cultural and relational interactions.

Hello! I specialize in working with engineering and other STEM students that feel overwhelmed by their academic and personal lives. As a former mental health ambassador for two top engineering programs in the country, I have a wealth of experience working with students who are driven, highly intelligent and under intense pressure to succeed. I also work with engineers and engineering managers across STEM industries and can support students in their career exploration process. I am a neuro-divergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming provider that will take the time to tailor your therapy experience to exactly what you need. I am looking forward for the chance to meet you. Feel free to reach out for a free 15 min consultation to discuss how I can help you in your journey through and after school.

We specialize in the pain you don’t always show. You give so much to others, but inside, there’s tension. Through specialized integrative therapy, we help you release what’s stuck and reconnect with your peace, power, and purpose. Be the voice of your own healing, rewire your brain through therapy, yoga and mindfulness. Recognized Excellence and Trusted Credentials Our expertise is backed by leading organizations, certifications, and awards that validate our commitment to holistic mental health and wellness. These recognitions highlight our dedication to high-quality care, innovation, and culturally inclusive healing practices.

Are you someone who avoids social situations, seeks out reassurance from others, or describes yourself as a people pleaser or perfectionist? If so, you might be struggling with anxiety. Anxiety shows up in a variety of different ways. These challenges arise during major life transitions or may be associated with relationship, school, or work-related concerns. I have a special interest in working with young adults who experience anxiety and stress. I'm here to help you gain the tools you need to feel relief and to approach your life in a more authentic way. I utilize techniques from the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) perspective as well as from the acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) approach. Rather than work to remove anxiety altogether, I will help you learn ways to tolerate anxiety and discomfort and respond to anxiety in a healthier, more productive manner.

When people come to treatment with problems, it is important to remember that they are trying to cope with them in the best way they can. With that in mind, I offer a reflective and engaging partnership with my clients, working toward the goal of helping them to be autonomous, authentic and compassionate in a world that can be extremely stressful. Although my work is solidly grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive/learning, and systems theories, my approach is client-centered, practical and strengths-based. I bring honesty, warmth, and humor to the therapy relationship. I am LGBTQ affirmative and invested in doing cross-cultural therapy which is culturally sensitive. I have a dog, Bracket, who works with me, and I have been doing AAT since 2002. There is a growing body of research which suggests that AAT (Animal-Assisted Therapy) can be helpful with a range of diagnoses, including Depression, PTSD, and Autistic Spectrum. Many therapists know little about online games such as World of Warcraft and Second Life. They may dismiss it as unimportant, or assume it is a problem. I am a gamer-affirmative therapist, meaning I’m more interested in understanding your in-world experience and activity than pathologizing it.

Kate D'Amica Hostetter is passionate about working with both men and women to find freedom from their eating disorder and life challenges by gently confronting barriers, building on strengths and challenging unhelpful relational and thought patterns. Making lasting, impactful change is possible for everyone and Kate supports her clients on their journey through empathy and empowerment. She additionally enjoys helping clients build healthier, more fulfilling relationships through couples counseling. Kate received her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University. Having worked in various levels of care from inpatient to PHP programs specializing in eating disorder and mental health treatment, Kate has provided counseling and support to those seeking recovery from all types of eating and mood disorders. She is excited to have recently begun working towards her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) Certification under the supervision of Dr. Deb Michel, PhD CED-S.

College life can be exciting—and stressful. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by classes, relationships, or the pressure to figure out your future, you’re not alone. Our practice provides supportive, student-centered care to help with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Together, we’ll build tools to manage stress and support your well-being so you can thrive on campus and beyond. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and taking care of your mental health is one of the most important investments you can make in yourself—today and for your future.

Online Counseling for teens & adults in Washington, DC & Virginia I work with adolescents and adults with concerns such as anxiety, stress, perfectionism, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues (peer, spousal, dating, breakups), life transitions, academic and athletic pressures. My approach is based on my belief in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and having a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can feel understood, accepted, connected, can share and explore their experiences, strengthen and expand upon coping skills, and develop insights. I use a collaborative approach that includes working with clients in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner, utilizing evidence based practices that have scientific support for their effectiveness. I provide treatment that is compatible with my client’s strengths and goals in order to provide healing, growth and reduction of symptoms. My client’s have described me as: “very easy to talk to”, genuine, thorough, “down to earth”. I firmly believe that things can and will begin to get better. Please reach out to me directly and I'd be happy to set up a time to connect further to learn more about how I can most be helpful, provide additional information on scheduling and answer any questions.

Hello! My name is Jasmine Lang and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Building Beyond Therapy, inc. Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I have been providing clinical social work services to adolescents and adults since 2017. I received my MSW from the University of Maryland, Baltimore and my undergraduate degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University. I specialize in providing mental health care to individuals and families navigating neurodivergence. This includes adolescents and adults who may suspect that they have autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental differences. This also includes parents, siblings, or family members supporting a loved one who is neurodivergent and who may need their own mental health support. I have the training, knowledge, and experience to help you wherever you are on that journey. I have also completed specialized training in Postpartum Mood Disorders to support both neurotypical and neurodivergent parents on their pregnancy and postpartum journeys. Lastly, I understand that trusting a stranger with your private life is not easy and it is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I feel very blessed to work as a therapist and aim to foster a safe and supportive space where healing and growth can take place. I am in network with CareFirst/BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna/Evernorth, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare. I am also licensed in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.

Starting college or graduate school —or navigating your way through them—can be both exciting and overwhelming. Many students find themselves facing stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, identity questions, academic pressure, or major life transitions, often for the first time. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I specialize in working with college students and young adults, and I understand the unique pressures of university life—from managing expectations and finding your place, to coping with self-doubt, loneliness, or burnout. Whether you’re struggling or simply wanting to better understand yourself and grow, therapy can be a space where things begin to feel more manageable and more hopeful. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I believe that meaningful change happens in a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship, where you feel safe to be yourself and explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. Together, we’ll work at your pace to better understand your experiences, build resilience, and develop tools that help you move forward with greater confidence and clarity. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, including working in university counseling centers, where I supported students through many of the challenges you may be facing now. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities, and I am committed to creating an inclusive, affirming space where you feel seen and respected. I also have experience working with international students, students with disabilities and chronic health conditions, Deaf and hard of hearing students, and those navigating complex family or cultural dynamics. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step—but it can also be the beginning of feeling more like yourself again. You deserve support, understanding, and a space to grow. I would be honored to be part of that process with you.

Seeking therapy is often part of a painful journey. Things a person did on their own for their mental health & to connect with others have not worked. Sadness & fear interferes with their work & relationships. For some people seeking therapy, alcohol & drugs provide temporary relief from suffering; however, those behaviors sometimes cause further damage. It’s hard for them to accept compliments & they feel uncomfortable in their own skin, even after achieving things that are supposed to be fulfilling. They meet interesting, loving people, & they find it very hard to get close to them, leading to more isolation. I offer an opportunity for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, & past – to plan for things to be different in the future. I create a healing relationship with my clients, a refuge of clinically-sound & heart-driven support. Experience has taught me that people are much more than their symptoms – they are human beings dealing with human problems. If you’ve decided to try therapy, then I’m ready to work with you. In addition to working with people struggling with mental health & relationships, I am passionate about providing "outside help" to members of AA, DDA, NA, SMART Recovery, & other programs. Please call me today so we can schedule our first session and get you on the road to feeling better.

Foundational Healthcare Solutions is a psychiatric practice dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based mental health care through secure telehealth services. Our practice specializes in the evaluation and treatment of adolescents and young adults, with particular experience addressing the mental health needs commonly encountered in university populations. We provide comprehensive psychiatric services, including diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and ongoing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-related conditions, and other psychiatric concerns. All services are delivered by licensed psychiatric clinicians with extensive clinical experience and a strong commitment to best practices and patient-centered care. A central focus of our practice is confidentiality and clinical integrity. Our telehealth platform is fully HIPAA-compliant, utilizing encrypted, secure technology designed to protect patient privacy at all times. We adhere strictly to federal and state regulations governing medical records, informed consent, and confidentiality, and we are especially mindful of the privacy considerations unique to students navigating academic, residential, and family environments. Our telepsychiatry model allows students to access timely, consistent psychiatric care while minimizing disruptions to their academic responsibilities. Telehealth visits offer flexibility, reduce barriers related to transportation or scheduling, and maintain the same clinical rigor and professional standards as in-person care. When clinically indicated, we collaborate with university health services, counseling centers, and other providers, always within appropriate consent and confidentiality parameters, to support continuity of care. We would welcome the opportunity to serve as a resource for you. Our goal is to complement university-based supports by providing reliable, discreet, and high-quality psychiatric care that prioritizes student well-being and academic success. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Welcome! I help teens and adults with all types of eating disorders, disordered eating, mood and anxiety issues, and life transitions. Given the world we live in, it can be hard sometimes to sort out "normal" attempts to be healthy and fit vs disordered patterns of eating, exercising or thoughts about food and weight. Your eating issues may have suddenly become problematic or they may have been around "forever". Either way, you deserve to get help to bring balance and flexibility back into your eating and thoughts about food and your body. Learning how to manage mood changes, anxiety and stress during life changes is key. I'm also passionate about supporting women during mid-life transitions related to changes in roles and relationships due to separation/divorce, balancing demands of parenting, caring for aging parents, loss and seeking fulfillment in life. I'll help you process difficult emotions and support you as you consider personal concerns and decisions. Seeking help takes courage--know that there can be relief and calm especially with a partner by your side. Whether it's for yourself or your teen, please visit my website to learn more or reach out to discuss your situation. I work with individuals as well as families and offer flexible hours, in person sessions, and telehealth for MD and DC residents.

Welcome to Garden of Hearts Therapy 🌿 College and young adulthood can be exciting, overwhelming, confusing… and sometimes all three before lunch. You’re figuring out who you are, what you want, how to manage relationships, expectations, stress, and a future that may not look exactly how you imagined. At Garden of Hearts Therapy, LLC, you’ll find a warm, supportive space to talk it through without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out. My approach blends compassion, real conversation, humor when we need it, and practical tools to help you better understand yourself, navigate challenges, and grow with confidence. You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes you just need a safe place to plant the first seed. 🌱 Rooted in Compassion. Growing in Strength. Planting Seeds of Hope.

***VIRTUAL APPTS ONLY, WAITLIST AVAILABLE*** Are you hoping to better manage your mood, anxiety, health habits, or just day-to-day life? Do you ever feel challenged by certain relationships, cultural differences, personal gains or losses, or other significant life changes? All too often, you may find yourself involved in recurring conflicts, feeling repeatedly taken advantage of or misunderstood, or otherwise unsatisfied with your life for no obvious reason. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. I will help you identify and set appropriate boundaries with the people in your life - including yourself - and ultimately grow into yourself in a way that feels authentic & genuine to you. Likewise if you are struggling with medical issues, have battled chronic illness for years, or want to work on your behavioral health preventively, my services may be a good fit for you. Informed by a longstanding pre-medical training background as well as personal experience with chronic illness, I will work with you to repair your mind-body connection by reshaping unhealthy thought patterns, changing problematic health habits, and learning to accept and cope with the messages your body is sending to you. Whatever the case, I will collaborate with you in an open and empathetic way to build coping skills, self-actualize, and attain your mental, physical, emotional, and lifestyle goals.

Dr. Justin Leak is a 2016 graduate of the American School of Professional Psychology @ Argosy University (ASPP). He received his BA in Speech Communication and African & African American Studies from the Pennsylvania State University in 2002. Dr. Leak completed his MA at Lewis & Clark College in Counseling Psychology, with a specialization in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy (MCFT) in 2008. Dr. Leak completed his APA-accredited internship at The John L. Gildner Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (JLG-RICA), where he continues to work full-time as the Director of the Evaluation Unit and Case Manager for the Facility for Children. His Clinical Research Project was entitled: The Pressure of Maintaining Excellence: The Impact and Challenges of Combining an Electronic Peer-Mentoring Program with University Sponsored Counseling Services to Support Low Income College Students. In between his studies, Dr. Leak has worked with students and families in a variety of educational and therapeutic settings. These include working in the offices of Multicultural Affairs, Academic Advising, Career Advising, and most notably, Residence Life. For fun, he enjoys playing tennis, swimming, travel, and entering cooking competitions. Dr. Leak's therapeutic style pulls from several approaches, including psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Family systems. He offers treatment for a variety of stressors including (but not limited to) mood, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship problems, and transitional life issues. He also specializes in psychological assessment, specifically diagnosing issues that impact behavior, mood, attention, and learning. He is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), American Counseling Association (ACA), and the National Register of Health Psychologists.