Therapists for college students near Durham, NC

Do you find yourself feeling anxious, sad, confused, angry lately? When people ask, “How are you doing right now?” can you really say you are doing “well”? We are living through an extremely difficult time, and nothing in our lives could have prepared us for 2020. And yet, we have all been asked to somehow adapt to this new normal and carry on. Deciding to start therapy is often hard to do, but I am here to help! My role is to provide support, understanding, encouragement, and empathy. Together, we will work to identify strengths needed to achieve your goals by developing coping skills and self-awareness. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults struggling with issues related to past trauma, anxiety/stress, depression, family or peer relationships, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach draws on several counseling theories and evidence-based treatments. My style is collaborative and compassionate, and I tailor my approach to meet the moment and place where you stand in the moment. It is my belief that the therapy session belongs to you, the client, and my job is to be there to help you in your journey of healing, self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-realized purpose in your life path.

Hello, and welcome. I’m a licensed clinical social worker who works with adults navigating anxiety, OCD, and a history of trauma. I know how exhausting it can be when your mind keeps pulling you away from the life you actually want to live. My approach is active and collaborative. I won't just sit back and listen. I often bring humor into sessions too—it's a natural way to soften rigidity, gain perspective, and open the door to change. Together, we'll draw on evidence-based, trauma-informed methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches, shaped around what actually works for you. Where it's helpful, we'll also bring in mindfulness and somatic techniques to build your ability to get present, even in moments that feel hard. At the center of this work is curiosity and self-compassion: learning to meet your thoughts and feelings instead of fighting them. That shift tends to be what opens things up—clearer self-understanding, more effective ways of coping, and the courage to make choices that move you toward living well.

Hello, and welcome to my page! Over the past 15 years, I have worked as a mental health counselor, counselor educator, and supervisor for counselors-in-training. While I specialize in counseling clients with anxiety disorders, I welcome anyone to my practice who is looking to make a positive change in their lives. Making the choice to come to counseling is a big step, and I hope to be a part of the process that leads you towards a happier, healthier life. One of the things that keeps me energized about being a mental health counselor is that every one of the people I see is unique. Everyone has their own experiences, their own way of seeing the world, and their own goals for their future. This has pushed me over the years to get specialized training in a number of therapeutic interventions including: Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Process Therapy, and Transactional Analysis to name a few. I find that being able to pull from a number of therapeutic interventions allows me to meet the unique needs of my clients and to provide the best care possible. My past clients have described me as a combination of supportive, intuitive, and matter-of-fact in my counseling style. I believe that the best relationships (counseling and otherwise) are built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding, and I strive towards this with my clients. I've found that when my clients feel heard, understood, and appreciated, that we can achieve great strides towards whatever they are working towards. The counseling process isn't always easy, but it can be life changing. Let's see what we can achieve together.

Everyone can benefit from therapy. How often in your day to day do you have an hour where you’re fully seen, heard, and encouraged? That’s what therapy should provide. Too often therapy is misrepresented and clients stigmatized as weak or ill when, in fact, the strongest thing you can do is seek help. Let me help you through your darkest of times or your day to day concerns. There is no issue too big or too small to conquer. I believe everyone has the capacity for self-healing and change and that my role as a counselor is to support clients on their journey towards healing. I'm passionate about helping others through the daily challenges of life and trauma. With special consideration of how power, oppression, and the collective unconscious affect our individual well-being. As a black queer Liberian-American woman I draw from my personal cultural background to encourage clients to embrace and reconcile their own identities and experiences as they heal.

College can feel exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. I work with students navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, identity concerns, relationship stress, and big life transitions. My approach is attachment-based and trauma-informed, which means I focus on building a safe and supportive space where you can feel understood. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way and develop strategies that help you feel more confident, balanced, and connected.

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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.

People often hear “just go to therapy” or “focus on healing” but not enough is said about how complex that process can feel. Healing can feel uncertain. You may know something needs to shift but not know where to start. It can feel like progress and setbacks are happening at the same time. It can also feel like wanting support but not yet having the words for it. If that sounds familiar you are not alone. As a Holistic Mental Health Therapist I support clients in reconnecting with themselves and building a sense of safety in mind body and spirit. I integrate evidence based practices with mindfulness breathwork meditation and trauma informed yoga to support nervous system regulation and emotional grounding. You do not have to figure it all out alone. There is space here for your story and your process.

Are you looking for change in yourself and your life? You may feel unhappy with where you are, or stuck in old patterns. I believe that every person has the strength and ability to transform their lives by learning new ways to cope with difficulties and heal from hardship. Whether you are struggling in a relationship, making a major life transition, or experiencing new or reoccurring mental health symptoms, I will work with you to create a unique plan that meets your needs and goals. I want to help you feel more in control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions, as well as find joy in your life. I would love to walk alongside you on your journey.

On the outside it looks like you have it all together, but inside you're engaged in a constant struggle for control. Your anxiety, OCD, and/or eating disorder has taken over your life. You find yourself in a constant loop of feeling worried, nervous, stressed and at times not good enough, thin enough, or smart enough. You’re stuck and unable to find the relief that you crave, so you try temporary fixes. Sometimes you disconnect and avoid people and your responsibilities, sometimes you binge, sometimes you purge, and sometimes you try to use anything that will distract your mind. You find, however, that your mind just wont turn off. You desperately want to know what it would feel like to not be consumed with the thoughts that cause you to constantly worry about issues like food, your body, or all of the what if's in your life. You’re tired of being consumed by fear. Imagine you could learn the techniques to heal and be free from panic attacks, OCD, binging, restricting and purging food. As a specialist in eating disorders, body image issues OCD, Intrusive thoughts, phobias such as agoraphobia, BFRB's, anxiety and gender identity issues/dysphoria, I provide tools to not be consumed with thoughts that cause constant worries about issues like food, your body, or scary intrusive thoughts. In addition to my specialties, I have extensive experience treating PTSD, and Autism/neurodiversity. I am trained in ERP, I-CBT, and ACT for OCD. For eating disorders I am trained in CBT-E, or CBT-AR, along with FBT, and ERP. For disorders such as trichotillomania, and Skin picking I utilize CBT along with Habit Reversal Training (HRT), ACT, and the (ComB) model. I often also incorporate IFS (parts work therapy) into my sessions. I am licensed in both FL and NC. Call, email, or visit malloriepotaznick.com for a free 20 min phone consultation today.

Let me ask you a few questions. Let me know if any of this applies to you. Do you often find yourself feeling tired, stressed out, overwhelmed at work, unable to focus, or constantly feeling you need a break? How about this, when you finally take a break or vacation you notice that you don't enjoy the time away because there is a laundry list of things  you feel you should be doing or need to get done before you can relax? Have you found that you have a hard time getting to sleep or staying asleep because you are thinking or worrying about any and everything when you just need to get some rest? IF any of this is you, when would you like to get started working with me?

As a counselor, my professional identity is one of authenticity, curiosity, and empathy. I care deeply about helping my clients improve their lives. I believe that starts with the two of us forming a genuine connection so that I can best understand your personality, your worldview, and the problems you are facing – the world can be a tough place and we all have times when we could use someone to listen and understand us. I will repeatedly check in with you to assess your goals for therapy and make sure that we are making progress towards meeting those goals. In our sessions, I will use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and reduce the types of thinking that can lead to negative emotions. I will also incorporate other techniques such as mindfulness meditation that many clients find useful. Together, we will work as a team to confront the issues that are troubling you. I received my BS in Biology from Duke University and my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. I've also been a research assistant in Princeton University's departments of social psychology and neuroscience. I try to stay up to date with current research and use only empirically validated modalities with my clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that meaningful change starts with feeling truly seen and understood. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges and stress. My approach is warm, humorous, collaborative and grounded in evidence-based practices. Together, we will create a space where you can safely explore what's going on beneath the surface, build insight and develop practical tools to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I utilize CBT and MI in my approach to therapy while also being trained in CPT, a trauma based modality. I have been providing services since 2023 in a nonprofit setting. I have supported a diverse range of individuals, addressing a wide variety of experiences and clinical needs. I am committed to create a supportive and client-centered environment. Whether you are seeking relief from immediate stress or looking for deeper, long-term growth, therapy with me can be a space for both reflection and action. I aim to help you improve your relationships and navigate life's stressors. Therapy can be feel like a big step, but if you are ready, then I am here to support you.

✨ Meet April-Autumn Sparks Therapist. Sexologist. Real Talk Enthusiast. Hey! I’m April-Autumn—founder of "establisHER+empowerHIM=embraceUS Counseling & Consulting"—and I help students like YOU figure life out while holding space for your growth, your healing, and your identity. Whether you’re managing relationship drama, figuring out who you are, recovering from life’s hard hits, or just trying to breathe between classes—I’ve got you. This isn’t your traditional therapy vibe. It’s a *you-can-bring-your-whole-self* kind of space. Whether you’re navigating emotional overload, gender expectations, culture clashes, heartbreak, or pressure to have your future figured out—I’m here for all of it. 💁🏽‍♀️ For Women & Femmes: We’ll work on **identity, purpose, self-worth, and pleasure**—yes, that too. Together we’ll explore how to get unstuck, break generational habits, reclaim your voice, and build a solid foundation of self-love that doesn't rely on outside approval. Whether you’re tired of shrinking or trying to figure out what healing actually looks like—I’m here to help you feel *more you*. 🧠 For Men & Masculine Folks: We get real about the pressures of manhood—how you were raised, what society expects, and how you show up in the world. This is a space to unpack what’s heavy, ask hard questions, and build strategies for emotional clarity, confidence, and peace. We’ll work on relationships, stress, purpose, and how to be fully human—not just strong and silent. 🔁 For Everyone: My work is all about **Establishing, Empowering, and Embracing**: 🧠 *Establish* your identity 💥 *Empower* your growth ❤️ *Embrace* your relationships—with yourself and others This is therapy, but it’s also a space to evolve, exhale, and **be your whole self without judgment**. No need to have it all figured out. Just bring your curiosity, your truth, and a willingness to grow. 🧭 Let’s Get You: * Unpacked and unstuck * Grounded in who you really are * Focused on healthy relationships * And maybe even laughing a little along the way Ready to begin? Let’s talk. Let’s heal. Let’s evolve. Because this version of you deserves support, clarity, and care. 📍Serving college students virtually in **NC, TX & FL** 📧 aprilautumnsparks@gmail.com 🔗 www.aprilautumnsparks.com 📣 IG: @AprilAutumnSparks

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I work with a variety of clients experiencing mental health challenges, life stressors, health and medical stress, and grief and end of life support. I can see clients via telehealth residing in NC, SC, CT, and FL. I am in network with a variety of insurance and accept private pay. If you do not see a time that works for your schedule, please contact me.

You are sitting in therapy watching your therapist's lips move while she tells you for the fourth time that her cousin is gay and just got a “very butch” haircut. You can’t help thinking, “She just doesn’t get it.” He misgenders you, or forgets your partner’s pronouns, she pulls out Food and Mood, and he talks about how apple cider vinegar might be the solution to all your problems. She hasn't lived in a fat body. He hasn’t experienced homophobia or heterosexism from the inside. What initially seemed like a small hill to climb in your relationship has started to feel like a mountain. Maybe she tells you your black top is so slimming. Maybe once he referred to queer people as ‘homosexuals.’ Maybe, when you report your experiences of oppression, she tells you that the other party probably meant well and just wanted you to be healthier or have it easier in the world. You don’t trust him with your whole self, how can you? You’ve tried so many therapists in the past and she’s not that bad, is she? You continue to hope that therapy with a therapist who doesn’t quite get it will be enough to meet your needs. It’s not enough. You deserve a therapist who understands your lived experiences. You deserve a therapist who knows what it’s like to have your doctor prescribe weight loss to treat arthritis in your wrists, and who can truly hear it when you tell them about your experience with your homophobic aunt at Thanksgiving. You deserve a therapist who approaches the world with a solid intersectional anti-oppression framework that sees society, rather than some flaw in you, as the central piece of your problem. I can be that therapist. I’m fat, I’m queer, I have an intersectional lens, and I want to dismantle systems of oppression one client session at a time.

I often work with students navigating big changes—adjusting to college life, managing stress, or figuring out who they are and where they fit in. Maybe you’re balancing school with work or family expectations, or feeling pressure to succeed while silently struggling. I offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you can slow down, talk things through, and learn to care for yourself while meeting life’s demands. Together, we can work on easing anxiety, building confidence, and finding balance that feels sustainable.

I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression/anxiety, and trauma. My approach combines empathy with evidence-based techniques like Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and CBT. Together, we can explore your unique challenges, develop coping strategies, and work towards self-healing.

Is worry or anxiety starting to overwhelm you? Are you having difficulty balancing your social life with school and other tasks? College can be a challenging change for many people. I can help you learn better ways to cope and find patterns that make your life a little easier. I provide online video therapy in addition to in person sessions for easy access to fit into your busy schedule. I also specialize in trauma, relationship concerns and substance use. Let's connect to see if I would be a good fit for your needs.