Therapists for college students near Georgia State University

Hi, I’m Nikoleta! I’m an international doctoral student from Greece, and for the past seven years I’ve called the U.S. home—living in both the Northeast and the South. Before pursuing psychology, I was a Division I athlete, an experience that gave me first-hand insight into body image struggles and the stigma surrounding mental health across different systems and communities. I’m passionate about uplifting and centering voices that have historically been excluded, both within my own communities and beyond. My path into psychology began with recognizing how stigma shaped the lives of those I care about, and how systemic barriers have marginalized people for far too long. When we work together, you can expect a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we’ll explore your authentic self, replace fear and shame with self-acceptance, set healthy boundaries, and nurture deeper connections. Together, we’ll honor your intersecting identities, heal wounds of oppression, and strengthen your confidence so you can live with clarity, purpose, and self-worth. At my core, I’m guided by curiosity, compassion, and a genuine love for people. I strive to create spaces that feel safe, welcoming, and warm. I believe in the importance of balance—embracing the many roles and identities we carry—and in celebrating the richness of our multifaceted selves. My hope is that everyone I work with feels safe, seen, valued, and deeply connected.

My experiences as a queer, transgender man from the South inform how I move through the world and how I work with clients. I understand the challenges and inherent stress of navigating institutional, educational, and family systems that fail to make space for all identities and backgrounds. My approach is grounded in anti-oppressive and culturally affirming principles and I enjoy working with individuals of all backgrounds. I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where clients can experience and examine themselves and experiment with new skills and perspectives. I collaborate with clients to co-create realistic goals and sustainable solutions that honor and encompass their unique identities, challenges, and strengths. I have experience working with a variety of backgrounds and concerns and I have particular expertise working with gender identity and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), trauma, individuals living in larger bodies, individuals in helping professions, life transitions, and young adults. My commitment to social justice and advocacy extends to my work as a researcher and counselor educator-in-training. My primary areas of research are improving counselor training concerning LGBTQIA+ and larger-bodied individuals, demystifying research for students from marginalized backgrounds, and combating cisnormativity in counseling research.

Many of the people I work with live in the “in-between” — between cultures, identities, roles, and expectations. Maybe you’re constantly navigating competing demands from family, community, and self. Maybe you feel caught between pride in your roots and the ache of not quite fitting in. That kind of in-betweenness can carry invisible grief, deep resilience, and stories that are layered and complex. Therapy with me is a place where all of that gets to exist. Where silence—once a survival strategy—no longer has to be your default. Where you don’t have to explain why you’re tired or tone yourself down to be understood. You get to show up as you are—messy, in progress, tender, whole. I offer a supportive, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences with curiosity and compassion. My work is rooted in a trauma-informed, multicultural frame-work, because I know that our relationships—with family, partners, culture, and self—shape so much of how we move through the world. I’m especially passionate about supporting BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ folks, and anyone navigating the complexities of intersectional identities. Whether you’re wrestling with anxiety, navigating life transitions, working through relationship dynamics, or exploring identity, I’m here to help you reconnect—with yourself, your story, and your values. Together, we’ll look at the patterns that have helped you survive, even if they’re no longer serving you. We’ll unpack the unspoken “rules” you’ve been carrying, and gently build new ways of living that feel more aligned, grounded, and free. With individuals, our work might focus on: • Honoring your cultural and personal history while creating space for your own voice • Tending to the inner critic or survival modes that no longer reflect who you want to be • Cultivating emotional flexibility and self-compassion With couples and polycules, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help partners move beyond the surface-level conflicts and into the deeper emotions underneath. Often, what looks like disconnection is really a longing—to be seen, to be safe, to feel understood. We’ll slow things down, make space for those vulnerable moments, and help you learn how to reach for one another in ways that build trust, not distance. This work can be especially powerful for couples navigating cultural differences, unspoken family dynamics, or intergenerational expectations. Whether you're seeking therapy as an individual or as part of a couple or polycule, our work will move at your pace and be centered around your needs. You don’t have to hold it all together here. We’ll make room for your full self—your questions, your emotions, your healing. One step at time.

Have you ever felt that forming and maintaining relationships, engaging in consistent self-care, or navigating everyday "adulting" feels more challenging for you than those around you? Do you struggle to “be yourself” or even understand what that truly looks like? Are you caught in the feeling of being either “too much” or “not enough?” Whether you’re in the early stages of exploring a potential neurodivergent identity, or processing a recent self or formal diagnosis, I’m here to support you. I’m passionate about working with clients on this journey, helping them navigate the complex emotions that often arise—excitement, curiosity, and validation in discovering more about who you are, alongside grief and anger for the time spent feeling othered or broken. This is a deeply personal journey, and together, we can create a path that honors your unique experiences and needs. In our work together, we will focus on helping you: • Find confidence in navigating healthy relationships • Learn how to self-advocate • Identify neurodivergent-affirming people and spaces • Break free from the cycle of high achievement and burnout • Become attuned to the needs of your nervous system and develop skills to better regulate its responses I work with individuals who are often left on the margins of traditional therapy models—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent individuals who may have been made to feel that their identities or experiences don’t fit the mold. In our sessions, you’ll never be asked to minimize or hide any part of yourself. I believe in creating a space where all parts of you are welcome—your personality, culture, and lived experiences are integral to the work we do. My approach is both challenging and supportive, direct yet affirming. I’m committed to creating a therapy space that values your autonomy and centers your lived experiences, particularly if you hold marginalized identities. As a therapist, I weave lessons of self-advocacy and resilience into our work, always mindful of the broader oppressive systems we navigate. I encourage clients to provide feedback on our therapy relationship so that together, we can create a dynamic that serves you best without reinforcing harmful systems of power or control. I also believe that self-disclosure and authentic expression are crucial in our work together. Therapy is not just about following outdated rules of professionalism but about showing up fully as ourselves, both therapist and client. This authenticity allows us to build a stronger, more human connection, which is at the heart of meaningful healing and growth.

Navigating today’s world can be challenging enough—finding culturally competent therapeutic support shouldn’t add to that burden. I am committed to providing a safe, empathetic, and compassionate space where we can collaboratively explore and address your concerns. Using a relational, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach, I strive to truly understand your unique journey and support your path toward health, wellness, and growth. As a therapist, I bring a social justice lens to my work, recognizing the impact that systems of oppression and marginalization can have on mental health. I am dedicated to offering culturally competent care that honors your identity and lived experiences. Together, we will explore how these dynamics influence your personal challenges, while also empowering you to navigate and resist these barriers with resilience and strength. I recognize that trust is at the core of an effective therapeutic relationship, and I am dedicated to earning your trust through genuine care, understanding, and respect for your lived experiences. Together, we will work to create a supportive environment where you can reflect on how these experiences have shaped your life. By building a foundation of psychoeducation, emotional tools, acceptance, and self-compassion, we can empower you to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Taking the step to seek therapy is an act of courage, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable—it takes immense courage to seek support, especially from someone you don’t yet know. My goal is to demystify and destigmatize the therapy process so we can walk together toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. In our work, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing and identify what might be keeping you stuck. You’ll be met with warmth, curiosity, and compassion as we co-create a space that honors your full, intersectional self and empowers you to live more authentically. ​ I work with individuals across the lifespan, and I especially enjoy supporting children, teens, and families. For young children, I use play therapy as a developmentally appropriate approach that allows them to express feelings, process difficult experiences, and build coping skills through play. With teens and families, I offer a space to navigate identity development, life transitions, and family dynamics with empathy and cultural responsiveness. I also collaborate with parents and caregivers to strengthen relationships and promote emotional connection. In addition to individual and family therapy, I work with couples navigating communication difficulties, disconnection, and relationship challenges. I provide a supportive and affirming environment for partners of all backgrounds and relationship configurations to explore their needs, repair trust, and strengthen their bond. My practice is rooted in a culturally responsive, anti-oppressive framework that affirms the lived experiences of BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and others with marginalized identities. I’m particularly passionate about supporting clients who are navigating intergenerational trauma, racial trauma, and systemic oppression. I also deeply value working with men and masculine-identified individuals, especially those who have internalized messages that discourage vulnerability and emotional expression. Creating space for these clients to heal and grow has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work. ​Together, we’ll create a space where your experiences are seen and your story is honored—where you feel empowered to grow into the fullest, most liberated version of yourself.

I work primarily with young men in college and graduate school who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. You may be struggling with substances, pornography or sexual behaviors, gambling, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, or problems with motivation and direction. As a former university professor, I understand the pressures of academic life a. I offer compassionate, direct, evidence-based therapy to help you understand what's happening, build practical skills, and move forward.

I work best with people who are carrying a lot at once, whether that’s anxiety, relationships that keep hurting them, substance use that feels out of control, or old experiences they’re finally ready to look at. They usually appear fine on the outside but feel worn down on the inside. What they share is knowing something needs to change and being ready to do the hard work to shift old patterns. If that sounds like you, I’d love for you to reach out!

Do you often feel anxious or overwhelmed, more than you'd like? Is it impacting your relationships or your ability to function? Maybe you feel frazzled or out of control, or you're navigating a significant loss or life transition that feels especially challenging. Therapy can bring clarity and support meaningful change. I support clients experiencing overwhelm & anxiety, difficult life transitions and grief by customizing care and equipping each client with easily accessible tools. I take an integrative approach by utilizing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and also drawing from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). My services are specialized to meet the unique needs of women because women’s physical & mental wellness is unique! Creating a safe, inclusive environment, cultivating a genuine relationship and laughter are all important to me. I deeply appreciate being able to learn as much or more from my clients as I have from my training and experience.

We work best with patients who are looking for personalized, attentive psychiatric care. Our providers combine careful medication management with brief psychotherapy, taking time at every visit to connect with you as a whole person. We don't believe in overmedicating. We believe in listening, asking the right questions, and finding the simplest, most effective path to you feeling well.

I believe myplace is to journey alongside you as a companion, offering guidance and perspective to empower you towards healthy choices and lifestyles. I believe everyone has their own strengths, values, and virtues that can be used to help guide the therapeutic process. I often see clients who feel stuck or overwhelmed by their emotions. I also frequently work with matters of meaning making, queerness, and spirituality. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or for a free consultation.

We queer folks navigate the world differently from cis-het individuals, which comes with both unique challenges and profound beauty. While I work with people of all identities, including heterosexual and cisgender clients, my specialty lies in supporting queer, trans, and gender-diverse individuals (LGBTQIA+ folks). I'm dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and empowering space, where you can gain insight, get in touch with your emotions, and connect with your authentic self, free from fear or judgment. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and insight-oriented. We’ll work together to deepen your connection with yourself and others. You'll gain deeper insight into the patterns shaping your life, exploring how they developed and if you'd like to shift them to better serve you. I'll meet you where you're at, as we explore what it means for you to live more fully and on your own terms. I also understand that life can be challenging, and society often encourages us to suppress painful emotions. When we bury these feelings, they can manifest in ways that cause more harm— whether by straining relationships, fueling irritability, or even leading to physical issues. In our work together, I’ll support you in bringing these emotions to the surface, giving them the space they need to be explored and processed for healing. Through it all, I’ll be by your side, offering warmth, understanding, and steady support as we navigate the path toward healing and growth together. I’m part of the clinical team at the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy, where we’re committed to offering anti-oppressive, inclusive, and culturally-affirming care. Shoot me an email or text, and let's jump on a free phone consultation to see if we're a good fit! I'm looking forward to connecting with you. I am currently working under the direction of Dr. Sophia Aguirre and under the supervision of Carrie Gensler LPC, CPCS in pursuit of licensure as Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. I like to see this as you having multiple therapists, collaborating, to help you best meet your goals!

I tend to work best with students who feel a lot on the inside, even if they don’t always show it on the outside. Many of the students I support describe themselves as deep feelers, caregivers, or high-achievers. They might look like they “have it together” but often carry stress, worry, or self-doubt that no one else sees. Some of my clients are navigating big life transitions such as, living away from home for the first time, managing demanding academic expectations, or figuring out who they are and what they want in relationships, career, or spirituality. Others come in because they feel weighed down by past experiences of trauma, anxiety, or addiction and want a safe space to work through it. What my clients share is a desire for relief, clarity, and a more grounded sense of self. They want a space where they don’t have to perform, fix, or achieve—just a place to be real and supported. In sessions with me, you’ll find a calm, supportive space to slow down and be yourself, no pressure to have it all figured out. We’ll explore what’s weighing on you, whether it’s stress, anxiety, past experiences, or big life transitions. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, hopeful, and connected to yourself so you can move through school and life with more ease.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia who is passionate about being a psychotherapist and actually feels called to it. I believe that we all deserve to live a meaningful and fulfilled life, where we feel ACCEPTED, HEARD, SEEN, CARED FOR, and VALUED. I have a genuine interest and curiosity about people… about how we became the people that we are, who and what influenced are decisions, what we believe, and how they contribute to the ways we think, feel and behave. I am very zealous about helping people know and appreciate who they really are, and not just what people and experiences have conditioned them to believe they should be. My main areas of focus are on Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Self-Worth and Trauma where I infuse a mixture of CBT, EMDR, Inner Child, Parts Works and Reality therapy in our sessions to achieve your goals in therapy. However, the greatest help I provide is giving you different perspectives and insight that may have not been considered before, which in turn may change the way you feel and think about the situation. It is my hope that after understanding how your past has shaped how you view your current circumstances, and presses on your future, that you can heal from it and move forward. My Christian faith is also a big part of who I am and how I view the world. For those interested in incorporating Christian counseling in their sessions this can be an amazing way to grow your faith, and help to reestablish your belief in God and how He sees you. I understand that not everyone feels or believes the way I do, and that is perfectly fine. Being a Christian is not a requirement to meet with me, nor does it have to influence our sessions unless desired. I am a staunch believer in not treating people differently for any reason, and respecting one’s choice to believe whatever they want to believe.

Amelia Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC013793) and EMDR Certified Therapist specializing in working with adults on trauma recovery, anxiety, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Amelia is inspired by helping individuals recognize their worthiness through the healing of past wounds and the strengthening of their authentic voices. Amelia works with individuals who have reached the point in their counseling journey that they are ready to begin the brave work of addressing past hurts and traumas that are keeping them “stuck” in unhealthy patterns. Amelia also enjoys working with young adults as they navigate the challenges that come along with burgeoning independence, changing relationships, and major life transitions. Amelia offers EMDR Therapy in her work with clients seeking recovery from trauma. EMDR Therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a number of presenting concerns, including but not limited to trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/self-worth, grief/loss, sleep issues, chronic pain, and more. Amelia has worked in many settings, including a non-profit serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence, an emergency housing shelter, and a university counseling center. Her professional and personal background has led her to develop a strong desire to assist individuals in healing from the profound pain that traumatic experiences can leave behind. In helping survivors free themselves from old, ineffective patterns, Amelia seeks to support clients in cultivating resilience, connection, and meaning in their lives. Amelia obtained a B.S. in Sociology from Appalachian State University and an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. Born and raised in Atlanta, Amelia loves exploring the city, attending live music concerts, and cooking. She also enjoys going on outdoor adventures with her family, friends, and two rescue dogs.

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Life is all about relationships. Relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and our community. While relationships can often bring us great joy, they can also sometimes generate feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. Through our therapeutic partnership, I will help you build the skills to better manage these disruptive feelings and gain insight into your behaviors, ultimately allowing you to find balance and fulfillment. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds and take particular interest in women’s issues such as empowerment and identity. My environment is safe and inclusive, allowing you to feel comfortable exploring yourself. I believe each person comes to therapy with a unique set of experiences and expectations, therefore, I customize my therapeutic approach to meet your needs while also offering new perspectives. It would be a privilege to be a part of your journey, helping you and your relationships reach their greatest potential.

Are you curious about how therapy could benefit you but you're not sure where to start? I am here to help! I strive to provide therapy grounded in safety, respect, and collaboration. I specialize in working with those experiencing struggles with academic stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, PTSD, and perfectionism. I’m passionate about supporting those affected by life-altering medical diagnoses, like Parkinson’s Disease, survivors of traumatic experiences, and those experiencing major life transitions. I specialize in Trauma-Narrative Therapy, CBT, and Person-Centered therapeutic modalities. I have experience working with severe and persistent mental disorders, doing trauma work with survivors of genocide, and I really enjoy helping clients determine their values and how to build a life lead by those values. Starting a therapy journey takes a lot of vulnerability and courage, but you don't have to figure it out alone. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or for a consultation call! I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I completed my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Mercer University and completed my bachelor’s in psychology at Kennesaw State University with a minor in sociology. I am currently working towards my LPC and am under the supervision of Jessie Alexander, LPC, CPCS and direction of Meg McLeroy, LMFT. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, as I would be more than happy to offer a free 15-minute consultation!

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Lauren Shemain, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Georgia and New York. She graduated with a Master in Social Work from New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Lauren is the owner of New Perspectives Psychotherapy, LLC. She specializes in providing individual therapy to young adults, adults, and older adults. Lauren is skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, and relationship and familial conflicts. Lauren’s approach is eclectic and integrative and introduces techniques from multiple theoretical orientations including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Mindfulness Practices, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Strength-based Interventions. These interventions are tailored to meet the needs of the individual client. Lauren Shemain, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Georgia and New York. She graduated with a Master in Social Work from New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Lauren is the owner of New Perspectives Psychotherapy, LLC. She specializes in providing individual therapy to young adults, adults, and older adults. Lauren is skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, and relationship and familial conflicts. Lauren’s approach is eclectic and integrative and introduces techniques from multiple theoretical orientations including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Strength-based Interventions. These interventions are tailored to meet the needs of the individual client.