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.

Before I became a counselor, I was a university professor, so I have a very clear sense of the pressures that students face and the support that they need during this critical period of their lives. Young people want to build lives worth living, but things can get in the way: intense emotions, reliance on substances (or sex or spending or gaming) to cope, confusing relationships, paralyzing uncertainty or self-judgment. Counseling can help. I want to listen, and I want to do what works. I am trained in evidence-based modalities, particularly Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I am always learning, so that, if what we’re doing isn’t working, I’m ready to pivot. For young men in particular, counseling might seem like it's "not for people like you," but I will meet you where you are. My goal is not to keep you in therapy forever, but to assist you in becoming freer, more independent, and more hopeful about your life. If that sounds good to you, reach out. As I work toward full licensure, I practice under the supervision of Nia Baker, LPC, CPCS, SEP.

I address anxiety stemming from social, school, and family dynamics, providing the necessary support to navigate these changes. I assist in the transition from college to career, including complexities in dating, family, and work, offering a safe space to explore self-identity and achieve life goals. We will collaborate using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy. What does this mean? It means we will identify the false scripts keeping you stuck and create a new storyline where you are the main character shaping your life. In my space, every uncomfortable feeling is accepted, and every question is worth asking. Whether you’ve never sought counseling before or have been in therapy for years, I believe my approach is unique. My goal is to empower you and watch you succeed. So, let's connect and collaboratively rewrite your narrative.

Do you struggle with heightened anxiety and feel overwhelmed by life? When life feels overwhelming and high pressure exists to manage personal issues, I work with clients in therapy to minimize the distress and overcome obstacles in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. Since it can be scary and painful to reveal vulnerability, I strive to build a trusting therapeutic relationship in which my clients feel comfortable to explore personal experiences. The therapy sessions are tailored to each client. Treatment can be on a short or long term basis depending on the client’s needs. I specialize in helping teenagers and adults who experience persistent self-criticism, depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic stress, OCD, and complex interpersonal relationship issues.

Hi, I'm happy to see you're looking into therapy and here's a little bit about me! I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and professional concerns, disordered eating, and self-esteem challenges. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solutions-focused therapy to help with your presenting concerns. Integrating my years of professional experience with insights from my own personal life allows me to strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to explore what brought you here and find ways to move forward. My therapy approach is warm and collaborative so you feel supported and self-empowered in our work together. As partners we will utilize solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and emotionally focused therapy techniques to help you work through the difficulties you're experiencing. Do you think you might be ready to work together? If the answer is yes, or even maybe, I would be happy to schedule a free consultation to see if we're a good fit for each other. I'm looking forward to getting to know you! I am a licensed associate professional counselor under the supervision of Nicole Altieri-Synan who can be reached at (470) 619-6677.

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 work with people struggling with binge eating, emotional eating, body image, weight, other eating related concerns. I have a specific specialization in eating and eating disorders with a binge or over eating component. I also work with many students with anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia. I am a warm, empathetic, and flexible psychologist. I use research supported approaches while personalizing therapy to best fit the unique needs of my clients. I also focus on building a strong and trusting relationship with everyone I work with. I have experience working with clients at Northwestern Universities counseling center and Florida Atlantic University counseling center. I frequently work with college and graduate students. I know it might feel hard to pick a therapist. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and can trust is important. You are welcome to reach out with any questions that you have or visit my website to learn more.

We all deserve the space to be seen and heard. I'm a genuine therapist who will meet you where you are and work with you on your unique path to self-discovery. I'm a therapist who is already your advocate because I deeply believe you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect no matter who you are. In the counseling room, you'll find me to be genuine, creative, and laid back. Cup of coffee in hand, I'm here to journey alongside you! Online sessions also available.

Grounded Wellbeing is a gender-affirming and queer-friendly psychotherapy and holistic wellness practice with offices in Downtown Decatur and Kennesaw. As a collective, we believe in the power of healing within the community and work towards providing a brave and affirming space for our clients to explore current challenges. Our therapists offer a range of services, including traditional psychotherapy, gender-affirming support, transformation coaching, EMDR, religious trauma recovery, clinical hypnotherapy, sound healing, yoga therapy, reiki, meditation, and more. Our goal is to provide a safe space for individuals to feel supported and empowered to express their authentic selves.

I find myself often working with high-achieving folks who have been thrown one too many curve balls in life. Whether it's a life transition, a break up, overwhelm with work, stress with family members, or a death, these folks find themselves at the end of their rope and needing to find a pressure-release valve.

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.

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.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

My name is Katie Herzer, LCSW and I offer therapy services out of East Atlanta Counseling located in Decatur. I work with clients who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life changes, relationship difficulties and who are trying to navigate the new world of adulthood. I work with clients to help them better understand and manage their emotions. Everyone is going through something. I will provide a safe space to talk about what you are currently going through and equip you with tools to help you navigate life's inevitable stressors.