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.

Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist who believes in building relationships with my clients while using evidence-based practices to help each client achieve the changes that he or she is seeking to make. I am passionate about the "whole" person, taking a comprehensive, collaborative approach with services. I approach treatment and assessment from a strengths-based perspective and integrate a variety of psychological orientations. I focus on resiliency and helping my clients to recognize their unique strengths in order to learn and grow from their experiences and difficulties.

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.

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 are a group practice made up of experienced and caring professionals committed to providing clinical excellence in psychotherapy, integrative services, and recovery resources for individuals, couples and families. Formed in 2009 as a joint venture by Dr. Amy Smith Barnes and Meg McLeroy, LMFT, Midtown Psychotherapy Associates (MPA) was created to provide outstanding out-patient services and clinical care. As an integrative practice, we offer psychotherapy services, groups, adjunct wellness services, and resources for recovery. We seek to address the health and well being of mind, body, and spirit for clients of all ages. We offer a variety and balance of specialties and interests within our community. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, we also support nutrition education, yoga, health coaching, play therapy and other experiential modalities. Our clinicians are committed to the art and science of psychotherapy; bringing an enthusiasm and passion for clinical excellence combined with a commitment to evidence based practices and interventions. As a practice, we value fostering a strong sense of cooperation, collaboration, and community with each other. We also work to cultivate relationships within the larger community of other mental health professionals, doctors, and agencies in order to maintain a network of trusted resources for the benefit of our clients. For scheduling, please contact the therapist of your choice directly. Fees range from $125 - $225 / hour with sliding scale options available. For general questions or if you need to be matched with a therapist, please visit our website and fill out the Contact Form or leave a voicemail message on the main line and your request will be answered within 24 business hours.

The process of starting or reentering counseling can be overwhelming but a brave step towards improving your wellness. I honor that step by committing myself to meet you where you are, sit with you in whatever emotion arises, and offer you a safe and relaxed environment to discuss your concerns. As your therapist, I will work with you to collaboratively create a road map to greater health using our alliance and therapeutic tools along the way. We will work together to identify your goals, beliefs, and assets; process life stress; and empower your life for greater wellness, however you define this. I offer Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Exposure (ERP), Strength-Based and Person-Centered services for adults and young adults, addressing symptoms of anxiety, OCD, stress, life transitions, relationships, and ADHD. Through my Masters and Doctoral work as well as my background teaching and supervising Master's level clinicians, I have created a therapeutic approach that is not only centered around YOU, the client, but incorporates practices that are backed by scientific evidence. It is my greatest desire to use what I know to see you grow and live the life you want.

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.

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.

Chad Husted has been a Licensed Counselor in Georgia since 2006. He has served professionals, adolescents and families throughout his career. Chad incorporates several different treatment modalities in his practice but primarily operates from an ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) approach. He believes that a person centered, intrinsically focused approach best serves individuals seeking help with change. Chad employs techniques that are action oriented and aligned with client identified values.

Jaime Stepansky (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist. Jaime is grounded in LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices and specializes in treating individuals who experience challenges related to their identity, as well as individuals who experience difficulties with emotional regulation, impulse-control, complex trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. Jaime Stepansky (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist. Jaime is grounded in LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices and specializes in treating individuals who experience challenges related to their identity, as well as individuals who experience difficulties with emotional regulation, impulse-control, complex trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. Jaime is an integrative and collaborative therapist, incorporating different approaches based upon the needs of individual clients. Jaime’s work is grounded in a strength-based, relational, and playful approach. Her treatment modalities include play therapy, sand tray therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT and CBT techniques.

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 help folks with Eating Disorders and other people who want to find a positive and peaceful relationship with food, who are ready for an alternative to prescriptive diets and fads, and looking for a more sustainable solution to their eating woes: whether that physical symptoms, dysfunctional eating, negative body image, or food preoccupation. I use utilize the principles of Intuitive Eating and operate from a weight-neutral lens, meaning focus on behaviors and measurable health outcomes (both physical and psychological) vs. a weight-centric approach and over-reliance on BMI (a wildly inappropriate tool for individual assessment). Evidence-based nutrition counseling services from a license professional are offered via Telehealth or in person at my Decatur office, to folks living in Georgia who want a whole-person and collaborative approach to wellness.

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 work with students to help them cope with stress, feel better and pursue their goals. Visit my website for more detailed information.