Therapists for college students near Cambridge, MA

The transition to college or graduate school can be a time of tremendous change. Adapting to new environments, relationships and levels of independence can feel overwhelming in even the best of circumstances. For those who are navigating mental health challenges, complicated family or friend dynamics, shifts in identity, grief, or loss, that transition can generate feelings of anxiety, panic or paralysis that may affect daily functioning. I was a client long before I became a therapist, so I know how daunting it can be to open yourself up to a stranger – to let them see those private parts of yourself that might have been a source of judgment, fear, pain or shame. It took me many years to ask for help, in part because I viewed it as a sign of weakness. Now, through the lens of both my professional and lived experiences, I see this first step you are taking for what it is – one of the ultimate signs of strength. I honor the courage it took to access that strength. I can’t guarantee that the work ahead will be easy – but you won’t have to do it alone. My goal as a therapist is to meet you where you are and walk with you as you move toward where you want to be. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is authentic, safe and non-judgmental. My approach to our work together is relationship-based and trauma-informed. I believe that therapy is most effective when the connection between client and therapist is grounded in trust and compassion. I invite you to reach out so that we can explore, together, whether I might be the right person to join you on your journey toward new insights, self-awareness and growth. Please note that discounts are available to full-time students on a case-by-case basis.

Whether you are at a crossroads in your life, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sensing your life is not what it could be, help is available. As helpers, we are committed to meeting you exactly where you are by using our collection of professional tools to assist you to reach your highest potential through connection to your “true” self, the part of you who is waiting to be rediscovered and made manifest. Our orientation as therapists combines our understanding of human development, psychology, and behavioral change with wisdom and practice that is woven through most spiritual traditions. You need not consider yourself a spiritual person, nor do we insist on a particular belief system. This is only to say that our orientation integrates this awareness as an element of healing. Our ultimate goal is to empower you to free yourself from the patterns that keep you from fully thriving and to help you create the life you want to be living. It is an act of courage, not weakness, to allow others to help you.

Jessica C. Lief, MSW, LCSW, MLS Speciality: Eating Disorders, Body Image, Borderline Personality Disorder, Self-Harm, Substance Use LCSW and Psychotherapist Jessica C. Lief, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm, and substance use. Jessica completed psychoanalytic training through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions, and Addictions (EDCAS) Program. She also completed the advanced clinical supervision training program through Smith College School for Social Work. Her approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, feminist/womanist theories, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety, mindful self-compassion, and mindfulness. She is particularly interested in the treatment of eating disorders as a social justice issue, as they relate to people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. She is also adept at treating individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Her grief and loss work is broad but focuses on motherless daughters, maternal grief and wounding, and emotional abandonment. Jessica also works with individuals who have experienced miscarriage, fertility-related issues, post-partum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, as well as post-partum PTSD. She also works with individuals undergoing IVF and who have struggled with women’s health issues, such as Endometriosis and PCOS, as well as individuals who are pregnant and struggling with an eating disorder. Jessica’s favorite part of being a therapist is guiding each client in their transformation and witnessing each step as it is achieved. Jessica will work with the client to identify what is deeply meaningful and important in that person’s life. The client will develop concrete skills to get their needs met directly. Jessica will help the client to develop powerful, inner resources, including self-compassion, emotion regulation techniques, radical self-acceptance, and confidence. Jessica earned her undergraduate degree from Sarah Lawrence College with a concentration in literature, nonfiction writing, and French. She earned a master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice in Social Work from New York University. She also earned a Master of Studies in Law with a concentration in Health Law with high honors from UC Law San Francisco. Currently, she is enrolled in a doctorate in social work program through Simmons University. LCSW# 87286 “Jessica’s style has been described as nurturing, empathetic, and empowering. She is direct, authentic and will never blame you for your suffering. She enjoys using humor in psychotherapy.”

There is no problem too big or too small that can’t be improved with another perspective. There is no goal that can’t be reached with hard work, support and humor. In my 10 years as a Social Worker, I have worked with my clients during difficult times, various transitions and everyday life stressors. I also have experience working with individuals and families impacted by intellectual disabilities. I love hearing stories: about your day, your family, the good, the bad and everything in between. Through hearing the patterns and outlining your goals, we pick a framework together that will help you achieve whatever you put your mind to. I use evidence based practices as a guide and together we figure out the best fit for you. We’ll start with whatever story brought you in to seek help, in as little or as much detail as you feel comfortable sharing. Then we will discuss what your goals of therapy are and what clinical tools sound like they have the best chance of getting you there. We create a vision together, draw a road map, and get to work.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Paul Coleman is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Coleman Mental Health Associates specializing in patient mental health. What is essential for people to realize is “no two people are the same”. Thus, each patient will receive an individualized, collaborative care plan in this outpatient office. Treatment includes several mental health conditions that have depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQI issues, and medication management, to name a few. My primary focus and goals are to provide a safe place for patients to realize their strengths. This includes working together with listening to your concerns and developing customizable, collaborative treatment plans that helps you feel empowered in making decisions regarding your care. This biopsychosocial paradigm takes a holistic approach to identifying and assess overall health. This includes exercise, sleep hygiene, and psychotherapy to name a few. While medication management is part of this practice, not everyone needs medications, therefore prescribing when necessary. The goal is to get to the root cause of your struggles and help you move forward.

It has always been my take on life that we must find joy and satisfaction in what we do and who we are. I have been working as a mental health professional since 2006 and I find joy in the work that I do each and every day. I prioritize creating a healthy balance between the work that I love, my self-care, and time with my family. I value the opportunity I have to help people find their way and find balance in their lives, whether this is through closure with the past or building new skills to cope with current life challenges. I knew when I was a teenager that this is the work that I wanted to do. I have always felt drawn towards helping people. I received my undergraduate degree from Flagler College in Florida and earned my Graduate degree from Assumption College here in MA. Right out of school, I worked for South Bay Mental Health doing in-home therapy. Once I became licensed I moved into an office setting and I worked at Arbour Counseling for about 8 years. After which I started graduating into private practice. A few colleagues and I came together to create Grove Counseling Services in Worcester, MA. Until COVID-19 presented, we were thriving. I now work out of Millbury, MA and continue to do what I love.

With over 25 years of experience as a community-based social worker—and the last 7 years in private practice—I’ve developed a deep capacity for listening, supporting, and, most importantly, healing. My approach is designed to help people navigate anxiety that often arises from life’s unexpected challenges, whether big or small. I’m certified in EMDR and incorporate a range of complementary therapeutic methods tailored to each individual. If you find yourself struggling with issues that others—or even you—might dismiss as minor, it may be time to strengthen your skills and move beyond survival into a life where you can truly thrive.

We offer free initial consultations via phone, video, or in person to make sure we are a good fit before we get started with treatment. We are excited to get to know you and to be with you on your journey to a better you. Please visit our website or call us and we can talk about how we can support you.

I work collaboratively with students who face a variety of challenges, including life transitions, relationship issues, and navigating queer identities. College and graduate school typically occur at pivotal developmental points for people in terms of figuring out who they are, what they want, and separating/individuating from parental figures. Together, we will work to understand your inner life, what works and what doesn't in terms of your thinking, behavior and ways of relating to others. Often, patterns develop that help us stay safe and secure when we're young, but would benefit from re-examination and modification to live a more fulfilling adult life. I have a sub-specialty working with people with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a highly distressing fixation on a perceived appearance defect that can impact daily functioning and quality of life. I help you understand where the appearance fixation originated, including negative self appraisals and rituals/compulsions that accompany BDD. Learning to face feared and avoided situations is a gradual process that takes place over time, freeing you from the hold of BDD and leading to improved functioning and a more satisfying life.

Discovery Strength. Find Healing. Obsessing about food and your body is overwhelming. It’s time to break FREE and find balance in your life. At Strength & Healing, we are here to support you on your journey to feeling like you are enough – just as you are. Because it’s time to kick those constant thoughts and obsessions about food, weight, and negative self-image to the curb. It may not feel like freedom is possible right now and we aren’t saying it won’t take work, but we are saying that YOU are worth it!

Are the demands of college life taking a toll on you, both physically and emotionally? Are you struggling with the pressures of academia, perfectionism, career choices, social life, and relationships? You're not alone, and I'm here to help. You may be experiencing physical symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression. These can show up as restlessness, a racing heart, muscle tension, or trouble sleeping. They're not just in your mind; they can affect your body too. These challenges are impacting your daily life. Your academic performance might be suffering due to lack of focus, procrastination, and low motivation. Your relationships with friends, family, and peers may be strained as you withdraw from social activities. The pressure to make career decisions can leave you feeling helpless and confused. I understand the unique struggles college students like you face. Together, we'll address both the emotional and physical aspects of these challenges. Let's build resilience, regain control over your academic journey, and rediscover your enthusiasm for the future. Your well-being is important, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Take that first step, reach out, and let's transform your college experience into one that empowers and inspires you, both mentally and physically.

My name is Haeden Peaslee (pronouns: they/them) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. I am a white, non-binary, neurodivergent individual working and living in the unceded territory of the Pennacook communities with the Pawtucket Village and Wamesit Village. I provide a combination of talk, play, and art therapy to clients. I utilize a client centered and strengths based approach with a focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and encouraging self compassion. I am always in the journey of decolonizing my therapy practice and finding ways to re-imagine my field and encourage colleagues to do so as well. During sessions I integrate beliefs in trauma informed care, anti-oppression work, neurodiversity, disability justice, health at every size (HAES), and gender affirming care among other areas of liberation work. My specialty is in supporting trans and nonbinary youth, young adults, and their families in both identity related areas as well as other mental health concerns. I also have extensive experience working with youth and young adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and autism.

I'm passionate about working with college students who are finding life to be overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you're heartbroken over loss, burdened with guilt, feeling you'll never be good enough, are scared, or at wits' end. Or maybe something happened to you, and it sticks with you giving you no rest. When we feel this way, we tend to isolate, berate ourselves, and spiral in our thinking or distract ourselves from these debilitating feelings. You're not alone. These feelings and responses are common, and there are evidence-based treatments to help you make sense of your concerns, take good care of yourself, and take your next steps. My main approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) while also building a warm, therapeutic relationship. I'm also trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma. That said, therapy is collaborative. You are the expert on yourself, and I will work with you to find the approach that best suits you. My goal is to help you not only feel better but to grow in ways that make a healthier life both possible and sustainable. Many people feel hesitant about starting therapy. Growth can be a challenging road—I hope to meet you on that road, and help with your journey.

I believe that relationships determine a lot about how we interact with the world - in both helpful and less helpful ways. Our behaviors, attitudes, thoughts, feelings, and relationship styles are reinforced over time by our experiences, families, partners, environments, and culture. Psychotherapy can help when stress, trauma, life transitions, or difficult relationships call for new ways of coping and navigating our lives. My approach integrates evidence-based practices shown to be effective including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and an Interpersonal Process approach, to provide highly individualized psychotherapy services to my clients. Together, we will work to define your treatment goals and to create new patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating to others and the world around you. This collaborative process will help you feel more connected to your values and to engage more fully in your life.

I help clients navigate life in a way that is personally meaningful, while effectively managing the pain and difficulty that inevitably shows up along the way. I will help you get to know your mind's habits and tell the difference between helpful and unhelpful ones. We will figure out your personal priorities and use these as our roadmap. We'll work on becoming more flexible, brave, wise, purposeful and self-accepting - all in the service of what matters most to you.

Do you ever find yourself thinking “How did I get here, and how do I escape this doom loop?" If you see a pattern of feeling overwhelmed, unseen, or misunderstood, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve forgotten what it feels like to not be exhausted or in survival mode? Healing and peace are within reach, and I can help you find them. Patients say I’ve empowered them to see themselves in a new light, uncovering their strengths and potential. I focus on practical, personalized strategies for meaningful change while doing the "root work" to address underlying issues. Whether it's coping mechanisms or trauma roots, we’ll tackle it together. I specialize in helping people find clarity, control, and lasting peace in life. Sessions with me provide a safe and supportive place to explore, validate, and heal. Whether it's ADHD, trauma, family or relationship issues that brought you here or even all of the above and more, I can guide, support, and show up for you on your journey to the life you deserve. I know managing everything alone can feel overwhelming and that change and healing often seem impossible. But I also know they are within your reach. "Hope" might feel like a scary investment, but it’s one that promises lifetime returns when you commit to the journey. Take the first step and reach out; together, we’ll do the rest.

Looking for help with medicines and/or therapy? We've got you! Our group of psychiatrists is dedicated to helping you while you're away at school. We see folks in CA, IL, MA, NY, and TX. There are appointments available right away - no 6 month wait. Send us a message and we'll figure out how to help.

About YOU: Are you a woman or a female identifying individual? A new adult (18+) or older? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, confidence, self worth, trauma, PTSD, relationship/interpersonal conflicts, or attachment issues? My ideal client is highly motivated, so if any of this sounds like I am talking directly to you, don't wait, bring me your concerns, your pain, your story and let's process who you are and work towards who you want to be! We can be anything. We can be healed. We can be peaceful. We can be strong. A wise therapist once told me- we can't always and shouldn't always do this work alone. You are not alone. About YOU: Are you a woman or a female identifying individual? A new adult (18+) or older? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, confidence, self worth, trauma, PTSD, relationship/interpersonal conflicts, or attachment issues? My ideal client is highly motivated, so if any of this sounds like I am talking directly to you, don't wait, bring me your concerns, your pain, your story and let's process who you are and work towards who you want to be! We can be anything. We can be healed. We can be peaceful. We can be strong. A wise therapist once told me- we can't always and shouldn't always do this work alone. You are not alone. About Be. Behavioral Health Care: Woman owned aiming for woman identifying empowerment. I aim to provide exceptional and empathetic mental health services to help improve mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self esteem, attachment issues and trauma. Telehealth only services for the foreseeable future. Please feel free to reach out about scheduling and availability, I can't wait to hear from you! You may call or text me at 413-264-2620 and I will respond Mon-Thur from 9am to 5pm.

I am passionate about working with college students 18 and older that are struggling with painful life experiences that affect their mental and physical health. I provide a safe, accepting environment, using evidence-based modalities for change, and support my clients in the process of healing and becoming the best versions of themselves. My clients are resilient- however, having to be "strong" and in survival mode all the time is exhausting, and it's okay to let your guard down with me. I aim to support my clients in not only surviving, but thriving. My clients achieve a healthier relationship with themselves, others, and the world around them.