Therapists for college students near Howard University

Dr. Justin Leak is a 2016 graduate of the American School of Professional Psychology @ Argosy University (ASPP). He received his BA in Speech Communication and African & African American Studies from the Pennsylvania State University in 2002. Dr. Leak completed his MA at Lewis & Clark College in Counseling Psychology, with a specialization in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy (MCFT) in 2008. Dr. Leak completed his APA-accredited internship at The John L. Gildner Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (JLG-RICA), where he continues to work full-time as the Director of the Evaluation Unit and Case Manager for the Facility for Children. His Clinical Research Project was entitled: The Pressure of Maintaining Excellence: The Impact and Challenges of Combining an Electronic Peer-Mentoring Program with University Sponsored Counseling Services to Support Low Income College Students. In between his studies, Dr. Leak has worked with students and families in a variety of educational and therapeutic settings. These include working in the offices of Multicultural Affairs, Academic Advising, Career Advising, and most notably, Residence Life. For fun, he enjoys playing tennis, swimming, travel, and entering cooking competitions. Dr. Leak's therapeutic style pulls from several approaches, including psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Family systems. He offers treatment for a variety of stressors including (but not limited to) mood, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship problems, and transitional life issues. He also specializes in psychological assessment, specifically diagnosing issues that impact behavior, mood, attention, and learning. He is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), American Counseling Association (ACA), and the National Register of Health Psychologists.

Welcome to Garden of Hearts Therapy 🌿 College and young adulthood can be exciting, overwhelming, confusing… and sometimes all three before lunch. You’re figuring out who you are, what you want, how to manage relationships, expectations, stress, and a future that may not look exactly how you imagined. At Garden of Hearts Therapy, LLC, you’ll find a warm, supportive space to talk it through without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out. My approach blends compassion, real conversation, humor when we need it, and practical tools to help you better understand yourself, navigate challenges, and grow with confidence. You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes you just need a safe place to plant the first seed. 🌱 Rooted in Compassion. Growing in Strength. Planting Seeds of Hope.

Hello and welcome! My name is Arielle and I am a trauma-sensitive somatic psychotherapist and psychedelic consultant. I offer a warm, sincere, and supportive space for you to intentionally explore the roots of painful memories, emotions, sensations, and thoughts that you are ready to process and move beyond. I specialize in working with people seeking healing from complex trauma, childhood abuse and neglect, sexual and domestic violence, parental loss, and complex grief. I also support people who are intentionally preparing to sit with plant medicine for healing purposes or who have journeyed recently and are looking to integrate their experiences further. If you feel like your needs align with the spaces I hold, I invite you to reach out to me.

I am a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and somatic (body) based therapy. I enjoy working with young adults by supporting them find meaning and agency in their lives and understand the multitude of stressors we are collectively facing. I view the therapeutic process as collaborative and especially like to work with clients who are willing to engage I the process of growth and transformation.

As a therapist, I will always meet my clients where they are at the moment. My approach to therapy is holistic. I believe that therapy is client-led and my job is to walk with you side-by-side in your journey toward healing and growth. During sessions, I will lead with sensitivity, curiosity, and support. Our initial process will involve getting to know each other and developing a strong foundation of trust and safety. My ideal client is someone who is open to creating a partnership and ready to take on their counseling journey. This individual is ready to dive into some deep work and willing to be honest and is open to trusting a direct therapist to help them navigate life. This individual might not be aware of their issues at this time, but they are open to exploring them and creating goals to become a healthier version of themselves.

You built a life and career by being the reliable one. The strong and independent one. The high-performer. Now you wake up tired, restless, and questioning who you are beneath the grind. I work with BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and Adult Children of Immigrants navigating burnout, complex trauma, perfectionism, anxious stress, and identity conflict who feel lost in this stage of life and want to reconnect with themselves. Clients often say they are overwhelmed, stuck in overthinking, shutting down in relationships, or carrying stress in their body. Through trauma focused therapy, we explore the parts of you shaped by survival, family expectations, culture, and attachment. I integrate somatic work, IFS, CBT, and liberation based therapy to build awareness, emotional inner balance, and boundaries that reflect your values. As a 1st generation Haitian and Black therapist I know reaching out can feel loaded when you are used to handling everything alone. You do not have to justify needing support. I offer a 20 minute phone or video consultation to explore fit and help you take a steady first step toward change.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience supporting children, adults, and families navigating complex and often overwhelming life circumstances. My professional background includes work in child welfare, domestic violence services, and with families raising children or caring for loved ones with disabilities. These experiences have shaped my deep respect for resilience and my commitment to providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive care.

Are you working on being successful but something doesn't quite feel right? Are you stressed by trying to balance the demands of college and your entry into career, relationships and...life? So many of us are told to go after our dreams but no one tells us that past traumas, imposter syndrome and self-esteem, and stress can feel like the biggest hindrance no matter how high we excel. But you can overcome those obstacles, and I'm here to help. Let’s work together so instead of only working to looking good on paper, you can feel good as well. My approach is direct but rooted in compassion, empathy, and the mind-body-soul connection. By incorporating trauma-informed therapeutic and holistic practices, my role is to guide and support you on your journey of wellness and transformation to have a life aligned with your values and the type of success you seek. I do this from, not only my personal journey of healing, but also my experience working with people with childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, addiction, health issues, spiritual struggles, and stress to name a few. My goal is to get clear on what is happening, what's in your way, what it is that you want. Then I'll work with you to dive deep and use practices and skills that can support you along the way so that you can get to a greater place of healing and renewed sense of self and success.  I look forward to us working together.  Contact me for a free consultation. Please note, I do not accept insurance but can provide a monthly superbill for you to submit to your insurance.

I am so happy you are here! Starting therapy can be difficult, but you have already taken the first step! In my last 7+ years as a therapist, I have worked with teens and young adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression due to life transitions and/or trauma. In our first session, you will have the opportunity to share your story and we will work together to set realistic goals to meet your needs.

Specialties: Transgender Psychiatry, LGBTQ+ Psychiatry, Anxiety, Panic, and Agoraphobia, Post-Traumatic Stress and Related Disorders, and ADHD, Depression. From the comfort of your home or a place that feels relaxing to you, we will connect via video and make sure you have the help you need. We believe that there is immense value to telepsychiatry, which is why we offer that service in over 20 states (see full list at www.balancepsych.org). Telehealth allows LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care to reach more people. Anxiety, depression, and more – so many of these are treatable conditions. Telepsychiatry makes it possible to get support from anywhere. We can work together when you are traveling or on work breaks. We take PacificSource Student Health Insurance, a primary student health insurer in Oregon, for both therapy and medication management.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist and Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. For me, being a physician is more than a profession—it is a vocation to help indviduals flourish. My practice is devoted to students and young adults seeking thoughtful, individualized psychiatric care that extends beyond symptom relief. I provide comprehensive evaluations that consider medical, nutritional, lifestyle, and psychological factors—including laboratory testing when clinically appropriate—to identify the contributors to emotional and cognitive health. I also specialize in evidence-based de-prescribing for patients who wish to reduce or discontinue psychiatric medications for anxiety, attention difficulties, or substance use disorders. My approach is guided by precision, humility, and restraint: using the least intensive intervention necessary while drawing upon the full breadth of evidence-based medicine. Depending on each patient's needs and goals, I integrate psychotherapy, nutrition, lifestyle medicine, exercise, targeted supplementation, and, when appropriate, carefully selected medications into a personalized treatment plan. In addition to my clinical work, I have presented internationally on psychiatric deprescribing and medical ethics. My work has been recognized with awards from the American Psychiatric Association, the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions, the American Psychoanalytic Association, and other leading professional organizations. I am the Founder & Medical Director of Verigrate Health. I am licensed to serve patients in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Lousiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin.

Are you anxious or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself constantly worried about the state of the world, searching for a sense of calm in uncertain times? I support individuals who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we will create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can slow down, process your experiences, and reconnect with yourself. My goal is to help you feel grounded, empowered, & equipped with tools to move forward with clarity and confidence. Navigate stress, reduce anxiety and depression, strengthen relationships, and thrive through life changes.

College life can feel like a high-speed juggling act. Classes, relationships, deadlines, family expectations, and trying to take care of yourself all compete for your attention. It can be hard to slow down and make sense of everything you are carrying. I work with students who want to pause, understand what is creating stress or disconnection, and refocus on what truly matters. If you want a therapist who will be your biggest cheerleader and also someone who will call you in when you need it, you are in the right place. My approach is trauma informed and grounded in CBT. Together we work to understand patterns, build clarity, and create real and lasting change. Finding the right therapist matters, especially when you are balancing a full schedule. If you are considering therapy, I invite you to visit my website and schedule a free consultation. This is your chance to ask questions, explore your goals, and get a sense of whether we are a good match. I offer virtual counseling for students located in PA, VA, and DC.

Freedom from emotional hijack is found in noticing, naming, and knowing. This can be the gift of psychotherapy. Congratulations on looking for a therapist and trying to figure out what will be best for you! It can seem like it requires endurance, when all you’re trying to do is get your mental health needs met. The good news is there are lots and lots of great therapy practices! And a practice or a therapist that’s a great fit for one person, doesn’t mean that it is for you! All that matters is what works for you. Whether you feel nervous, doubtful, unsure, excited, and/or anything else, let’s chat, when/if you’re ready. Just because we talk, doesn’t mean you have to start therapy!

Hello! I am Dr. Nainan Thomas, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker – therapist/ Mental Health Consultant (MSW, LICSW)-with advanced degree (Ph.D.) in Developmental Psychology. I provide tele-mental health ( online or by phone) for the residents of the District of Columbia. My clients include school-age children (ages 6-18) with serious emotional disorder and their parents, youth. college students with serious emotional, academic, and/or adjustment problems, individuals with co-occurring mental health/ substance abuse problems and relationship problems as well as families with marital and parent-child relationship problems. I work with my clients in areas such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, panic disorder, school, college, academic- adjustment, relationship problems, grief and loss. My expertise also includes counselling children who are victims of abuse and neglect, including children and youth who carry child sexual abuse-related trauma and their families. Further, I counsel families where adoption occurs and where court-ordered child custody, visitation issues emerge in divorce situations. I can help my clients navigate through these and many other transitional and life’s emerging challenges. I believe that each individual has a unique story to tell and deserves a customized treatment approach. Upon reaching a therapeutic agreement with my clients, I and my clients would consider ourselves as partners in my clients’ therapeutic path. I will be a good listener, providing practical guidance, suggestions and support all the way. My approach is authentic. I develop trust through my interactions with my clients. My communications with my clients are free of judgement, creating a safe space for expressing their thoughts and feelings. My approach is positive, focused on uplifting my client’s mental wellness in the midst of challenging situations. My therapeutic sessions will be tailored to my client’s unique situations and needs. I value progress over perfection.. It is wonderful to meet you. You are welcome for a free 15 minutes consultation to determine our best fit for your situation: 240-426-4355

Kristina sees teens, adults, couples, and families navigating: -stress -anxiety -depression -trauma -life changes and transitions -sexuality and/or gender issues -relationship challenges -pressure of the performing arts/sports worlds -acculturating and/or racial identity concerns -living with a chronic medical condition -grief Sessions take place in a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental tele-health atmosphere. Kristina: -uses compassion and kindness to cultivate the therapeutic relationship -empowers individuals to develop the skills/strategies needed to cope during challenging times -helps clients to build self-esteem while gaining personal insight -helps clients to recognize their strengths, value, and resilience -helps clients to start taking control and making positive changes in their life Kristina welcomes the opportunity to assist you on your journey, working together to relieve the challenges you face. Afterall, "emotional well-being is just as important to us as breathing is!"

College can look exciting and successful from the outside while feeling overwhelming behind the scenes. You may be struggling with anxiety, academic pressure, perfectionism, relationship concerns, family expectations, or uncertainty about who you are and what comes next. Maybe others see you as responsible, driven, or strong, but you feel exhausted from trying to keep everything together. I work with college students who are used to putting pressure on themselves, taking care of others, or feeling as though they must always perform well. Therapy can be a space where you do not have to have all the answers. Together, we can explore the experiences and patterns contributing to your stress, strengthen your confidence, and help you develop healthier boundaries, relationships, and coping skills. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. Whether you are adjusting to college, navigating friendships or dating, questioning your identity, managing family stress, or preparing for life after graduation, I will support you in gaining clarity and feeling more grounded. Contact me for a free consultation to ask questions, learn more about my approach, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.

If you're struggling with persistent sadness, lack of energy, or difficulty concentrating, you're not alone. Perhaps anxiety leaves you breathless, or stress manifests physically. Maybe irritability is affecting your relationships, or daily tasks feel insurmountable. Whether you're trying to manage chronic issues, adjusting to a new environment, or seeking to improve your overall well-being, our services are tailored to support your unique journey.

Our dedicated therapists are honored to walk alongside you on your individual journey to personal wellness. Let us be a part of your healing process through personalized therapy, offering unwavering support and specialized care as you navigate life’s challenges. Together, we can create an individual therapy plan that empowers you to reach your mental wellness goals and strengthen your relationships. Your path to healing is unique, and our therapists are here with open hearts and compassionate care for all. Embrace this journey with us, and let’s foster growth and resilience together.

I am a holistic psychotherapist with over 12 years of experience treating trauma (PTSD/CPTSD), anxiety, depression, ADHD and grief and loss. I am licensed in DC and Virginia, with both virtual and in-person openings. My office is steps off the redline metro in Dupont Circle. While I work with teens and adults, I particularly enjoy working with college students who want to alleviate stress, adjust to college life demands, and improve their relationships. I have advanced training psychodynamic work, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems. To start this work, you don’t need to know exactly what it is you are looking for or the words to identify what’s specifically going on in your life. All you need to know is you want something more. Together, we’ll process the past, discuss the present, and work toward the future you want and deserve. We’ll untangle emotions to gain more clarity and confidence. You’ll learn to listen to your body’s wisdom to guide your healing. And we’ll move at a pace that works for you. In our initial sessions, we will better understand your therapy goals collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first few weeks and sustained improvement thereafter. Please call or email to schedule a free 15 minute consultation to talk about whether I would be a good fit for you as a therapist. I look forward to meeting you!