Therapists for college students near New York University

Hi, I’m Jess Benston (she/they), a licensed art therapist, certified gestalt therapist, and clinical supervisor with over 17 years of experience supporting teens and adults through anxiety, depression, burnout, and identity exploration. Using a combination of relational talk therapy and arts-based processing, I work with folks to make shifts in how they understand themselves and how they move through the world. Sessions are held either remotely or in-person at my fully stocked Brooklyn studio/office. If you are feeling lost, burnt out, or just "off", I welcome you to reach out.

I help people feel better and improve their lives with music psychotherapy. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction or everyday stress with relationships, work or family. If you want a fluid and creative approach to therapy that helps you go deep to the core of your issues, I can help. I am particularly passionate about working with those who identify as LGBTQIA+, especially trans and GNC folx. In a world full of stigma, with so much pressure to conform to a heteronormative society, being trans or GNC can be an isolating and scary experience. I can help you on your journey to become your true self.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I've had meaningful experience working with patients struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. These challenges often overlap and can show up as feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. I focus on helping patients understand what they're experiencing, such as differentiating intrusive thoughts from more severe conditions, which often reduces fear and improves engagement in treatment. I also work well with individuals who feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional dysregulation, helping them build insight and develop more effective ways to cope and function day to day. I’m most passionate about making mental healthcare more approachable, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and underserved communities who often face added barriers, stigma, or lack of access to care. I find it meaningful to create a space that feels safe, affirming, and non-judgmental, where people can be fully themselves. My hope is that you feel comfortable being honest, even about things that are hard to say, and that over time you gain a clearer understanding of yourself, feel more in control of your thoughts and emotions, and build confidence in navigating your life.

I have many years experience helping people with their emotional problems. I work with individuals of all ages from adolescence to old age. My approach is listening-focused. No two persons who have come to see me have had the same issues and struggles to contend with. So what is needed is close, attentive listening so I can know how you can most benefit from my help. Many patients prefer to focus on the here and now problems they feel most immediately. But others want to explore their root causes in earlier relations and problems. I try to tailor my practice to work at either or both these levels of intensity.

I GREW UP IN THE IN-BETWEEN — moving back and forth between the US and China, I know first-hand what it is like to be faced with the unknown, the struggle of finding yourself in a new place, a new culture, a new stage of life, or a new identity. I FIND JOY in helping people find the pieces of themselves they can rely on and fall in love with through it all. My goal is to honor the beauty of your existence while teaching you the skills that can carry you through rougher times. The process of healing, learning who you are and what you need to care for yourself, is a challenging but rewarding one. IT TAKES COURAGE to confront and accept yourself completely, and I hope to provide a compassionate and safe space for you to explore, to grieve, to rage, or to find joy in everything that you've experienced. The fact that you have survived everything so far to be here now is more important than anything else. It is an honor for me to witness your courage and your strength. IT IS A PRIVILEGE to be a part of your journey. I admire you. You matter to me.

Hey there! I am Nyx Melody. I use they/them/their and fae/faer/faers pronouns. I am a queer and non-binary, genderqueer, trans femme New York State licensed psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, educator and consultant on anti-oppression, mental health, and LGBTQIPA2S+ issues. I have had experience working with individuals, couples, and groups who are struggling with various issues, including but not limited to: trauma/abuse, gender/sexual identity, anxiety, depression, substance use, acculturation, racial identity exploration, and dismantling internalized inferiority and/or superiority.

We believe in therapy that empowers individuals to make meaningful changes and lead fulfilling lives. City Center Psychotherapy is a group private practice in Midtown, New York City founded by Dr. Andrew B. Schmidt, PhD, LCSW-R , Professor and Director of New York University’s Post-Masters CBT Certificate Program. Dr. Schmidt leads a team of highly skilled clinicians who specialize in the treatment of OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma, in addition to their own unique areas of expertise. City Center Psychotherapy prioritizes collaborative treatment planning, active problem-solving, and a warm, supportive environment that facilitates change at a pace that feels right for you.

graymatters is a mission-driven practice that provides compassionate and personalized mental health services to people from all communities. We combine the power of human connection with an expertise in neuroscience to help everyday people achieve and maintain lasting mental wellness. We believe mental health is a human right and that taking care of your mental health should be respected, expected, and attainable, regardless of your race, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, or class. Mental health exists on a fluid continuum, and our goal is to support you at your pace and offer the tools to help you redefine the life you want to lead. **Please inquire to see which of our providers are available to use insurance with - however, all of our providers are available for out-of-network (pending scheduling/availability).

If you are experiencing frequent worry, sadness, insomnia, grief, or work and relationship stress, therapy can help you reach your goals and live a more satisfying and fulfilling life. Through a supportive and collaborative environment, you can learn skills to help you deal with difficult life circumstances and create lasting positive change. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, which is an active form of therapy that can help you develop the tools to better understand and manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Please visit www.psychologyservicesnyc.com for more details and email or call to further discuss how I may be of help.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the pressure you put on yourself or by what everyone else seems to expect from you? College can come with a long list of demands. Do well in classes. Make friends. Join clubs. Keep everyone happy. Figure out your future. When all of this adds up, it can start to feel heavy and confusing. I’m Emily, a therapist with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults in community mental health clinics, schools, non-profits, and group practices. I help students work through anxiety, depression, self-doubt, identity exploration, social challenges, and the impact of past experiences or trauma. I use approaches like CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy, along with a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. What this really means is that we work together to understand what you are experiencing and develop tools that fit you as an individual. My goal is to offer a space where you feel safe, accepted, and supported while you figure things out. You deserve a place where you can be honest, build confidence, and move toward self-acceptance. Whatever you are facing, you belong here. I am here to listen, help you make sense of things, and support you as you work toward the life you want.

College and early adulthood come with a lot of messy, in-between moments — anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, identity questions, and transitions nobody fully prepares you for. I'm David, and this is exactly the stuff I work with. My background is a little different: I hold degrees in both Neuroscience and Social Work, which means I bring both brain-based science and genuine human warmth to every session. I use IFS, mindfulness, and somatic work to help you understand your patterns — and I'm equally comfortable with harm reduction or a focus on full abstinence, depending on what's right for you. Expect some humor and creativity along the way too. No judgment, no scripts. Just a real conversation. Reach out whenever you're ready. *Insurance & Fees* I am in-network with Aetna, Cigna, and Northwell Direct in NY only, and out of network with all other major insurance companies in NY and FL. My office provides a superbill for you to submit for reimbursement and we will assist you in verifying your benefits to ensure the process is seamless. I also offer a sliding scale rate for those in need. Please reach out to learn more about how we can make therapy work for you.

Check out our team of therapists here: https://www.downtownpsychological.com/therapists Downtown Psychological Services, P.C. is a full-service psychotherapy practice located in Manhattan. We offer both virtual and in-person individual, couples, and group therapy to adults seeking support and self-understanding to facilitate personally meaningful goals. We practice a personalized form of psychotherapy that combines the latest research and theory with the collective wisdom of generations of therapists. Broad and deep knowledge helps us tailor the goals and treatment process to each person's individual needs. A highly-influential therapist and writer named Dr. Rollo May once remarked that, “people are running (from problems) not because they are afraid, but afraid because they are running.” Committing to a process of personal growth and exploration takes courage and effort. Wellness is about enhancing and finding your strengths, your creativity, and the joy in everyday life. We strive to enhance the positive and meaningful aspects of your life, while developing new capacities for mitigating the discomfort that led you to seek help.

My clients describe me as warm, empathetic, intuitive and easy to talk to. I believe therapy is a unique experience and I work with you to tailor the treatment to your individual needs. I utilize techniques ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), reiki and talk therapy. Prior to becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I worked in NYC public schools as a School Counselor for about 10 years. I have extensive knowledge in dealing with all types of school issues and working with families. I specialized in college transition and managing college as a first-generation college student. I look forward to meeting you!

Welcome to ParityWell! My name is Dr. Lauren Jessell and I’m a neurodevelopmental evaluator, therapist and the founder of ParityWell, a group practice that specializes in therapy as well as Autism and ADHD assessments for adults who may be gifted, high masking, or navigating complex diagnostic questions. My training is unique in that I was trained as a translational research scientist and in clinical practice as a therapist. I hold a PhD in Social Work from New York University, a Masters of Social Work from Rutgers University and I have advanced postgraduate training in neurodevelopmental and diagnostic assessment. At ParityWell, we focus on neurocomplexity, trauma recovery, and co-occurring conditions, offering care through adapted evidence-based approaches including psychodynamic therapy, IFS, and EMDR. We also offer Autism and ADHD assessments along with comprehensive psychological evaluations to help clients gain clarity, understand their needs, and access effective support. I invite you to reach out! Our mission is to help more people navigate healthcare systems and access the care they deserve. I’m always happy to share information and resources with anyone if it can support their path to high-quality, affirming care.

As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 16 years of healthcare experience, my practice is rooted in patient-centered, holistic, trauma-informed care for people at every stage of life. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, or mood disorders; facing a major life transition; working through grief or trauma; or exploring questions of identity and relationships, including within the LGBTQ+ community, you'll find a space here that is welcoming, stigma free, and free of judgment. Building genuine rapport is at the heart of everything I do. When you walk through the door, my hope is that you feel safe enough to share your story. Consider me a true collaborator in your care. Together, we'll work toward self-discovery and the kind of mental health that feels meaningful to you. No two people are alike, which is why my approach is individualized, collaborative, and holistic. Showing up for you exactly where you are, without preconceptions or pressure, is something I hold as a core commitment. Partnering with you to define your goals and build a path toward them is what I find most fulfilling about this work. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, calm, and nonjudgmental environment where your comfort comes first. Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside humanistic and integrative methods, I bring together techniques from multiple approaches to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique personality and needs. The result is care that feels less like a formula and more like a conversation. Long before I became a psychiatric nurse practitioner, people in my life would come to me when they needed someone to listen. Friends, family members, and loved ones often said that talking with me helped them through difficult moments. That feedback stayed with me and quietly shaped the direction my career would take. As my healthcare career evolved, so did my appreciation for the depth of emotional support that patients need alongside medical care. Walking alongside people through medical crises, serious illness, and grief deepened my commitment to empathetic, whole-person care and led me to the work I do today. Warmth and a nurturing presence are things I bring to every appointment. When I'm not in the office, you'll often find me outside, walking through nature or settling into a meditation or yoga practice. Creativity is a big part of how I recharge too. Drawing, painting, writing poetry, and music all play a role in my life outside of work. As an amateur musician, I enjoy singing, learning keyboard, and playing flute, less for performance and more for the joy and relaxation it brings.

Our NYC-based practice specializes in anxiety and OCD treatment for college students and young adults. Many of the students we work with are high achievers who are used to pushing through, but are finding that anxiety, overthinking, or burnout are becoming harder to manage. This often shows up as getting stuck in your head, feeling overwhelmed by academic or social pressure, or getting caught in patterns of procrastination, perfectionism, or avoidance. For some, OCD or panic are a big part of the picture. College also brings a new level of independence, and managing academics, friendships, and daily life on your own can make these patterns feel more intense. Our approach is warm, structured, and grounded, focused on helping you understand what’s keeping you stuck, build practical skills, and feel more confident navigating this stage of life.

Alyssa utilizes a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating the mind-body connection in her work. She combines complementary methodologies and techniques that can be tailored to meet the needs and goals of each individual. Alyssa also draws upon her extensive training and experience in mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (MBCBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Having worked with a diverse clientele in a range of settings, including hospitals, substance-abuse treatment centers, and schools, she has honed these skills to help her clients manage anxiety, depression, self-esteem and body image issues as well as substance abuse concerns. Alyssa earned a Masters in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness from New York University and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York.

I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, eating disorders, OCD, relationship struggles, and academic stress. I am attuned to the role oppression plays in my patients' lives and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I enjoy working with students, artists and people with creative practices, those undergoing life transitions, and people seeking to understand intergenerational sources of suffering. My style is warm and nonjudgmental. I am guided by the belief that each person contains inherent strengths and knowledge, and that a primary goal of treatment is to allow for the expression of this unique experience. In our work together, we will move between past and present to understand what it’s like to be you. We will look carefully at your struggles, as well as how you love and dream. This diligent attention to your experience can result in satisfying and often surprising changes in personal, creative, and professional endeavors. In time, this knowledge of the self may also reduce symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and physical pain. I am a New York State licensed master social worker and graduated with honors from Silberman School of Social Work. I am a candidate in adult psychoanalysis at the Contemporary Freudian Society. I have also been trained in the treatment of eating disorders. I have worked with people of diverse racial, ethnic, religious, gender, sexuality, and class backgrounds. I invite you to reach out to me.

Does your mind feel like it’s constantly running, overthinking every decision, replaying conversations, or trying to keep up with the pressure to do well in school, relationships, and everything else? College can bring a lot of stress. Many students I work with feel anxious, stuck in their own heads, or overwhelmed by perfectionism and procrastination. You might be juggling coursework, friendships, family expectations, or questions about your future—and it can feel like too much on your own. I’m Ahuva, a licensed therapist who helps college students manage anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, relationship stress, and major life changes. Together, we’ll use practical tools to help you understand what’s getting in your way, build healthier coping skills, and feel more grounded and in control. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. You don’t need to show up with the “right” words or have everything figured out. This is a space where you can be honest, slow down, and work through what’s really going on, without judgment. Reaching out for support can feel scary, but you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. I’m here to help you take that first step and support you as you build confidence, clarity, and a healthier path forward.