Therapists for college students near Pittsburgh, PA

My approach to therapy emphasizes mindfulness and the development of inner resources to meet the challenges the world presents at every stage of life.

Welcome! Let’s explore what a meaningful and balanced life looks like for you as an undergraduate or graduate student. I work with students on managing anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. I also enjoy helping students build stress management skills and navigate life transitions, identity exploration, relationship stress, or feeling “stuck” or burned out. My goal is to keep sessions feeling genuine and conversational, and to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself while we work together on what matters most to you. I use evidence-based approaches to help you manage difficult thoughts and emotions, reduce self-criticism, and build coping skills that actually work. I also offer EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and Inference-Based CBT for OCD. If you’re curious about starting therapy or just want to see if we’re a good fit, I offer free 15-minute video consultations. Email is the best way to reach me.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers Training and professional background: I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, graduating in May of 2014. In the Fall of 2012, I received training as a victims’ advocate and crisis line operator at the Family Justice Center in South Bend. For the rest of my time as an undergraduate, I continued volunteering for the FJC, focusing on taking crisis calls, yet unaware of the skills I was building in attending to each caller’s concerns. I utilized my training again during grad school to volunteer for Crisis Text Line, where I honed my skills in crisis management and planning. In December of 2018, I graduated with my Master of Science in Education from Duquesne University, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Duquesne’s program is CACREP accredited and meets all standards and requirements as an institution for counselor education. I received my license November of 2023. Theoretical orientation and approach to counseling: My clinical approach is rooted in two orientations: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I also draw heavily from the Humanistic-Existentialist perspectives of Psychology and philosophy in helping my clients better understand their feelings, goals, and experiences. My clinical practice embodies the spirit of meeting clients where they are. I enter each session with one objective: a readiness to talk and warmly receive. Client rights and responsibilities: As my client, I encourage you to ask questions and raise concerns about anything, especially my credentials and qualifications, the progress of our work together and its cost, my therapeutic approach, or anything else that concerns you. I take my role seriously as a helper and strongly believe that healthy relationships, especially therapeutic, require communication, consistency, and warmth. Therapeutically, we might be a good fit if: -- You are ready to make new moves in your life and relationships – So many of us know what must be done to address problematic behavior or to build better habits. What might be lacking is an awareness of the theory or tools to support those efforts. I am equipped to teach you how to individualize widely known coping skills, if you are ready to prioritize your mental health treatment. -- You are a creative person – The scaffolding or foundation you need to accomplish your long-term goals comes from your ability to generate creative solutions—no matter the medium! Your unique skills and worldviews can enrich to the work we do in the room. This takes the form of interesting, billowing conversation, not traditional art therapy. -- You are looking for a space to feel seen and heard – I take great pride in my ability to attend to the emotional needs of my clients. A dedicated space where the floor cedes to you, a conversation that is focused with warm curiosity on you, that is quickly becoming a rarity in our social interactions. While attentiveness is one of my biggest strengths to offer, I find being a witness to my clients’ concerns and vulnerabilities the greatest honor and reward in this field; we are the most human in these moments. It sets the stage for therapeutic collaboration and honors our innate drive to identify and hold our emotions without urgency or shame.

Dr. Thomas Petrone is the Director and senior faculty member of the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh. He is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor and is the President and Clinical Director of the Psychological and Counseling Center, Inc. where he has provided psychotherapy, consultation, training and evaluation services for over 40 years. He practices Gestalt therapy which is a non-pathologizing, supportive therapy that focusses on the whole person and provides individuals with opportunity to address concerns about the various relationship concerns in their lives. His specialty areas include, working wtih Individuals, couples, mental health evaluation services and evaluation services for immigration concerns. Dr. Petrone is also a staff member of the Pittsburgh Irish festival and co-proprietor, with his spouse Dr. Maura Krushinski, of the Irish Design Center in Pittsburgh.

You didn’t ask for this—whether it’s a major life change, a new mental health diagnosis, or that frustrating sense of being stuck in the same loop over and over. You may be navigating something unfamiliar: a shift in your identity, a change in your relationships, or a diagnosis that’s left you overwhelmed, confused, or doubting yourself. Maybe you’ve noticed patterns that no longer serve you but haven’t been able to break free from them. You want to feel in control again—or maybe for the first time. And while you might hate what you’re feeling right now, some part of you is ready to figure it out. That’s where I come in. Our work together is collaborative. I’ll meet you with curiosity, honesty, and care—helping you connect the dots, challenge stuck narratives, and build something new. We’ll explore how past experiences might be shaping the present, how your diagnosis fits into the bigger picture, and what tools will actually help you feel more like you again. My clients are open to the therapy process, even when it's hard. They want clarity, relief, and a sense of mastery over their mental health—not just symptom relief, but true understanding. If you’re ready to start, reach out. We can talk about where you are, where you want to be, and how we can get there—together.

The Center for Advanced Psychotherapy (CAP Clinic), is part of Bellefield Outpatient Behavioral Health Services, UPMC in Oakland. Most cases referred will likely be seen by a trainee under supervision of a psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed mental health counselor through the CAP clinic. Trainees are either advanced students earning their doctorate in clinical psychology (PhD or PsyD) or medical residents (MDs) who are specializing in psychiatry and receiving specialized psychotherapy training. Video or audio taping of sessions is required in the CAP Clinic for supervision and training purposes. Patients participating in weekly psychotherapy can also be seen for med management services by a Psychiatrist or Psychiatry Resident, if appropriate. Lauren Bylsma, PhD has expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches for mood, anxiety, traumatic stress (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in adults and adolescents. Other providers in our clinic (Holly Swartz, MD and Kelly Wells, MSW, LCSW) have expertise in interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) for unipolar and bipolar depression in adults. Some patients may not be a good fit for our clinic, including those with active alcohol or substance abuse issues, active psychosis, uncontrolled mania, high risk for suicide, homicidality or history of aggression, eating disorders, or those not appropriate for an outpatient level of care. Session fees are based on your insurance co-pays but it may be possible to see a trainee who does not bill insurance (i.e., no session fees), depending on trainee availability. We currently have availability with psychology trainees who do not bill (no charge for sessions, any insurance or no insurance is ok). Med management visits are billed to insurance. We currently offer both in-person and Telehealth services.

Guided by values of nonjudgment, curiosity, nonviolence, and compassion for all beings; ​We understand healing as an intentional process of cultivating healthy, respectful, and authentic relationships with ourselves, with others, and with our wider community. ​We aim to serve and strengthen our community by helping to reduce stigma and expand understanding around mental health and wellbeing, while increasing awareness of the interpersonal, social, cultural, and physical environments that may help or hinder development. ​We acknowledge and work to change harmful systems, beliefs, and conditions; and support individuals to live in alignment with their values and live with agency, dignity, and joy within these contexts. ​We believe that growth and meaningful change can occur at any stage of life and are essential for lasting mental health. ​We approach our work with reverence and humility, and consider it a privilege to serve and support you on life's journey.

Hello and welcome to my page. My ideal client is struggling with their self-esteem, anxious and/or depressive symptoms, relationship issues, and even substance use/misuse. Most of my clients' goal is to live a more fulfilling and content life. They want to feel understood, supported, and listened to empathetically. I can help by primarily trying to understand you. That is the bottom line. I will offer you a safe, caring, and nonjudgemental environment to do this. I will listen fully with interest and respect so you can begin to talk about the parts of your life and yourself you are struggling with. I have worked as a social worker for 18 years, first at a community mental health center, then at a private group practice, and now solely in my own private practice. I work with young adults, adults, and older adults.

Our minds are powerful—they can pull us into the past or push us into the future, making it hard to stay grounded in the present. When this happens, we can feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or emotional pain, often losing touch with our sense of identity, purpose, and what matters most. This can be especially true during times of transition, like college or early adulthood, when you may be navigating academic pressure, relationships, career uncertainty, or figuring out who you are and where you’re headed. As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you to identify what’s keeping you stuck and help you reconnect with your life in a meaningful way. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, build on your existing strengths, and develop practical tools to support lasting change. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can gain clarity, find relief, and grow. I specialize in addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD, and I welcome anyone navigating life’s challenges—especially young adults looking for direction, balance, and support.

My practice is a soft place for high-achieving and creative women to finally let go of the 'shoulds.' Together, we create a gentle space to breathe, slow down, and untangle the things that are keeping you from feeling truly connected to yourself. We’ll do more than just recap your week. I blend talk therapy with Gestalt and expressive arts to help you bridge the gap between your thoughts and feelings. We might explore an emotion through imagery or notice how a memory feels in your body. It’s a creative, collaborative process to help you feel at home in your own skin. No art skills required. I value authenticity, warmth, and honest feedback. My clients often tell me they feel “more like themselves” after our work together. If that sounds like something you're looking for, I’d love to connect.

Melissa's diverse experience had lead her to focus on the importance of contentedness of relationships in fostering personal and spiritual growth in her clients. At the core, Melissa's goal is to help each person find the freedom that comes with pursuing wellness in every area of life. She strives to help people find a place of well being that goes beyond the sense of disease or illness but to a place of thriving state of health and balance.She has worked at various levels of mental health care including outpatient therapy, inpatient hospitalization, and residential treatment since 2005. In residential treatment, she worked with adolescents with behavioral difficulties and mental illness. While working in a psychiatric hospital, Melissa provided individual support and group therapy for adults, adolescents, children and their families who have struggled with disordered eating. She worked with children and their families who have struggle with anxiety and sleep disturbances in a university research setting. Her understanding of the connection between the mind and body was furthered while working in a medical hospital helping children, adolescents, and young adults with gastrointestinal disorders or sleep problems. These experiences have provided advanced knowledge in treating, not only eating disorders and anxiety but depression, sleep problems, trauma, body image disturbance, life transitions, communication difficulties, self esteem, chronic pain and other medical conditions. ​She has advanced training in non-pharmaceutical interventions, CBT for Insomnia and trauma, EMDR, attachment and dissociation. She enjoys working with transition age and early professionals who experience chronic anxiety and/or depression, complex trauma, and adjustment issues. She lived in Southeast Asia for 6 years and loves working with cultural adjustment issues.

Hi! My name is Hannah Davy (she/they), I am the owner and therapist at Bloom and Beyond Therapy. I have worked with college students through the UPMC COSTAR Program over the last three years and am now starting a private practice. I specialized in mood disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts, and life transitions at COSTAR. I also specialize in trauma based therapies (T-FCBT and ITCT) and OCD treatments. I am accepting new clients and looking forward to helping you bloom into who you are and who you want to be!

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I bring good energy, empathy, and clinical expertise to my work. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, culturally informed, and person-centered. I offer a safe, affirming, and comfortable space for you to be your authentic self, free from judgment. I meet you wherever you are on your healing journey and we work together on reaching your desired treatment goals at your own pace. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, adults, and older adults who have experienced acute/chronic/complex trauma, chronic stress, PTSD, sexual trauma, and sex trafficking. I use a range of treatment modalities (EMDR, IFS, CPT, TF-CBT, SMART, Seeking Safety, etc.). I love using music, art, games, and interactive activities if you're interested. I also work well with anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity development, and existential crises. I am passionate about empowering others with knowledge, skills, and tools to help people rebuild, heal, and grow. Let’s connect to see if counseling is a good fit for you!

I have significant experience addressing mind/body issues, physical health-related issues, stress and coping with academic, family, relationship, personal and work-related issues. My approach is client-centered and I utilize evidence-based interventions that are appropriate for the individual client's presenting issues. I am trained in CBT to address depression, anxiety, panic disorder, etc., Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-based approaches to stress management; Interpersonal psychotherapy, to name a few evidence-base practices that I offer.

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I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive therapy that involves meeting multiple times a week. I provide a safe, welcoming space where together we can come to better understand and appreciate you and your unique story. I can help explore connections between your past experiences and current challenges, and help you feel more at home within yourself and out in the world. I am a careful and insightful listener, with a style that is empathic, gentle, and nonjudgemental. If you are curious about my approach and would like to know more, feel free to reach out. We can meet to see if we could be a good fit.

I see one of the most important roles as a therapist to be putting in the work to earn someone’s trust and walking beside them as an accomplice on their path towards growth. I don’t believe that people are “broken” or “need to be fixed”, but rather that somewhere within every person lies the capacity to generate change. I believe this change begins by finding someone trustworthy to support them through this process. And—that being kinder and gentler towards ourselves goes a long way to building the foundation for this change to occur. My experiences span across 15 years, with the scope of my direct work supporting clients in their exploration of gender expression/transition, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss and more- all within Allegheny County. I am also happy to provide evaluations and letters for Gender Affirming surgeries, Green Card Status, and Emotional Support Animals. The world is an often hard place to be, and my goal is to create a space for softness to occur. To not only listen but to hear and understand. To respect through accountability. To address struggles through processing and also through action leading to systemic change.

Thanks for checking out Thrive Counseling Center. We are here to assist when life's challenges tend to become overwhelming and begin to impact you, your relationships, and your educational and career goals. We work with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, relationship issues, sexuality, gender issues, ptsd/trauma. Using a variety of techniques, we look forward to assisting you in improving your health and well-being on your journey to living your best life!

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Are you stressed out and overwhelmed? Feeling frozen by the pressure that comes with college, either academically or socially? Feeling like you're always people-pleasing and not being true to yourself? You're not alone. College can be one of the most exciting and confusing times in one's life, from navigating new identities and relationships to intense academic pressure to the looming questions of "What's next?" and "Where do I go from here?" At HeART Felt Therapy, we specialize in gently and creatively treating the symptoms that come from all of these pressures - including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Our approach is supportive and non-judgmental. If traditional talk therapy hasn't felt quite right, you might find that art therapy gives you a new way to express yourself (no artistic skill required!) that is gentle, intuitive, and healing. We understand how much pressure you're under. Together, we can unpack anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and anything else that's weighing on you - in a space that actually feels safe and supportive. Whether your'e trying to find your voice, heal from burnout, or just need someone who gets it, we're here for you. Not sure we'd be a good fit? Check out our Insta and TikTok pages to get the vibe! @heart_felt_therapy