Therapists for college students near Boston, MA

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or family conflict? You don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in helping adults work through overwhelming emotions, painful family dynamics, and the lasting effects of difficult or abusive relationships. Together, we process complex trauma, build healthier boundaries, and foster resilience, healing, and growth. I’m a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts with over 10 years of experience. As a bilingual therapist (English & Spanish), I value the role that culture, identity, and lived experience play in shaping your mental health journey. My care is warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive, always tailored to your unique needs and goals. My approach is integrative, drawing from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and attachment-based therapy. This flexibility allows us to use the approaches and strategies that best fit your circumstances. I am in-network with BCBS, Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, Tufts, and Optum. Let’s connect. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can share your needs, ask questions, and see if we’re a good fit.

About Me / Specialties I am a licensed psychologist specializing in treating adolescents and young adults with OCD, anxiety (including social anxiety, panic, phobias, and generalized anxiety), and related conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder, trichotillomania, tics, and excoriation disorder. I provide evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I see clients in-person in Cambridge, MA and virtually throughout Massachusetts and Texas. I also work with parents, offering coaching to help support their teen or young adult while reducing family accommodations. My goal is to create a compassionate, collaborative space where we take mental health seriously—but not ourselves too seriously. A little humor can go a long way in therapy! Treatment Approach I tailor treatment to each individual, often addressing co-occurring concerns like depression, eating issues, or trauma alongside anxiety or OCD. Using ERP, CBT, ACT, and DBT strategies, I help students manage symptoms, regulate emotions, and make meaningful, lasting changes—all in a supportive and approachable way. Training & Experience I earned my PhD from the University of Virginia, completed my clinical internship at Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Center for OCD and Related Disorders at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, where I currently see therapy patients and conduct research on OCD spectrum disorders.

Hello! I am accepting clients for virtual or in-person sessions. My goal is to help you navigate issues like anxiety, school stress, perfectionism and relationship problems so you feel empowered to build healthier connections. I work with individuals and couples. I look forward to working with you!

Welcome to Meridian Psychotherapy Associates — where we specialize in supporting the mental health needs of college students. We understand that college is a time of excitement and growth, but also one of stress, change, and uncertainty. Our goal is to provide a safe, understanding, and personalized space for students navigating this unique life stage. Our individual therapy addresses common student concerns such as anxiety, depression, academic stress, time management, identity exploration, and relationship challenges. Our trauma-informed therapists are attuned to the emotional, social, and academic pressures of campus life. We also offer couples therapy for college students in relationships, focusing on communication, conflict resolution, and maintaining connection amid busy schedules. For students navigating family dynamics, we help students improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen support systems. To fit student lifestyles, we provide flexible in-person and telehealth options, allowing therapy access nearby campus or home. At Meridian, our therapists are compassionate, skilled, and committed to empowering students with tools for resilience, growth, and lasting well-being—during college and beyond. Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a consultation and start building a stronger foundation for your personal and academic success.

I have been working as a therapist in private practice for over 20 years. My specialties include working with trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and body image struggles.

CLINICAL CARE AND SUPPORT FOR THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY Out at Home provides outpatient therapeutic support services for LGBTQ+ folks, their families, couples and caregivers. The program is operated in coordination with Waltham House, The Home’s residential group home for LGBTQ+ youth. Out at Home uses Waltham House’s 20+ years of expertise in therapeutic and clinical services to support LGBTQ+ folks and their families in an outpatient setting. Out at Home was created with the goal of providing LGBTQ+ competent clinical care, with a strong emphasis on keeping youth within their home environments and communities by offering comprehensive, specialized services and resources that educate, support, strengthen and empower. Our clinicians offer innovative, ever-evolving programming, whether providing in-person or virtual clinical care, leading confidence and community-building group sessions, or counseling LGBTQ+ students in Greater Boston schools or colleges. SERVICES WE OFFER Individual therapy sessions for LGBTQ+ folks with licensed and master's level clinicians Family therapy, group therapy and couples counseling with licensed and master's level clinicians Life skills support and community resource connections Trauma-informed therapeutic approaches Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Gender Affirming Surgery Letters Professional development, training and consultation services to outside agencies and professionals.

Contending with life's daily pressures can often make it difficult to feel confident in your ability to thrive - and not just barely survive. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, or other concerns, therapy is a safe space where you can engage your existing coping skills and support systems while also discovering and implementing additional strategies and resources. I genuinely believe we have the resilience necessary to make meaningful, lasting changes in our lives. I employ an integrated, systemic approach to therapy and bring humility and cultural sensitivity to every interaction. I have specific experience and interest in working with pregnant and postpartum clients, and I incorporate important concepts such as coping with life transitions, communication, and boundary-setting in my work with every client. I offer supportive, affirming therapy empowering clients to achieve satisfaction in making the changes they seek. I also bring respect and compassion to the therapeutic alliance; my active and empathic listening helps clients feel validated/understood. My goal is to be your ally as we explore your innate strengths and foster your sense of self-affirmation.

The students I work best with often share common experiences and needs. Many of them are facing the pressures of academic demands, juggling coursework, exams, and deadlines while also trying to balance personal responsibilities and relationships. They may be experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, or overwhelm as they navigate transitions, uncertainties, and expectations. What sets my practice apart is my genuine commitment to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment. I understand that seeking help can feel daunting, so I strive to foster a warm and welcoming environment where you feel heard, valued, and understood. Whether you're struggling with academic stress, relationship issues, self-doubt, or anything in between, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we'll work collaboratively to identify your goals, explore your strengths, and develop personalized strategies to help you thrive in all areas of your life. If you're ready to take the first step toward a happier, healthier you, I invite you to reach out. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth together. You don't have to face your challenges alone—I'm here to help you every step of the way.

I received my bachelor’s degree with honors from Brown University and my master’s degree from Boston College. I acquired my clinical training at McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School’s largest psychiatric affiliate, on an inpatient unit in the division of Anxiety & Mood Disorders. I also trained at the OCD Institute, the nation’s first and foremost treatment center for obsessive-compulsive disorder. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and self-doubt. I have a particular focus on “Pure O,” which are obsessions without visible compulsions. Often these include obsessional doubts about taboo topics such as sexuality, violence, morality, identity, and health. When my clients first come to see me, they are stuck in a swamp of anxiety and endless fears of “what if.” They are exhausted from trying to escape the discomfort of their thoughts and keep their emotions at bay. For so long, avoiding and withdrawing has seemed like the easiest path to take, but it has also meant missing out on parts of life. They wish things could be different—that they could get out of their heads, stop worrying, and be more fully connected to themselves and others—but facing fears and making changes feels so daunting. I am one of the few clinicians in the country trained by the creator of Inference-based Therapy (IBT or I-CBT), an evidence-based therapy for OCD that addresses self-doubt and learning to trust yourself instead of having to resort to researching, reassurance-seeking, ruminating, or avoiding. You can be free of the exhaustion that comes from all the obsessing and avoiding. In our work together, you will develop new ways of thinking, feeling, and being in relationships so that you are no longer at the mercy of self-doubt and intrusive thoughts. You will learn how to trust yourself and step into your strength so you can show up fully to your own life.

Starting therapy can feel like a nerve-wracking process. To ease this, I prioritize developing a genuine connection so that you can feel seen, heard, and valued in session. I believe that therapy is not a "one size fits all" practice. We all have different personalities, different histories, and different needs. My eclectic style as a therapist draws upon multiple therapeutic approaches and theories to better tailor treatment to you and your individuality. If you are interested in therapy centered on compassion, connection, humor, and authenticity- I am here to help!

Welcome I'm Melissa and I'm so glad you landed here! I work with young adults who are feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges—whether it’s relationship struggles, a constant worry loop that you can't get out of, low mood, struggles with food and body image, or difficulty with change. If you're reading this, you might be feeling out of balance or disconnected from what’s meaningful to you. Maybe you’re not sure what’s meaningful right now. You could be stuck in old patterns that no longer serve you, unsure about your next steps, or just know something feels "off" without being able to explain why. Or maybe you just need a safe space to explore it all. Whatever you're experiencing, it’s all valid—and it’s all welcome here.

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 5 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient services. I received holistic training and earned my Clinical Mental Health Counseling Masters at Lesley University, Cambridge. I provide client-centered, individual therapy, a humanistic approach. Students and clients may be in need of support to address the following: decrease stress and anxiety, increase access to self-expression, learn self-regulation skills, improve sleep, learn boundary-setting skills, or address difficulties with functioning in any life domain. I work to facilitate self-exploration, integration, and healing of the emotions and the mind, which affect the body and energy levels. My practice is via telehealth.

Welcome to Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, where we support the unique needs of college students. We understand that the college experience can be an exciting yet challenging time, filled with academic pressures, personal growth, and various transitions. Our goal is to provide a specialized and nurturing environment where college students can find solace, understanding, and guidance as they navigate this critical phase of their lives. Our approach to individual therapy is anchored in a deep understanding of the issues they commonly encounter. We address a wide range of concerns, including stress management, anxiety, depression, academic pressures, time management, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and more. Our Trauma informed therapists are skilled in helping college students cope with the complexities of their academic, social, and emotional worlds. For college students in committed relationships, we offer couple therapy to support them in fostering healthy communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening their bonds. We recognize that maintaining a healthy relationship while attending college can be demanding, and our couple therapy sessions are tailored to address the unique challenges couples may face during this phase of life. We also offer adult family therapy, recognizing that family dynamics can play a significant role in a college student's well-being. Our family therapy sessions provide a safe space to explore and resolve familial conflicts, improve communication with parents and siblings, and foster a supportive environment for personal growth and development. To enhance accessibility and flexibility, we offer both in-office and telehealth services. We understand that college schedules can be demanding and unpredictable, so our telehealth option allows students to receive therapy conveniently from their dorms, apartments, or any private space. At Meridian Psychotherapy, we prioritize the mental health and well-being of college students. Our licensed therapists are not only skilled clinicians but also empathetic allies who genuinely care about the success and happiness of our student clients. We recognize the importance of providing a confidential and non-judgmental space for students to share their concerns and explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Our commitment goes beyond therapy sessions, as we strive to empower college students with coping skills and resources they can carry forward throughout their academic journey and beyond. We work collaboratively with students, empowering them to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and build a strong foundation for their future. If you are a college student seeking support and growth during this transformative time, we encourage you to take the first step towards better mental health. Reach out to us for a consultation, and let us be a part of your journey towards personal and academic success. Together, we can navigate the college experience with strength, confidence, and resilience.

As a psychotherapist, my goal is to help people talk about life challenges. My psychoanalytic training helps clients uncover their true potentials and work on their long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding them back from experiencing a more fulfilling and happier life. A licensed mental health counselor and licensed substance abuse counselor and supervisor, I have extensive experience working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. My experience treating people, supervising clinicians as well as being director of outpatient group therapy programs prepared me for specializing in a variety of areas providing services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety,trauma, difficulties with college life to group therapy for people struggling with work and relationship issues. I am currently scheduling Telehealth sessions.

If you've been feeling emotionally overwhelmed and it's affecting your sleep, work, or relationships, today is a good day to prioritize your well-being! I offer telehealth sessions throughout Massachusetts and Virginia, and in person walk-and-talk sessions in Charlottesville, VA. I specialize in helping young adults manage stress, anxiety, feelings of isolation, depression, or of not feeling good enough that can accompany being a college student in an academically rigorous environment. If your previous ways of dealing with challenges are not working, you find yourself drinking more than you used to, not sleeping well, or not feeling able to connect with your friends and family, this is a good time to get additional support. I take an active role in helping you sort out the best way to approach your challenges and teach you the foundations of mental health so you get back on track. Together we will explore the connection between how you live and how you feel, and identify the areas that feel out of balance. I take a comprehensive holistic approach to wellness because, for the people I work with, traditional talk therapy is often not enough. Our mental health is impacted by our environment, sleep, physical activity, what we eat, relationships, beliefs, thoughts, and behaviors–and I believe our mental health care should include these elements as components of the whole system. Evidence-based tools we may incorporate include meditation and somatic mind-body practices, techniques to work with thought patterns, interpersonal skills, and lifestyle interventions. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss if we are a good fit to help you achieve your goals!

I utilize a trauma-informed, person-in-environment approach that recognizes the importance of both individual and environmental factors that influence a person's well-being and behavior. There is no "one size fits all" approach, therefore I adopt techniques from varying practice modalities to best meet the needs of each individual client. I specialize in providing compassionate support for individuals navigating through trauma, including those impacted by violence, medical issues, and workplace burnout. I aid clients facing grief, life transitions, or heartbreak, fostering resilience and healing amidst challenges. I address various mental health issues - anxiety, depression, and PTSD - with a comprehensive and holistic approach. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives, therefore I provide a compassionate, safe, and inviting environment for those who are on their journey for self-discovery & healing.

Many people come to therapy wondering if they'll always feel this way. Anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD can lead to automatic ways of thinking and responding that keep us feeling stuck. My approach focuses on helping you recognize these patterns without judgment, understand how they're affecting your life, and develop new ways of responding that create meaningful, lasting change. My treatment approach combines medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and other evidence-based approaches, all tailored to your individual needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD (C-PTSD), and dissociative disorders. I also work with clients experiencing academic stress, workplace stress, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, panic attacks, emotional regulation difficulties, and recovery from trauma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for college students, graduate students, university faculty, university staff, adolescents, and adults. I currently work in outpatient psychiatry, provide emergency psychiatric services at South Shore Hospital, and see clients in my private practice in Brookline. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication management, or both, I strive to provide compassionate, collaborative care that helps you move beyond symptom relief and create lasting change. I also enjoy collaborating with therapists and other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated care. I offer in-person appointments in Brookline and telehealth throughout Massachusetts. I work with clients from all backgrounds and strive to create a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can be yourself. Together, we'll work to better understand what's been getting in the way, build practical tools to help you feel better, and create meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel more like yourself again—not just get through each day, but truly thrive.

Choosing to start therapy is a meaningful way to care for yourself and respect your own story. If you are facing emotional challenges or want a deeper connection with yourself, this journey can bring hope. Taking the first step by reaching out can help you find the peace and strength you already have inside. Creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space is at the heart of my practice. In this space, we can forge a meaningful therapeutic alliance. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, helping you build resilience to heal, gain deeper insights, and enhance mood management/coping skills. With my Asian background and fluency in both English and Mandarin, I bring together Eastern and Western perspectives to support your recovery and self-care. I aim to create an inclusive space where you can express yourself freely. Your path to well-being is unique, and I am honored to help you find your inner strength, heal, and grow.

I'm available to support students who may feel overwhelmed, stressed, or uncertain about the path ahead. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, adjusting to college life, struggling with self-doubt, or navigating relationships, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. The students I work best with are those who feel like they’re juggling a lot—academic pressure, personal expectations, and social challenges—but who also want to grow, find balance, and build confidence. Many of my clients are learning to manage stress, cope with feelings of isolation, or figure out how to communicate better in their relationships. My approach is collaborative, and I focus on helping you find practical tools that fit into your life. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating; together, we’ll work at your pace to help you feel more grounded and in control. I’m here to listen, offer guidance, and support you as you navigate this chapter of your life.

My collaborative therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on helping clients understand and shift their thought and behavior patterns. I integrate psychodynamic principles to explore how relationships shape sense of self, understanding of others, and present patterns. My work is guided by a multicultural humility lens, recognizing how culture and systems of power, privilege, and oppression influence mental health and meaning. I aim to create a flexible, individualized space where clients can pause, feel, and prioritize what matters most, grounded in respect, empathy, trust, and collaboration. I work with adults navigating mood/anxiety disorders, grief, identity development, relationships, college adjustment, and other life stressors. I also specialize in providing culturally-responsive care to BIPOC clients navigating acculturation- or discrimination-related stress. I work collaboratively to support clients through periods of heightened distress. My research focuses on suicidality, mood/anxiety disorders, and BIPOC resilience. I have trained in inpatient and residential programs, hospital outpatient care, and university counseling settings. I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills coaching. I am a Black American woman, first-generation student, and proud New Orleans native.