Therapists for college students near Georgia State University

Hi, I’m Nikoleta! I’m an international doctoral student from Greece, and for the past seven years I’ve called the U.S. home—living in both the Northeast and the South. Before pursuing psychology, I was a Division I athlete, an experience that gave me first-hand insight into body image struggles and the stigma surrounding mental health across different systems and communities. I’m passionate about uplifting and centering voices that have historically been excluded, both within my own communities and beyond. My path into psychology began with recognizing how stigma shaped the lives of those I care about, and how systemic barriers have marginalized people for far too long. When we work together, you can expect a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we’ll explore your authentic self, replace fear and shame with self-acceptance, set healthy boundaries, and nurture deeper connections. Together, we’ll honor your intersecting identities, heal wounds of oppression, and strengthen your confidence so you can live with clarity, purpose, and self-worth. At my core, I’m guided by curiosity, compassion, and a genuine love for people. I strive to create spaces that feel safe, welcoming, and warm. I believe in the importance of balance—embracing the many roles and identities we carry—and in celebrating the richness of our multifaceted selves. My hope is that everyone I work with feels safe, seen, valued, and deeply connected.

My experiences as a queer, transgender man from the South inform how I move through the world and how I work with clients. I understand the challenges and inherent stress of navigating institutional, educational, and family systems that fail to make space for all identities and backgrounds. My approach is grounded in anti-oppressive and culturally affirming principles and I enjoy working with individuals of all backgrounds. I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where clients can experience and examine themselves and experiment with new skills and perspectives. I collaborate with clients to co-create realistic goals and sustainable solutions that honor and encompass their unique identities, challenges, and strengths. I have experience working with a variety of backgrounds and concerns and I have particular expertise working with gender identity and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), trauma, individuals living in larger bodies, individuals in helping professions, life transitions, and young adults. My commitment to social justice and advocacy extends to my work as a researcher and counselor educator-in-training. My primary areas of research are improving counselor training concerning LGBTQIA+ and larger-bodied individuals, demystifying research for students from marginalized backgrounds, and combating cisnormativity in counseling research.

Many of the people I work with live in the “in-between” — between cultures, identities, roles, and expectations. Maybe you’re constantly navigating competing demands from family, community, and self. Maybe you feel caught between pride in your roots and the ache of not quite fitting in. That kind of in-betweenness can carry invisible grief, deep resilience, and stories that are layered and complex. Therapy with me is a place where all of that gets to exist. Where silence—once a survival strategy—no longer has to be your default. Where you don’t have to explain why you’re tired or tone yourself down to be understood. You get to show up as you are—messy, in progress, tender, whole. I offer a supportive, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences with curiosity and compassion. My work is rooted in a trauma-informed, multicultural frame-work, because I know that our relationships—with family, partners, culture, and self—shape so much of how we move through the world. I’m especially passionate about supporting BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ folks, and anyone navigating the complexities of intersectional identities. Whether you’re wrestling with anxiety, navigating life transitions, working through relationship dynamics, or exploring identity, I’m here to help you reconnect—with yourself, your story, and your values. Together, we’ll look at the patterns that have helped you survive, even if they’re no longer serving you. We’ll unpack the unspoken “rules” you’ve been carrying, and gently build new ways of living that feel more aligned, grounded, and free. With individuals, our work might focus on: • Honoring your cultural and personal history while creating space for your own voice • Tending to the inner critic or survival modes that no longer reflect who you want to be • Cultivating emotional flexibility and self-compassion With couples and polycules, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help partners move beyond the surface-level conflicts and into the deeper emotions underneath. Often, what looks like disconnection is really a longing—to be seen, to be safe, to feel understood. We’ll slow things down, make space for those vulnerable moments, and help you learn how to reach for one another in ways that build trust, not distance. This work can be especially powerful for couples navigating cultural differences, unspoken family dynamics, or intergenerational expectations. Whether you're seeking therapy as an individual or as part of a couple or polycule, our work will move at your pace and be centered around your needs. You don’t have to hold it all together here. We’ll make room for your full self—your questions, your emotions, your healing. One step at time.

Have you ever felt that forming and maintaining relationships, engaging in consistent self-care, or navigating everyday "adulting" feels more challenging for you than those around you? Do you struggle to “be yourself” or even understand what that truly looks like? Are you caught in the feeling of being either “too much” or “not enough?” Whether you’re in the early stages of exploring a potential neurodivergent identity, or processing a recent self or formal diagnosis, I’m here to support you. I’m passionate about working with clients on this journey, helping them navigate the complex emotions that often arise—excitement, curiosity, and validation in discovering more about who you are, alongside grief and anger for the time spent feeling othered or broken. This is a deeply personal journey, and together, we can create a path that honors your unique experiences and needs. In our work together, we will focus on helping you: • Find confidence in navigating healthy relationships • Learn how to self-advocate • Identify neurodivergent-affirming people and spaces • Break free from the cycle of high achievement and burnout • Become attuned to the needs of your nervous system and develop skills to better regulate its responses I work with individuals who are often left on the margins of traditional therapy models—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent individuals who may have been made to feel that their identities or experiences don’t fit the mold. In our sessions, you’ll never be asked to minimize or hide any part of yourself. I believe in creating a space where all parts of you are welcome—your personality, culture, and lived experiences are integral to the work we do. My approach is both challenging and supportive, direct yet affirming. I’m committed to creating a therapy space that values your autonomy and centers your lived experiences, particularly if you hold marginalized identities. As a therapist, I weave lessons of self-advocacy and resilience into our work, always mindful of the broader oppressive systems we navigate. I encourage clients to provide feedback on our therapy relationship so that together, we can create a dynamic that serves you best without reinforcing harmful systems of power or control. I also believe that self-disclosure and authentic expression are crucial in our work together. Therapy is not just about following outdated rules of professionalism but about showing up fully as ourselves, both therapist and client. This authenticity allows us to build a stronger, more human connection, which is at the heart of meaningful healing and growth.

Navigating today’s world can be challenging enough—finding culturally competent therapeutic support shouldn’t add to that burden. I am committed to providing a safe, empathetic, and compassionate space where we can collaboratively explore and address your concerns. Using a relational, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach, I strive to truly understand your unique journey and support your path toward health, wellness, and growth. As a therapist, I bring a social justice lens to my work, recognizing the impact that systems of oppression and marginalization can have on mental health. I am dedicated to offering culturally competent care that honors your identity and lived experiences. Together, we will explore how these dynamics influence your personal challenges, while also empowering you to navigate and resist these barriers with resilience and strength. I recognize that trust is at the core of an effective therapeutic relationship, and I am dedicated to earning your trust through genuine care, understanding, and respect for your lived experiences. Together, we will work to create a supportive environment where you can reflect on how these experiences have shaped your life. By building a foundation of psychoeducation, emotional tools, acceptance, and self-compassion, we can empower you to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Taking the step to seek therapy is an act of courage, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable—it takes immense courage to seek support, especially from someone you don’t yet know. My goal is to demystify and destigmatize the therapy process so we can walk together toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. In our work, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing and identify what might be keeping you stuck. You’ll be met with warmth, curiosity, and compassion as we co-create a space that honors your full, intersectional self and empowers you to live more authentically. ​ I work with individuals across the lifespan, and I especially enjoy supporting children, teens, and families. For young children, I use play therapy as a developmentally appropriate approach that allows them to express feelings, process difficult experiences, and build coping skills through play. With teens and families, I offer a space to navigate identity development, life transitions, and family dynamics with empathy and cultural responsiveness. I also collaborate with parents and caregivers to strengthen relationships and promote emotional connection. In addition to individual and family therapy, I work with couples navigating communication difficulties, disconnection, and relationship challenges. I provide a supportive and affirming environment for partners of all backgrounds and relationship configurations to explore their needs, repair trust, and strengthen their bond. My practice is rooted in a culturally responsive, anti-oppressive framework that affirms the lived experiences of BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and others with marginalized identities. I’m particularly passionate about supporting clients who are navigating intergenerational trauma, racial trauma, and systemic oppression. I also deeply value working with men and masculine-identified individuals, especially those who have internalized messages that discourage vulnerability and emotional expression. Creating space for these clients to heal and grow has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work. ​Together, we’ll create a space where your experiences are seen and your story is honored—where you feel empowered to grow into the fullest, most liberated version of yourself.

I work primarily with young men in college and graduate school who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. You may be struggling with substances, pornography or sexual behaviors, gambling, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, or problems with motivation and direction. As a former university professor, I understand the pressures of academic life a. I offer compassionate, direct, evidence-based therapy to help you understand what's happening, build practical skills, and move forward.

I work best with people who are carrying a lot at once, whether that’s anxiety, relationships that keep hurting them, substance use that feels out of control, or old experiences they’re finally ready to look at. They usually appear fine on the outside but feel worn down on the inside. What they share is knowing something needs to change and being ready to do the hard work to shift old patterns. If that sounds like you, I’d love for you to reach out!

My style is collaborative, supportive, and practical. I believe therapy works best when clients feel both heard and challenged, so I balance compassion with encouragement to try new approaches and perspectives. I draw from evidence-based practices, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and strengths-based approaches, while also tailoring sessions to each client’s needs. I often work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity challenges. Whether we are addressing immediate stressors or exploring deeper patterns, my focus is on helping clients build resilience, develop meaningful insights, and create lasting change.

We all deserve the space to be seen and heard. I'm a genuine therapist who will meet you where you are and work with you on your unique path to self-discovery. I'm a therapist who is already your advocate because I deeply believe you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect no matter who you are. In the counseling room, you'll find me to be genuine, creative, and laid back. Cup of coffee in hand, I'm here to journey alongside you! Online sessions also available.

I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience providing psychotherapy (particularly with high achieving students), clinical supervision, training, administration, and consultation. Prior to opening my private practice, I worked in higher education as a director of counseling services and in other administrator roles at Emory University, Duke University, and American University. I am licensed in Georgia and North Carolina. I believe that we all come into this world with unique gifts and traits that provide a framework for who we are. That framework is further shaped - in both healthy and painful ways - by life experiences with family, peers, loved ones, work, identity development, and society. Psychotherapy offers us the opportunity to understand how we've come to be the person we are today, make peace with the past, recognize our unique gifts, and move into the future with a clearer vision of the life we want to create and how to get there. As a therapist, I feel incredibly blessed to be able to participate in this amazing journey with clients who are on a path of self-discovery and healing. Therapy can be uncomfortable and painful at times, but it is also a path to hope, greater intimacy, a sense of agency, self-love, and deep joy! My approach to therapy is to be an active, trusted partner with you in your developmental journey of self-discovery and healing. My intention is to be an attentive listener, emotionally present, caring, non-judgmental, transparent, and direct in providing feedback. I am invested in helping you meet your therapy goals. My theoretical perspective incorporates psychodynamic, existential, multicultural, and trauma informed frameworks. I believe the process of change in therapy happens as you: (1) gain insight into the themes and relational patterns in your life, many of which you may not be consciously aware of yet; (2) better understand your internal world including your emotions, fantasies, dreams, and bodily reactions to stress; (3) appreciate the external, societal, and systemic factors influencing your life circumstances; and (4) are able to take responsibility for your life choices and your unique process of individuation as you strive to become the best version of yourself. While my theoretical approach leans toward depth, relational, and insight-oriented perspectives, I am flexible in my approach and work to match your unique needs and therapy goals. If you would like to talk with me about possibly working together, please visit my website or email me (dr.wanda.collins@gmail.com) to schedule a free, 20-minute consultation appointment. I would like to congratulate you for taking this important step on your path to healing and self-discovery. It takes a lot of courage to begin the therapy process and, whether it's with me or another therapist, I wish you well on your journey.

Pain shows up in many forms — in your body, your emotions, and your closest relationships — and none of it is simple. I work with chronic pain, addiction, relationship strain, and the experience of feeling disconnected from self and others. My approach isn’t about merely eliminating these challenges, but about supporting you as a whole person living with them. Together, through individual, couples, or family therapy, we explore the patterns and meanings behind what you’ve carried, creating space for relief, deeper connection, and a more grounded way of moving through your life.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I help folks with Eating Disorders and other people who want to find a positive and peaceful relationship with food, who are ready for an alternative to prescriptive diets and fads, and looking for a more sustainable solution to their eating woes: whether that physical symptoms, dysfunctional eating, negative body image, or food preoccupation. I use utilize the principles of Intuitive Eating and operate from a weight-neutral lens, meaning focus on behaviors and measurable health outcomes (both physical and psychological) vs. a weight-centric approach and over-reliance on BMI (a wildly inappropriate tool for individual assessment). Evidence-based nutrition counseling services from a license professional are offered via Telehealth or in person at my Decatur office, to folks living in Georgia who want a whole-person and collaborative approach to wellness.

Life can sometimes be difficult, and stressful when you are going to college and preparing for your future. I am passionate about listening to you share your concerns, and helping clients find solutions to a wide range of life stressors. As a client, you can expect to be supported every step of the way on your recovery journey. You can expect to receive compassionate, confidential support, and develop practical tools for lasting recovery and life transformation.

The process of starting or reentering counseling can be overwhelming but a brave step towards improving your wellness. I honor that step by committing myself to meet you where you are, sit with you in whatever emotion arises, and offer you a safe and relaxed environment to discuss your concerns. As your therapist, I will work with you to collaboratively create a road map to greater health using our alliance and therapeutic tools along the way. We will work together to identify your goals, beliefs, and assets; process life stress; and empower your life for greater wellness, however you define this. I offer Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Exposure (ERP), Strength-Based and Person-Centered services for adults and young adults, addressing symptoms of anxiety, OCD, stress, life transitions, relationships, and ADHD. Through my Masters and Doctoral work as well as my background teaching and supervising Master's level clinicians, I have created a therapeutic approach that is not only centered around YOU, the client, but incorporates practices that are backed by scientific evidence. It is my greatest desire to use what I know to see you grow and live the life you want.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I am a warm, caring counselor with a direct style. I believe that we are capable of much more than we oftentimes give ourselves credit for; an experienced ear and fresh perspective can help make the difference between simply surviving and thriving. It would be my honor to help you achieve more. I specialize in working with people struggling with mood problems and anxiety symptoms. I also love helping people overcome challenges associated with trauma and troublesome histories. I approach the therapeutic relationship with a deep respect for your preferences, strengths and desires. My office is ITP, conveniently located on Buford Highway between Lenox and North Druid Hills.

I find myself often working with high-achieving folks who have been thrown one too many curve balls in life. Whether it's a life transition, a break up, overwhelm with work, stress with family members, or a death, these folks find themselves at the end of their rope and needing to find a pressure-release valve.

Hello! I am a sex-positive psychologist with specialized training in increasing “cliteracy” and working with sexual functioning concerns (orgasm difficulties, pain during sex, low sexual desire). My generalist expertise includes anxiety, relationship concerns (friends, family, and romantic), body image, grief, spirituality, and depression. I provide individual and and couples therapy to clients of all sexual/gender/kink/CNM identities. I know it can be hard to start therapy or to share our true emotional selves with a new person (even over video!) I use my down to earth nature, compassion, intuition, natural curiosity, – and sometimes even humor- to gently guide your growth. Together, we can explore experiences, emotions or barriers preventing you from living your most meaningful life. I value processing how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to distress and pain. I have seen how the combination of a trusting therapeutic relationship, honoring your inner truths, and compassionately connecting to your emotions can nurture lasting change. “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” ― Rumi. Let's embark on this healing journey together.