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Therapists for college students near University of Pennsylvania

Photo of Mark Shoaf Professional Counseling - Choices-n-Changes
Mark Shoaf Professional Counseling - Choices-n-Changes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

I am Mark Shoaf and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Coach in Fox Chapel. Counseling is my second career. I previously spent 20 years working in higher education - first at IUP and then at Penn State. My goal is to create a warm safe place and a relaxed place for you to explore, to discuss and to learn. The ultimate goal is for you to feel empowered in your life and to have HOPE. Changing or healing often require learning new skills so my approach is as much about coaching as it is about counseling. Our sessions will be engaging. I perform improv comedy in Pittsburgh. I think the ability to laugh is a key skill in coping and I use laughter in my therapy. It isn't always important to be serious as long as you are serious about things that are important, I also have a coffee bar. Some folks come for the comedy and coffee and stay for the counseling. LOL The funny things about life's hurts, they generally do not just get better on their own. Running from a problem is a race we will never win. My primary counseling modes are Cognitive Dissonance and Reframing and REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy) I am a merchant of HOPE that is custom made for you. Bus stops right at my front door (75 Ellsworth and 91 Butler St). I offer a self pay option at a reduced rate for students who may not want to use their parent's insurance for privacy purposes.

Photo of Abby Ritter
Abby Ritter
Licensed Professional Counselor
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

I specialize in supporting college students through the complex intersections of life and healing, with a primary focus on somatic sex therapy, grief therapy, and the unique challenges faced by college students. Whether you are navigating the deep pain of loss, seeking to reconnect with your body and sexuality, or managing the pressures of academic and transitional life, I am here to help. I weave a holistic mindfulness approach throughout my therapeutic work by incorporating mind-body awareness practices such as breathwork, meditation, and relaxation techniques. These techniques aim to increase the client’s sense of well-being, decrease stress, improve confidence, allow for new perspectives, and restore balance to the client’s life. Together, we will identify your specific goals and collaborate on a tailored plan that promotes your personal growth and well-being.

Photo of Amy Gamble-Moore, LCSW
Amy Gamble-Moore, LCSW
Group practice
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Or possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself in order to heal and better cope. With over 14 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss. I also have a sensitivity to and awareness of the needs of diverse populations and have experience providing faith-based counseling for clients interested in using their faith as a strength and support.

Photo of Jackie Shaffer
Jackie Shaffer
Licensed Professional Counselor
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

I bring a warm and steady presence, a gentle sense of humor, and a genuine curiosity about your story to sessions. We will start where you are, and can work collaboratively to help you find meaningful change. The therapeutic relationship is essential in taking vulnerable and challenging steps in therapy, and this principle is at the heart of my practice with each person. I can incorporate Narrative Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (Parts Work), nature, and writing into sessions depending on your needs and interests.

Photo of Breakthrough Counseling Services
Breakthrough Counseling Services
Group practice
Jefferson, MD
Accepting new clients

At Breakthrough Counseling, our focus is on you and your journey to healing. With Telehealth options available and providers licensed in multiple states, this means that no matter where you are, we are here to help you breakthrough to a new you! Multiple providers offer a wide range of expertise in different areas, including: individual, child/adolescent, family, marriage, as well as medication management. Our team strives to provide the best quality of care. We have a varying network of professionals available to walk you through any hardships or struggles that life brings. We have immediate, open appointments available for you now.

Photo of Alecia Denillo, LPC, LMHC
Alecia Denillo, LPC, LMHC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Accepting new clients

Stuck in a loop of overthinking? Constantly putting everyone else first and running on empty? You don't need to have it perfectly figured out before reaching out — that's exactly what we're here to work through together. I specialize in anxiety, self-doubt, recovery, and the patterns that keep you over-functioning for everyone but yourself. My approach is direct and collaborative — we identify what's actually keeping you stuck, build real tools for boundaries and decision-making, and work toward the kind of self-trust that makes daily life feel less exhausting. You don't have to earn your rest or wait for a crisis to ask for help. Reach out today — let's build a foundation that actually lasts. *Insurance & Fees* I am in-network with Aetna, Northwell Direct, and Quest Behavioral Health. For all other major insurance companies, I am an out of network provider. My office provides a superbill for you to submit for reimbursement and we will assist you in verifying your benefits to make the process as seamless as possible. I also offer a sliding scale rate for those in need. Please reach out to learn more about how we can start this work.

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Inner Prism Counseling LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

We are a small group therapy practice serving clients in person in Pittsburgh, PA and via telehealth throughout Pennsylvania. Our practice centers the needs and experiences of marginalized people and populations, especially those who are LGBTQIA+ people, neurodivergent, or practicing alternative relationship structures (e.g., ethical nonmonogamy). All of our clinicians have lived experience with at least one of these topics, and we are committed to inclusive, trauma-informed care. Check out our clinician bios on our website to see if we sound like a good fit for your needs, and feel free to contact us with questions!

Photo of Gene-Leigh Wheeler (she/her)
Gene-Leigh Wheeler (she/her)
Licensed Professional Counselor
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

We are a liberation-focused therapy and consulting practice offering affirming care, regardless of your identity, we’re here to offer our support and ALL are welcome. Our practice emphasizes affirming care for queer, neurodivergent, and marginalized communities because these groups often struggle to find safe providers. At the same time, therapy is for anyone seeking personal growth and support. You don’t have to hold a marginalized identity to benefit from what we offer – we’re here for the full range of human experience. We believe that healing is inseparable from justice. We offer therapy from a perspective that acknowledges systems of power and oppression. We exist to affirm and support the marginalized identities that are most impacted by systemic injustice and harm. We also recognize our shortcomings and lack of power. We can’t change systemic injustice, but we are dedicated to ongoing education and training that equips us to do our very best at offering support for marginalized groups.

Photo of Karina Spinder
Karina Spinder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

I’m a Licensed Social Worker in Pennsylvania with a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and reconnect with their inner strength. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life transitions, emotion dysregulation, and family or relationship challenges. I also specialize in supporting clients through emerging adulthood—those transformative years of identity development, shifting relationships, and new responsibilities. My approach is warm, collaborative, and individualized. Drawing from a strengths-based and humanistic perspective, I incorporate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe therapy is a partnership built on trust, compassion, and curiosity. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions and strive to create a safe, welcoming space for growth and healing. You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin—taking the first step is often the most powerful one.

Photo of Stephen Hoschar
Stephen Hoschar
Group practice
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

Welcome! My name is Stephen. I understand that seeking therapy can feel like a big step, it is important to choose a counselor that makes you feel comfortable and supported. My approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, aimed at creating a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights you need to live a more fulfilling, balanced life. I utilize an evidence-based and holistic approach to helping adult clients struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality disorder, Anger Management, Addiction, Interpersonal Issues, Identity Issues, Grief/Loss, Stress, and ADHD management. My approach to therapy is rooted in Client Centered Therapy. I will incorporate elements of Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that it is important to provide clients with an environment that promotes genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My professional background includes community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, substance use rehabs, and private practice. I am skilled in working with individuals of diverse cultural backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community. If you’re ready to start your journey toward healing, reach out today!

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Centre Insight Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
State College, PA

I’m an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist based in State College, Pennsylvania, offering in-person and virtual therapy for adults across the state. I use Internal Family Systems (IFS)/parts work, attachment therapy, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, somatic awareness, and humanistic–existential approaches for adults 18 and over. I've also worked for 5 years as a Rape Crisis Counselor answering calls for a rape crisis hotline. Whether you're a Penn State student seeking support or a Pennsylvania resident seeking mental health care, I provide a safe, inclusive space to heal and grow. I can work on reduced rates, and I welcome clients seeking affordable therapy. Now accepting new clients—reach out to schedule a free consultation. You don't need to walk your path alone. With the right support, therapeutic tools, and commitment to the deep work, new healing pathways from within you can emerge. Please reach out if you want to chat further about working together, it would be an honor to serve you.

Photo of Natalie McCormick Counseling
Natalie McCormick Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Pittsburgh, PA
Accepting new clients

***Available for same week appointments for students required to complete Mandated Assessment & Compliance treatment. College can be a simultaneously exhilarating, yet terrifying time in life, identity, relationships, future and more. I'm here to help you sort through it all. Let's work together to help you create and enact your best life: whatever that means and looks like to you! As your therapist, my goal is to create a comfortable space to help you work towards your goals. I offer video sessions from wherever you are! Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation call.

Photo of Tracy Steen
Tracy Steen
Psychologist
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

I provide individual, couples, and family therapy in person in Philadelphia, and I can see clients virtually in most states including New York. Because I completed my postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and was the director of Penn's O’Brien Center for Addiction Treatment, I have extensive experience with the needs of Penn students. I work well with student athletes, including those who are recovering from injuries. I am very familiar with the application processes for medical school, veterinary school, law school, and business school--and with careers in competitive industries such as consulting, investment banking, private equity, hedge funds, and real estate development. I can help students with burnout and academic stress as well as anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt. In addition to working with Penn Students, I also have experience with students from NYU, Georgetown, the University of Michigan, Yale, Brown, Fordham, Drexel, Bryn Mawr, Villanova, St. Joe's, Cornell, the University of Delaware, the University of Pittsburgh, American University, Penn State, Thomas Jefferson University, SUNY Upstate Medical University, and many other schools. I have helped students to find meaningful romantic relationships and to heal earlier relationship injuries that may be getting in the way of intimacy. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can be very helpful for overcoming childhood and relationship wounding. More broadly, I am skilled at helping with career coaching, anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, grief, loneliness and addiction. I also work with people to improve their relationships with social media and screens. My style is nonjudgmental and flexible. I often use EMDR to help people to work through stressful or traumatic events and to better understand themselves. Depending on the client’s goals, I can integrate CBT, DBT, and solution-oriented approaches. I have extensive training in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and, for couples, IFIO (Intimacy from the Inside Out). I also have specialized training in the CRAFT approach for how to talk to loved ones about addictive behaviors without hurting the relationship. Using EMDR, I can help people to address the root causes of complex issues like addiction. My background is in positive psychology and addiction. My postdoctoral fellowship at Penn was in positive psychology. From that I learned to help people to use their strengths to build happier lives and careers.

Photo of Intersection Therapy, LLC
Intersection Therapy, LLC
Group practice
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

At Intersection Therapy, we hope to meet your needs and help you find effective ways to process your stress! Meeting individuals where they are, Our therapists provide art therapy, EMDR, and verbal counseling interchangeably. We encourage individuals to face their own ambivalence to process the uncomfortable topics brought out in therapy through artistic introspection. Finding the words to describe your life challenges and accomplishments will be made conscious through various creative processes in your sessions. ​ We have each learned to blend empathy, support, equality, and validation for each of the life events that you are needing to process. The best way to provide you the appropriate space for change is meeting you where you are as it pertains to your journey for change. We have each worked in various settings within the mental health community including residential treatment, acute inpatient, alternative and regular education, in-home based counseling, and most recently private practice serving children, adolescents, adults, families, and individuals in relationships. As a Latinx and LGBTQIA+ owned/run practice, we hope to provide a safe therapeutic space to the individuals seeking support through our practice! ​ We look forward to building a lasting therapeutic alliance with you at whatever intersection of life you are in.

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Elwyn Outpatient Services
Clinic or agency
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

We offer both in-person and virtual (phone and teams) therapy options and have a diverse team of clinicians available to help match individuals based on their clinical needs, treatment goals, and preferences. Current Availability: Averaging less than 5 days from referral to intake Individual Therapy: Immediate availability DBT – Adults: No waitlist Medication Management: Available Spravato Services: Accepting referrals Program Highlight: Spravato Services Our Spravato (esketamine) program is currently accepting referrals for individuals who may benefit from an alternative treatment option for treatment-resistant depression. Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment administered in a monitored outpatient setting. Our team works with individuals throughout the referral and treatment process to help determine eligibility, coordinate care, and provide ongoing support. If you are working with an individual who has experienced persistent depressive symptoms despite previous treatment, we encourage you to reach out to our team to discuss whether Spravato may be an appropriate treatment option. Services Available at Preston Street Individual Outpatient Therapy Adult DBT Medication Management Perinatal Specialty Services Spravato Services We welcome referrals from hospitals, crisis programs, inpatient and residential programs, primary care providers, schools, and community organizations. Our team is happy to discuss clinical fit, answer questions, and assist with coordinating a smooth transition into care. Referral / Intake Information Phone: 215-895-5588, Option 2 Email: preston.intake@elwyn.org

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Kimberly Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

Starting or returning to college can bring up unique challenges—navigating relationships, managing stress, adjusting to new independence, or figuring out who you are and what you want. I work best with students who are thoughtful, curious, and open to exploring their inner world, even if that feels a little intimidating at first. Many of my clients are balancing academics with the ups and downs of friendships, family, dating, and questions about their identity. My practice is LGBTQ-affirming and welcoming to students of all backgrounds. I provide a calm and supportive space where you can slow down, untangle what feels overwhelming, and begin to feel more grounded. Whether you’re seeking clarity in relationships, support with stress or anxiety, or a place to process deeper emotions, therapy can be a meaningful step toward feeling more connected and at ease with yourself. I look forward to supporting you!

Photo of Jennifer Yalof-Tufenkjian
Jennifer Yalof-Tufenkjian
Psychologist
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

Hello! Much of my training was devoted to working in college counseling centers such as the University of Pennsylvania, MIT, and others. I primarily meet with young adults, including college students, graduate students, and the international student population in general. I also have niche experience working with all types of medical professionals. I would look forward to hearing from you.

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PeaceTree Counseling & Consulting
Group practice
King of Prussia, PA
Accepting new clients

We believe that finding the right therapist is finding someone who can be there for you throughout your life, for both times of need and phases of growth. As a practice, we believe that those who go to therapy are some of the most well-balanced individuals who understand themselves better and strive to grow into the best version of themselves. We are a collaborative practice with offices located in Center City Philadelphia and King of Prussia, PA ready to work with you in coping with a broad range of life challenges. Our community of therapists strives for excellence in treatment and compassion to each individual, couple, and family. Taking the first step to contact a therapist can be overwhelming. We understand that and are ready to answer any questions you may have and match you with a specialized therapist who can help YOU.

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Ashley Seiver
Executive Functioning Coach
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

Everyone has things in life they want or need to do. As an occupational therapist, I believe that satisfaction stems from engaging in activities that align with one's values. Therefore, my work focuses on guiding individuals to engage in occupations they find meaningful; These could include adopting healthier lifestyle habits, enhancing organization skills, excelling in academic or professional settings, building social connections, managing stress, and more. Through a collaborative and conversation-based approach, I work with clients to identify goals, harness inner strengths, and overcome obstacles to making meaningful change. I work with individuals seeking support in areas such as attention, motivation, sensory processing, relationship building, and time management. While I work with people of all ages, I have a particular passion for supporting college students and young professionals as they navigate the complexities of adulthood and discover their unique paths to fulfillment. My practice is guided by my doctoral work on motivation and resiliency and prioritizes trauma processing to facilitate healing & engagement. I strive to create a warm environment where clients feel accepted and understood. Wherever you’re at on your journey, it would be my honor to help you to discover greater meaning and satisfaction in your life.

Photo of Peter D. Ruffini
Peter D. Ruffini
Licensed Professional Counselor
Philadelphia, PA
Accepting new clients

You’ve had enough of the shame, secrecy, and broken promises tied to pornography addiction. You’re capable and successful—yet inside you feel stuck. Trying harder hasn’t worked. Rules, willpower, and white-knuckling fail over time. For some, a relationship they care about is at risk. For others, it’s the quiet fear of where this is heading if nothing changes. For those dealing with porn or sexual addiction, generic counseling isn’t enough. This depth of work requires a specialized, focused approach that addresses what’s actually driving the behavior—not just trying to stop it. I’m Pete, founder of Proven Path Counseling—an award-winning psychotherapist with 15 years of experience serving PA & NJ, specializing in porn and sex addiction. I’m recognized as a trusted authority in men’s issues and sexual addiction, training and supervising other clinicians and appearing in media on sexual addiction, trauma, and men’s mental health. Clients value my active, direct, and encouraging approach—real accountability, practical tools, and work that targets the drivers beneath the patterns so change actually lasts. That's why men and other therapists trust my work. If you’re here, you’ve already taken an important first step. Reach out for a free consultation to see if we're a good fit.

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