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!
Our practice completes psychoeducational evaluations for students who may have learning, attention, and/or executive functioning difficulties. We work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in determining strengths and weaknesses and providing information regarding accommodations. We complete the assessments needed to apply for accommodations in college, or for standardized testing through the college board (such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, LSAT, etc.)
Many university students seek support when the usual ways of coping stop working. Even high-achieving, motivated students can find themselves struggling to focus, stay organized, manage emotions, or just feel like themselves. It’s not always obvious what’s going on at first—but there’s often more beneath the surface. I work with students dealing with: ADHD – trouble with focus, time management, procrastination, or follow-through Anxiety – persistent worry, racing thoughts, panic, or physical symptoms like tension or trouble sleeping Depression – low energy, lack of motivation, disconnection, or loss of interest in things that used to matter OCD – intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, mental loops that are hard to break Trauma – past experiences that affect how you respond to stress, relationships, or daily life Bipolar disorder – changes in mood, sleep, or energy that feel destabilizing or confusing Neurodivergence – navigating a world not built for your brain, and looking for care that meets you where you are Some students are already on medication and want to review or adjust their treatment. Others are starting from the beginning, looking to understand what’s going on and what options are available. Either way, the goal is the same: to feel more grounded, more capable, and more like yourself again. I offer convenient virtual appointments that can be requested online, as well as in-person visits at our Scottdale, GA location.
As a therapist, I work with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. Having particular insight into dysfunctional family systems, I offer compassionate support for those navigating complex family-of-origin experiences. At the heart of my practice is the belief that everyone possesses the capacity to heal and grow. I create a therapeutic environment characterized by compassion and curiosity, providing a safe space for clients to explore experiences, discover strengths, and move toward meaningful change. I specialize in working with clients who want to heal from the experience of growing up in addicted or dysfunctional family systems. By examining childhood trauma and generational patterns, we will work to foster the emotional growth, improved relationships, and freedom from codependency that emerge when we rediscover our authentic selves and live in alignment with our personal integrity. I also worked in student affairs/higher education administration for 13 years and have extensive experience supporting young adults through the various challenges of adjusting to, navigating, and transitioning to life after college and graduate school.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Are you an undergraduate or graduate student struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or non-stop overthinking? You might feel overwhelmed by academic pressure, social or relationship stress, internship/job searching, or family issues. Therapy can give you a space to make sense of it all and actually start feeling relief. My style is warm, thoughtful, and direct. Together, we’ll explore how your experiences shape your thought patterns while building practical strategies to manage difficult thoughts and emotions so you can navigate life with more clarity, confidence, and ease. Visit my website or contact me via email to for a free 15 minute phone consultation or to schedule an appointment.
Do you often feel anxious or overwhelmed, more than you'd like? Is it impacting your relationships or your ability to function? Maybe you feel frazzled or out of control, or you're navigating a significant loss or life transition that feels especially challenging. Therapy can bring clarity and support meaningful change. I support clients experiencing overwhelm & anxiety, difficult life transitions and grief by customizing care and equipping each client with easily accessible tools. I take an integrative approach by utilizing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and also drawing from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). My services are specialized to meet the unique needs of women because women’s physical & mental wellness is unique! Creating a safe, inclusive environment, cultivating a genuine relationship and laughter are all important to me. I deeply appreciate being able to learn as much or more from my clients as I have from my training and experience.
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.
Life is all about relationships. Relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and our community. While relationships can often bring us great joy, they can also sometimes generate feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. Through our therapeutic partnership, I will help you build the skills to better manage these disruptive feelings and gain insight into your behaviors, ultimately allowing you to find balance and fulfillment. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds and take particular interest in women’s issues such as empowerment and identity. My environment is safe and inclusive, allowing you to feel comfortable exploring yourself. I believe each person comes to therapy with a unique set of experiences and expectations, therefore, I customize my therapeutic approach to meet your needs while also offering new perspectives. It would be a privilege to be a part of your journey, helping you and your relationships reach their greatest potential.
Lauren Shemain, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Georgia and New York. She graduated with a Master in Social Work from New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Lauren is the owner of New Perspectives Psychotherapy, LLC. She specializes in providing individual therapy to young adults, adults, and older adults. Lauren is skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, and relationship and familial conflicts. Lauren’s approach is eclectic and integrative and introduces techniques from multiple theoretical orientations including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Mindfulness Practices, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Strength-based Interventions. These interventions are tailored to meet the needs of the individual client. Lauren Shemain, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Georgia and New York. She graduated with a Master in Social Work from New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Lauren is the owner of New Perspectives Psychotherapy, LLC. She specializes in providing individual therapy to young adults, adults, and older adults. Lauren is skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, and relationship and familial conflicts. Lauren’s approach is eclectic and integrative and introduces techniques from multiple theoretical orientations including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Strength-based Interventions. These interventions are tailored to meet the needs of the individual client.
If you're navigating life’s challenges, exploring who you are, or simply looking for a space to reflect and grow, I’m here to help. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and families to understand their emotions, process their experiences, and find clarity in moving forward. Whether it's managing stress, building more positive relationships, learning to advocate for oneself, or developing healthier coping skills, I would love to support you in discovering practical solutions and making choices that promote your well-being. I tailor my approach to fit you, drawing from behavioral theories with outcome-focused qualities. I aim to foster genuine and meaningful relationships with each of my clients so that we can work together toward creating a supportive space for growth, healing, motivated change, hope, and self-discovery.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.