Therapists for college students near 80309

Hi, I’m Joanna Lester—founder of First Circle Therapy, a Colorado-based virtual practice. I specialize in working with college and grad students who are thoughtful, creative, and sensitive—but overwhelmed by the pressure to keep it all together. If you're juggling deadlines, relationships, family expectations, and big questions about who you're becoming, you might feel anxious, unmotivated, burned out, or just not yourself. You’re not alone—and therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what really matters to you. Our work can help you move through cycles of self-doubt, people-pleasing, or perfectionism and into a more grounded, self-led life. Whether you're processing trauma, navigating identity shifts, or learning to set healthier boundaries, I offer space to explore your inner world with clarity and care. In our sessions, we’ll use nervous system tools (to help your body shift out of fight-or-flight and feel more at ease) and parts work (to help the different sides of you—like the achiever, avoider, or inner critic—work together instead of against each other). You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. I offer free consultations to see if we’re a fit, and I accept several major insurance plans to make therapy more accessible. Feel free to reach out—no pressure.

Are you feeling depressed? Do you or a loved one struggle with substance use? Do you want to make changes, but find yourself doing the same thing over and over again and not know where to even start? Maybe you're at a loss on how to move forward. I can help you get unstuck and navigate complex issues. We all need strategies to focus on what matters most to us. My intention is to create a safe space for you to talk openly, feel understood, and unburden yourself from intense emotions. Together, we will develop a plan to move forward so that you can take the next steps towards healing and restoration.

College life can feel like a whirlwind—full of change, pressure, expectations, and questions about who you are and where you’re headed. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or struggling with self-medicating behaviors like drinking too much, you’re not alone. At Trailside Therapy, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can talk through the challenges you’re facing—whether it’s stress, relationships, identity, academic pressure, trauma, or navigating major life transitions. My approach is person-centered, empathetic, and focused on meeting you right where you are. Therapy doesn’t have to feel clinical or intimidating. It can be a place where you feel safe to explore, process, and find hope again.

I tend to work well with people who spend a lot of time in their heads. Maybe you overthink, struggle with doubt, get stuck on certain thoughts, questions, or fears, or find yourself searching for a sense of certainty that never seems to last. Maybe you struggle with anxiety, OCD, stress, burnout, trauma, perfectionism, or simply feel “stuck” in cycles you can’t seem to break. Our work is about getting unstuck. It’s about reconnecting with your life. It’s about having more freedom to live it. OCD is a particular interest of mine and part of why I started this practice. It is a complex disorder that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, in part because of the narrow way we tend to talk about it. I want to provide a space where the complexity of the experience is understood. I strive to be warm, genuine, curious, and completely nonjudgmental. Therapy is personal, and finding the right therapist matters. If you’re wondering whether I might be the right fit for you, I share much more about myself and my approach on my website. And if you decide to reach out, I encourage you to do so imperfectly. You don’t need to overthink this.

Has someone gone quiet when you mentioned how your person died, or said "at least they're at peace now"? Grief after a suicide or overdose loss carries an isolation most people never have to explain. If that's you, or you're facing any sudden death, painful breakup, ambiguous loss, or traumatic transition, you don't have to carry it alone. As founder of Vargas Counseling and Consulting and a nationally-recognized grief therapist, DU Graduate School of Social Work professor, and Director of Grief Outreach Programs, I've worked with thousands of bereaved individuals and trained dozens of clinicians and peer helpers in complex loss. I provide highly specialized, trauma-informed grief counseling rooted in Narrative Therapy and relational care. We won't try to "fix" your pain or rush your timeline. Instead, I leverage my deep expertise to help you safely externalize the weight of your loss, process emotional trauma, and gently rebuild meaning, clarity, and hope for your future. You do not have to carry this heavy isolation alone. Healing from painful loss starts by taking one small step. I invite you to reach out today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation call. Let’s connect, see if we are a good match, and begin navigating this path together. Your story, your history, and your grief matter deeply here.

Alexandra Gray is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Colorado who has been practicing since 2022. Her specialties are the dual neurotype of Autism & ADHD, Chronic Anxiety/C-PTSD, and affirming care for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. A significant portion of her practice deals with navigating complexities and liminal spaces around neurodivergence and alternative lifestyles (the “Standard Issue Model Society vs. Specialty Model Human” conundrum). This forms an umbrella over the other themes within her practice, which include improving quality of life for Data Gatherer/Transmitter and Innovator Neurotypes, navigating the road from Religious Trauma to Found Family, Shame and Self-Esteem, OCD, and the yearning to chase Emotionally Unavailable Caregivers. In addition, she is a Kink-affirming therapist who recognizes that “normal” is always diverse. Alexandra has two advanced certifications in evidence-based support for Autistic folks and ADHDers, and she prioritizes taking therapist continuing education (CE) classes to better serve her clients. As of January 2026, she has completed 49 CEs in Autism and 58 CEs in ADHD. Her process with ADHDers and Autistic clients combines specific, practical solutions, strategies, and assistive tools, with processing and internal work to meet the individual’s goals. As an Alternative Lifestyle-affirming member of the Queer Community, she arrived at her specialties through a combination of formal training and lived experience. Her core treatment models are Solution-Focused Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy (which falls under the umbrella of ACT), and Somatic Modalities. She also draws from DBT, Attachment Theory, and CBT. She happily refers clients to western prescribers, registered herbalists, rootworkers, as well as shamans for holistic, worldview-affirming care. In her free time, Alexandra enjoys creative writing, gaming (PC and board), kayaking, and spending time with loved ones. Prior to her clinical training, Alexandra completed a research internship under Dr. June Gruber at the Yale Positive Emotion & Psychopathology Lab (before Dr. Gruber moved to CU-Boulder). Her biggest still-relevant clinical takeaway was learning that Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder are among the most common misdiagnoses for AFAB Autistic people.

I am a therapist specializing in a wide range of concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, identity issues, LGBTQIA+ identity and relationships, life transitions, men's health, relationship issues, self-esteem, sexual health, stress management, and student mental health — working with patients of all ages. With more than eight years of experience in direct care mental health settings and a background as a former educator, I bring a unique perspective to the therapeutic relationship. I believe that healing is a collaborative process and am committed to working alongside people from all walks of life to help you navigate your challenges and discover solutions that are right for you. My practice is founded on evidence-based and integrative modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, and collaborative approaches. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method, I tailor therapy to meet you where you are. My goal is to create a space where processing your experiences, build new understanding, and work toward meaningful goals all come together, so that every session moves you forward in a way that feels both grounded and purposeful. My path to becoming a therapist grew naturally out of my work as an educator. Many of my former students sought me out specifically, recognizing that they needed someone to direct and honest with them about their patterns and behaviors. Being surrounded by therapists throughout that time, I found myself continually inspired by the depth and impact of their work. That inspiration led me here. Today, I bring that same directness into the therapy room, helping you explore how your feelings and emotions connect to your history and how patterns, often without our awareness. By shining a light on those cycles, we can begin to understand them and, together, find a new way forward. Outside of the office, you can find me practicing hot yoga, spending time outdoors, playing video games, making art, or catching up on reality TV. These varied interests keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of joy, creativity, and rest, all values I bring into my work with you.

At LifeSketch, we use a unique blend of counseling and life coaching to help students reach their goals. Whether academic, career, relational or personal, each of us have goals and face obstacles. A therapist at LifeSketch can sit with you and compassionately understand your difficulties, while also helping you problem solve and courageously take steps forward. We believe you have the capacity to flourish and life a purposeful life and we want to help you get there!

Hi! I am Hannah Snider, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Animal Assisted Clinical Social Worker, here in beautiful Denver, CO. Beside me, is my adorable therapy dog, Ms. Lola. Together, we are Lola & Me Therapy LLC. We help individuals learn new tools, process life’s challenges, and work to meet your therapeutic goals in a safe and brave space through therapy! Life is hard and sometimes we just need a sounding board or some new tools for our tool belt (that we will actually use). Some nonjudgmental support paired with golden retriever cuddles is what we are here to do! My main goal is to provide an authentic, nonjudgmental, brave, and safe space to work through life's struggles. We are focused on helping you achieve your goals and challenge you to grow how you see fit. We would love to hear from you and see if we are a good fit, to meet your needs and pursue your therapeutic goals! We welcome you to join us for a free 30 minute introductory session. We currently have immediate openings! Check us out on our website at https://www.lolaandmetherapyllc.com or our Instagram at Lola_And_Me_Therapy_LLC. Thank you, we look forward to collaborating with you.

As a strength-based, relational Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) specializing in interpersonal, mental, and physical trauma for adults, I help you navigate challenges in communication, advocate for your needs, and grieve how trauma has altered your life, often without your consent. My approach centers on nuanced, culture-specific intervention so you can build safety and stability. Trauma work is a particular focus of mine, and I also have a passion for working with people who have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Accountability and autonomy are things I believe in deeply, and they shape how I show up for you as your therapist. I look forward to collaborating with you and creating safety in our work together. Establishing a safe, nonjudgmental space to create connection is where my approach begins. You can expect an honest, calm environment as we work together, as I am passionate about how our brains and bodies work to keep us safe, even when that instinct doesn’t always serve us in the way we need. I use person-centered therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my main methods, helping you create comfort and stability within yourself, accept what you cannot change, and take ownership of what you can influence. My style is adaptive, and I tailor my approach to your unique experiences and needs. My path to becoming a therapist began with a desire to build my emotional intelligence and challenge my internalized biases, trauma, and feelings of inauthenticity. During my journey of self-discovery, I fell in love with psychology, the human brain, and providing a safe space for others to rediscover their own internal sense of self-worth and value. This love developed even further after my own diagnosis of OCD, which greatly impacted my ability to be present in my own life, and after meeting several professionals who met my anxiety and distress head-on while still being compassionate and kind. These experiences deepened my desire to provide evidence-based care rooted in unflinching understanding. I blend science and empathy into each session, offering reasons why humans act the way they do alongside compassion for how distressing this can feel, especially when autonomy has been stripped away by others, life, or a mental health diagnosis of their own. I love reading, playing video games, and spending time with my puppy. I also enjoy growing flowering plants and painting my nails, two hobbies that don't always mix well, plus crocheting whenever I have the time.

People living with chronic illnesses often can be neglected by healthcare systems. Life gets turned upside down by the onset of a chronic illness. It affects every part of a person's life from their work to their home to their sense of who they are. Chronic illness is a serious adjustment that often needs extra support that healthcare systems don't provide. My name is Rachel and my specialty is in chronic illness adjustment. I have been a therapist for 15+ years working with people living with chronic illness and their family members. I've worked with people living with heart failure, COPD, cancer, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, chronic pain, and even people nearing the end of their lives. If you or someone you love is struggling with figuring out how to live with a chronic illness, reach out to me! We could meet and discuss options and about your specific illness. You don't have to struggle alone!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Your anxiety is off the charts. Depression is at an all time low. Sleep? Yeah right. Relationships are suffering and everything is overwhelming. You find yourself at your breaking point. These are scary and overwhelming places to be. I can help you navigate where you are at and find new pathways to live your best life.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hi! I specialize working with emerging adults who are going though transitional struggles. College can be difficult, and I have extensive training providing support at several different university counseling centers. I primarily work with students who struggle with self-esteem, peer relationships, anxiety, and identity issues. I offer teletherapy which means you can fit our sessions in between your busy school schedule, from the comfort of your own place. Shoot me an email to set up an initial appointment!

LET’S BE HONEST: Existing between worlds is exhausting. Co-existing in multiple worlds and cultures doesn’t come with a roadmap. The competing demands and expectations leave you feeling tugged in opposing directions, and you’re left with the feeling that no matter how hard you try, you’ll never be enough for anyone. Even though there are many people in your life, it feels like nobody from any ‘side’ really gets you, and you’re not sure where you truly belong. You’re tired of facing microaggressions when you’re out and about and obstacles to advancing at work. All this is impacting your relationship, where you’re struggling to communicate and feel a sense of togetherness across the divides.

When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan - THERAPY FOR LIFE AFTER LOSS, TRAUMA, & PROFOUND CHANGE You may be thinking, "This is not the life I ordered." Many of my clients once had a clear sense of where life was headed. Then loss, trauma, or unexpected change altered the path. They lost a person, a future, a sense of safety, a version of themselves, or the life they thought they would have. Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, stuck between versions of their life, or exhausted from trying to “move on” from something that still deeply impacts them. This work isn't about finding a bright side. It's about making space for what happened, understanding who you are now, and learning how to live in a life that no longer resembles what you expected. My practice focuses on grief, trauma, traumatic grief, reproductive trauma and loss, relationship challenges, family-of-origin issues, self-esteem, identity shifts, and major life transitions. I work with individuals, couples, and families ages 15 and older.

Hi, I'm Melissa. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space which encourages contemplation and wellness during the therapeutic journey. Many of my clients are healing from past medical trauma, experience chronic illness, face grief and loss, and struggle with self-esteem and perfectionism. My goal is to help you hone your intuitive self and create safe/appropriate boundaries as you authentically find your voice.

I am a certified oncology and palliative care social worker, fully licensed as a clinical social worker in Georgia since 2011. I have worked as a clinical oncology social worker in the outpatient setting for over 15 years, working to help patients and their loved ones with a variety of issues related to their illness. I welcome you to my private practice where I work with individuals affected by cancer, chronic or terminal illness, and grief and loss. I became a therapist because I want to help people find their way and their voice through life’s various challenges. I believe we all have the capacity to grow and pursue a life with meaning, for ourselves and within our circle of support. I see each counseling relationship as unique and I use an integrative style to help my clients. Compassion, honesty, and humor all factor into my approach in helping you discover (or remember) your resilience and strength.