Communities We Serve · International Students
Therapy for international students, far from home but not alone.
Studying in a new country is exciting, and it can also be lonely and exhausting. Between demanding classes, a new language, visa rules and family far away, it's easy to feel you have to hold everything together by yourself.
Our clinicians understand the international student experience, and many of them speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Sessions are online and private, so you can talk from your own room.
What international students often bring to us
These are some of the things people most often bring to us. If what you're carrying isn't listed here, you're just as welcome.
Academic pressure
High stakes, perfectionism, and the feeling that your family's sacrifices ride on every grade. We help you work hard without wearing yourself down.
Loneliness and homesickness
Missing home, struggling to make close friends, or feeling invisible on a big campus. You don't have to push through it alone.
Visa and career worries
OPT, job searches and plans that depend on rules you can't control. We help you live with the uncertainty and keep moving forward.
Culture shock
New ways of speaking up in class, making friends and asking for help. We help you find your footing without losing yourself.
Family far away
Time zones, sharing only the good news, and worrying about the people you love back home. We help you stay close while living your own life.
Sleep and stress
Late nights, irregular routines and a mind that won't switch off. Small changes, with support, can make a real difference.
How we can help
Talk in your own language
Sessions in Mandarin, Cantonese or English. Some things are simply easier to say in the language you grew up with.
Mandarin-speaking cliniciansOnline, wherever you study
Secure video sessions in any of the 15 states where our clinicians are licensed, so you can keep the same therapist even if you move for school or work.
Help with insurance
Our intake team will check what your student health plan covers before your first session, and explain any costs clearly.
Insurance & fees
Questions international students often ask
Something else on your mind? Our FAQ covers much more, and our intake team is always happy to talk it through.
Will my school or my parents find out?
No. We don't share anything with your school or your family without your written permission. The rare exceptions involve serious safety concerns, and your clinician will explain them at the start. If you're on a parent's insurance plan, the policyholder may receive statements, so ask us about your options.
Can I use my student health insurance?
Often, yes. Some student plans can be used with some of our clinicians through Headway; UC Berkeley's SHIP, for example, is a Blue Shield PPO plan that Headway accepts. With other plans, we send you a superbill each month to claim out-of-network benefits. Send us your plan details and we'll help you work out your options before you book.
I study in another state. Can I still see you?
Yes, as long as you're in one of the 15 states where our clinicians are licensed at the time of each session. Our care team can check which clinicians are licensed where you live.
Can I keep having sessions when I go home for the summer?
Usually not while you're outside the United States, because clinicians can only meet with you while you're in a state where they're licensed. Your clinician will help you plan for the break and pick up again when you're back.
How is this different from my campus counseling center?
Campus counseling is a wonderful free resource, but it can have waitlists or session limits. With us you can keep seeing the same clinician for as long as you need, in Mandarin, Cantonese or English.
Whenever you're ready, we're here.
- Reach outSend us a short message, or call or text (650) 434-2563. We reply within one business day.
- A free 15-minute callOur care team listens, answers your questions about cost and insurance, and suggests clinicians who fit.
- Your first sessionMany people meet their clinician within one to two weeks. The first session is mostly about getting to know each other, at your pace.
