Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

On the surface you have it “all together” but underneath are struggling with constant anxiety & self doubt. Despite being smart, driven, and incredibly hard working, life feels hard. No matter how much you do or accomplish, you never feel good enough. You always put others first and struggle to say no, even when overwhelmed. You want to heal from old wounds and break unhelpful patterns but you aren’t sure how. You’re ready to let go of your inner critic and start taking care of yourself without feeling guilty. You deserve meaningful relationships where you feel supported. You want to feel fulfilled, have balance, and enjoy the life you have worked hard to build. Feeling calm and confident aren’t out of your reach, I’d love to help get you there. I specialize in treating anxiety, self esteem, and trauma in adults utilizing individual therapy and EMDR. I offer in person services in Manhattan near Union Square and virtual sessions for California and New York residents. Reach out to schedule your free 20 minute consultation call today to learn more.

College can be exciting, but it can also feel like a lot. Between classes, friends, family, and figuring out your future, it’s easy to feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. You might find yourself overthinking, feeling stuck, or carrying around things from the past that make it harder to focus on the present. In therapy, I offer a space where you can show up exactly as you are. Together, we’ll find ways to manage stress, quiet anxious thoughts, and feel more steady when life feels out of control. I also use EMDR, which can be really helpful if past experiences or memories still feel heavy and are getting in the way of how you want to live now. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and supported as you navigate college life. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—I’m here to walk alongside you.

Hi, my name is Yu-Nien (Pulinda). I am a board certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (APU '21) who's worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and across a wide range of ages. I enjoying working with clients from various walks of life. My clients are often experiencing difficulties coping with emotions, feeling confused about their distress, desiring a space for authenticity and warmth, and a nonjudgmental environment. I welcome all who are experiencing various struggles in life and will support you on taking the first step towards healing. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client's unique circumstances and life experiences. The therapeutic modalities I commonly draw from include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Grief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based approaches, and Psychodynamic Therapy. As a Taiwanese bilingual (English and Mandarin) social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique experiences. Through our journey together, I will walk alongside you as you build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and develop practical tools for lasting growth and healing. 您好，我是妤寧(Pulinda)，持有加州認證Licensed Clinical Social Worker執照。在我的臨床工作經驗中，我曾與來自不同背景及各年齡層的個案合作，因此特別關注每一位來談者的獨特性，也享受了解個案不同的人生歷程與生活經驗。我發現許多個案前來尋求協助，是因為他們正在面對情緒調適上的困難、對自身的情緒困擾感到困惑，或渴望擁有一個能夠真誠表達自我、被理解、並感受到溫暖與接納的空間。我希望能提供一個不帶批判且安全的環境，讓個案能自在地探索自己的經驗與內在世界。在壓力源無處不在的世界，我們可以一起溫柔的面對焦慮、憂鬱、創傷及失去，一起消化，找到跟練習適合您的情緒穩定方法，強大您的心理能量。 我的治療取向採整合式方法，並依據每位個案獨特的處境、需求與生命經驗量身調整。我常運用的治療模式包括接納與承諾治療（Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, ACT）、認知行為治療（Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT）、悲傷與失落治療、正念取向介入，以及心理動力治療（Psychodynamic Therapy）。我相信有意義的改變建立於治療關係中的平等關係，因此我會與個案密切合作，確保治療方向符合其目標、價值觀與需求。我也特別著重找回每個來談者的自我共情（self-compassion），這也是更能療癒自己的方法之一。 我來自台灣，所以能夠流利的用英文及國語跟您合作。但我也在其他不同國家生活及移民過，所以我體會過在不同文化環境跟關係中適應和尋找自我的過程。我會考量到每位個案所處的人生階段及困擾，並尊重其獨特的生命經驗。如果我們有緣合作，我將陪伴在您身旁，協助您建立心理韌性、深化自我理解，並找到實用的，以促進持續的成長與療癒。我歡迎所有正面臨人生挑戰的人，並願意陪伴您踏出療癒旅程的第一步。

Empower Youth Therapy provides individualized therapy for college students navigating academic pressure, anxiety, relationship stress, identity development, transitions, and trauma. Our approach is warm, validating, and practical — focused on helping students understand themselves more deeply while building real-life coping skills they can use in classes, friendships, and daily routines. We serve students from San Joaquin Delta College, CSU Stanislaus, CSU East Bay, Sac State, and surrounding Central Valley / Bay Area campuses. We offer a non-judgmental space to talk honestly, process what’s overwhelming, and explore who you’re becoming — especially during transitions like moving away from home, choosing a major, or preparing for your next step after graduation. We also support executive functioning, stress management, and strengthening healthy habits. We offer individual therapy for college-age students. We accept insurance and private pay. Free 15-minute consultations are available.

As an immigrant who identifies as Chinese/Chinese American, I understand the challenges and nuances of growing up bicultural and have helped individuals/families navigate these issues. I am committed to understanding each client’s unique experiences with various identities (e.g., culture, race, ethnicity, gender), as well as the intersectionality of these identities, family values, and belief systems. As a result, I view my clients as whole people, rather than just focusing on diagnoses and symptoms. I approach each client with curiosity and am committed to helping you connect with yourself and others, nourish your growth, and flourish in all areas of your life. My approach is warm, collaborative, direct, open, and honest. I have worked with the following: ASD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, academic stress, emotion regulation issues, life transitions, identity development, gender/racial/sexual identity, family conflict, and LGBTQ+ issues. I utilize an integrative approach, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and other evidence-based treatments when warranted.

I was inspired to become a therapist by a deep belief in the human capacity for transformation. I hold hope for change even in the midst of struggle. Having walked my own journey of growth, I understand the courage it takes to be vulnerable and to trust another person with your story. I honor the sacredness of the therapeutic relationship and approach it with presence, compassion, and integrity. Working together is a collaborative and evolving process. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a nonjudgmental energy into the room. I meet each client as they are — without assumptions — and seek to understand their unique narrative. Trust is built through authenticity, attunement, and consistent care. I believe that when people feel safe and truly heard, they are better able to access their own strengths, heal old wounds, and move toward a more grounded and empowered way of living. My role is to walk alongside you — supporting self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change at a pace that honors your process. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work, concentrating in Mental Health, from the University of Southern California. My work is grounded in a holistic, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach that honors the whole person — mind, body, spirit, relationships, and lived experience. I believe healing is not just about reducing symptoms, but about reconnecting to one’s inner resilience, wisdom, and capacity for growth. Transformation often unfolds through connection, safety, and feeling deeply seen. I strive to create a therapeutic space that nurtures all three. My work is guided by an intersectional lens and cultural humility. I recognize that each person carries layered identities, experiences, and histories that shape how they move through the world. By honoring these complexities, I collaborate with clients to co-create meaningful, personalized treatment that aligns with their values, culture, and goals.

Navigating your college years is a massive transition. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to succeed, shifting relationship dynamics, or anxiety about the future, you do not have to figure it out alone. I have been a therapist since 2011, and as a trauma specialist, I help young adults find their footing. As a UC Berkeley grad, I know firsthand the weight of high expectations. My approach is collaborative and conversational. I bring warmth and genuine care to our sessions. We will work as a team, using strategies focused on finding solutions to get to the root of what is holding you back while building practical tools for resilience. Our first session is simply a safe, supportive space to start unpacking what is on your mind. We move at your pace. Reach out today, and let's start exploring what true healing looks like for you.

Dr. Olga Novikov-King specializes in the intricate relationship between mental and chronic medical illnesses, particularly focusing on conditions like chronic pain, somatic disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and the lasting effects of trauma. Dr. Novikov is committed to guiding her patients toward achieving their life goals through a tailored blend of therapy and medication, always emphasizing a holistic approach to health. Her approach is driven by a deep understanding of how mental health is intrinsically linked with the overall health of a person.

Women who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many other emotionally draining conditions just wish they had someone to talk to who will listen without judgement. You may have experienced a traumatic break-up or even a trail of brokenness. You may have experienced child abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment. You may have grown up with a family member with addiction, watched parental violence, or had a partner with addiction. At this point in your life you need assurance things can change, you want answers to why you end up in the same relationships, and you need the coping skills needed to get past the past. If you're ready to do the hard work of healing you're on your way to finding hope, your voice, power, and autonomy. With my help you can begin a new life with strength, confidence & purpose. I specialize in helping women in trauma change their belief systems, thoughts and behaviors, so they might experience growth and healing in all their relationships. I believe in you. You have already taken the first step toward change. I want you to leave with a flicker of hope for your future, a glimmer of what your life can be, and a new sense of purpose. You are not alone. I want to be that someone who will listen to you? I want to help you heal from trauma and create hope for a better tomorrow.

I work with unique, creative, and driven individuals. I work with people who are overachievers, people pleasers, and overthinkers. I work with neurodivergent, anxious, and highly sensitive people. I work with social justice warriors, allies, and 2Slgbtqia+ people. I work with people who are seeking therapy to figure themselves out, process some unresolved trauma, and gain skills to live the life that they seek for themselves.

Hi, I’m Ellie, and I’m so excited to meet you! :) College can be a time of growth and excitement—but also stress, pressure, and uncertainty. Maybe you’re feeling anxious in social settings, overwhelmed by academic expectations, unsure about your future, or stuck in a loop of perfectionistic thinking. You might be on the edge of burnout—constantly doing but never feeling like it’s enough. Or perhaps you’re navigating challenges in your relationships—feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or unsure how to communicate what you need. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it on your own. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California, and I specialize in helping preteens, teens, college students and young adults navigate generalized anxiety, social anxiety, performance-based anxiety, perfectionism, relationship stress, and academic/career or life transitions. Together, we’ll create space to explore what’s going on beneath the surface and build strategies to help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control of your life. My approach is warm, relational, and collaborative. I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—and make practical, meaningful shifts. I also integrate techniques from mindfulness, attachment-based, and relational approaches so therapy feels personalized to you. In our first few sessions, I’ll take time to get to know you and understand what’s bringing you in. You can expect a calm, supportive space where you’re free to be real—no judgment, no pressure. We’ll move at your pace, and I’ll check in regularly to make sure therapy is meeting your needs. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start, that’s okay. Reaching out is a strong first step—and I’d be honored to support you from here. Feel free to call/text me at (949)490-2819 or email me at ellie.mourey@gmail.com. You can also schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation directly through my website, whatever feels easiest for you :)

I love working with college students navigating this important chapter in their lives. I understand a lot of the challenges many students encounter during this time in their lives and have a variety of ways to offer support. Some of the ways I can offer support are by helping students understand the underlying issues fueling the challenges they are facing as well as learning coping tools and finding access to resources or practices that can benefit them and help them move through the places they feel stuck to obtain their bigger goals. I offer a variety of techniques and ways of working with students, including but not limited to, tools based, interventions, dream work and hypnotherapy which can be especially helpful in resolving ineffective habits that get in the way day-to-day.

I became a therapist because I know how healing it can be to have someone really listen and be with you without judgment. We all go through hard things, and I believe no one should have to do it alone. I’m especially interested in how our bodies hold stress and emotions, and how we can gently reconnect to ourselves through awareness, creativity, and compassion. Being a therapist gives me the chance to support people in feeling more understood, empowered, and at home in themselves. I’ll listen closely to your words, your emotions, and what your body might be communicating even when it’s hard to put into words. I’ll check in often to make sure we’re going at your pace, and I’ll ask questions to understand your experience more fully, not to judge or fix you. My goal is for you to feel safe, respected, and truly seen. This is your space, and I’ll honor your story with care, curiosity, and compassion. I support individuals who want to reconnect with their bodies, find calm, and feel safe again after challenging experiences. My approach blends somatic psychotherapy, trauma-informed care, and creative healing. I help clients celebrate who they are and bring awareness to what matters to them. Together, we’ll focus on learning to listen to yourself, unlocking your inner voice, and creating a new chapter that feels authentic and empowering. I offer an inclusive, collaborative space where every part of you is welcomed. Healing isn’t about changing who you are — it’s about coming home to yourself.

Hi my name is Nekea (nuh-key-yah). As a woman of color, I understand how the different parts of “who we are”, our experiences, identities, and relationships, shape the way we see and move through the world. I strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and real, where you can show up fully without judgment. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and groups from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultural perspectives. My work is especially centered on supporting women, people of color, adolescents, and public figures as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re healing from grief, processing trauma, or learning to set boundaries and care for yourself in new ways, my goal is to help you reconnect with your voice and your sense of self. Therapy, to me, is both a place of reflection and empowerment, a space to better understand your story and to write new chapters with clarity and confidence.

Being a student is demanding. Add athletics, performances, or other high-pressure activities, and it can feel like you're constantly balancing expectations from every direction. You may be managing anxiety, stress, performance pressure, perfectionism, injury recovery, relationship challenges, or simply trying to figure out who you are beyond your sport. Whatever brings you here, you don't have to navigate it alone. I'm Buffy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training and certification in Sports Social Work. I specialize in supporting student-athletes and young adults through the unique challenges that come with balancing academics, athletics, and everyday life. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions, we'll work together to better understand your experiences, develop practical coping skills, and build resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. My goal is to help you thrive—not just in your sport, but in every area of your life.

Gather and Grow OC is a safe space to play, explore and grow together! We believe in high quality, knowledgeable therapy that honors the individual. We believe in sharing tools and education about healing. We believe that we’re all innately inclined to joy and growth, and we’re interested in connecting with other healers and truth seekers that believe the same!

I work with adults (age 18 and older) on a variety of mental health concerns, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, acculturation and cultural identity, and career uncertainty/transition. My experience in multiple mental health settings, from community mental health, university counseling centers, and Kaiser Permanente, has provided me with the skills to work with people from diverse backgrounds and presenting concerns. As a first generation immigrant from South-East Asia, I would be able to use my background to empathize with and help minority clients who experience challenges of navigating being a first-generation college student, cultural identity concerns, or racial/cultural insensitivities. My previous profession in software engineering may also help some clients going into the technology field feel connected and understood. I have been trained in insight-oriented (psychodynamic) and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) forms of therapy. I am also a certified clinical trauma professional. My practice aims to help clients develop tools to make the necessary change(s) in their lives. I collaborate with my clients to understand their needs and set goals they want to achieve. My interactions and interventions with my clients are wrapped in cultural consideration, validation, regard, and acceptance of who they are.

We are a private therapy practice located San Francisco and Pasadena specializing in psychotherapy for women and children in individual and group settings. Spark All Wellness helps children and mamas through difficult life situations, trauma and the challenges of parenting. Our team specializes in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy & Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapy and offer both in-person and telehealth sessions.

Diaspora (dai·a·spr·uh) Therapy Group was founded by members of the BIPOC and QTPOC. We believe in authentic communication and living your truth. Our goal is to help you find your voice and take up space in a world that can be challenging to navigate. As individuals who have experienced these challenges firsthand, we're here to virtually "hold your hand" throughout your healing journey. Though we're based in San Diego, CA, we offer telehealth services throughout California and Arizona.

I profoundly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to create a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I help people utilize their inherent strengths, build meaningful support systems, and develop practical skills that promote lasting change and personal growth. I am driven to help individuals overcome generational trauma and break free from cycles of pain and suffering. I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel seen, heard and valued. Together, we work towards achievable goals, cultivate resilience, navigate challenges, and foster emotional well-being. I am committed to providing culturally competent and affirming care to all those I serve. In my practice, I find fulfillment in working with a diverse range of communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrant families, and college students. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from various cultural backgrounds through life transitions and psychosocial stressors. I approach each session with empathy, curiosity and respect towards all experiences. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by collaborating on goals, honoring your pace, and highlighting your strengths as we work through evidence-based strategies.