Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Hola, Hello! My name is Norma Magaña, I am a bilingual, first-generation licensed therapist who works with first-generation college students and adults struggling with anxiety and self-esteem. I offer services in English and Spanish via telehealth. Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can understand them and help them find relief from negative thoughts patterns. Sessions with me are collaborative, where you identify goals you want to focus on and with my guidance, I help you work towards these goals. Together, we identify patterns and take control of your thoughts. And we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be. As an experienced anxiety and self-esteem therapist, I believe that working together on increasing positive mindsets and building confidence are essential tools in your journey. You don’t have to continue feeling exhausted and overwhelmed with your thought patterns, and you don’t have to do it alone. I can’t wait to hear from you.

I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share with and trust. A third party who wont judge you, or share/gossip your most intimate secrets or life struggles with others. It's nice having friends and or family to share with, but that isn't always an option, nor is it always safe. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down, vent, share and just be you. Therapy doesn't mean there's something wrong with you, it means you're ready to grow and better understand yourself, others and hopefully life. Isn't that what we're all striving for?

Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Starlight Family Therapy, we offer compassionate, individualized support for teens and young adults. Whether you're facing anxiety, working through a life transition, or simply trying to make sense of your story, we're here to help you feel grounded, seen, and supported every step of the way!

Are you interested in exploring personal relationships, identities, or sexual issues from an open-minded and culturally sensitive perspective? When you allocate time to speak freely about issues such as; academic pressure, cultural expectations, learning disabilities/neurodivergence, gender identity/sexual orientation, sexual assault/trauma, life transitions, peer relationships, family conflict, and beyond (!) ... you empower yourself to navigate any negative patterns or relationship dynamics from a place of clarity, compassion, and curiosity - instead of criticism. We will collaborate on the best way to unpack and understand your story from a growth mindset that is sustainable + strength-based! If you're looking for a therapist who is clinical, creative, and culturally humble, please reach out for a free consultation to see if my therapeutic style suits your needs! I am a firm believer that one size does NOT fit all and I aim to approach each client with a customized treatment plan that speaks to your unique experiences & inherent strengths.

Balancing college with the rest of your life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am here to offer understanding and practical support as you navigate your college or university journey. I believe in a collaborative approach that honors your unique history and individuality, ensuring you feel heard and valued rather than just evaluated. Whether you need formal assessments for test accommodations (for your classes, or high-stakes exams like the GRE, MCAT, or other licensing exams), counseling to manage the stress of increased academic demands or adjusting to being a college student, or executive functioning coaching to handle your growing workloads, I am here to help. Let’s work together to help you better understand your learning style and build a strategy that makes your educational goals achievable.

Hey! I’m Afshin — pronounced “of-sheen,” like the glimmer in your eye when you realize you're allowed to feel your feelings and still be funny about it. Looking for someone who’s real, queer, neurodivergent-friendly, and actually shows up in the room with you? I’m really glad you’re here. I work with new parents running on crumbs and caffeine, teens navigating identity and pressure, young adults facing messy transitions, and LGBTQIA+ folks tired of translating their experience for people who just don’t get it. I pull from Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, and Solution-Focused approaches — but mostly, I bring curiosity, honesty, humor, and a human-first vibe. I don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” healing. Some weeks we’re untangling trauma; other weeks, we’re celebrating tiny wins — like eating a real meal or setting a boundary without the shame. My core values? Radical kindness, transparency, and the belief that being “too much” is a damn superpower. If you’re craving therapy that feels like a mix between a grounding conversation and a gentle push toward who you actually want to be — let’s talk. I’m here when you’re ready.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Are you someone who feels like they’re always “on”? Your mind rarely rests; constantly replays moments, worries about what’s next, or wondering if you're doing enough? For some, this shows up as anxiety and overthinking that keeps them feeling disconnected from themselves. For others, it’s the exhaustion that comes with work, school, parenting — wanting to be patient and present, but feeling triggered or stretched too thin. Underneath it all, you desire to feel calm and grounded. You want to understand why you react the way you do, how your past experiences influence your emotions today, and how to begin responding differently. My work helps you move from self-criticism to self-understanding, and from constant reactivity to clarity and connection — within yourself and your relationships. I create a space that feels safe, supportive, and curious — one where you can learn to regulate your nervous system, reconnect to your needs, and build a sense of trust in yourself.

Life can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re carrying pain, anger, or uncertainty about who you are or where you’re going. You don’t have to face it alone. Therapy is a space to feel seen, to be heard, and to grow without judgment. If you’re ready to explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and showing up in your life, I’d be honored to walk beside you. I’m a Latino therapist who grew up in Los Angeles, and I know firsthand how powerful therapy can be. I offer a space where you can speak honestly, be challenged with care, and feel supported as you work toward lasting change. Sessions are consistent, client-centered, and deeply personal.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or always on edge, you’re not alone. You may experience worries that keep you up at night, or keep you from enjoying your life. Or you may feel like your life will never be the same again after experiencing something traumatic. You might also be feeling hesitant to ask for help because no one else in your life seems to feel the way you do, and can’t understand your struggle. I see you and understand your struggle. I will help you feel comfortable in sharing your worries, your concerns, your problems, your challenges. I use a gentle and personal approach to build a warm and trusting relationship, and ensure that your autonomy is preserved in treatment decisions. You can expect a collaborative relationship from day one. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach in therapy, and rely on evidence based strategies to help you reach your goals. I will help you to strengthen your ability to cope with and manage challenges, teach you how to communicate with others, and help you to build confidence and self-esteem. Therapy won’t solve all your problems, but I can help you in building the skills you need to face those problems.

Areas of Focus Include: Specializing in Women's Concerns, Life Transitions , Relationship Issues, Grief & Loss, Infidelity, Betrayal, Divorce, Stress Management, Communication Skills, Self-Esteem, Codependency, Intimacy, Personal Growth, Mid-Life, Family of Origin Dysfunction, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Menopause, Empty Nest, Retirement, Aging, Elder Care Support, Existential Concerns, Reinventing Self, Starting Over, Only Children As Adults, Acculturation Problems Referrals: I provide psychotherapist referrals to those who are seeking comprehensive and efficacious treatment for postpartum mood disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, major depression, OCD, active addiction, and bipolar disorders.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Everlight Teens, Adults & Family Therapy with over a decade of experience supporting diverse communities. I’ve had the privilege of working with teens, adults, and adolescents, helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based care. As an Individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (ICBT), I help clients understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. Together, we’ll identify unhelpful patterns and develop practical strategies to build healthier coping skills and create lasting, positive change. I specialize in supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have extensive experience working with individuals from underserved and diverse backgrounds, those who have faced complex trauma, homelessness, and substance use challenges. My focus is to help each person build resilience, foster healing, and find fulfillment. I bring kindness, compassion, and respect to every session. I view therapy as a collaborative process where we work together toward your goals. My approach is transparent and supportive. I aim to create a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you and set meaningful, realistic goals that reflect your strengths and values. My goal-setting approach is collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping you create lasting growth and positive change. My passion for this work began with a deep desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the incredible strength and resilience of those who choose to seek help, and I feel honored to be part of that healing process. Our first session is about understanding your challenges and what you hope to change. Together, we’ll set the pace, identify obstacles, and create a clear growth plan, so you feel confident and supported throughout your journey.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

We all have the capacity for healing through self-discovery, self-awareness, and community. My role is to ease clients into a journey of healing, becoming more authentic in their creative works and relationships, and challenging inner dialogue that does not serve them by finding compassion and empathy for themselves. I engage my clients by creating a safe space where we can collaboratively work on developing a more intimate relationship with the "inner self." I'm a warm, intuitive, empathetic, and connected therapist who can be a witness to your journey. I primarily work from anti-racist, trauma-informed, attachment and somatic modes of therapy paying close attention to clients’ varying identities, intersection of these identities, and understanding their experience from a socio-cultural perspective. Mind-body connections, ancestral wisdom, social justice and multiculturalism are central to my approach. My passion and experience lies in working with young adults, artists and creatives, individuals from the BIPOC and LGBTQIA community, women, and partners engaging in family planning. I have significant experience in guiding individuals seeking gender confirming treatment, navigating medical systems, and exploring gender and sexual orientation identity.

I am a licensed psychologist and certified Hendricks Big Leap Coach. One of my specialties is working with both young adults and adults, providing care for individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. In addition, I work with people who are struggling with career, academic, and sports related issue, and who want to gain clarity on next steps and or enhance their performance and well-being. I have extensive experience with somatic (whole body), client centered, and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) techniques, and have been a licensed psychologist since 2009. My treatment approach is rooted in both evidence-based practices as well as whole-body education and coaching. My academic path has included attending community college before transferring to UC Santa Barbara, where I obtained a B.A. in Biological Sciences. I then earned a M.A. is Transpersonal Psychology and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (now Sofia University). Additionally, I earned a Big Leap Coaching Certificate and completed the Leadership and Training program at the Hendricks Institute. I completed by pre-doctoral internship at Santa Clara University’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Center providing counseling services to college students. After completing my post-doctoral residency at Kaiser Permanente, I worked at a large hospital setting for 5 years where I became EMDR certified which has become a crucial part of his practice and my clients’ success and progress. In addition, I became certified in body-mind coaching, and this also has become an important part of my practice and facilitating personal and professional growth for his clients. My main goals for my patients include reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving overall well-being, and promoting personal growth and resilience. I believe that if my clients are committed to solving their primary issue, concern or potential, then they can overcome any obstacle. I have an unique view and experience with client-centered and somatic psychology that results in long-lasting behavioral changes, improved self-esteem, and enhanced well-being. I have excelled in my practice because I am passionate about helping (with their permission of course) my clients achieve their goals by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I enjoy spending time with my children and wife. I’m also an avid outdoor enthusiast, enjoy watching baseball games, and traveling and exploring different cultures. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of my clients and want to assist in empowering them to reach their full potential.

Hi! My name is Suji Akhtar, a Korean American licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, multigenerational trauma, postpartum mental health, and immigration-related challenges. As a therapist, I'm dedicated to helping individuals navigate life transitions, heal from past traumas, and build resilience. My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion and cultural sensitivity, drawing from my own experiences as an immigrant, a parent, and a mental health professional. Whether you're struggling with the emotional rollercoaster of new parenthood, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to break free from the grips of intergenerational trauma, I'm here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for healing and growth. Together, we can explore your unique experiences and develop personalized strategies to help you overcome obstacles, manage emotions, and build resilience. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you and helping you thrive amidst life's challenges. As I am in multiple telehealth platforms, please do not hesitate to reach out to see if I accept your insurance.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I am a licensed professional counselor in California, Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. Currently, I am doing remote counseling only. I have experience in trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, addiction, anger management and life transitions. I am multi-culturally sensitive and LGBTQIA+ affirming. I was born in El Paso, Texas and both my parents are Mexican-American. I am bilingual Spanish/English. I moved to California in 2021 after living in Arizona for 30 years where I was faculty at Phoenix College teaching Psychology, Sociology and Women's Studies. I have Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology (ASU) and an MA in Counseling (OU). I believe life is not about the destination but about the journey. Sometimes we run into rough spots along the way. Let me walk beside you for a while until you get past the rough spots and are able to continue on your own. Counseling is a process that you control by telling me what you want to accomplish and then we work together to get there. Sharing your story with a stranger is sometimes hard. I want to be your ally in therapy and provide a safe space where you can talk and be yourself without fear of judgment. I promise to be honest with you and support you as you explore who you are and who you want to be. I will work to earn your trust and to shine a light on the road ahead as we travel.

I’m a licensed psychotherapist and consultant specializing in individual and couples therapy. My work focuses on helping people heal from trauma, childhood wounding, attachment injuries, and relational challenges. I believe therapy should be a safe, inclusive, and affirming space—one where every part of you is welcome. In our work together, we’ll gently explore the parts of you that feel difficult to access or understand. Over time, we’ll uncover the internal patterns and protective walls that may have once helped you survive—but are now holding you back from connection, growth, and ease. Many of the individuals I work with are navigating the ongoing effects of painful life experiences, or are beginning to notice how their resistance to vulnerability might be limiting deeper relationships. My goal is to help you feel supported in doing this brave work. Therapy can be challenging, but I strive to make it less overwhelming, more grounded, and deeply human. I draw from a blend of evidence-based, trauma-informed therapies to support healing and long-term change. These include: Internal Family Systems (IFS) – to help you connect with and care for your inner parts Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – a research-supported method for processing trauma and distressing life experiences Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – to strengthen emotional bonds and resolve conflict in couples I tailor our work to your unique needs—whether you're seeking to recover from trauma, build more fulfilling relationships, or simply get to know yourself on a deeper level. If you’re ready to begin—or even just curious—I’d be honored to walk alongside you in this process. Call (408) 800-7305 to get started!