Therapists for college students near San Diego State University
What inspired me to become a therapist is a deep curiosity about people, healing, and how change happens through connection and experience. My work has been shaped by an integrative background that includes Depth Psychology, trauma-informed care, Polyvagal Theory, CBT, ACT, Positive Psychology, Family Systems work, and experience with somatic and experiential approaches, including equine-assisted work and the arts. I’ve also been influenced by academic and lived experiences exploring culture, creativity, and recovery, including work on trauma, addiction recovery, and meaning-making after distress. I aim to make sure you feel heard by really slowing down and staying present with both your words and your emotional experience. I tend to check in often to make sure I’m understanding you correctly and that we’re capturing what feels most important to you. My approach is grounded in attunement, curiosity, and creating a space where your experience is taken seriously without judgment or rushing toward solutions. Working together is a collaborative and relational process that unfolds over time. I draw from somatic, experiential, and trauma-informed frameworks, and we focus on building safety, consistency, and trust first. I often integrate mind-body awareness, reflective dialogue, and practical strategies depending on your needs. My background also includes teaching dance, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation to veterans, as well as exploring nonverbal communication and relational dynamics through equine work and movement-based practices. All of this informs how I help clients feel grounded, understood, and supported as they move toward meaningful change at their own pace. I earned my first degree at UW Madison. Sometimes to break the ice with couples, I will let them know that I taught ballroom dancing though mini courses and the University extension to help pay college living expenses. In those days, I often wore combat boots to teach.
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My main inspiration for becoming a therapist is to help people, from all walks of life. I have been working in the fields of substance abuse and mental health since 2006, and specialize in treating clients with Co-Occurring Disorders. Prior to entering the MSW program at San Jose State University, I studied Sociology at UC Santa Cruz, and received my BA degree in 2005. I have a solid background in social theory, and I apply social theory as part of my clinical approach, thus enhancing the therapeutic process. I am continuously working towards my ongoing professional development to help my clients using cutting-edge techniques. Therapy is more than a career, it is a passion and it is my life’s work. My empathetic approach, in which I actively listen to clients and reflect their goals, values, and struggles, fosters understanding and clarity. If I were to summarize what it is like to work with me, I would say “collaborative.” am committed to collaborative relationships with clients to maximize their capacity for growth and their ability to become resilient-to the many speed bumps and potholes along life’s path.”
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.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both medical-surgical and psychiatric nursing. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles, and have cared for diverse communities, including Chinese-speaking patients, through my bilingual skills in Mandarin and English. My approach combines compassionate, evidence-based care with personalized treatment plans that empower individuals to take an active role in their mental health. Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy teaching, mentoring nursing students, and advocating for mental health awareness. I’m inspired by seeing people rediscover hope, strength, and joy in their lives. Supporting someone through their challenges and watching them grow is an incredible privilege. I believe everyone deserves a safe, understanding space to be heard and supported. I believe the best care happens when treatment is a partnership. I start by listening closely to each person’s story, goals, and concerns, and I work with them to explore options that fit their lifestyle, culture, and comfort level. I present evidence-based choices in clear, simple terms so they can make informed decisions, and together we create a plan that feels both effective and realistic. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, sleep disorders/insomnia, suicidal ideation, academic stress, benzodiazepine tapering, CBT-I, deprescribing, personality disorders, somatic symptoms disorders, trauma-informed care
You don't have to feel alone in any of this anymore. Whether it's everyday life stressors, relationship problems, a loss of something or someone important, either a positive or negative life transition, feeling signs and symptoms of depression or anxiety, or just simply feeling overwhelmed and confused; participating in therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to address, unveil, and tackle any and all of these things that we experience in our lives from time to time. I have specialized training in helping people make health behavior changes, learn the tools and skills needed to increase stress management, and recover from difficult or traumatic past experiences. My hope is to create an empathic and supportive space to allow you to feel the courage to process and work on those things buried deep down that can cause pain and heartache. By doing so, the power and control that those things have had on you can begin to lift and lessen.
We all need a space where we can safely explore life’s many stressors, what feels heavy, experiences with anxiety, overwhelm, trauma, loss, relationship challenges, depression, neurodiversity. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I recognize everyone deserves a safe, supportive space where they can show up as their genuine self to process and sort through internal conflicts, battles, life’s challenges. I see therapy as a trusting partnership rooted in curiosity and safety, where we focus on strengthening your mental health and building on the strengths you already have. Therapy is a safe place to gently process what feels heavy, make sense of your lived experiences, and strengthen your overall mental health and well-being. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and guided by your goals, your pace and felt safety in sessions, and your lived experiences. I provide affirming, culturally responsive care for LGBTQI+ and BIPOC communities, as well as individuals across all life stages and backgrounds. I find daily morning and evening routines are incredibly helpful to maintaining my personal wellbeing and daily lived experiences. When I find myself struggling with life’s challenges, I turn to outlets such as nature, walks, music, writing to process, simple self care acts, spending time with those I love and care for, and snuggles with my pet.
Hi There! I'm Monica. Sometimes life feels hard—even when everything looks fine on the outside. You might be dealing with anxiety, worry, stress, depression, loss, grief, or self-doubt and wondering how to find your way back to feeling like yourself again. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. I offer a safe, judgment-free space where you can talk openly, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what you’re experiencing. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I help clients learn practical coping skills, manage difficult emotions, navigate life transitions, and build confidence from the inside out. While I welcome anyone seeking support, my heart is in working with women, especially those facing challenging life transitions or feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. Reaching out for counseling takes courage. If you’re ready to take that first step, I’d love to connect with you.
Catherine O'Brien is a licensed marriage and family therapist, author, speaker, educator and college professor. She has dedicated her life's work to helping new and expecting parents navigate the challenges of parenthood. As a mother of two children, Catherine understands the overwhelming nature of parenting and wants to help couples thrive during this transition instead of just surviving. She founded HappyWithBaby.com to provide counseling and coaching services for new parents and offers courses to help parents manage expectations of parenthood and understand the developmental milestones of infants and children. As a college professor, Catherine's perspective on parents' challenges while juggling multiple responsibilities is unique and valuable. Her life's work is about enabling parents to look at their own lives with the same compassion and unconditional love they generously give to their families. Take advantage of the counseling, coaching, and courses that Catherine offers. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help you navigate the challenges of parenthood while also pursuing your academic goals.
I am passionate about helping college students navigate life's challenges with empathy and understanding. Let's work together to create positive change.
Are you navigating life between two worlds, balancing family and cultural expectations with your own sense of self? Perhaps you're a child of immigrants, first-generation, or someone far from home asking deeper questions about who you are and where you belong. I'm a bilingual (English/Tagalog) psychotherapist specializing in depth-oriented, Jungian therapy. I work with Filipino Americans, Asian Americans, immigrants, and first-generation individuals doing the meaningful, sometimes difficult work of building an authentic identity, one that honors where they come from while making room for who they are becoming. My approach is exploratory and relational. Drawing from Jungian psychology, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic awareness, I work with the unconscious patterns, cultural conditioning, and intergenerational stories that shape your present life. This includes dream work, active imagination, and close attention to the body's wisdom alongside the mind's. If this resonates, I'd love to connect. I offer a free 15-minute consultation — reach out and let's talk. I also offer Walk & Talk therapy for clients in the Cupertino and Silicon Valley area - sessions conducted outdoors in nature for those who find that movement supports their process. Ask me about it when you reach out.
Welcome to our practice. We have several terrific clinicians in Beverly Hills and DTLA who are privileged to work with individuals, couples and families. Our style is focused on helping you understand your development in a way that allows you to become unstuck from your concerns. Our common sense approach is aimed at helping you gain insight into your past and present, enabling you to make healthier choices about your present and future. We treat a range of concerns, and are available to work with you in many languages. It is important to us that you feel like you can be understood, on every level. Apart from psychotherapy for individuals and couples presenting with a wide range of concerns, we conduct psychoeducational assessments of ADHD, ASD and other learning disabilities and for test accommodations. We have several skilled and experienced multiethnic therapists available in both Beverly Hills and DTLA. We understand that feeling understood on every level is critical to being able to make progress in therapy and are committed to an anti-racist, fully inclusive perspective to psychotherapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed managing anxiety or stress? It is time to regain control and find tranquility. Picture a safe, confidential space where you can freely discuss these challenges. As your therapist, I will offer you that safe space to express yourself authentically and feel more in charge in your life. While current stressors may feel overwhelming, remember, they do not dictate your future. My expertise lies in guiding clients through trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, and more. I obtained certifications in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Managing and Adapting Practice, Incredible Years Program (Parenting Program: School Age Basic Program & the Child Training: Small Group Dinosaur Curriculum). Additionally, I am trained in EMDR, Seeking Safety, & Gottman Level 2. These evidence-based practices have proven highly effective in my approach to treating diverse populations and addressing various mental health issues. Reaching out for help is a courageous step toward your healing journey. Starting therapy might feel intimidating initially, but I'm here to support and guide you.
Life can have it’s shares of ups and downs , but you don’t have to manage it while feeling alone and overwhelmed. I provide a safe, supportive space for you to deal with challenges, process your emotions and recognize your strengths, so that life feels manageable and even joyful. I particularly enjoy working with college students who have unique developmental challenges as they manage so many pressures and demands and navigate the responsibilities of adulthood. Therapy strives to help develop and maintain good self-care and healthy coping mechanisms. We work together to develop and achieve goals specific to resolving the issues you are wanting to work through. My approach is client-centered. I meet each client where they are at in their life. My work is predominantly grounded in Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy weaving in Mindful Based approaches
I work with children, teens, and adults, using a specialized blend of behavior principles into my therapeutic practice. I started my career in special education as a behaviorist for children with autism and later worked as a school counselor for middle school students in East Los Angeles. I earned my BCBA in 2020 and my LCSW in 2021, allowing me to integrate behavior management techniques into my mental health practice. I love being able to work with clients from both a behavioral and mental health perspective, allowing space for big behaviors and big feelings to coexist and be processed together. I'm here to help! I am directive yet empathetic and allow clients to tailor their therapeutic plan to meet their needs and goals. Please don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation to see if we might be a good fit. Email for clinical supervision rates (individual, triadic, group).
Welcome! What is a mosaic? It is little imperfect pieces of glass or tile that come together to form beautiful art. How can we create a mosaic within ourselves and in our lives? All the broken pieces of glass or tile can represent trauma, experiences, life journeys, and parts of our self that we sometimes don’t necessarily know how to understand them to incorporate them into our sense of self. I have a passion for working with people to help them to understand these broken pieces, and help them to put these pieces together in a way that creates the beautiful mosaic that is YOU! I have 18 years of experience, specializing in working with transition-aged youth (ages 16-24), adults, and people of color that struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, among other life challenges that people may face. I also strive to understand what your needs are and work with you in a way that can meet those needs to best assist you in therapy. Please contact me if you are interested in taking a step forward in your life journey that can lead to discovering and understanding the beautiful mosaic of you!
Clients I work with are typically struggling with perfectionism, eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, and difficulty with the college transition. I want to learn about your unique story so that we can create meaningful positive change in your life. As your therapist, I like to focus on staying in the present moment, finding skills to regulate emotions, and tapping into your mind/body/spirit. Because of my own background and identities, I am passionate about working with athletes, LGBTQ folks, People of Color, and trans-racial adoptees. I am located in Los Angeles and work with clients throughout California using a secure Telehealth platform, Simple Practice.
If you are sensitive, creative, trying to do it all for yourself and for others, but lonely and stuck about how to resolve the paradox, my practice is for you. Does the following sound familiar? "I will just do everything myself. I can want others, but I mustn’t truly need them…or upset them.” I do my best work with those who can want deeper human contacts in life but who feel uncertainty or conflict about opening up fully and about serving themselves. Your gifts might include: sensory, aesthetic, and emotional sensitivity, intellectual curiosity, desire for fairness and justice, creative and spiritual / philosophical interests, teaching / writing, having ideals, enthusiasm (when interested), and a good first impression (when you feel safe and well). Still, you may have slipped into people-pleasing, social anxiety or reluctance, uncertainty about dependency and safety, disappointed or resentful exhaustion, under-assertion, quiet envy / jealousy, variable or confused boundaries, withdrawal after setbacks, perfectionism, procrastination, or unexplained body symptoms If the above sounds like what you have been feeling and trying to cope with, get in touch with me for some knowledgeable, understanding help in a safe-yet-engaging environment. I am patient, intently listening, insightful about subtleties, and gently persistent. I have faith you can develop a healthy interdependence with life and others. I am here to hang in with you as you make the time to digest help and faith and then make some new moves. It will be worth it!
As a therapist grounded in Depth Psychology, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space for you to explore the layers of your experience. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, or relational challenges, I work with you to make meaning out of struggle and to reconnect with your own inner wisdom. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed, with deep respect for your individual journey. I’m especially attuned to how unconscious patterns, family systems, and early experiences shape who we are—and how we heal. I also welcome dreamwork, myth, and imagination into the room when appropriate. I work with adults and teens, and I’m particularly passionate about supporting those who feel stuck, sensitive, or like they don’t quite fit the mold. You're not too much—and you're not alone. Therapy with me is not about quick fixes; it’s about building an authentic relationship where transformation becomes possible. If you’re ready to begin or continue this work, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.