Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

I always felt that I was called to help others. Growing up in South Los Angeles, I developed a sense of culture and community amongst Black and Brown people as well as a respect for the struggle. I grew up around artists, musicians, poets, leaders, givers, and eccentrics from all walks of life. During this time, I discovered how much I enjoyed listening to people, problem-solving, and motivating others to succeed and explore their authentic selves. I started off as a mentor in undergrad, inspiring other young people of color to attend college and think outside of the box in regards to their futures. I continued working with children, teens, and adults with special needs until I landed a position as an intern at a non-profit mental health agency in South Los Angeles. After I obtained my license as a marriage and family therapist, I continued to grow as a clinician, supervisor, and manager at the nonprofit while also taking on teen and adult clients in the private practice setting. My intake process is a free-flowing conversation where I provide a warm environment for you to feel comfortable opening up about yourself and what brings you to therapy. I used a standard intake questionnaire that can be filled out online and reviewed during the first session in order to assist with goal-setting and creating our therapy journey together. Progress is something that we agree upon collaboratively. I do give assignments as appropriate and depending on the goals we have established together. These assignments are not designed to feel like work but rather stepping stones to help you along on your quest for inner healing and positive change. I enjoy working with clients who want to grow and learn about themselves while tackling life's challenges.

**Welcoming New Clients in CA and TX** Adulting is already hard enough; throw in infertility, postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy following loss (heIlo, anxiety!), loss/grief, trauma, relationship/communication issues and family conflict and now you've got discomfort, unpleasant feelings, disconnection and stress. While we may not be able to change all of the obstacles in your life, we can definitely work together to adjust expectations, reinforce coping skills, strengthen resilience, improve communication skills, set boundaries and elicit clarity and direction. We work collaboratively to support clients (after all, you are the expert on your own life) to utilize the strengths you already possess, identify obstacles and challenge unhelpful thoughts or patterns. We specialize in pregnancy following loss, infertility, miscarriage/infant loss, bereavement, trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, relational issues. Change is so hard! It can be overwhelming to consider what life would feel like without distress and uneasiness. However, you are more courageous than you give yourself credit for- you've made it this far, after all! Together, we can have candid conversation about your feelings and concerns and support your shift toward clarity, balance and stability.

What inspires me to work as a therapist is the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution on a daily basis. As an immigrant woman of color, who is bilingual and bi-cultural, my family’s struggle to achieve mental health despite deep seated stigma and shame illuminated my commitment to work as a therapist. Clients are the owners of their lives, and I respectfully honor their right to self-determination. A basic guiding principle in my therapeutic work is that clients are able to succeed when they choose their goals and their psychological needs are met. As such, it is my job to encourage competence and mastery of their own paths. That is, what works is what works for the client! Trust is the cornerstone that allows positive growth in therapy, which for me includes empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard of the client. Reinforcing that we are all doing the best we can, and that coming to therapy is not a failure, but rather it is a growth opportunity.

You don't need to go through this alone. We can be there for you offering support, a second opinion, unconditional care and encouragement while we all learn to live life during this pandemic. We can do this together. Find Your Balance, Center for Growth & Change specialize in anxiety, depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Our passion is to help you create change and live life to the fullest no matter what is going on around you. We can provide services through video conferencing or telephone. Hablas's Español. We are professionally trained in evidenced based practices that will help you maximize your full potential. We will provide you with enthusiastic support, an objective perspective and the insight that you need to feel supported and the best you that you can be. When you feel alone or isolated, I'll be the one to walk with you through your journey while offering support, exploring your strengths and encouraging you to take the steps you need to create the change you want. We won't give up on you. ​

I am inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and the profound potential for growth and healing within everyone. Witnessing clients navigate challenges, uncover their strengths, and achieve breakthroughs is deeply fulfilling. The ability to make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals as they reclaim their lives and well-being drives my passion for this field. I’m also drawn to the ever-evolving nature of mental health care, where continuous learning and innovation allow me to grow alongside my clients. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly. Active listening is at the core of my practice—I strive to fully understand their experiences by reflecting, validating their emotions, and asking thoughtful questions. I also adapt my communication style to each client’s unique needs, ensuring they feel respected and seen. By fostering empathy and tailoring interventions to their individual stories, I make it clear that their voice and perspective are central to the therapeutic process. Trust is built through consistency, authenticity, and mutual respect. I show up as a genuine, compassionate presence, balancing professionalism with warmth and relatability. I also collaborate with clients, empowering them to take an active role in their therapy. By being transparent about the therapeutic process and celebrating their progress, I foster a sense of partnership. Over time, these elements come together to create a strong, trusting alliance that supports meaningful growth and healing.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

You just need to do figure out to eat for dinner, you’ve done it a million times, so why does it feel so hard? In my practice, I’ve learned that we often go through life reacting to situations without fully understanding why. I specialize in working with neurodivergent young adults (i.e. ADHD, Autism, OCD) and I'm passionate about helping people understand how their unique minds and bodies work. There is so much you are already doing instinctively to cope with things (probably a lot of it without even realizing it's a coping skill), I just get to help you figure out what that is and how to use it more effectively. By untangling your thoughts, exploring your feelings, and developing a deeper understanding of your mind and body, I will help you regain the power to build a life that works for you. Trying new things can be hard but what you’re doing isn’t easy. It’s worth giving yourself a chance. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a free consultation.

I was inspired to work in mental health care by my father. My father raised me and we were very close. He would always pick me up from school and take me out for ice cream. It was our quality time together where he would encourage me to talk about my day at school. This was the first example of what it was to experience talk therapy. I learned at a young age the importance of self-expression and having someone there to listen to you and validate you. As I got older, I valued my connections that could be built between people when they have friendly conversation or engage in deep conversations. By high school, I knew I wanted to work in the mental health field. When I engage in therapy with you, I will make you feel valued and heard by allowing you to discuss your needs and wants throughout the entire process. You are the Pilot and I am your co-pilot. This is your time, space and therapy session. We will engage in treatment planning together. Our first session will look like me getting an opportunity to know you and what brings you to therapy. I want to know all the things that are going right in your life and what are some of your favorite hobbies and activities you like to engage in. We will work together every step of the way when engaging in treatment planning and what your main focus needs will be. I am also very humorous and feel laughter is the best type of medicine so at times you will find entertainment, but I will be very informative as well. I am also vulnerable, so you will see I will be able to hold space for your tears if needed.

Providing culturally sensitive, inclusive and trauma informed therapy for individuals with anxiety, depression, relational trauma, intergenerational family trauma, perfectionism/high achieving, low self esteem and relationship issues.

Working in mental health comes from a deep desire to help others. I have always been extremely curious and passionate about learning how the mind works and what drives certain behaviors. I am inspired by human resilience and I am privileged to be in a field where I am able to support others discover, learn about themselves, and heal from generational wounds, unhealthy patterns, and so forth. I genuinely believe that you as the client are the expert of your own life and I am here to guide you through your individual journey and human growth. I provide a comforting, compassionate, and free of judgment space. My approach is collaborative and deeply rooted in trying to help you understand yourself better and where certain obstacles in your life may be coming from and how to make changes in order to create a fulfilling life. In sessions, you will notice that I will meet you where you are and guide you to continue moving forward. I recognize how difficult vulnerability can be and so I try to create a safe, warm and culturally competent environment where you can be yourself. You will also notice that sometimes I will use humor, a direct approach, and I will read the room to explore whether you want to be challenged, given suggestions, or simply be heard and validated. I foster open communication, encourage honesty and transparency, ensuring that you feel heard and understood. I enjoy working with clients from a diverse range of backgrounds, from young adults to older adults who are struggling with life transitions, existential challenges, relationship issues, self-esteem, ADHD, depression and anxiety.

I went into psychology to address what I believe is a growing imbalance of work/life stress and personal guilt in modern day society. I want to help clients struggling with this both individually and as couples or families. Experiences from past careers has given me an appreciation for diverse learning methods and cultural attitudes, as well as how to be flexible and creative in my coaching with clients of all ages. Managing the ups and downs of any chronic condition is the unacknowledged full-time job of millions of people, and yet there is little credit given for it. I am here to be supportive, inventive, encouraging, and sympathetic to clients struggling with the ongoing stress of managing their lives, and help them lead an enjoyable life no matter what they may be handling. I believe that when people connect, lives get better. I have always been an advocate for others’ growth, and enjoy helping people gain insight into themselves and their world. As a marriage and family therapist, I help individuals address elements of their lives and themselves that are interfering with their relationships. As an individual therapist, I focus on unlocking and identifying core motivations and strengths in clients that are unique to them, and which often provide clients with the direction or guidance they are seeking. My psychotherapy practice is tailored to give clients exactly the kind of supportive opportunity they need to focus inward, realign with their personal needs, and heal from stress as they learn to manage it. I have a warm communication style that clients describe as encouraging, analytical, and direct. I use a Cognitive Behavioral approach, with elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy to explore deeper memories, and Solution-Focused principles to create measurable progress between sessions.

If you feel like you’ve been missing out on life due to your mental health, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, OCD, addictions, relationship or sexual issues, or the unique pressures of working in the entertainment industry, I’m here to help. My approach is compassionate, direct, and tailored to your needs—offering a space where you can explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful change. I specialize in working with young adults, professionals, and individuals seeking relief from overwhelming thoughts, addictive patterns, and life transitions. Together, we’ll identify what’s holding you back, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling. Stress, self-doubt, and old patterns can make it hard to move forward, even when you know something needs to change. Having grown up as a professional child actress, I’ve experienced firsthand the pressures of performance, perfectionism, and identity—shaping my understanding of how early experiences can impact mental health. In therapy, we’ll focus on what’s actually getting in your way—not just surface-level fixes, but meaningful shifts that help you feel more grounded and in control of your life. If you’re looking for a space to figure things out without judgment, let’s talk.

I am passionate about working with college students! Are you struggling at school? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with College Students, individuals and teens with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse. Here are are comments from my past clients "Maria is an excellent therapist. She has been instrumental in my recovery." "Maria was helpful especially since I was new to therapy." I am passionate about helping students conquer their fears & improve their self-esteem. My success comes from listening & being present with my clients in order to understand their experiences. I am available to see clients on Sundays!

Are you ready to make a change in your life? Is there a pattern you keep repeating in relationships that you want to let go of? Do you want to feel comfortable and happy in your own skin? Is your past affecting your present in debilitating ways you want to change? Your brain is naturally wired for change, the neuroplasticity in your brain allows you to form new neural connections breaking free of limiting beliefs. Therapy taps into this ability, and provides tangible skills for you to learn and connect to your own healing power. An experienced hand makes all the difference in healing and awakening to your best self. Specializing in trauma I’m holistic in my approach looking at the flow of energy in you as a whole being: Spirit, Mind, and Body. I interweave Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Attachment Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR) to fit your unique needs and together we take a journey to the possible.

My interest in mental health began from a desire to understand how our experiences shape who we are. This curiosity grew into a passion for helping others explore these influences, gain deeper insight, and create healthier ways of relating to themselves and the people around them. The more we understand ourselves, the more we can understand others. Whether you’re coming to therapy during a difficult time or seeking support for accountability and personal growth, what matters most is simply showing up for yourself. That act of showing up can be one of the hardest things we do. Yet it is also essential, not only for your own well-being, but for your ability to show up more fully for the people and things you care about. I view therapy as an act of kindness toward yourself, an intentional pause to check in, look inward, and take meaningful steps toward becoming your best self. Over time, this process can create a ripple effect of growth, both within yourself and across all areas of your life.

Hello, I specialize in supporting high achievers in academia, sport, and medicine. As a bi-cultural neuropsychologist, I can help navigating questions of identity / cultural adjustment for international and multicultural clients. I see clients in most States: CA, IA, MA, NH & all PsyPact States (see list here: https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap). Do you struggle with perfectionism? Are you at a transition point in your career and in search of guidance for your next steps? Despite your achievements, you can never fully relax and you feel like you just have to keep going? We will work together to help you find a sense of direction, so you can appreciate what you have accomplished, and enjoy building the life you truly want! For more information, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation at 603-585-5047. -- Ph.D. #1 from the Sorbonne University, Paris, France Ph.D. #2 from Harvard University UCLA Clinical Faculty & Dartmouth Researcher All services provided in English & in French

Are you tired of anxiety and old habits preventing you from achieving your goals? Have you been dealing with life's problems by trying harder, venting to friends and family, and avoiding stressful situations, and things never seem to get better? Are you ready for change? I’ll work collaboratively with you to tailor time-tested and evidence-based approaches to meet your specific needs. My Background and Approach We’ll work together to see how old habits and ways of dealing with life’s problems might be holding you back. One of the most common ways people deal with problems is through avoidance. If you avoid anxiety provoking or uncomfortable situations, you’ll feel better in the short-term. However, you’ll probably find that you end up avoiding more and more and your world will get much smaller in the long-term. We’ll work together to find new ways of thinking and approaching life’s problems so your world can open up and you can live according to your values rather than based on uncomfortable emotions. We'll collaborate to develop personalized exercises to help you to face your fears whether you're suffering from insomnia, OCD, or performance anxiety at work or as an athlete/performer. I have helped students, retirees, stay-at-home-parents, surgeons, world class athletes, ballet dancers, and people from all walks of life. Sport Psychology I am also passionate about helping athletes and performers of all kinds to perform at the upper range of their abilities. I have worked with competitors at the high school, amateur, community college, university, professional, and world class levels. I currently provide sport psychology services for the U.S. National Sumo Wrestling team and a Women’s Premier Soccer League team. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation's Anxiety in Athlete's Task Force, which is aimed at providing education and resources to athletes suffering from OCD. My Beliefs and Interests I believe that mental health should be viewed the same way as physical health. Most of us wouldn't judge someone for catching a cold, pulling a muscle, or living with a chronic illness. So, why do we judge someone who feels depressed, has a panic attack during an important presentation, or lives with OCD? I also believe that if society can appreciate people going to the gym to stay fit or have empathy for people undergoing a life-saving surgery, we as a society, can also appreciate and empathize with people going to therapy to maintain their mental health and address mental illness. I believe that with effort and learning people can grow to be stronger than the problems they face. I have the privilege of being able to help people on their journey of personal growth as my job! When I am not working you can find me listening to audiobooks and watching great movies and shows. I am still an avid supporter of House Stark (books and HBO). Call Today Whether you are struggling with your mental health, or you are just trying to improve your performance, I can work with you to meet your goals. Please call (310) 375-4855 Ext.14 or email jvonstietz@cbtsocal.com to set up a FREE phone consultation.

I value the opportunity to support individuals uncover their inner strength, heal from the past, and rediscover hope. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and I am passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from culturally and gender-diverse communities. I belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported as individuals navigate life’s challenges. Witnessing the resilience and growth of individuals as they overcome obstacles is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. I ensure individuals feel heard and understood by providing a supportive environment where one can openly share their experiences. I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion. I work closely with individuals throughout your therapeutic journey, encouraging and empowering them to take an active role in your personal growth.

I am inspired to work in the field of mental health care because of my passion for fostering meaningful change in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. My dedication to helping individuals build on their strengths and navigate challenges allows me to empower them to heal, grow, and thrive. Guided by empathy, I aim to create a space where people can feel understood and supported in their journey toward better mental health. To ensure clients feel heard and understood in sessions, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves openly. I approach each session with empathy, active listening, and cultural humility, tailoring my support to honor the unique experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ2+ individuals, low-income families, children, adolescents, and trauma survivors. By validating their feelings, recognizing their strengths, and fostering trust, I help clients feel truly understood and supported throughout their journey. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by creating a warm, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where clients feel safe to share their experiences. I honor each client’s unique strengths, values, and goals, fostering a sense of partnership and mutual respect. This approach helps establish a strong foundation for meaningful growth and healing, allowing clients to feel supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process.

Find Your Balance, Center for Growth & Change Inc. Real support for real life—because college isn’t easy. Balancing school, work, relationships, and your future can feel overwhelming—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. At FYBC, we provide therapy that meets you where you are, whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, or just feeling “off” and not sure why. We make getting started simple, with flexible scheduling, insurance options, and a team that truly understands the pressures students face today. Whether you need short-term support or a space to grow long-term, we’re here to help you build clarity, confidence, and balance in your life. You don’t need to wait until things get really bad to talk to someone. If something feels off, that’s enough. Please feel free to contact us directly for any questions at 818-927-0478 and send your referrals to this link: https://www.findyourbalancecenter.com/referral