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Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

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Suji Akhtar
Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Clarita, CA

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.

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Caela Day, Psy.D.
Psychologist
Denver, CO

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Previously, I worked at San Diego State University, California State University Long Beach, Loyola Marymount University, and Metropolitan State University of Denver. I specialize in working with students to address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I enjoy helping students develop greater self-understanding, explore aspects of their identity, and better relate in relationships.

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Rom Brafman
Psychologist
Palo Alto, CA

I like to work with motivated and intelligent clients who want to grow and excel. I take a strength-based approach and focus on identifying themes and patterns in your life and coming up with a concrete action plan.

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Nicholas Bennett
Psychologist
Los Angeles, CA

Well, hey there—I'm Dr. Bennett, but around here folks just call me Nick (or “mental health wingman” because you don’t have to do it alone). I'm a Licensed Psychologist, Kentucky born with a curious mind and raised on good manners, sweet tea, and the belief that everyone’s story matters. I’m also a pretty decent listener, and the guy who’ll gently call you out when you’re being your own worst enemy (with Southern Grace, of course). I take a no-nonsense, client-centered approach to therapy—meaning we do what works, not just what’s in the textbook. I pull from all kinds of fancy-sounding things like CBT, EMDR (that eye-wiggle therapy that actually helps), mindfulness, and clinical hypnotherapy, but don’t let the big words fool you—I’m not here to confuse you, I’m here to help you get unstuck. Think of it like a mental tune-up with someone who won’t judge you for crying and cussing in the same sentence. I’ve worked with all sorts of folks—teens who'd rather be anywhere else, adults juggling more than they can carry, and elders who've seen more than most of us can imagine. I’ve helped folks through depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias (yes, including critters and public speaking), and life’s lovely little curveballs. I’ve worked with families involved with Child Protective Services, and I’ve spent time supporting folks in nursing homes, where wisdom and sass often come in equal parts. I’ve also had the honor of working with survivors of sexual assault and folks in the LGBTQ+ community—spaces where safety, respect, and a little humor go a long way. Before all this therapy business, I served in the U.S. Army and later, Army National Guard, with two combat deployments. So, if you’re a veteran or military family, know that I speak the language—boots, bureaucracy, and all. After all, camouflage isn’t just a pattern; it’s a lifestyle. Therapy doesn’t have to be stiff and clinical. Sometimes it’s about laughing at the mess while working through it. When it comes to couples therapy, I use tools like the Gottman Method and emotionally focused therapy—basically helping y’all stop talking past each other and start actually hearing one another. I have also run group therapy programs that range from LGBTQ+ support and sexual assault recovery to anger management and domestic violence work. And nope, it’s not just people sitting in a circle saying, “I’m angry.” We get real, and sometimes even have a few laughs. Outside of therapy sessions, I also do psychological evaluations—for everything from disability claims to gender affirmation surgery prep to lawsuit support. It’s serious work, and I take it seriously—but I promise not to make it feel like you're on trial. I earned my PsyD from California Southern University, where my dissertation explored the link between toxic masculinity and sexual violence. (Spoiler alert: masculinity’s not the problem—toxic masculinity is.) My postdoc training happened in the redwoods of California and the hustle of D.C., so I’ve been around the block—and the mountains—and the monuments. If you're looking for a therapist who’ll shoot you straight, bring a little humor to the hard stuff, and treat you like a person—not a project—well then, you’ve found your guy. We’ll laugh, we’ll dig deep, and we might even change your life a little. Let’s get to work, y’all.

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Venessa Medina, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist
Visalia, CA

I am a mental health therapist who has been practicing since 2010. I provide my clients with skills and tools to assist them in meeting their goals. I have a person-centered approach which means we focus on where you are at and work towards where you want to be. I have extensive training in treating trauma and I am certified to use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work in providing relief from trauma symptoms caused by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am a Level 2 Trained Gottman therapist which emphasizes building stronger relationships and giving skills to deal with issues successfully as they arise. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals. My goal is to help my clients on their path towards healing. If you are ready to make a positive change then I am here to help.

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Therapy Outside
Marriage & Family Therapist
Newport Beach, CA

There is nothing worse than feeling like you have become a disappointment to your family. That no matter how hard you try to navigate college, nothing you do will ever be good enough. Are you looking for a way to help your family understand YOUR struggles? To validate and support you, instead of saying, "it's just a phase, it will pass" or "Everyone has a hard time, you just need to try harder" or worse, "When I was your age I went through the same thing". I believe no one knows you better than you know yourself- even your family-and I want to help you express your needs in a way your family will hear, understand and be able to support you.

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Angie Swarthout
Psychologist
Folsom, CA

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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Natalie Foy-Claycomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
San Francisco, CA

Hello! My name is Natalie and I’m a therapist who began my career working at a nonprofit where I provided therapeutic support to children, young adults, and parents, and I transitioned to private practice work in 2018. I enjoy providing therapy to a wide range and diverse group of clients, and I particularly love working with college students and young adults since I’m able to offer support during a time of life that often involves significant changes and transitions. I like to conduct therapy in a way that is positive, open, non-judgmental, and culturally-sensitive, and I am flexible in working with each client in a way that best suits his or her specific needs. I have experience working with clients experiencing a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties, particularly anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, learning differences, low self-esteem, and social/relationship challenges, among others. I incorporate elements of various types of therapy into my work, but Iprimarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients determine if some of the thinking and behavioral patterns they engage in can be altered to produce desired changes. I work with clients to develop their coping skills, self-awareness, insight, and ability to communicate effectively in order to help them lead more satisfying and successful lives. I truly love the work that I do since it allows me the opportunity to help and witness people make positive changes in themselves and their lives. Please feel free to contact me; it would be great to hear from you!

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Emily Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional
San Francisco, CA

Welcome to my practice! We all face challenges in our lives. With those challenges come opportunities to choose how we respond. Some of the difficulties we face include adapting to a new school, job, or relationship, making new friends, and finding meaning in one's life. Other challenges are unique to the individual like discrimination, identity concerns, or trauma. I create a safe space for clients where I am present, genuine, and empathetic. Central to my approach is learning about my clients in a nonjudgmental, affirming way. I help clients develop a deeper understanding of how their past and current experiences influence their thoughts and reactions. The therapeutic interventions I use help clients develop skills to meet their challenges. Therapy is a collaboration that leads to enhanced self-awareness and effective problem-solving. With increased understanding, skills, support, and resources, we have more freedom to effectively cope in ways that are consistent with our values. Freedom means we are not repeating previous maladaptive patterns, allowing us to live the life we want, experiencing greater fulfillment and happiness.

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Nick Wightman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Oakland, CA

I work with individuals and couples using a strength-based approach that is interactive, collaborative and informed by the latest research on attachment theory, neuroscience, and mindfulness. I see each person as more than the problem they walk in with, emphasizing their unique strengths and resilience as the most important ingredients for healing. I specialize in working with men to help deepen their capacity to understand and manage complex emotional states so they can have more self-confidence and greater satisfaction in their relationships.

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Zulema Gonzalez Mendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Long Beach, CA

I work with adults who may feel overwhelmed by their thoughts and emotions—whether that includes anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, or other mental health challenges. My goal is to support you in achieving your mental health goals and to empower you to take an active role in your healing journey. I take a client-centered approach, placing your unique needs and mental health goals at the heart of our work together. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where therapy feels like a safe and welcoming space. I value open communication and will listen with care and intention, while gently supporting you in navigating uncomfortable emotions and life’s challenges.

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Alyssa Burgett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
San Jose, CA

Hi there! My name is Alyssa and I’m a licensed therapist in California and Nevada. I am passionate about helping individuals create long-lasting and holistic change. I believe when we are struggling with internal conflict, it can be challenging to have relationships with others and live a fulfilling life. Everyone is capable of creating change, however, sometimes we need support from others to be able to get there and I would love to provide that for you!

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Nathalie Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whittier, CA

Hi, my name is Nathalie Torres and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My focus is working with individuals who are struggling with OCD, emetophobia (fear of vomit), anxiety, and hair or skin picking. I use evidenced-based approaches like ACT, ComB, and ERP. I am also certified in CBT as well. But beyond my clinical training my style is very down to earth and casual. I prioritize having real honest conversations and building genuine connections. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals who are navigating college. It can be an exciting time but also feel very overwhelming. It is a lot to manage as it is a time that inevitably comes with big life changes. I would love to help you in your journey of making sense of it all and most importantly, feel more grounded along the way. I offer virtual sessions, making therapy accessible. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions, I’d love to connect.

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Crystal Trammell, ASW
Pre-Licensed Professional
San Jose, CA

You usually feel strong and confident in your life, but lately, you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and stressed. Being a college student is an exciting journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges. You're facing academic pressures, navigating new relationships, and trying to find your place in the world. You're looking to regain your sense of self, connect with your peers, and embrace this transformative phase of your life. You want to overcome feelings of doubt and insecurity so you can find relief, healing, and learn practical skills to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life. I specialize in anxiety, stress management, and relationship issues among college students. I provide a safe space for open expression, offering support, coping strategies, and guidance for a more grounded and authentic life. Clients work with me because they want a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves openly and work towards personal growth. I have an easy-going & down-to-earth therapeutic style. I'll be empathetic and real with you so you can start showing up as the person you want to be. I help my clients develop practical and solution-focused steps to help them move towards balance and personal wholeness. Visit my website to book a free consultation online. Let's start your journey today!

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Sara Jones, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stamford, CT

Hi I'm Sara a LCSW in both CA and CT. I became a therapist because of a genuine desire to help others thrive. I believe that therapy should feel like a safe and supportive space—one where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment. My goal is to motivate you towards the changes and self-discovery that you want for your life while also gaining a deeper understanding of self.

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Amanda Berney
Psychologist
Santa Rosa, CA

Many young adults are emerging from the direct and constant influence of parents or guardians, into a space where they have more control and responsibility for their own lives. In this stage of life, we are discovering who we are independent of those early influences and developing our own personal worldview. We are exploring new relationships and new interests as we prepare to launch into the workforce and set ourselves up for the future. With everything that is going on, you might be feeling intense stress or pressure. Maybe you feel like you’ve taken a wrong turn, are uncertain about next steps, or need a place to explore your possibilities. Many young people realize that they’ve been impacted by something in their past that they feel ready to explore or find freedom from. Perhaps you’ve discovered something about yourself in relationships with others that you’d like to understand better or change. Whatever your goals are, therapy provides a confidential, non-judgmental space to work through your experiences, discover your personal strengths and learn to choose a future that feels exciting for you.

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Melony Burns. LCSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lacey, WA

Developmental trauma (experiences as we grow, including our family of origin) shapes how we see the world, sometimes unsafe and challenging to navigate. Our attachments are the foundations in which we trust or find conflict. Developmental trauma may manifest in the body as anxiety, stress, distress, relationship difficulties, depression and more. There is healing to be found here, to be understood and nourished. Well done on the first step in a journey toward wellness. The most important aspect of therapy is finding a person who makes you feel safe and heard. I look forward to collaborating. I have training and experience in working with trauma, family of origin/generational cycles, attachment disruptions, complicated grief and loss, sexuality, sex work and with LGBTQAI+ persons. I love working through emotions, trauma and somatic experiencing. I am Level I Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy trained. I enjoy working with and understanding folx from their perspective; I work with singles, couples, non-monogamous consensual relationships and families. I provide a safe, unassuming space in which you can find felt safety. I appreciate the eclectic person you are and would like to help you identify your own cracks, so that you can let your own light in. If you would like to utilize insurance, please check out my profile on Headway: https://care.headway.co/providers/melony-burns?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=120731

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Olivia Lair - Headway Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
San Francisco, CA

Great to meet you! As a board-certified licensed therapist, I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a variety of backgrounds. My primary goal is to create an authentic connection with each of my clients to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. I believe that our past influences our present, especially when faced with challenging life experiences. Together, within our built safe space, we will explore how your past experiences influence your current thoughts and behaviors - to improve your awareness and identify areas for positive change. I believe in balancing validation and empathy with a directive, solution-focused approach that offers specific strategies to enact change. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-harm/suicidal ideation, substance use, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, relationship and family issues, identity development, and life transitions. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches because it is important to me to adapt my style to honor the current needs of each of my clients. I always begin our work together with an introductory session, when you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and what you hope to achieve through therapy. We’ll work together, collaborate on your goals and create a plan that feels most comfortable to you. Building trust is important to our therapeutic relationship, and will take our time easing into processing your thoughts and experiences. I will remain committed to supporting and guiding as we work together to make your goals a reality.

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Sunlight Psychological Services, Inc.
Group practice
Agoura Hills, CA

Sunlight Psychological Services is a boutique private practice nestled in the foothills of the Old Agoura community. We offer psychological evaluations and science-based relational therapy for kids, young adults, and families. Our mission is to cultivate relational wellness in the whole family. Our psychologists have a variety of specialties which can meet the needs of a diverse client base. We believe in science-based therapy methods implemented with warmth, authenticity, and meaningful connection.

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NDH Therapy
Group practice
Agoura Hills, CA

At NDH Therapy, we’re here to support students like you who might be navigating eating disorders, disordered eating, mood and attention challenges, gender identity exploration, life transitions, stress, or relationship struggles. Our services, including psychotherapy, eating psychology coaching, and neurofeedback brainwave training are designed to meet you where you are and help you build a healthier relationship with food, your body, others, and yourself. Whether you prefer in-person sessions in Agoura Hills, CA, or the flexibility of telehealth, our caring and experienced team is ready to walk alongside you on your journey to healing and growth. We also offer YELLOW Mind Eating Recovery Subscription for $39/month. It includes a 12 learning modules that guide a healthier relationship with food and your body, group coaching, and AI support. Sign up at ndhtherapy.com.

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