Therapists for college students near San Diego State University
Desiree Sierra
I obtained my masters from Pepperdine University and I began my career in community services. My approach is straight forward and empathic. I identify as a first gen, cis gender Latina of Mexican descent. I offer EMDR, and also incorporate somatic interventions, a systemic framework, attachment theory, and CBT strategies. I love equipping clients with tools and honoring what comes to surface in our sessions together. I love working with adolescents, complex trauma, early adults transitioning in life and adults who struggle with anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse and depression. I work with clients to provide a safe space to explore their current life challenges and work collaboratively with clients. I work with clients to help them find tools they can use to navigate their daily life in a positive and healthy way. I believe you’re the expert of your experience - no one knows your life better than you. Together, we can create a deepened awareness around what’s working, what’s not & what strengths you already have that need nurturing. I work with clients to consider and name how various systems at play impact the life you live and the work we do. I take the role of earning your trust very seriously, and find it an honor to be part of your journey.
Ana Grajeda
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Monica Smith
I was inspired to become a therapist through my genuine interest in understanding people and supporting them during difficult moments in their lives. I’ve always believed that with the right support, insight, and compassion, people are capable of growth and meaningful change. Being a therapist allows me to walk alongside others as they navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and work toward a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling. I focus on creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and genuinely listened to. I do this through active listening, asking thoughtful questions, and reflecting back what I hear to ensure I understand your experiences accurately. I also check in regularly to make sure our work feels helpful and aligned with your goals. Therapy is collaborative, and your voice guides the process. My role is to support you with curiosity, compassion, and consistency so you feel heard and understood throughout our work together. Working together looks collaborative, supportive, and paced to your comfort level. We start by building trust through consistency, transparency, and respect, making sure you understand the process and feel safe asking questions or sharing feedback. I work to create a nonjudgmental space where your experiences are honored, and we move at a pace that feels right for you. Over time, trust grows as you feel heard, supported, and see our work align with your goals and needs.
Dr. Zohaib Abbasi, MD
Update 8/25/24: I am still accepting new patients. Online video appointments for adult and adolescent patients throughout California. In network with Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Optum and Oxford. Private pay option also available.
Parisa Frost: Togetherness Therapy
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.
Dr. Bruce Levine
ON-LINE VIDEO & TELEPHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE. He sees patients from California, New York Florida, Kansas & Hawaii (the 5 States in which he is licensed) via HIPAA-compliant (encrypted) video-chat. Dr. Levine is one of only 5% of all psychologists in the U.S. holding Board-Certification in Clinical Psychology (look for the letters ABPP after a psychologist's name). You would be sure to see only a Board-Certified surgeon and should consider the same parameters when selecting a psychologist. After earning a Ph.D. degree from Hofstra University in NY, Dr. Levine then completed a 2-year Post Doctoral Fellowship in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Prior to moving to California in 2011, he served as Chief Psychologist at Mt Sinai South Nassau Medical Center in New York and worked as a Psychologist for the hit-TV series Hoarders, on the A&E TV network. After arriving in CA, Dr. Levine served as a Clinical Psychologist at the UCLA School of Medicine and currently has a private practice in Beverly Hills, close to the Westside and UCLA. Email him at BHpsychologist@gmail.com (this is the preferred way to contact him, much better than calling) He will get right back to you. Check out his website at http://www.drbrucelevine.com Email or call Dr. Levine at 323-417-2325
James Brock
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in California. My approach to therapy is client-centered; that is, I want to work on what you want to work on! You are the expert of your own life, and I am here to offer insight to help you meet your goals. My career has been focused on working with children, adolescents, and adults who have been mandated to therapy. At this time, I would like to work with and adults who are motivated to engage in the therapeutic process. My typical therapeutic modalities are the Psychodynamic approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Brief Problem Solving Therapy. In addition, I incorporate concepts of Trauma-Informed practices and Systems Theory to help meet the needs of the client. I have a professional, authentic style. I also have a dark sense of humor that helps some clients feel like our sessions are a judgment-free zone. I tend to follow the cues and needs of the clients to ensure I am not crossing any boundaries with which the client would not feel comfortable. Please contact me if you feel like this would we would be a good fit.
Carmit Zur
We are all human, and at one point or another, yearn to feel heard and understood. Our circumstances can be an amalgamation of multiple factors, external as well as internal. Carmit is interested in getting to know and hear your experiences and help make sense of the circumstances, feelings and challenges you are going through. Having a multicultural background and being multilingual, Carmit is interested about the balance between the universality of human experience and a person's individual circumstances. Carmit’s has over ten years’ experience in the field. Her multicultural background and professional experiences have provided with opportunities to work with people of diverse backgrounds as well varied life experiences and challenges. Being multi-cultural and multi-lingual, Carmit has special interest and sensitivity working with people of diverse cultural, religious, ethnic and racial backgrounds.
Victoria Hernandez
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Alexandra Spigelman
Alexandra Spigelman is a Licensed , Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults who are seeking a more fulfilling life within themselves and in the relationships that they share with others. Alexandra specializes in relationships, mens and women's issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, recovery from narcissistic abuse, and the discovery of one's self worth. Alexandra is passionate about serving her clients so that they gain clarity, uncover barriers, speak and live their truths to create the lives of their dreams filled with possibilities.
Atwater Village Therapy
Our practice is a good fit for people who are intelligent, curious, and open to self-exploration. We provide individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, and ADHD assessments. Through these services we encourage empowerment, self-discovery, and resiliency. We value inclusiveness and have consciously created a space where all can seek help and self-discovery. Our clients come in a variety of races, sexualities, genders, religions, body sizes, and relationship structures.
Lindsay Juricich
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field since 2008. I have had my own private practice since 2019. My goal is always to meet clients where they are and to be as helpful as possible in the process. I work with children, teens, adults, parents, and couples using practical, evidence-based approaches. I focus on individual, family, and community-based strengths in order to create a foundation for lasting change. I also have specialized experience in treating young children with behavior problems, as well as individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, sexual identity, and trauma-related issues. I aim to help my clients feel supported and validated, but also feel a sense of trust and belonging when they are in a session with me. My general philosophy is to meet clients where they are and go from there in terms of how I can be the most helpful.
Taj-Zsa Hower
My name is Taj-Zsa Hower, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, as well as the owner of Minding My Own Therapy. I have more than 9 years of experience providing mental health services to a multitude of diverse individuals and couples. And 2 of those years were spent working in CSUCI Counseling and Psychological Services. While there, I absolutely loved working with the college population. In fact, I created a speciality service within my practice tailored to the needs and experiences I encountered while helping my clients; Adulting Therapy. I use the term Adulting Therapy to define the emotional and mental journey that young adults undergo when confronted with the varied responsibilities commonly linked to significant transitions into adulthood, such as college adjustment, interpersonal relationships, dating, career worries, financial concerns, and stress management. Just because we have entered adulthood, doesn’t mean we know all the answers or that we’ve conquered every challenge; however, what it can mean, is that we have more challenges, increased anxieties, and a higher need for support. Adulting Therapy can be that support! Adulting Therapy will offer a place to openly address any and everything you are feeling, experiencing, and going through, so you don’t have to face them alone. I deeply enjoy and greatly value being a psychotherapist, as my clients gift me the special opportunity to be a guiding influence in the midst of their life’s journeys. A role that I accept seriously and wholeheartedly. If you believe we may be a good fit or just have more questions, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you!
Talk To Me Therapy
People-pleaser, perfectionist, anxious, passive. If any of the above phrases or words describe you, guess what? You're reading the right profile. If you're ready to break-out of unhelpful patterns; if you're motivated to start using your voice; even if you're ready to start therapy to see where it takes you - I can be the therapist to help move you in a different direction. If you're looking for someone who is very structured, that's not me. I offer no-frills sessions and am not afraid to (gently, mind you) challenge or question you. I operate collaboratively and conversationally. Anxiety, people-pleasing, all those things I named above are my specialties. If you're a first timer to therapy - I can also help with that! Look, I get it - it's hard to pick someone whom to tell your innermost thoughts. I understand the feeling of uncertainty and the frustration of finding the "right" therapist. If you're willing to reach out to see if we're a good fit, let's talk!
Enduring Strength Counseling Services
Do you find yourself having strong emotional responses to past events? Are you struggling to “Let go” or “Move on” from painful experiences? A typical Enduring Strength Counseling client is someone between the ages of 20-35, possibly a member of the military community, who answered yes to the questions above and is ready to begin their mental health journey but do not want to deal with the constraints and limitations of insurance companies. My clients pay for services directly and feel greater comfort and peace of mind to engage in counseling knowing that their care will not be denied.
David Henning
Welcome to my Psychotherapy Practice. Currently, I am only seeing clients via video conferencing. Primarily, I work with people suffering from anxiety, addictive behaviors and couples in distress. When people seek counseling, they may report anxiety, depression and insecurity. One consistent theme is how often people make decisions that run counter to their desires and well being. Therapy can help us separate from, or gain perspective about, outdated attitudes and behaviors. One profound outcome is that we learn to accept our humanness. For many this has been inconceivable. Acceptance frees up energy to pursue interests. But self-acceptance has little to do with approval by others. Through these conversations, people often discover how current and past relationships influence mood, self-esteem and motivation. Psychotherapy helps us to recognize and detach from emotional reactions that interfere with growth. Psychotherapy, regardless of emphasis, includes an educational element. We learn to self-reflect (gain insight) in the presence of another person. Most of us need help in discovering why we do what we do. Self-reflection gives us a glimpse into our fears and desires. My style of work is active and exploratory. I tend to shy away from being directive though may suggest a focus during the session. I often employ humor or may share personal experience to bring home a point.
Ohana Family Counseling
Ohana Family Counseling is focused on helping individuals overcome challenges through collaborative and personalized therapy. Our therapists use somatic and trauma informed approaches to help individuals improve communication, resolve conflicts, and reduce trauma anxiety. We believe that every person is unique and therefore tailor our interventions to meet the specific needs of each client. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your issues and develop skills that promote long-term success. At Ohana Family Counseling , we are committed to helping you process the hard stuff and reduce emotional triggers.
Nicole Gabbay
As a young therapist, I bring both professional expertise and personal insight into the intricate dynamics of college life. Having navigated the complexities of college myself, I comprehend the intricate tapestry of pressures, relationship dynamics, substance use concerns, and the myriad challenges that accompany this transformative period. I'm not just a therapist; I'm a compassionate guide committed to your well-being. I’ve been through the complexities of college life and I understand the pressures, relationship dynamics, potential substance use concerns and the different challenges that come with this transformative period in your life. From the outside looking in, parents don’t always understand the challenges that come with college life, and I want to be that supportive other to help you get through it. Therapy is a sacred space and my focus is helping you get to the root cause of your struggles. I find that healthy relationships are the key for psychological, physical, and spiritual health. I provide awareness into your behaviors, and the ability to see the underlying issues of why you're unsatisfied with your life. If you're having difficulty regulating your emotions when it comes to romantic relationships, or feel that you find yourself in the same relationship again and again, then you have come to the right place. I will help you get to the core of these issues, and find yourself content with your personal relationships. I create space and offer insight into your behaviors, and together, will teach you about repetition compulsion. You will feel that you have control of your emotions, over codependency, and be free of addictive behaviors. You can heal. I am not the type of therapist that will sit back and just listen, I truly want to help you turn over your pain and be free. I offer a strong, empathetic approach, and teach my clients how to feel confident within themselves. You will receive guidance from me. We will be engaging in dialogue. I am direct but compassionate, and want to teach you how to be direct and vulnerable too. You will leave each session gaining insight into your behaviors. You will challenged and supported.
James Harrison
James is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#71085) based in Oakland, California who has a background as a music educator and was trained across broad multi-cultural social service experiences. His work spans the spectrum of disenfranchised communities and corporate settings. James specializes in individual and family work with older teens and adults who want to address social and emotional imbalances. He has guided hundreds of personal transformations for people of color who have struggled with the day to day, and worked collaboratively to explore unique ways to thrive. The mental wellness journey he offers includes a compassionate process of acknowledging what’s already working to your benefit and taking meaningful steps toward more sustainable self-care.
HopeComing Therapy
Are you looking to reignite that spark in your eyes that you felt was lost a long time ago? Could you be feeling lost and seeking a way to find your sense of direction? Do you feel that your relationship has not been the same as it was years ago and you may need guidance on what to do with your partner? By working with me, you may not have to face these challenges on your own. I work with an array of different populations including young adults, college students, transitional-age youth, domestic violence survivors, undocumented immigrants, individuals struggling with major depression and anxiety, and couples. Other areas of interest include helping individuals heal from codependency and breakups, providing support for culturally sensitive-issues impacting the Asian American community, and providing solidarity as an LGBTQ+ ally. If you are interested, I invite you to contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration and I hope we can connect soon!