Therapists for college students near San Diego State University
Nekea Strong
Hi my name is Nekea (nuh-key-yah). As a woman of color, I understand how the different parts of “who we are”, our experiences, identities, and relationships, shape the way we see and move through the world. I strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and real, where you can show up fully without judgment. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and groups from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultural perspectives. My work is especially centered on supporting women, people of color, adolescents, and public figures as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re healing from grief, processing trauma, or learning to set boundaries and care for yourself in new ways, my goal is to help you reconnect with your voice and your sense of self. Therapy, to me, is both a place of reflection and empowerment, a space to better understand your story and to write new chapters with clarity and confidence.
Patty Munoz Counseling & Therapy
You have taken a big step today by considering therapy. This tells me you are ready for change. I applaud you for that! I am proud of you. You have tried ignoring it and hoping that Anxiety or Depression will go away on it’s own. Maybe you have been over-working to distract yourself . It's possible you have tried therapy before without any success. You may notice that your sleep or eating habits are worsening. You could also be experiencing physical symptoms or panic attacks due to Anxiety or Depression worsening. You have tried talking to friends or family but this is not helping. You could be too embarrassed to talk to anyone about. You are worried that no one will understand. You want to feel better and move beyond anxiety and depression. Therapy can help you by teaching tools to manage anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms. I'm Patty Munoz, I help adults overcome Anxiety, Depression and heal from Trauma. I have 16 years of experience working in mental health. I am also EMDR trained. EMDR is a therapy modality that has been proved effective to treat trauma, depression and anxiety. In Therapy, I will teach you better ways to manage your anxiety,depression and empower you to use your voice to make the changes in your life. We may also need to process past trauma if it's currently affecting you. My hope is that you can move from Panic Survival Mode or depressed state to living the Life You Deserve. Please Contact me for your free 15 minute consultation or with any questions.
Goldstone Psychiatry and Neuromodulation Center
Welcome to Goldstone Psychiatry and Neuromodulation Center. We provide high quality, compassionate, and evidence-based psychiatric care. We work with college students and young professionals experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, trauma, panic attacks, and other mental health concerns. Whether you're seeking an evaluation, medication management, or a second opinion, our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan in a supportive, judgment-free environment. We take time to listen, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your care so you can focus on your health, education, and future. We offer rapid new-patient appointments, weekend availability, and secure telepsychiatry throughout Texas and California, making it easier to get help without disrupting your classes or schedule.
Jennifer Tustison
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Lynda Paulson
I am here to join with you as you explore therapy as a path to heal and thrive. Taking the step to engage in therapy can feel daunting. I will take that step with you and provide support and a safe place. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years’ experience in direct practice. Throughout my practice I have focused on the importance of identifying all aspects of my clients’ lives that impact their well-being (support systems, cultural, work/ school environment, physical health, life experience, faith/spirituality) to provide treatment through a holistic person-in- environment perspective. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, PTSD and complex trauma, adjustment disorders, obsessive/compulsive behaviors and grief and loss issues. I also have supported many in navigating life transitions, LGBTQ+, self-esteem and women’s issues, workplace stress, relationship and parenting conflicts and the myriad of life challenges that bring disconnection and distress to our lives. I offer myself as a partner to support you on your life journey through building connection, bonding and trust. I provide a creative approach including CBT, DBT, ACT, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic paradigms. We work together to utilize your own inner strengths and resources to help sort out life challenges to achieve your goals and live your best life. I am strengths based, culturally sensitive and trauma informed to assist you in making peace with your past, heal and gain wisdom in the present and embrace your future with insight, hope and resilience. It would be my honor to join with you in your process of transforming your life to discover more meaning, joy and purpose. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Change Within Reach
Change Within Reach specializes in culturally sensitive, deeply personalized therapy for individuals, couples, and families seeking meaningful transformation, with a strong focus on addressing anxiety alongside complex life transitions, identity, and relationship dynamics. Change Within Reach is committed to providing an inclusive, client-centered environment where clients from diverse backgrounds feel seen, heard, and supported. With therapists skilled in blending cultural insights and therapeutic expertise, Change Within Reach offers services in multiple languages, helping clients address challenges that intersect with cultural expectations, self-identity, and mental health.
Tina Ahmed
I work to help clients change stuck patterns and feel empowered in their lives, as well to teach skills for managing mental health symptoms and overwhelming life experiences. Empowerment, safety, and wholeheartedness. These are the values that drive my work. I use a holistic approach to focus on individual strengths and needs. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Chris Bradt
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a degree in Mindfulness-based Transpersonal Counseling from Naropa University, in Boulder, Colorado. Mindfulness informs all aspects of my work, including my emphasis on creating a space of compassion and curiosity in which we can explore, experiment, and journey together. You can't do anything "wrong" in therapy; everything that happens can be mined for wisdom. I have primarily worked with people to address issues related to anxiety, depression, self-concept, and life transitions. I see therapy sessions as a balance between processing and skill-building, in which there is enough open space to explore and also enough direction to come away with concrete action steps to create the desired change. In addition to mindfulness, I have training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I frequently guide my clients in getting to know and work with "parts" of themselves. I bring a trauma-informed approach to all sessions, in which safety, empowerment, and self-compassion are held paramount. For trauma-specific work, I utilize my training in EMDR therapy to provide targeted interventions designed to desensitize and reprocess traumatic experiences in the brain. Above all else, I hold a steadfast hope for the ability of each and every person to heal and grow. It is truly an honor and privilege to join my clients in that journey.
Mojdeh Mansoori
Hi, I’m Mojdeh. I am an Iranian-American therapist and a child of immigrant parents. I witnessed my parents experiencing their feelings of grief as they lived far from family, friends, and their native country. As a bicultural kid, I faced challenges integrating both of my cultures and experienced racism as I navigated the world. As an Iranian woman, I deeply understand the experience of not being seen, heard, or included. I am aware of the under-representation of BIPOC clients and therapists in the therapy room. This has led me to want to connect with clients who have been historically oppressed. In our work together, we can begin the process of examining systemic issues, advocating for social change and healing ancestral & intergenerational trauma.
Shawneece Rivera
You’ve taken the first step towards healing, which is often one of the most difficult. Thank you for being vulnerable and allowing me into your space. The world changed, and so did all of us…and that is okay! I am here to partner with children, teens, young adults, adults, and couples towards achieving healing and fulfilment, however that may look to you. My You-Centered approach places you at the helm of your journey, as we use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System, and other mindfulness management strategies to transform this moment. Together, we will combine these theories when discussing matters concerning goals/aspirations, relationships, interpersonal struggles, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, stress management, phobias and fears, and substance use concerns.
Rachel Costella, LMFT
I love supporting college students at every stage — first-year to returning adult learners — who are navigating a season full of change, uncertainty, and big questions. Maybe you're struggling to make friends or be yourself. Maybe friends aren't the issue, but your romantic life feels chaotic and it's something you'd like to develop. Perhaps relationships aren't it at all — school feels overwhelming and stressful, and you're not sure what you want to do. I work with students experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship challenges, academic stress, and the emotional overwhelm that often comes with this stage of life. I want to help you understand yourself more clearly and experience yourself with confidence. Sometimes concrete skills can help with that, but mostly, I want to offer a space that feels safe to talk about whatever's showing up in your life right now. Together, we can figure out what you need.
Lauren Cardoso
I specialize in depression, anxiety, panic, and relationships. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples, and families to help them navigate life's transitions and develop skills to thrive. I have with experience working in community-based and outpatient mental health settings. I have past experience working with young children, teens, and adults utilizing an integrated approach to tailor therapy to each person's unique needs and preferences. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Jordan Gill, AMFT
My first priority is always a strong relationship because I know that the therapeutic process can only thrive when it’s built on authenticity, trust and connection. I draw upon humanistic, psychodynamic, and cognitive/skills-based theories, providing clients with support and tools they can use to move forward and make progress. The therapeutic work centers on navigating the client's present and managing behaviors and thoughts that may be standing in their way. We’ll also explore the arc of their past experiences for relevant information and collaborate on forward-facing goals to remain oriented toward progress.
Willow & Sage Therapy Collective
I'm so glad you're here! I’m a clinical therapist in California, where I help women like you cultivate confidence and become the best version of yourself. I primarily work with young women who are struggling with: overwhelming worry, sadness, people pleasing, feeling unlovable or like you're not enough, the pattern of being attracted to emotionally unavailable people, or challenges related to relationships or family. I also have specialized clinical training in treating complex trauma, grief or loss, and sexual abuse. In our initial sessions, you can expect a warm, supportive exploration of your story, where we’ll build trust and collaborate on a healing plan that's tailored to your particular needs and goals. By combining evidence-based therapy practices with creativity, intuition, and a little humor, we'll shift the patterns holding you back so you can experience the kind of life and relationships you've always dreamed about. I know it can be a challenging process to find a new therapist, but I am here to support you and make it as easy as possible. You can reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation by emailing me or clicking on my website link to schedule. If for any reason I'm not the right fit for you, I'll help you find someone wonderful who is because I want you to receive the best possible care.
Gregory Gooden
I once heard someone doing a lecture say, “we know what we believe when we hear what we say.” This would definitely inform the kind of therapy you would experience with me. I view the client as the one who has the answers, and we’re working together to solve a mystery. One of my roles is to help my client tell the story, point out clues being overlooked, gently challenge entrenched beliefs, provide unconditional positive regard, and help the client make sense of their difficulties and their world. Our work together would be collaborative. I’m not a “sit, nod, and take notes” therapist. I’m interactive, and socratic, and relational. I view thoughts, feelings, and behaviors from a lens of curiosity; wondering what beliefs are behind them; helping to root out dynamics that help those things persist. Often we are stuck in a distorted comfort in familiar pain and we simply cannot see it without someone reflecting that in the room. I am an integrative (drawing from multiple therapeutic orientations) humanist-existential therapist; an enthusiastic cheerleader. I will bring humor and validation into the session. I’m passionate about brain chemistry. I am social-justice oriented. I am also trauma-informed. While I work in many different focuses of psychotherapy, I find that the most pervasive themes in my work with clients include: adjustment to life changes, problems with alcohol and substance use (and the way that co-occurring mental health issues interact with it), LGBTQIA+ topics, issues of neurodiversity, anxiety and depression, personality disorders, identity & esteem development, and healthy relationships of all shapes and sizes. I am experienced, both professionally and personally, working with a variety of relationship configurations and am highly comfortable talking about issues of sex positivity and non-standard definitions of families and relationships such as polyamory and non-monogamy. I am a licensed therapist, an addiction professional, a bit of a technology geek, and a fellow traveler in recovery. In addition to those things, I am Compliance Officer at an all women’s addiction treatment center where I’ve worked in various capacities ranging from counselor to director since 2010. I have also been an adjunct professor in the Master’s program at Pacific Oaks College, an adjunct professor for Glendale College’s Drug Studies program, and I served on the board of the California Association for Drug/Alcohol Educators (CAADE). I am a member of CAMFT at both the state level and in the San Gabriel Valley chapter.
Melanie Simms
I offer individual and couples therapy to college/graduate students and young professionals. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, LGBTQ affirming, and trauma-informed. I believe that my clients are the expert on their own lives, while I am there as a witness, a source of support, and a toolbox of techniques and strategies.
Wei-Chin Hwang
Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang is a licensed clinical psychologist and a tenured full professor of clinical psychology. He has two practice locations, one in Pasadena and one in Claremont, California. He also provides teletherapy throughout the state of California. In his private practice, he provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. He also provides professional consultation to companies, schools, hospitals, community agencies, and universities. He has over 30 years of education, training, and experience in the field of psychology. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University ofCalifornia, Los Angeles (UCLA), which has been repeatedly ranked #1 in clinical psychology training programs by U.S. News and World Report. In addition, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at HarborUCLA Medical Center. As a tenured full professor at Claremont McKenna College (Ranked #8 among top liberal arts colleges by US News and World Report, and ranked #2 among liberal arts college and #11 among all top colleges by Forbes), he conducts cutting edge clinical research, consults for universities and healthcare organizations, and also trains and supervises students, interns, and mental health professionals. As a professor, he is ideally positioned to provide academic and vocational preparation and motivational training for students applying to college or graduate school, as well as professionals who are trying to advance in their career or need personal coaching. Dr. Hwang has worked in numerous clinical settings, which help him provide the highest quality care for his clients. He has experience providing individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and school settings. He has previously provided clinical services at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Richmond Area Multi-Services Community Mental Health Center, West Los Angeles Veterans Administration (VA), UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, UCLA Student Psychological Services, UCLAPsychology Clinic, Valley Mental Health, the Rape Crisis Center, and various High Schools and Junior High Schools. He has published over 80 academic articles, books, book chapters, assessment measures, and treatment manuals on mental health issues and its treatment. In addition, he has given over 160 conference presentations, clinical workshops, and therapy trainings. He has authored a client and therapist treatment manual for depression, and received grants from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to study mental health and treatment outcome issues. He is a professor of clinical psychology and teaches course in mental health treatment. In addition, he has supervised dozens of students and mental health professionals on treating mental illness. To find out more about his scholarship, please visit his faculty website at: https://www.losangelesclinicalpsychologist.com/ https://www.cmc.edu/academic/faculty/profile/wei-chin-hwang or ABCT Featured therapist: http://www.abct.org/Therapists/Wei_Chin_Hwang.cfm
Sara McCracken - Yes To Therapy
I am passionate about working with individuals dealing with eating disorders with anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I also provide comprehensive eating disorder consultations and assessments. I believe the relationship between client and therapist is a fundamental part of the healing process. As therapy is not a one size fits all model, I am dedicated to providing individualized treatment to my clients so they can focus on being their best selves. While I have experience working with a variety of populations; my area of focus lies with eating disorders and the co-morbid diagnosis that accompany them. Throughout my time working in the various levels of mental health and eating disorder care, I have learned how difficult it can be to navigate which treatment path is right for you. To aid in making this process easier, I will be providing comprehensive eating disorder assessments and consultations to help individuals find the level of care that best meets their needs.
Karla Alvarez
College is an exciting chapter of life, but it can also bring stress, anxiety, and challenges that feel overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating academic pressure, relationships, past trauma, or simply trying to find balance, you don’t have to go through it alone. Seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward growth and healing. I’m [Your Name], a clinician dedicated to helping individuals like you work through life’s challenges with trust, empathy, and compassion. My approach is uniquely tailored to your journey because no two healing paths are the same. As an EMDR-trained and Somatic Breathwork Certified therapist, I specialize in helping individuals process anxiety, depression, trauma, and more—providing tools that create real, lasting change. Whether you need a space to talk, tools to manage stress, or deeper healing techniques, I’m here to walk alongside you. Therapy is available in both English and Spanish, and I welcome individuals, couples, and families. If you’re ready to take that first step or simply have questions, let’s connect.
Erik Karff
There are many things that can lead a person to seek therapy. You may be experiencing a persistent feeling of fear but just can't put your finger on where it’s coming from. Perhaps you've been feeling anxious about being judged harshly by others or have been struggling with feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or loss of control. Bearing the weight of these experiences can often feel exhausting. But, you do not have to be alone in these struggles. Taking the first step to seek help can feel vulnerable and even scary. I believe that when the right conditions are present healing of the heart, mind, body, and soul can – and will – occur. Reach out today.