Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

I take a client-centered, strength-based approach to working with clients. I have been working as a mental health clinician for nearly two decades. I draw from a variety of approaches but tend heavily toward evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I incorporate useful aspects from several research-based modalities, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe that each person holds the key to unlocking their own highest potential. When clients are ready to step on to the path of healing, I am ready to walk with them on the journey. 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.

We would work well together if you are interested in addressing relationship difficulties, trauma, generational and cultural pressures, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use emotionally focused therapy to help you better regulate unfamiliar or suppressed emotions. Are you looking for therapy for the first time? Or do you have experience with therapy and looking to continue to focus on self-improvement? As an LMFT, my therapeutic approach can help you understand how individual problems can, at times, be connected to past and current social experiences. I have found success working with individuals interested in diving deeper into their thought patterns and exploring how their early life experiences play a role in the development of their current selves. I also take an integrative approach and use relational, cognitive, and solution-oriented techniques. My goal is to provide you with a therapeutic space to explore and understand the root causes of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I utilize the power of laughter and rapport-building conversation to build therapeutic trust. I combine relaxed conversation to better get to know you while utilizing talk therapy to help you ask and answer challenging questions. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.

Struggling with navigating life, managing in a world that may feel overwhelming, and still managing to get up every day, looking to better yourself and your relationships? You may struggle with anxiety or depression, confusion or stress due to a whole host of reasons. Infidelity, infertility, body image, low self-worth, lack of confidence, existential crises, unhealthy coping mechanisms, narcissistic moms, everyday stressors and life transitions. Anything sound familiar? You may feel isolated and alone. Don’t worry. You’re not! You are unique, but you are not alone. Many many people struggle with these things and come to learn how to live differently.

A major inspiration for me was my five years as a Director of Programs for a Los Angeles nonprofit, where I supported youth and young adults transitioning out of foster care, as well as those recovering from trafficking situations. Through that work, I saw how powerful it is when people feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I was especially drawn to helping young people and families navigate complex emotions and relationships. That experience led me to become a therapist so I could continue supporting children, families, and couples in building stronger connections, healing, and growth. My approach is very client-centered, which means I focus on creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and able to be yourself. I listen closely, reflect back what I’m hearing, and check in often to make sure I’m understanding your experience accurately. Whether I’m working with a child, a couple, or a family, I make sure each person feels included, valued, and supported. I also integrate creativity and flexibility into sessions, because not everyone expresses themselves best through words alone. Working together is collaborative—you are the expert on your life. My role is to support and guide you. With couples and families, that often means helping improve communication, strengthen relationships, and create a deeper understanding of one another. With children, I may incorporate play, art, or creative activities to help them express themselves in ways that feel natural and comfortable. Trust is built over time through consistency, openness, and respect. I show up authentically, follow through, and create a nonjudgmental space where you can share at your own pace. I also invite feedback so we can adjust our work together in a way that feels most helpful to you. I love incorporating creativity into my own life—I’m always exploring new art activities or creative projects. I often bring that energy into sessions, especially with kids and families, because it can make the process feel more engaging and even a little fun at times.

I am so happy you are here! Starting therapy can be difficult, but you have already taken the first step! In my last 7+ years as a therapist, I have worked with teens and young adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression due to life transitions and/or trauma. In our first session, you will have the opportunity to share your story and we will work together to set realistic goals to meet your needs.

The first step in any journey takes the courage to start. And you already have! You're here. I know there is still a lot of shame around being vulnerable and asking for help. We live in a world that often demands perfection, high expectations, and pushing ourselves to the max. Struggling with depression, anger, or trauma does not make you a failure. It makes you human. I believe we all have the innate ability to heal ourselves, and therapy can support you in finding that clarity and empowerment. I specialize in adults with anger management, anxiety, depression & trauma. I'd love to help! Contact me today!

My experience includes working with adult addicts for an outpatient treatment center, couples and families through the school-based and special education programs at a family services agency, and one-on-one therapeutic sessions with adults utilizing both in-person and virtual modes of service. My style is client-centered and focused on affirming the client's strengths, reframing negative or challenging thoughts, and guidance of the client towards goal achievement. 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.

I am a child, adolescent, adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist with 10 years of post-graduate training in various environments. I have been working in the outpatient-sector for 7 years. I am inspired by knowing that mental wellness is possible and seeing that progress with my patients. I love being a part of a patient’s support network to attain long-lasting mental stability. I use a biopsychosocial approach to review all aspects of life that can impact progress to mental wellness.

Hello, my name is Jose Quiroz-Novela, and at the core of my work is the belief that healing happens in safe, affirming, and collaborative relationships. I am especially passionate about working with first-generation young adults, those within the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals balancing multiple cultural identities. I understand how systemic pressures, cultural values, and lived experiences intersect with mental health and with this foundation, I aim to provide a nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your experiences with honesty, self-compassion, and curiosity. In addition, serving as an adjunct instructor allows me to stay closely connected to current research, developmental theory, and emerging conversations in the field of mental health. My approach integrates Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help clients better understand their patterns, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect with their resilience.

Each person generates their own understanding of life. My goal is to help each individual create their own meaning of life and gain a better understanding of the challenges that they may face. From a small child to a grown adult, there is the capacity for change within each one of use. Regardless of age, I look at each client as an individual and treat each person for who they are and the struggles that they may be facing. I offer a supportive. healing environment that is catered around each person's needs. I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015 and have worked in clinical settings, non-profit, and in a private practice. I mainly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused modalities as a part of my therapeutic approach. I will bring my knowledge, experience, and training to help you achieve the goals that you want to obtain. I look forward to learning more about you and helping you to take your first step in your treatment. 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.

Being in your late teens or early 20s can feel overwhelming at times. I work with young adults to navigate anxiety, relationships, and big life changes in a way that feels real and manageable. Together, we’ll build tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and like yourself again.

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to create a space where patients feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely heard. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, which has given me a strong foundation in caring for individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns. I also hold a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) and have a special interest in supporting individuals through pregnancy, postpartum, and other major life transitions. My approach is focused on helping people feel more confident and seen in their day-to-day lives. I was drawn to psychiatry because I’ve always been interested in the connection between mental health, overall well-being, and how deeply our experiences shape us. Working in mental health settings early in my career showed me how important it is for people to feel truly seen, supported, and understood during vulnerable moments. That experience ultimately inspired me to become a psychiatric provider and continue helping people navigate challenges with compassion, education, and practical support. I would describe my approach as collaborative, supportive, and individualized. I believe treatment works best when patients feel comfortable being open and involved in the decision-making process, so I focus on creating a nonjudgmental environment where people feel heard and understood. When working with me, patients can expect thoughtful conversations, education about treatment options, and a balance of compassion and practicality as we work toward goals that feel realistic and meaningful for their everyday life. Outside of work, my favorite role is being a mom. Motherhood has taught me a lot about patience, flexibility, and giving myself grace during different seasons of life, which I think naturally carries over into how I connect with patients. I also love spending time outdoors, trying new restaurants, and finding little ways to recharge and stay balanced outside of work. I think those moments of connection and normalcy are such an important part of overall mental health.

To be honest, “telling your story” or expressing your thoughts and feelings was not always a great experience, was it? Maybe your words (and pain) seemed to fall on deaf ears or somehow become twisted and misconstrued—sometimes used against you. You spoke, which was good, but you were not heard… and that hurts. So you silenced yourself—“maybe I should keep quiet...nobody understands”. Well, as a woman of God (who was once silenced herself), I’ve developed a very heavy conviction to be a listening ear for others who not only wish to speak, but also desire to be HEARD. That, plus understanding, is the beginning of healing and freedom. I enjoy helping individuals, couples and families through past and current challenges using faith-integrated techniques and theoretical approaches. My therapeutic style is purposed to provide you with a safe space to identify and express how your thoughts/beliefs are impacting your emotions and behavior; and thus, your life and relationships with loved ones.

My style is that I meet the clients where they currently are, using strength-based and empirically-driven approaches. I want to understand my clients holistically and consider the mind-body connection in helping my clients live a higher quality of life or make positive transformations. 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.

Hi, I’m Sabrina! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I know reaching out for therapy can sometimes feel like a big step. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are—without judgment and without feeling like you need to have everything figured out. I work with people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, burned out, or simply not quite like themselves lately. I also have a special passion for supporting women through pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood, and all of the emotions and changes that can come with those seasons of life. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. Therapy with me isn’t about sitting in awkward silence or feeling like you’re being analyzed. We’ll talk openly, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and find practical ways to help you feel more grounded and confident in your everyday life. You deserve a space where you can exhale, feel heard, and focus on you for a change. I’d be honored to be part of that process with you.

Are you looking for a therapist who is sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-friendly, and kink-knowledgeable? I am a sex-positive, kink/BDSM-knowledgeable therapist who specializes in working with adults in polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous relationships; queer, trans, and non-binary individuals. I am trained in EMDR, sex therapy, EFT couples therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness and somatic techniques to help individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, and other challenges. I also have a background in the arts, and love working with people in filmmaking, visual arts, and other creative fields. My therapeutic style is client-centered, trauma-informed, and warm but direct. Laughter, tears, swearing, dark humor, movie references, and stories about your pets are all welcome in sessions with me!

I have over 17 years of professional work experience and over 8 years as a LCSW. I have experience in helping clients with Stress, Anxiety, Parenting issues, Motivation, Self esteem, and Confidence. I also have experience working with life changes and relationship issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. My treatment modalities include the following evidence based practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Crisis Intervention. In addition, I utilize a biblical approach to teach clients how to calm their inner storm. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

** Click on the Website link below to see my current openings*** Hello there! Are you longing for relief from the weight of depression or the grip of anxiety? Perhaps you find yourself at a crossroads, feeling lost or stuck in life's labyrinth. Know that your journey matters, and I'm here to guide you through it. I specialize in supporting individuals facing the challenges of depression and anxiety. I offer a compassionate approach to help you on your path to healing. I also work with those who feel adrift, helping them rediscover their purpose and direction. My therapeutic approach is as unique as you and your story (we are all different and unique in our own ways after all!). Our sessions will be dynamic and engaging. Bring a pen and notebook, as we'll co-create strategies and insights to propel you toward healing and growth. With a background that includes EMDR therapy training, Certified Breath Coach, and expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a diverse toolbox to our partnership. Your well-being is my priority, and together, we'll illuminate your path toward a brighter, more fulfilling life. I hope you've caught a glimpse of the transformative journey we can embark on together. When you're ready, take that courageous step forward to a life of greater meaning and well-being by reaching out to me. Let's embark on a journey for a brighter tomorrow together!

We won’t just talk about the problem. We’ll get curious about what it’s saying. The work we do together is depth-oriented, which means we’re not just looking at what’s happening on the surface. We slow down and look at why. Where do these feelings and patterns come from? What do your reactions actually mean? What are you living out that you didn’t consciously choose? The goal is to help you notice the patterns that may be holding you back, understand how they affect your relationships and choices, and free you to inhabit your life in a way that feels truer to who you are and the life you want.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.