Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

Welcome to my practice! If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. I offer telepsychiatric medication management services to adult patients (ages 18 years+) who reside in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, and Washington state. Specialties include treating members of Sexual and Gender Minorities / 2SLGBTQIA+, emerging/young adult populations, creative professionals, and educators. I bring to clinic an abiding commitment to offering my patients kind, affirming, personalized psychiatric care. I do not prescribe controlled substances. The practice is in-network with select insurance companies in CA, IL, MA, NY, OR, and WA. I also accept self-pay patients from CA, IL, MA, NY, OR, and WA who may be able to collect reimbursement from their insurance companies, if they have out-of-network benefits.

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I work with individuals and couples seeking healing, growth, and stronger relationships. Many clients come to me struggling with anxiety, trauma, communication challenges, relationship conflict, life transitions, or spiritual concerns. Couples often seek support to rebuild trust, improve communication, and deepen connection. Individuals may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or burdened by past experiences. I provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can gain insight, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change. My practice specializes in couples counseling, trauma recovery, anxiety treatment, and faith-based counseling. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients strengthen relationships, process difficult experiences, manage anxiety, and build resilience. For those who desire it, I thoughtfully integrate Christian faith into the counseling process. Taking the first step toward counseling can feel difficult, but you do not have to face life's challenges alone. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, carrying the weight of past hurts, or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, support is available. I am committed to providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can begin.

If you are sensitive, creative, trying to do it all for yourself and for others, but lonely and stuck about how to resolve the paradox, my practice is for you. Does the following sound familiar? "I will just do everything myself. I can want others, but I mustn’t truly need them…or upset them.” I do my best work with those who can want deeper human contacts in life but who feel uncertainty or conflict about opening up fully and about serving themselves. Your gifts might include: sensory, aesthetic, and emotional sensitivity, intellectual curiosity, desire for fairness and justice, creative and spiritual / philosophical interests, teaching / writing, having ideals, enthusiasm (when interested), and a good first impression (when you feel safe and well). Still, you may have slipped into people-pleasing, social anxiety or reluctance, uncertainty about dependency and safety, disappointed or resentful exhaustion, under-assertion, quiet envy / jealousy, variable or confused boundaries, withdrawal after setbacks, perfectionism, procrastination, or unexplained body symptoms If the above sounds like what you have been feeling and trying to cope with, get in touch with me for some knowledgeable, understanding help in a safe-yet-engaging environment. I am patient, intently listening, insightful about subtleties, and gently persistent. I have faith you can develop a healthy interdependence with life and others. I am here to hang in with you as you make the time to digest help and faith and then make some new moves. It will be worth it!

Being a student is demanding. Add athletics, performances, or other high-pressure activities, and it can feel like you're constantly balancing expectations from every direction. You may be managing anxiety, stress, performance pressure, perfectionism, injury recovery, relationship challenges, or simply trying to figure out who you are beyond your sport. Whatever brings you here, you don't have to navigate it alone. I'm Buffy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training and certification in Sports Social Work. I specialize in supporting student-athletes and young adults through the unique challenges that come with balancing academics, athletics, and everyday life. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions, we'll work together to better understand your experiences, develop practical coping skills, and build resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. My goal is to help you thrive—not just in your sport, but in every area of your life.

I was inspired to be a therapist because of my own experience in therapy. I saw the benefits from my own sessions and worked with my therapist to work towards my goal of getting into graduate school. Now I want to help people the same way my first therapist helped me find what I was passionate in and also help those who might also feel stuck too. My style is one of collaboration and brainstorming together to figure out what solutions will help your unique situation. I always respect that you’re the expert of your life and I am here to help you figure out what clicks. I treat my therapy sessions as a casual conversation space and I use humor and analogies to get my examples and points across. Also as a video game enjoyer I use a lot of examples from that area of my life in creative ways to help emphasize or get certain points across in a different way. I’m a huge nerd so I love all things related to gaming, anime, superheroes, Dungeons and Dragons and card games. I’m a big enjoyer of fantasy and Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings is one of my favorite series that got me hooked into that genre. Currently enjoying Frieren and slowly finishing season 2.

Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. Hi! My name is Lauren O’Brien, LCSW (she/her), I am a psychotherapist and sex therapist specializing in supporting young and midlife adults who are navigating self doubt, fear, or anxiety related to identity, relationships, sexuality, or impulsive behaviors. After completing many years of training, degrees, and therapy of my own, I am honored to help people from all walks of life heal from anxiety, doubt, and unhelpful behaviors that prevent them from living authentically and without shame. This may include perfectionism, loneliness/isolation, people pleasing, interpersonal conflicts, fear, internet or porn use concerns, impulsive/compulsive behaviors, disordered eating, and low-self esteem/crappy self-talk. If you're looking for a therapist who's super relational, authentic, attuned, and attachment-oriented, you're in the right place.

I am very easygoing and like to provide a relaxed, judgment-free space for my clients to talk about the issues (and successes) currently in their lives. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with clients experiencing Trauma, Bi-Polar, Depression, Anxiety, and persistent mental illness and psychosis. My journey to mental healthcare Like many therapists who chose this path, I have some lived experience with family members who suffer from anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I enjoy helping people find the light at the end of the tunnel and see themselves making improvements in their lives. Treatment can be brief (4-12 sessions) with a high focus on identifying the barriers preventing a better quality of life, and problem solving or learning new skills. Other times, treatment can be longer (several months) and more in-depth. It takes time to process how we got to this very spot, and reviewing our trauma and stressors. I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients learn to re-train their thought processes, so that they may find ways to independently identify and intervene in the negative, distorted thoughts that can sometimes rule their lives. My communication style I will always try my hardest to make my clients understand that I will never judge them. I am incredibly empathetic, humorous at time, but when necessary, I have to call out cycles of behavior that continue to hurt my clients. I try to approach all issues from an understanding perspective. My goals for you I enjoy collaborating with my clients on their goals. It's important that my clients buy into their goals, and typically that requires some partnership in the process. Our first session During our first session, I like to gather information on your past and then begin talking about what brings you to therapy. I like to know, if you've tried therapy before, what worked and what didn't? We will discuss diagnosis, goals and objectives, and the expected length of service anticipated to meet those goals.

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Becoming the parent of a child with autism was a catalyst that fundamentally reshaped my world. Initially, I attempted to navigate the complexities of raising a neurodivergent child in isolation, drowning in a sea of anxiety, grief, and anger. It wasn’t until I sought therapy and connected with a community of parents on the same emotional rollercoaster that the fog lifted. Therapy — and the support of others who understood — changed everything. That experience led me to this work. From the moment you log on for your telehealth appointment, the space belongs entirely to you. It is a place where you can cry, laugh, and share your highs and lows without fear of judgment. You don’t need to have a plan or know exactly where to start; just being here is the beginning of discovery. You will be seen, you will be heard, and we will take this first step together. I believe therapy works best when we walk the path together. My approach is built on your strengths and tailored to your unique needs. You will always be met with acceptance, empathy, and respect—never judgment. Rather than giving you answers, I am here to help you uncover your own truth and take the lead in your healing. I want you to leave our time together feeling deeply seen, supported, and ready to move forward with confidence. I’ve recently discovered a quiet peace in making soap and candles. There is something beautiful about the way we must melt down solid wax to reshape it, or how we must wait patiently for soap to cure before it is ready. It reminds me so much of therapy. We need time to soften, space to be molded, and patience to let our new insights settle. It has taught me that healing is a craft—one that simply cannot be rushed.

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.

Being a man in the modern world can be tough, especially if you’re carrying the added burden of anxiety, OCD, trauma, or related issues, or if you’re navigating life as a neurodivergent man. Maybe you’re struggling with constant rumination, which keeps your mind and body on overdrive, draining you of your precious energy. Activities you once enjoyed may feel like chores. Self-doubt might rear its ugly head in the form of harsh self-criticism, over-cautiousness, perfectionism, or an excessive fear of failure. Relationships may become strained, leading you to excessively seek others’ approval, hide behind a mask to avoid taking social risks, or withdraw from others altogether. Left untreated, anxiety, OCD, and related disorders may lead to: • Mental symptoms such as worry, shame, and a lack of concentration. • Physical symptoms such as exhaustion, digestive issues, and muscle tension. • A lack of clarity around your purpose and direction in life. • Problems in your social life such as loneliness, social anxiety, and a lack of assertiveness. Life doesn’t have to feel this overwhelming. Change is possible. Imagine waking up with greater clarity, making decisions with confidence, and having the freedom to pursue what truly matters to you. Therapy can also help you build more authentic relationships, express yourself more confidently, and make choices based on your values rather than fear. As someone who has faced many of these struggles myself, I understand first-hand how exhausting they can be, and I have applied many of the principles I teach in my own life. Since 2016, I have specialized in helping men overcome anxiety, OCD, and trauma, while also helping neurodivergent men better understand themselves, harness their strengths, and navigate life’s challenges. I draw from both practical approaches such as CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention, while also integrating experiential approaches including mindfulness, somatic therapy, parts work, and hypnosis. If you’re struggling and you want to transform your problems into power, contact me for a free consultation.

Hello! My name is Danielle, and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I specialize in working with young adults and parents of young children. If the challenges you're experiencing are negatively impacting your relationships, perception of yourself, or your ability to navigate your day to day life, I am here to help. As a therapist, I am happy to provide you with a compassionate presence and a confidential space where you can gain insight on what may be contributing to your difficulties, explore strategies to help you cope, and find solutions that work and feel best for you. I provide services in both English & Spanish. I am a strengths-based, client centered clinician. This means that I work collaboratively with you and will facilitate self-discovery to help you grow in the direction that will help you meet your goals. My practice is informed by my experience and identity. I am the daughter of an immigrant, am active in the LGBTQ+ community, and identify as Latina and multiracial. My previous experience includes supporting young children and their families to foster emotional understanding and to develop healthy family dynamics, as well as assisting young adults in managing their mental health and navigating life transitions. If you are interested in working together, please reach out to me to schedule a free phone consultation!

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Tennessee and California, and I provide therapy virtually to students in both states. I work with people who are dealing with things like stress, difficult transitions and circumstances, traumatic events, relationship problems, grief, discrimination, and systemic marginalization. I specialize in working with people seeking recovery from the abuse they experienced in their families, intimate relationships, workplaces, religious and faith communities, and also survivors of cults and other high-demand/control groups. Additionally, I work with those who are living with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, suicide risk, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I also specialize in working with people seeking recovery from substance use, and I welcome clients who are active substance users. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to create a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, disabled individuals, and other marginalized groups. Being a military spouse myself, I am honored to work with active military members, their families, and veterans. Feel free to check out my website to learn more about my experience and specialties. Those who work with me can expect to experience a safe and supportive space. My approach is very down-to-earth, and I aim to use research-backed therapy interventions in a way that’s accessible and helpful. I believe no two people need the same approach. There is no universal formula for creating positive change. Your path is your own. The job of a counselor is to help you find your footing and support you on your unique journey. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit. Please reach out to get that scheduled, or if you have any questions you’d like to ask first.

Reaching out for help is often the most difficult step. We may think “Why wasn’t I strong enough to deal with this on my own?” or “What is wrong with me?”. We may even downplay our experiences, thinking “There are others who have it worse” or “I’m just being dramatic.” It’s okay to have these thoughts, and it’s okay to realize that we can’t do it all on our own. As your therapist, I am here to support you in all aspects of the human experience – especially the ones that make us question ourselves. Whether it be feelings of shame, grief, inadequacy, or something else that is challenging to name, I will be there to guide you gently through. I utilize empathy, compassion, and gentle curiosity in the therapy room. As a collaborator in your process, I will help you to explore and discover while always allowing you to set the pace for your own journey. As a companion, I will be by your side when difficult emotions arise – guiding you through coping mechanisms, providing resources, and strengthening support systems. I believe that everyone has within themselves exactly what they need to live their most satisfying life. My role is to help you uncover that which is already within. In this way, I utilize a Solution-Focused approach to highlight strengths and identify small steps towards healing and change. I also integrate techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and IFS in order to tailor therapy specifically to each person’s needs. As a Latina and descendent of immigrants myself, I am passionate about intergenerational healing and breaking cycles. I take an inclusive approach to therapy, taking into account social, political, cultural, and economic contexts when considering family stories and histories. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples navigating the stressors associated with living in different cultures and mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Reaching out for help is an act of courage. I am glad you are here.

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Joy Zembruski, LMFT, LPCC, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor, as well as a proud UCLA Psychology alumna, fortunate to be based in the beautiful coastal towns of Southern California. Therapist Joy Z is experienced and open to working with a diverse population in a variety of settings. Joy’s practice—TherapyJoyZ—offers client-centered mental health services, including individual, couples, teen and family therapy as well as psychological evaluations. TherapyJoyZ specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictions, and cultural adaptation, using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Our practice is committed to providing high-quality, ethical, and compassionate care. We use evidence-based therapy methods, participate in ongoing training and continuing education, regularly review treatment progress, and follow professional and legal standards to ensure each client receives safe, effective and respectful support.

Hello, My name is Lisa Chester-Schyman and I'm an LMFT practicing in Los Angeles, California. I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate your life with more ease, manage stress, change and transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents. I specialize in grief and loss, relational issues, transition and trauma. I believe the relationship between a client and therapist is essential in creating personal healing. I nurture a trusting relationship where you will feel safe to explore your thoughts and feelings without any judgment. From this safe place we will explore what coping mechanisms will best help you and I will help guide you through. I would love to help you on your journey especially during this very difficult time in life and the world. Looking forward to working with you.

I work best with college students who are trying to find their place in the world while managing anxiety, depression, or questions about identity. Many of my clients are part of the LGBTQ+ community and are learning how to navigate relationships, family expectations, and self-acceptance. In our work together, we focus on understanding what’s beneath your stress and self-criticism, building confidence, and helping you feel more grounded and authentic in your life. My goal is to create a space where you can explore who you are without judgment.

Hi, I'm Breanna Aguirre, PMHNP-BC. I provide virtual mental health care for children, teens, and adults throughout California. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. My approach is evidence-based, collaborative, and personalized, with the goal of helping each patient feel heard while creating a treatment plan that supports their goals. I accept several major insurance plans and offer convenient telehealth appointments throughout California.