Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

This time in your life can be one of transitions and transformations. Talking to a professional and processing it all can be very beneficial. You’re not alone. Whether you’re dealing with the stress of academic pressure, social pressures, anxiety, or depression, I’ve helped many individuals sort through these issues that can arise during this time in one’s life.

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Hi, please call me Simone. I'm glad you're here! Is your family or culture unsupportive of therapy? Do you expect yourself to handle everything on your own? Or do you fear what therapy can uncover? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions and are ready to do the work, then you are at the right place. I believe that seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step toward growth. I combine person-centered therapy with cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients navigate issues of diversity, identity, intimate partner violence, and racial trauma. As a queer woman and BIPOC clinician, I recognize the profound impact that our identities have on our experiences and patterns in life. Thus, I approach therapy through an intersectional lens, paying close attention to the unique components of your identity—including ethnicity, age, gender, ability, sexual orientation, acculturation status, spiritual affiliation, and socioeconomic status. I was a client long before I became a therapist, so I understand how intimidating and vulnerable therapy can be. Know that if you feel overwhelmed, you don’t have to face life's obstacles alone. We will collaborate to find a path to wellness. I will be your biggest cheerleader and unconditionally supportive, but I will also gently challenge you, encouraging growth and healing. Change will not come overnight, nor is it linear. I'm here to provide a welcoming, safe, and compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Reach out, and together we can create a path toward healing, self-discovery, and an ultimately more fulfilling life!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides support for individuals and families. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals experiencing a wide range of emotional challenges. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, identity, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, stress management, trauma, and life transitions. I am passionate about creating a collaborative relationship to support and empower people to achieve their goals and strengthen their innate resilience. I understand the importance of creating a space where you feel safe and heard. My style is interactive, experiential, and adaptable; guided by the following post graduate trainings/certifications: ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing. I work collaboratively with you and support you in finding a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. You’ll be met with warmth and curiosity. I intend to get to know you - your story, your hopes, your needs, and your goals. It takes courage to seek therapy, and I look forward to supporting you.

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.

We all face challenges in our lives and sometimes we need some extra support to help us overcome them. I moved to the Bay Area (from Toronto) in my early twenties without knowing a soul. It was the most exciting and also challenging time in my life. I navigated my career, dating, and relationships; all while facing the same pressures that most of us women face today. I understand feeling pulled in different directions, competing priorities, and anxieties about living up to high expectations (usually our own). Through my career and personal exploration, I came to discover the incredible benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation. I use a Mindfulness based approach in my work because I have seen it help so many people to be more present, intentional and content in their lives (myself included!). In working with me, you will find that I am compassionate, non-judgemental, direct and honest. I will help you recognize and build up your inherent strengths (yes you have them), give you coping strategies, and help you to make space for more adaptive ways of relating to the world. I am also a big believer in the healing power of humor so don't be surprised if we end up having a laugh every once in a while. I offer my services online so that busy people can still access excellent support. Please feel free to reach out for a free consultation and I look forward to learning more about you!

I specialize in working with trauma, addiction, and neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism). I am EMDR- trained to reprocess traumatic memories and limiting beliefs that are holding you back, and I'm trained to provide comprehensive ADHD/Autism assessments designed for assessing high-masking adults.

I work with adults and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem challenges, and relationship difficulties. I am especially passionate about supporting first-generation individuals and high-achieving clients who feel pressure to meet family, cultural, academic, or professional expectations while trying to stay connected to themselves. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and create a space where your experiences, values, and identity are genuinely respected and understood.

Whether you're burdened by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, identity questions, transitions, or physical pain linked to stress or emotions, therapy can bring relief. I offer a compassionate space where you can slow down, be seen and heard, and reconnect with yourself and what you aspire for your life. I often use Internal Family Systems to help heal painful parts and foster self-compassion and inner harmony, and Somatic Experiencing to help regulate your nervous system and heal trauma. I also offer somatic movement therapy for those interested in deeper mind/body connection. I tailor my approach based on your needs. I have helped a wide range of people in a variety of situations over more than 20 years as a licensed clinical social worker. I strive to be an ally to people of color and to be culturally responsive. I work collaboratively and without judgment. I consider it a privilege to help you find joy and make the most of that which is in your control.

We live in a culture that constantly pushes us to do more, work harder, and question whether we’re ever “enough.” For many students, that pressure leads to stress, anxiety, and burnout. But thriving isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about finding balance, clarity, and a stronger sense of who you are and what you need. This work often extends into your relationships, your identity, and your sense of direction. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can slow down, explore what’s weighing on you, and develop a more grounded, sustainable way forward.

HOPE; Healthy Outcomes for Personal Enrichment Counseling Center is defined as a community based non-profit counseling center and training institute that offers a wide variety of professional counseling related services for families, couples, and individuals that are affordable using a flexible fee structure. The HOPE Counseling Center combines contemporary psychotherapy with transpersonal values that promote social, spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. HOPE Counseling Center training institute provides innovative clinical training and support to Associate Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associates, Licensed Professional Counseling Associates, and Marriage and Family Trainees.

I tailor treatment using the approach that best fits your needs, including using somatic awareness, EMDR, CBT and insight oriented approaches. I work with Individuals, women, new mothers, young families, parents and young children. My work is deeply attuned to family of origin challenges, existential anxieties and BIPOC challenges, recognizing the profound impact on individuals and families. By exploring the ways these issues and past traumas shape present-day experiences, I will support you in breaking free from unhelpful patterns to foster healing across generations.

I graduated with a BA in Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou). I earned an ADN from Santa Monica College, Masters in Nursing Education from Phoenix University and PMHNP Post Masters Cert from Maryville University. I worked inpatient for about 3 years then switched to education. I have been an LVN instructor and director of nursing. I developed the Mental Health course for the ADN program. I taught ADN students and later became the Director of Nursing. I finished my PMHNP certificate while I was the ADN director then switched to working at Foresight full-time. I am inspired to work in mental health to improve others’ quality of life. I collaborate with my patients to come to a mutually accepted treatment plan. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: first responders, men’s issues, veterans care, binge eating disorder

Worried you haven't done enough? Experiencing indecision and disappointment in your relationships? If you're struggling to manage anxiety, now might be the time to connect. I’m a first generation Latinx/e, bilingual, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist creating space for clients to experience radical self-compassion and express themselves fully. My style is warm and authentic, with some humor. I sit with clients as they experience difficult emotions, listen to what others have not been able to hear, and guide clients to connect with their self-worth and contend with the realities of life. Therapy is your time to think and feel with my support. Clients can expect a genuine interest in understanding them. I provide virtual therapy in CA for adults only, focusing on anxiety, perfectionism, stress, relationships, generational differences within Latinx/e communities and beyond. I draw from emotion-focused, psychodynamic, existential, and humanistic theories and therapy. Book your free consultation today. *Note: In the event of a medical or psychiatric emergency or an emergency involving a threat to your safety or the safety of others, do not call/email me to schedule a consultation call. See resources below: *Dial 9-1-1 for emergency assistance, Go to nearest hospital/emergency room  *Call or Text 9-8-8 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline *Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line (Available for all types and levels of crises) *Dial 877-854-3594 for Human Options, a domestic violence resource *Dial 714-842-6600 for Huntington Youth Shelter, Dial 800-914-2272 for Casa Youth Shelter  *Dial 2-1-1 for additional information about local resources closest to your area

I’m inspired by the opportunity to help individuals heal, grow, and reach their full potential. Witnessing people transform—whether overcoming trauma, managing stress, feeling better about oneself, or improving relationships—gives me a deep sense of purpose. I am passionate about creating a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore their struggles and gain the tools to thrive. The resilience in each of us and the power of healing inspire me daily, and drive me to continually refine my approach and use effective methods like EMDR and mindfulness to support lasting change and well-being. Since 1992 I have worked in private practice, agencies, and hospital settings with a wide range of people who seek help in handling stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, transition, stage of life issues, relationship concerns, body image concerns, compulsive eating, and crises. A main specialty is recovery from trauma and abuse and I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)–a very effective tool–as well as techniques from other trauma therapies. I have an integrative approach and use tools such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, stress management and skill-building; cognitive-behavioral elements; parts work; focusing on strengths; and psycho-education. I am warm and approachable and my clients say that I make them feel safe and accepted. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a BA in psychology from UC Berkeley and an MA in counseling psychology from John F. Kennedy University. To ensure clients feel heard and understood, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where active listening is central. I validate their feelings, reflect back their words and emotions, and ask open-ended questions to encourage deeper exploration. I regularly check in with clients for feedback on our work together, ensuring our approach is collaborative and aligned with their needs and goals. By integrating various therapeutic tools like EMDR, mindfulness, and emotion regulation, I offer a personalized approach that fosters trust and empathy, which helps clients feel genuinely supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel valued and heard. I demonstrate empathy, consistency, and respect, which helps people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I am warm and compassionate and clients sense this. I honor each person’s experience and story. I am very comfortable with emotions and the truth of one’s experience, which helps clients be comfortable with their truth and sharing that with me. I actively listen and validate the emotions, while also being transparent about the therapeutic process. By tailoring my approach to each individual’s needs and using techniques like EMDR, mindfulness, and emotion regulation, I foster collaboration and a sense of empowerment. Regular check-ins and feedback ensure that the therapy remains aligned with the client’s goals, reinforcing the trust and partnership essential to effective healing.

We have immediate availability. Our practice has 4 therapists diverse across gender, ethnicity, age and experience. We aim to be a one stop therapeutic environment to serve everyone in the household. In addition to what is listed, we focus on relationships, sexuality, experimentation, identity exploration, loss of friendships, death of a pet, unexpected medical issues or injuries. We know the challenges as former young people (although we still have a 20-something in our practice!) and now as parents. There is so much pressure and worry now and about the future. We invite you to give us the opportunity to be your safe space away from the expectations of school, work and family. Therapy is 1 hour to be yourself with no expectations, just kindness and care. We look forward to being that space for you.

Trade the academic panic for a space to just breathe. At Shore Crest Counseling we provide a warm and welcoming environment to help you process stressors in a calm and relaxing location and learn coping skills to deal with life's challenges. We also have loving therapy dogs and a coastal location in Carlsbad for walk and talk therapy. We provide in person and telehealth services.

I find inspiration in helping others that are struggling with mental health problems. My clients have my attention, support, and feel heard and validated. I also collaborate with them to address their problems or distress. As a registered therapist, I strive to meet the client where they are at in life and help them move forward in their individual goals. I work with people from all age groups, religious and cultural backgrounds, states of life (pregnancy), and the LGBTQ population. I have experience working with individuals suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders, grief and loss, trauma symptomatology, medical conditions, and dual diagnoses. I have a passion for reaching out, connecting and relieving mental suffering. I have specialized training working in the following areas: CBT, DBT, Clinical Sexology training in Florida, and TRAUMA training in SEP (Somatic Experiencing Practitioner), EMDR. I have worked with couples using the Gottman method, attachment issues and communication skills. My PhD is in international psychology and I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Welcome to my practice! I'm Kristen Ackerman, LMFT. I understand that college can be a rollercoaster of experiences. Whether you're riding the highs of newfound freedom or managing the lows of homesickness and academic stress, I'm here to offer support every step of the way. I specialize in helping individuals like you adjust to the transition of moving away from home, finding your footing amidst academic demands, and striking a balance between your studies and social life. Whether you're seeking to develop meaningful friendships or intimate relationships, I'm here to lend a listening ear and provide guidance. Navigating peer pressure is also a common challenge in college life, and I'm here to help you tackle those situations with confidence. Additionally, I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, and identity exploration. No matter what you're facing, you don't have to go through it alone. I understand that finances can be tight for students, which is why I offer flexible rate options. My goal is to make therapy accessible and affordable for everyone who needs it. My therapy services are personalized to meet your unique needs. I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, while also integrating talk therapy for comprehensive support. I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable and empowered to explore and grow. If you're ready to take the first step towards personal growth and making lasting changes, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Whether you prefer to call, email, or text, I'm here to support you on your journey.