Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Have you ever wondered if life could feel less stressful or more fulfilling? Whether you’re in school, starting your career, or navigating life as a first-generation adult, I’m here to support you. Together we’ll find practical ways to handle challenges, build coping skills, and help you feel more confident and resilient, one step at a time. During our sessions, you’ll have a caring, judgment-free space where your story matters. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven approaches to help you shift negative patterns, tap into your strengths, and make meaningful progress toward your goals. Ready to find out if we’re the right fit? Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I accept insurance and sliding scale. I offer flexible telehealth so starting therapy is convenient and accessible. Let’s connect and take your next step forward together.

What inspired me to become a therapist is a deep curiosity about people, healing, and how change happens through connection and experience. My work has been shaped by an integrative background that includes Depth Psychology, trauma-informed care, Polyvagal Theory, CBT, ACT, Positive Psychology, Family Systems work, and experience with somatic and experiential approaches, including equine-assisted work and the arts. I’ve also been influenced by academic and lived experiences exploring culture, creativity, and recovery, including work on trauma, addiction recovery, and meaning-making after distress. I aim to make sure you feel heard by really slowing down and staying present with both your words and your emotional experience. I tend to check in often to make sure I’m understanding you correctly and that we’re capturing what feels most important to you. My approach is grounded in attunement, curiosity, and creating a space where your experience is taken seriously without judgment or rushing toward solutions. Working together is a collaborative and relational process that unfolds over time. I draw from somatic, experiential, and trauma-informed frameworks, and we focus on building safety, consistency, and trust first. I often integrate mind-body awareness, reflective dialogue, and practical strategies depending on your needs. My background also includes teaching dance, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation to veterans, as well as exploring nonverbal communication and relational dynamics through equine work and movement-based practices. All of this informs how I help clients feel grounded, understood, and supported as they move toward meaningful change at their own pace. I earned my first degree at UW Madison. Sometimes to break the ice with couples, I will let them know that I taught ballroom dancing though mini courses and the University extension to help pay college living expenses. In those days, I often wore combat boots to teach.

I provide therapy for adolescents and young adults ages 12-25, supporting them through academic, emotional, and social challenges that come with this stage of life. Together we will explore your goals and strengthen coping skills and create lasting tools for managing stress, relationships, and self-esteem in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

You may be carrying generations of stories in your bones. You might be the first in your lineage to pause, to rest, to ask: What would it mean to live differently? Whether you’re unlearning survival patterns, tending to old wounds, or simply trying to hear your own voice beneath the noise. I want you to know that you don’t have to do it alone. As a queer, first-generation Mexican-American therapist and a daughter of immigrants, my approach is rooted in cultural humility, relational depth, and embodied compassion. I offer a space that honors all the parts of you— your strength, your softness, and your truth. My world is shaped by music, movement, language, and story, and I bring that spirit into our work together. I will witness you fiercely and gently. I will reflect back the person I see in front of me—resilient, intuitive, capable, and deserving of care that meets you where you are. Holding space for QTBIPOC clients, especially those navigating layered identities, is not only a privilege, but a responsibility I carry with reverence. I strive to offer a practice that is consistently affirming, culturally attuned, and radically safe. My work is for those who: Are first-generation or multi-generational cycle-breakers, seeking to redefine connection, boundaries, and belonging Hold intersecting identities with nuance Feel exhausted from performing, pleasing, or holding everything for everyone else Are healing from quiet trauma: emotional neglect, attachment wounds, chronic invisibility Long for a relational and soulful approach to therapy Values and Approach I hold a deep commitment to practicing therapy that is inclusive, anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and rooted in accessibility and transparency. These aren’t just values—they are living principles that guide every aspect of how I show up in the room with you. I believe that every story holds weight, and that it’s a sacred thing to be witnessed in your truth. Yet so many of us have never had the chance, or the safety, to be truly vulnerable. In our work together, I strive to create the kind of space where you can exhale. A space where we explore the roots of your experiences with curiosity and care, where old narratives are gently questioned, and where your body and mind are invited into healing through deep compassion. It is devastating when I hear that individuals have not had safe and productive experiences in therapy. This is not your fault. Many people, especially BIPOC and queer folks, have felt misunderstood, pathologized, or minimized by past providers. I’m passionate about offering reparative, empowering therapy to help you reclaim your voice and your worth and to provide a truly transformational experience for first-time therapygoers. We’ll make room for grief and joy, for dismantling what no longer serves you, and for building a more compassionate, grounded relationship with yourself. When you start, I simply ask you to arrive as you are and begin from where you presently stand. When not in session, I am reading in my local coffeeshop or moving my body through yoga and dance. I hope you don't mind that my two cats, Finnegan and Chaos, will occasionally make an appearance in our sessions. I can't wait to hold space for you!

*I am licensed in both Oregon and California, and can work with students who often travel between these two states.* When the difficult experiences from your past are still impacting you, it is hard to know what to do. You don’t feel like yourself anymore, and the people in your life are starting to notice. It’s coming out at school, in your relationships, in your mood. You might be thinking “I just want to move on with my life. Why can’t I just get over it already?” But no matter how many times you try to move on, you still feel stuck. You are not alone. I help people who have been through difficult childhood, sexual, and relationship experiences look at how their experiences have shaped them, and explore how to take back their lives from the memories that have burdened them for so long. Together, we will build a trusting relationship where you can feel safe enough to explore what happened in your life, the ways you have survived, and how to get unstuck so you can move toward a life that is ruled by you, and not by the past. I know reaching out to begin therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I offer a free 15-20 minute consultation, where you can share a bit about what you would like to work on, ask me any questions you may have, and we can determine whether I might be a good fit for your needs. Please feel free to visit my website to learn more and schedule a consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!

Hello and Welcome! Are you a couple needing to strengthen communication, navigate conflict effectively, and break free from long‑standing gridlock? I’m Rocio Vaca, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience, and I help you deepen friendship, build emotional intimacy, and create shared meaning. Are you exploring your identity, preparing to come out, struggling with self‑acceptance, or navigating gender‑affirming care? Together, we can build healthy coping strategies, strengthen resilience, and address symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress while supporting a stronger sense of self. I help clients find relief from overwhelming thoughts, emotional exhaustion, & daily stress by identifying triggers, emotional regulation, & building coping skills. I also support children/ teens with OCD, trauma, low self‑esteem, & assertiveness challenges often from being bullied, helping them understand emotions/cognitions, build confidence & boundaries. I view therapy as a collaborative and individualized process—one that builds practical skills while fostering insight, emotional healing, and growth. Clients often describe my style as warm, grounded, and down‑to‑earth, creating a space where they feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.

Welcome! I’m glad you are taking this step towards your growth and healing. Are you challenged with relentless thoughts, communication, or quieting your critical voice? I enjoy helping others manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and foster emotional resilience. My clients will tell you I bring warmth and respect for diversity and identity into our sessions. I am passionate about empowering others as they embrace their authentic selves while navigating life’s complexities. I strive to create a safe space to explore your emotions, feel aligned with the world around you, and develop the tools you need to thrive in all aspects of life. I have 20 years' experience in online therapy, college settings, and emergency services. My theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Solution-Focused, and Expressive modalities. Do you enjoy creative expression? My practice is rooted in embracing your unique experiences, collaboration, and creativity in our work together. Whether you are experiencing difficulties in relationships, career conflicts, or managing life transitions, I am here to support you with empathy and professionalism. Together, we will work towards creating meaningful, lasting changes that reflect your values and goals. I look forward to meeting and working with you as we begin this journey!

Students often come to Reframe CBT feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, overthinking, or pressure to succeed. Many are thoughtful and motivated, but get stuck in patterns of second-guessing themselves, replaying situations, or trying to figure things out before they can move forward. This can make it hard to focus, sleep, or feel confident in themselves. Our approach is collaborative and straightforward. We help students understand what’s driving these patterns and give them practical tools to respond differently—so they’re not stuck in their head as much and can move through school and daily life with more confidence and ease.

As a clinician with a decade of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a doctorate in clinical psychology, I bring a thoughtful, integrative, and person-centered approach to therapy. My work is grounded in a humanistic theoretical orientation, and I approach each therapeutic relationship with warmth, respect, and curiosity. I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely heard and supported in making sense of their experiences, in their own words. While I prioritize a person-centered lens, I also draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and ACT, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs. I am deeply committed to multicultural awareness, equity, and advocacy in clinical practice. I have extensive experience working with individuals who are BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S, and first-gen. My approach is affirming, identity-conscious, and culturally responsive, with an emphasis on honoring the complexity and intersectionality of each client’s lived experience. In addition to English, I am fluent in Mandarin and Shanghainese, and I welcome clients who may benefit from therapy in their native language. It is an honor and a privilege to support individuals in navigating life transitions, identity development, and emotional well-being with care, openness, and collaboration. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

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Your path to a calmer, happier life starts here. I am ready to support you at your own pace, providing flexible appointments and personalized care. Whether you are an individual seeking personal growth, a couple looking to strengthen your connection, or a family aiming to foster harmony, I am here to help. Let’s work together to address anxiety, depression, and stress, creating a healthier path forward for yourself, your relationships, and your family.

I am passionate about teaching others how to access their deep knowing and watching people grow and learn in new and successful ways. I find the work of psychotherapy to be fulfilling and purposeful and I look forward to being on the journey of improving your mental health wellness with you. I use empathetic listening, curiosity, and my excitement for helping others in order to provide a sense of validation to my clients. I believe that we heal through meaning making and I help you do this in an supportive and understanding space. I also believe that being heard and acknowledged for who we are and what we feel is so important for the human experience and I work hard to offer this to my clients. I work to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients by creating a collaborative, compassionate and respectful therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe and supportive container for individuals to explore and strengthen their abilities. I am honored to help my clients and feel humbled to be trusted enough to be invited into the pain and experiences of those whom I get to work with.

I am Jamula (Jamalah) Taylor; a woman, a mother, and a therapist. I became a therapist to help people who look like me to be okay with being vulnerable and to support their healing. I am a member of Growth and Change Counseling. We understand that our mental health conditions are related to the break down in our relationships and that we can’t simply make depression, anxiety, or other problems go away by simply treating the symptoms. We have to get down to the roots of the problems in order to help people effectively heal. There is no problem I am not willing and able to face with you. Call me, it starts with a conversation!

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained with a dual emphasis on intervention through psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. During my healthcare career, I have worked with diverse patient populations including oncology, pediatrics, telemetry, and patients with extensive medical needs in addition to psychiatric needs. I am inspired by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with their mental health by helping them navigate mental health challenges. I know that everyone has a unique story and challenges, and because of this, I work together with clients to make a care plan individualized for them. My goal is to help you achieve your goals.

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I support students who are experiencing stress, both academically and interpersonally. I recognize the layers of pressure that may be coming from family, peers, and yourself. School can be a challenging environment and finding support is not always easy. I provide a space to be heard and for you to process anything that's on your mind. I am warm and nonjudgmental.

At Bridges Therapy Group, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 30 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California. We recognize the profound personal connection between a client and therapist and our dedicated client care team takes pride in understanding your individual needs and preferences ensuring a seamless connection with a client-centered therapeutic ally whose expertise and style aligns precisely with what you’re seeking. Are you ready to begin your journey towards a healthier, happier you? There is hope for a better future. Call or send us a message to speak to someone today. We look forward to being a part of your healing journey!

Find Your Balance, Center for Growth & Change Inc. Real support for real life—because college isn’t easy. Balancing school, work, relationships, and your future can feel overwhelming—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. At FYBC, we provide therapy that meets you where you are, whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, or just feeling “off” and not sure why. We make getting started simple, with flexible scheduling, insurance options, and a team that truly understands the pressures students face today. Whether you need short-term support or a space to grow long-term, we’re here to help you build clarity, confidence, and balance in your life. You don’t need to wait until things get really bad to talk to someone. If something feels off, that’s enough. Please feel free to contact us directly for any questions at 818-927-0478 and send your referrals to this link: https://www.findyourbalancecenter.com/referral

I provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore and understand your emotions, relationships, and personal challenges. I am dedicated to making a space in therapy for all of you: from struggles with depression and anxiety to relational woes and life's changes and challenges. Whether you are seeking support as a couple, for your child, or for you! I am here to guide you on your journey towards healing and growth. My goal is to help you know and enjoy yourself more deeply, so that you can do the same with others in your life.

I went through a very difficult with my mental health. I felt very low and hopeless at the time. What helped me was going to therapy for the first time. It started me on a journey to self-awareness and self-compassion that has carried throughout my life. Now I would like to help in inspiring similar journeys with my own work as a therapist. I enjoy learning about people and their unique thought processes. I ask questions, verify I understand what you’re saying and do not rest until I can understand where you are at and what your unique perspective on the world is. I am very straightforward when it comes to therapy. I am open about the modalities that I use and make sure you understand my process as we work together. I never force anything and am also willing to work from where your at and come up with solutions that are in line with your goals and personal interests.