Therapists for college students near UCLA

I was inspired to become a therapist because I’ve always believed in using your voice to strengthen what has been there underneath and to overcome challenges. Life can be very challenging and difficult to navigate, and you do not have to go through it alone-I am here for you. I entered this field because I am a true believer in being able to hold a safe space to talk about the difficulties that springs up in life. I always believed in being able to hear others, educate, and encourage resilience and being a therapist was a perfect way to offer these strengths. I enter each session with care, compassion and knowing that it can be very difficult to open up to another person and to be vulnerable. I want to reassure you that I am with you from the start to the end in our sessions and throughout this journey. I will actively listen, support, provide a non judgmental space and encourage advocacy and healing. I pay close attention to what is being shared, I will ask questions, clarify, and point out things “in the now” as they are happening, tuning in with your verbal and non verbal communication. I will meet you where you are with respect, attentiveness, being present and engaged. Together, we’ll create a space where your voice matters, your experiences are validated, and you can feel supported as you explore, heal, and grow. In our sessions you can trust I am fully present and no problem is too big to be talked about. I invite honest conversations knowing you are in a safe space that respects confidentiality at all times. Every journey is unique and it requires a unique approach and I am committed to using different evidence based treatment tailored to your needs. I take a holistic approach keeping in mind your culture, values, and life experiences. Our therapeutic alliance is important so I frequently check-in and encourage you to apply the skills learned to help you grow. I have seen through out my 11 years in the mental heath field the growth and healing that can come when someone is ready to take on this journey.

Becoming a therapist felt like a natural path for me, where my curiosity about the human experience and my desire to help others could come together. I value the opportunity to walk alongside my clients as they gain insight, work through challenges, and create meaningful change in their lives. I also believe that having a supportive, nonjudgmental space to reflect and be heard can be incredibly powerful, and it’s meaningful for me to be able to offer that to people. I value creating a supportive, collaborative and warm environment where clients can feel seen and safe to be themselves and open up. My goal is to help you develop insight, strengthen coping skills, work to build emotional resilience, reclaim calm and feel more confident in navigating life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My work is guided by compassion, curiosity, and respect for each client’s unique life experience. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth, and I am honored to be part of that process. By integrating evidence-based, trauma-informed care with practical tools, I help clients move from surviving to thriving. I invite you to reach out for a consultation to explore how we can work together to build a more empowered future. I strongly believe in practicing what I encourage in my clients-prioritizing intentional self-care in everyday life, whether that means attending my favorite Zumba class, enjoying a good book, or soaking up the sun while on a walk with my two chihuahuas.

Mental wellness is a process. Often, life encourages us to put our resources into our outer world, from how we look to where we work. As important as this can be, this is often at the expense of investing in our inner world. Let me help empower you to develop your mental wellness and enrich your wellbeing from the inside out. I'm Dr. Dakari, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with expertise in treating a variety of mental health concerns. My therapeutic style involves creating a warm and supportive environment for you to process life complexities and learn practical skills to progress towards your mental wellness goals.

Hi, I’m Jeremy. I work with thoughtful, high-functioning graduate or university students who often appear successful on the outside but feel stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious underneath. Many are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, or a persistent sense that something in their life or work isn’t quite aligned. Many have tried therapy before—or spent a lot of time thinking things through on their own—but still feel like something isn’t shifting. My approach is different. I combine depth with practical movement. We don’t only explore what’s going on—we focus on how to shift it in a grounded, realistic way that fits your actual life. Therapy with me is collaborative, active, and focused on helping you regain clarity, direction, and momentum in areas that feel stuck or uncertain—whether that’s relationships, work, identity, or decision-making. I have over a decade of experience supporting adults through life transitions and identity shifts. I received my clinical training at Columbia University’s School of Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Washington.

I am a LMFT who is passionate about providing excellent care for my clients. Although I have a diverse range of experience, I l specialize in working with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma, domestic violence and abuse, and other emotional/behavioral interpersonal issues. I work well with teens, young adults, adults, couples, families, and group therapy. My approach is often client-centered as I adapt my approach depending on the client I am working with, but I tend to work from an existential/humanistic, CBT/DBT, and psychodynamic approach.

Talk Therapy for Students Are you feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork or are you missing your family and friends back home? Our team is here to help you find the tools and coping skills to get your mind right. Leaving home, starting university, and finding new friends can be some of the most intense pressures and stressors to manage. Our team can help you Discover new coping skills Specialize techniques to manage anxiety and depression, and negative thought loops Increase your support system that will help you manage and decrease stress Talk about your past present or fear of the future Learn new ways to manage trauma Set new goals and follow through! YOU ARE NOT ALONE! College is an exciting time filled with new experiences, opportunities, and growth. However, it can also be a challenging period, particularly for students who may face academic pressure, financial stress, relationship difficulties, or mental health issues. These stressors can quickly pile up and take a toll on a student’s well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, or burnout. As experienced therapists, we have seen firsthand the unique challenges that college students face. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of academic success, building healthy relationships, or finding your place in the world, college can be a time of intense stress and uncertainty. That’s why we believe that therapy is the most powerful tool for college students who are looking to enhance their well-being and achieve their goals. Our overarching goal is to help students to develop a better understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and provide them with the tools they need to overcome the challenges they face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or even relationship issues, therapy can help you to gain a new perspective, improve your coping skills, and increase your overall sense of happiness and fulfillment. Our number one priority is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and work towards achieving your goals. We know that every college student is unique, and take a personalized approach to therapy, tailoring our methods to fit your individual needs and goals. So, if you’re a college student looking to improve your well-being, increase your self-awareness, and achieve your full potential, we encourage you to consider therapy. We’re here to help.

Who I Work Best With: Most of my clients are people who've gotten really good at functioning — and really tired of it. You've probably figured out how to hold things together, stay busy, keep up. But something isn't working anymore. Maybe you're exhausted in a way you can't explain. Maybe you're finally asking questions you've been pushing down for years — about who you are, what you believe, how you want to love, or why your brain works the way it does. A lot of people I work with are navigating things like anxiety, depression, identity, relationships that don't fit a neat box, or a major life shift — faith deconstruction, a breakup, figuring out you're neurodivergent later in life. Some are just trying to get through the week without falling apart. If that's you, we'd probably work well together. What Working With Me Looks Like: I'm not going to sit quietly and just reflect things back at you. I'm also not the worksheet-and-homework type. My style is pretty collaborative and direct — I'll gently push back when I think it'll actually help, and I'll meet you where you are. I have 15 years of experience working with new parents and kids before becoming a therapist, which means I come in with a lot of real-world, people-first perspective. I also have personal experience with religious deconstruction — so if you're untangling a faith background or questioning things you were raised to believe, I genuinely get it, not just clinically. I work especially well with people who are neurodivergent, queer or questioning, in non-traditional relationships (like polyamory or ENM), or somewhere in the middle of a big life change. You don't have to have it figured out to reach out.

I'm Brooke Sundin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the owner of Light Minds Child and Family Therapy, a private practice based in Brentwood, Los Angeles. I work with college students and young adults adjusting to new responsibilities and the growing pressures of adulthood. The clients I work with are often dealing with anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem struggles, and the life transitions that come with this stage: starting or finishing college, moving to a new city, figuring out relationships, choosing a path, or grieving the version of life you thought you'd have by now. Some of what we work on is symptom-focused. A lot of it is bigger than that, like building a clearer sense of who you are and what you actually want. My approach is collaborative, interactive, and warm. Therapy can be a vulnerable space to step into, and I'm here to cheer you on along the way. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all model, so I adjust my approach based on what you actually need. I draw on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. I'm also certified in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) through the Yale Child Study Center, which I use when parents want to be part of the support system. I'm licensed in California, Florida, Utah, and Tennessee, and I see all clients via secure telehealth, which tends to work well for college students juggling class schedules, internships, and a life that doesn't sit still. Reaching out for support is one of the hardest steps, so thank you for considering me. If it seems like we could be a good fit, I'd be honored to learn more about your story and welcome you to the Light Minds family.

My interest in mental health began from a desire to understand how our experiences shape who we are. This curiosity grew into a passion for helping others explore these influences, gain deeper insight, and create healthier ways of relating to themselves and the people around them. The more we understand ourselves, the more we can understand others. Whether you’re coming to therapy during a difficult time or seeking support for accountability and personal growth, what matters most is simply showing up for yourself. That act of showing up can be one of the hardest things we do. Yet it is also essential, not only for your own well-being, but for your ability to show up more fully for the people and things you care about. I view therapy as an act of kindness toward yourself, an intentional pause to check in, look inward, and take meaningful steps toward becoming your best self. Over time, this process can create a ripple effect of growth, both within yourself and across all areas of your life.

I specialize in supporting college students who feel overwhelmed by the challenges of campus life—from managing academic pressure and navigating new social environments to handling personal transitions and stress. I understand that many students share common experiences such as balancing coursework, part-time work, and relationships, while also grappling with uncertainty about the future. Who I Help My approach works best for students who: Feel anxious about their studies or future career choices. Struggle with balancing social life, academics, and personal well-being. Are navigating significant life transitions (e.g., moving away from home, starting new relationships). Need a supportive, non-judgmental space to talk through their challenges. How I Work I use clear, everyday language to explain ideas and strategies—no confusing jargon here. Whether you're dealing with stress, low self-esteem, or just need someone to listen, my goal is to help you understand your situation better and build practical steps toward a healthier, more balanced life. Why This Might Be Right for You If you’re a student looking for a compassionate professional who understands the unique pressures of campus life, we might be a great fit. I’m here to help you explore your feelings, develop strategies to manage stress, and set you on a path toward personal growth and success.

The human mind is a fascinating place. I am constantly in awe of how deeply intricate and nuanced it is. I know that for many of us it doesn’t always feel this way. The hardships of life can, over time, make the mind into an unpleasant, stressful, and even terrifying place. My goal is to help make therapy, and the journey of exploring and understanding your mind, a less daunting process. I want to join you and guide you in peeling back the layers, making sense of the chaos, and finding safety and peace in your mind. For me, the key ingredient to effective therapy is curiosity. I want you to not only feel that I am listening to you, but that I am interested in what you have to say. I work to create a therapeutic environment where you feel that we are working collaboratively to understand the difficulties in your life, and to identify what you need to feel more capable and fulfilled. My style of therapy focuses on accessing and exploring the wisdom that already exists in your mind and nervous system, and interpreting it in the context of your past and present experiences. Nothing is more important in the therapy process than the relationship between therapist and client. Little can be accomplished in terms of exploring and understanding your mind unless you feel some degree of trust and safety with your therapist. I understand that trust needs to be earned, and that a sense of safety takes time to develop. I strive to nurture these by prioritizing consistency and honesty in all of our interactions. I want you to know and feel, above all, that I am on your side, and to have a clear understanding of the work we are doing together.

Hi there! I’m Jocelyn, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in supporting individuals who were expected to take on adult responsibilities at a young age. Together, we'll explore the lasting impacts of family trauma, including the unique experiences that can come with growing up in immigrant families, navigating cultural expectations, mental health stigma, and breaking generational cycles of trauma.

Life can be overwhelming, and asking for help takes courage. Whether you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply need support processing life’s changes, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where we focus on your strengths, explore your goals, and move at a pace that feels right for you. Sessions are available in English or American Sign Language to meet your communication needs. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy, grounded in trust and open communication. We'll set meaningful goals together, and I’ll support you using your strengths while building new skills. You can expect empathy, respect, and a space that truly honors your voice. Let’s connect and explore how I can support you. I offer telehealth sessions to fit your needs and schedule.

Welcome. I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a passion for helping individuals and families feel supported, understood, and empowered. I bring experience from school-based and community mental health settings, where I’ve worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and cultural adjustment. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in trauma-informed care. I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, play therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness: always tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive space where healing can begin. I'm here to walk alongside you. Your story matters, and it would be an honor to be part of your journey.

As a therapist, I pride myself in the confidentiality and the general skills I can offer you like any other therapist. However, what you can expect with my practice goes beyond the standard therapeutic experience. My practice is person-centered and non-judgmental across several subjects, domains, circumstances, and themes. I also pride myself in being multi-dimensional in identity politics; I am Trans-Affirmative, LGBTQ+ Affirmative, Sex-positive, Body positive, Kink-positive, and more. I approach the world and my work from a lens of inclusivity rather than exclusivity. We all deserve quality care regardless of how we identify. Reach out for your free consult. Please be aware that while this site asks me to include my initial and ongoing session fees, it does not allow me to clarify my sliding scale; please feel free to inquire about that if needed. I would be honored to take this journey with you!

What inspires me to work as a therapist is the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution on a daily basis. As an immigrant woman of color, who is bilingual and bi-cultural, my family’s struggle to achieve mental health despite deep seated stigma and shame illuminated my commitment to work as a therapist. Clients are the owners of their lives, and I respectfully honor their right to self-determination. A basic guiding principle in my therapeutic work is that clients are able to succeed when they choose their goals and their psychological needs are met. As such, it is my job to encourage competence and mastery of their own paths. That is, what works is what works for the client! Trust is the cornerstone that allows positive growth in therapy, which for me includes empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard of the client. Reinforcing that we are all doing the best we can, and that coming to therapy is not a failure, but rather it is a growth opportunity.

Working in metal health for over a decade, I realized I would ask more questions about the person than I was trained to know what to do. I knew I wanted to help people more and decided to further my education to be able to do that. Clients need to feel heard and understood. I would initially ask how they would like to feel heard and understood. I would naturally reflect back on what clients have stated to ensure I heard their words correctly. I would also ask if I understood their words correctly to confirm. Working together is collaborative. Building trust looks like me asking questions to see the client’s experience and what support looks like to them. It is listening to their stories and hearing what the client would like to work on as far as goals and supporting them to do so.

Are you feeling worried, stressed and/or overwhelmed on a regular basis? Do you often put other people's wants and needs before your own? Do you experience self-doubt or struggle with low self-esteem that leads you to feel like your thoughts, feelings and opinions are not important? If this sounds like you, you are probably also experiencing burn-out, imposter syndrome, disconnection with your body/emotions, and/or significant life-changes. You want to feel a sense of calm and assurance that you can move through your day with ease. I would be honored to walk this journey alongside you. To hold space for you, to support you and remind you that you have all the tools to lead the life you envision for yourself. If this resonates with you, please feel free to reach out!

* I'm licensed in Louisiana and California and would love to work with you virtually by FaceTime, Zoom, or phone. Reach out at 504-261-4443 (text) * I am in-network for many health plans for students from California through Headway Therapy. You only pay your copay through the portal. Start here: https://headway.co/providers/lisa-tahir-3?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=63753 * I am a Tulane Alum and teach in the Glass Art Department. * Check out my podcast, "All Things Therapy" on Spotify and iTunes * I've written a book on self-forgiveness and empathy endorsed by His Holiness The Dalai Lama, "The Chiron Effect: Healing Our Core Wounds through Astrology, Empathy, and Self-Forgiveness." Give me a text to 504-261-4443 to start your healing journey!

Avoid traffic & travel time with Video/Phone Telehealth sessions (I do not offer in person counseling). Do you enjoy learning about yourself, seeking joy, purpose and growth all while keeping a sense of humor about life and yourself even when facing challenges? Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, major life changes or adjustments (career, moving, marriage, separation, break-up or divorce), trauma or grief and loss? These have been my areas of specialty for 20+years. I also love working with those in the entertainment industry or in the helping professions (healthcare, mental health, caregivers, spiritual / coaches). Sound like you? I may be a fit! Time does not heal all wounds. But, what you do with your time can make a HUGE difference. Using grief, loss, CBT, and stress management techniques, together we can work on everything from individual support for children, teens or adults to couples or family counseling. I like seeing the results in my clients feeling happier, healthier and satisfied. Whether it's your first time in therapy or you have had experience in the past and life circumstances have led you back to searching for someone new, I hope I can help. I know from personal experience that weeding through all the therapists is a daunting task, and finding the best fit for you is essential. Note: I don't take insurance and provide paperwork for you to submit to any PPO for Out of Network Benefit reimbursement.