Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

Hi welcome to the world of Therapy! This step can be daunting to start but rest assured that this can be the beginning of something beautiful. If you are experiencing overwhelming feelings that are hard to explain, you're in the right place. Here, you have the free space to share your thoughts and feelings without feeling judged through the process. Here you get to learn about the most important person in the room, YOU. Being a student, learning about adulting, trying to make ends meet at the end of the month, working during your "free" time and finding time to manage a social life needless to say, trying to make a relationship work is a lot! You're not alone. I can be here with you through the process. There is no shame in knowing we need help. This is the first step of adulting, knowing we can't do life on our own. We need our tribe. Feel free to contact me for your free 10-minute phone consultation where you can ask me any questions or concerns you may have about the therapeutic process. I look forward to meeting with you!

Hi! I’m Andrea, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner of Tulipa Therapy. I have over 15 years of experience in community mental health, juvenile justice, and school system settings. I work with adults and teens and love holding space for people and their experiences. I’m certified in maternal mental health and my specialties include, anxiety, burnout, grief/loss, life transitions, perfectionism, self-esteem, motherhood, and parenting. I use a holistic and client-centered approach and prioritize creating safe and compassionate spaces where you can show up exactly as you are in the present moment. My focus is on you—you lead the way, and we go at a pace that feels right for you. It’s really important to me that you feel comfortable every step of the way. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important piece to successful therapy. It’s really important to me that you feel safe and comfortable because that trust is the foundation for everything we'll do together. My role is to support you, listen without judgment, and help guide you through whatever you’re facing. Too often, struggles are faced in isolation, and I don’t want you to carry the weight alone. Healing is hard but so worth it, and I am here to walk this path with you.

Do you often feel unheard, unseen, or unimportant within your relationships? Maybe you identify as hyper-independent or a people-pleaser, finding it hard to prioritize your own needs and often overthinking interactions. These patterns can feel isolating and deeply anxiety-provoking, and they often have roots in complex trauma, such as childhood abuse or growing up in environments where emotional needs were minimized or unmet. Perhaps you already “logically” connected these dots, yet you still feel stuck. That’s because complex trauma lives in the body and nervous system, not just the logical brain. I specialize in trauma-processing therapy, including EMDR, to help you safely process traumatic experiences and release the emotional burdens that come with them. I also integrate Narrative Therapy to help you reconnect with a sense of identity that reflects your true values, voice, and strengths. Therapy with me feels collaborative, safe, meaningful, and relieving. As a fourth-generation Japanese American therapist, I understand how cultural expectations around family, responsibility, and respect can make healing feel complicated. I help clients explore ways to preserve their emotional well-being, while still honoring the relationships and values that matter most to them. If you’re ready to break old patterns, feel more confident in yourself, and strengthen your relationships, I hear you and I see you. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.

Many of the students I work with feel overwhelmed trying to figure out who they are and what they want, especially in a time that feels uncertain and constantly changing. You might be thinking about your future while also holding awareness of things like climate change, global crises, or instability in the world, which can make everything feel heavier or harder to make sense of. Some students I work with are dealing with habits like skin picking or hair pulling, while others feel burnt out, anxious, or like they’re trying to keep up but struggling internally. I take a relational and systemic approach, looking at both what’s happening internally and the larger context you’re living in, while also offering practical tools to support change. Many of my clients are thoughtful and aware, trying to make sense of themselves and the world around them. Therapy can be a space to slow things down and find ways to move forward that feel more grounded and realistic.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I specialize in working at the intersection of queerness, neurodivergence, and trauma. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ and neurodivergent communities, parents, military/veterans, and those with complex trauma. I lead a queer- and neuro-affirming practice. Many of my clients are trans/non-binary, Autistic, ADHDers, and trauma survivors. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 13 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships. I know you are the expert on yourself; my role is to hold space, offer tools, and be a guide for your healing journey. I use a combination of evidence-based trauma therapies, yoga/mindfulness, and an understanding of your body's response to trauma. I strive to be aware of the impact of systemic oppression and marginalization on holistic health. I use authenticity, creativity, compassion, and humor to create a space where you can feel connection and validation. My goal is to help you feel comfortable getting a little uncomfortable, in order to move into an experience of healing. I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body. I'm always engaging in continued learning so that I can provide the most informed and updated support for you. I look forward to hearing from you and working together!

There’s a lot happening in our world right now. If you’re finding yourself struggling with adjusting to life changes, experiencing low mood, or feeling challenged in a relationship, you don’t have to hold this alone. In therapy, I create a space where you can be your authentic self, in the safety of a therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, understood, and cared for. I have a warm therapeutic approach that is collaborative so we can work together towards the heart of what you are needing. I have an integrative, depth-focused approach, and specialized training in trauma, EMDR, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, and building self-compassion. It’s vulnerable to start therapy, but at times we all feel terrified, overwhelmed, or realize things aren’t working as well as they could. Allowing a therapist to join you on your journey can help turn these times of crisis into opportunities for growth and healing. Visit my website to schedule an initial consultation so we can talk about what's possible. I look forward to speaking with you.

I’m passionate about working with children and young adults, especially those who are queer, neurodivergent, and/or Asian American. College is a major life transition, and I'm here to help ease the stress and anxiety that tends to come with it! In our work together, I will draw on play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and traditional psychotherapy approaches to best fit your treatment needs and goals. I practice from a trauma-informed, anti-carceral framework where the most important thing is that you are your own expert. I hope to foster growth in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and self-esteem so you can express yourself freely and live as you want to be seen.

As an observer of human behavior and relationship, I see the sticky interconnectedness of self, other, and systems that often imprisons us in behaviors, thoughts, and reactions that can feel unchangeable. I believe people often do the best they can to face the challenges of life, yet in doing so, some of what we discover works at first, fails us long-term. And it’s here that we often feel trapped—between doing what we know to do and knowing what we’re doing is no longer working. That’s where I come in. I’m here to help you find freedom in areas that seem unchangeable, freedom in living into your best self, and freedom in healthy relationship. It’s a journey, but a worthy one, and one that you don’t need to travel alone.

Does your sexual behavior feel out of control? I'll help you overcome problematic use of pornography and other sexual health issues, so you can be the person you want to be. I cater to young men who want to unlock their full potential through evidence-based counseling and psychotherapy methods.

At Affirming Therapy Center, we support and encourage your desire for growth in a completely non-judgmental way, in a space that acknowledges your unique personhood and distinct challenges. You are welcomed and celebrated here. Helping you in understanding, accepting, and embracing your own beliefs, identities, and lifestyles is cornerstone in providing the support and encouragement you need to grow, to bring clarity to your choices, and to enhance your life and relationships. We focus on making you feel safe to explore your feelings and to express yourself. We proudly serve communities of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity! The therapists at ATC are dedicated to enthusiastically affirming all GSRD identities including, but not limited to, LGBT, Queer, Heterosexual, Kink / BDSM, Fetish, ABDL and Ageplay, Sex Work, Adult Industry, Monogamy, Non-Monogamy, Swinging / Lifestyle, Polyamory, and a Variety of Relationship Dynamics and Family Configurations. Each member of the ATC clinical team is a professionally-trained Psychotherapist, qualified to address topics such as identity, relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, sex and sexual health, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and personal growth. And each of our clinicians have unique areas of expertise, including advanced specialized training in the areas of Sex Therapy, Gender Affirming Therapy, Eating Disorders, EMDR (for trauma), and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. As with everything in life, there are ups and downs, and sometimes you need someone to talk to. Maybe you have inner conflict, questions about how and where you fit in to our kooky world. Perhaps you have wounds that aren’t healing or stories you need to tell. Or perhaps you just want to talk to someone about life and love, talk to someone who understands the challenges you sometimes face, without having to hide any facet of yourself or your life. There is only one “you”, and we at Affirming Therapy Center are here to help you excel at living your best life and being your best “you”. Our therapists are trained to listen, understand, and help guide you on your unique journey. Please visit our Meet the Team page to see each of our amazing therapists’ bios and areas of specialization. https://www.affirmingtherapycenter.com/meet-the-team/ Contact us now to get started: Send an e-mail to Team@AffirmingTherapyCenter.com with a brief description of what’s going on for you and your availability for appointments. One of our friendly therapists will respond to you (in 1–2 business days) to schedule an initial session or a free 10–15 minute phone consultation.

Therapy is not a "one-size-fits all" approach and will be personalized to suit the needs of you and your specific life situations. You deserve to work with someone who has the training and experience necessary to help you get the most out of your efforts to feel better and achieve your goals. Every therapist at HM Psychological Services strives to provide the best therapeutic services to adults, teens, adolescents, and children in individual, family, and couples therapy. Each of our therapists at HMPS have different areas of specialization, providing excellent options to meet all of your needs. Some of our speciality areas include: Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, OCD, Gender affirmation, LGBTQIA+, and more.

Wellness Therapy of San Diego is committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based psychological services to promote individual growth and relief from distress by providing wrap-around services meeting our clients’ various needs. The clinicians at Wellness Therapy of San Diego specialize in the treatment individuals across the lifespan using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and associated treatments. In addition to psychotherapy, the practice offers expert services in medication management and psychological assessments.

Hello, my name is Heather Pederson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego and am so glad you are here. Seeking help can potentially feel daunting, exposing, and overwhelming. It can also be our first steps toward repair, healing, and growth. I have found that people are so very strong, courageous, and hard-working, and still need some help when things get hard. I believe therapy can be a unique chance to discover parts of ourselves we forgot about, allow healing for the tender parts, and find new ways of interacting with ourselves and our loved ones that allow for deeper understanding and connection. I work with individuals and couples who often struggle with: a feeling of something between angry, sad, and fear that doesn’t have a name, as well as feelings of overwhelm, worry and stress that gets between them and their preferred lives. I seek to create opportunities in therapy to connect more deeply with the truest parts of yourself so that you can then connect more deeply with your purpose, values, and trusted others. I am trained in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (Externship with Sue Johnson, Core Skills to become Certified in progress), a Certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, Trauma Informed Care, and a graduate of Bethel Seminary San Diego with an M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy. Please contact me with any questions you might have regarding therapy. I work with college students (extensive experience working on college campuses), couples, individuals, premarital/pre-engagement, relational distress, trauma, and anxiety.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of methods to encourage change and growth. I understand it can be difficult to build trust and talk to a stranger about past or current traumas, stresses, and worries. I will make every effort to create a safe space to work through those events and issues, while providing support. It is always an honor for me to witness change, to be a part of growth and to see my clients thrive and find more of themselves.

When I was a senior in high school, I began to struggle with severe anxiety and panic attacks. It wasn’t until I found a counselor that allowed me to feel comfortable sharing my insecurities and fears, that I learned to take control of my worries. I instantly felt more at ease when I knew I was going to see my counselor. That is when I realized: I want to be that sense of warmth and guidance for others. I obtained my Master’s degree in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling. I am EMDR trained and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorders, self-esteem and mood disorders. I am dedicated to utilizing the most effective treatment interventions that will match your needs. I understand that we all go through our own unique stories of both happiness and pain. I aim to be the person that can work with you to find greater health and healing in your life. I provide a safe, genuine, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel free to explore your true self.

If you are looking for an individual to LISTEN to you about YOUR issues. You found her. We will work in a collaborative environment. What this means is that I will meet you wherever you are on your journey. Who knows YOU the best? YOU DO. That’s what you bring to the table. We will explore different ways to increase the benefits that you’ve always wanted from life. Therapy is scary. Change is scary. But you know what’s not scary? Feeling comfortable in your own body and mind. Feeling like who you are truly meant to me. Feeling content with life and yourself every day. My job is to guide you through your therapeutic journey. I have two goals: 1. To help you reach your goals. 2. To help you have the life you’ve always wanted. As a therapist and Clinical Social Worker, I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with the roles they play in their families, work, friendships or even how they see themselves. My passion is helping individuals find whom they’ve always dreamt of being and guiding them to their authentic selves through multiple modalities. Contact me today.

We are a team of culturally affirming therapists who have come together through shared common values, life philosophies, and the need to create an alternative and creative approach to therapy. Our values and philosophies were born and defined from our work in the following settings: home-based and community-based treatment, community outreach, advocacy, mentorship, teaching at community college and university settings, public speaking, and traditional talk therapy. Our aim at Courage Over Comfort Counseling is to empower our clients to step outside of their comfort zone and into their true greatness, and this… takes courage.

I work with adults (18+) who are having difficulties with depression, anxiety, and stress. These difficulties can often create problems in our relationships, self-care, self-esteem, and functioning at work or school. I am here to support you with these challenges. Looking for a therapist can be difficult in addition to facing current struggles in our life. Feel free to call for a free 15-minute consultation to see what I can do for you. I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology in Chicago. I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma. I also teach skills that include increasing awareness with mindfulness, tolerating distress, regulating difficult emotions, and being more effective in relationships. I approach therapy by helping you identify what you want your life to look like and then working through any of the barriers that get in the way of achieving what you want. I am eager to get to know you. Let's work together to help you with developing new coping skills, challenging negative self-talk, and moving you closer to achieving your goals.

Are you a tween, teen, or college student in need of a little extra support? Perhaps recent transitions at home, school or work gotten you down? Or you may feel worn out from the impact on your life of COVID-19? Are you feeling isolated or struggling with relationship issues? You are not alone; we've all been there! Our goal is to provide you a short-term, confidential space where you can talk openly about your challenges, feel supported and learn some new, perhaps more adaptive tools and strategies for working through current problems and issues. Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), our aim is to help you improve your mental health and provide you with tools which you can use throughout the course of your life to best manage life's challenges.