Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA
Carlos Duarte
I am a Los Angeles based psychotherapist and counselor committed to supporting my clients on their journey of learning and personal growth. My areas of focus include working with adults who are facing difficult life transitions or facing challenges in their relationships. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. My clinical experiences range from providing individual psychotherapy to adults in outpatient clinics, and crisis intervention and group psychotherapy with adults and adolescents in inpatient psychiatric hospitals. I have also worked with our homeless population across LA County, providing outreach, brief psychotherapy, and referrals to community resources and mental health services. My approach when working with all clients is client-centered and strengths-based. I value the person-in-environment perspective, so I can better understand my clients and their mental health in the context of their environment, and not just through their behavior and psyche.
Matthew Lezama
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in medication management and supportive therapy. I completed a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. I then went on to complete a second Bachelor of Science in Nursing and subsequent Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a PMHNP at California State University, Los Angeles. I have experience in working in mental health research and both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, assisting in the care of diverse group of clients across the lifespan. I am inspired to work in mental health by being a meaningful part of people’s journeys to become happy, healthy, and informed. I encourage a collaborative approach, working together with clients to create a treatment plan geared towards their mental health goals. I place an emphasis on psychoeducation related to mental health disorders and medication options to ensure that clients feel empowered to pursue treatment choices that are in line with their priorities. 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: academic stress, benzodiazepine tapering, BIPOC mental health issues, deprescribing, geriatric psychiatry, LGBTQIQ2s+ mental health, trauma-informed care, addiction psychiatry/dual diagnosis, anger management, chronic illness, first responders, grief, men’s issues, pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum, transgender care
Katie Fenton-Strauss
High achievers are often their own worst critics. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. As I help my clients to develop greater self compassion, they experience amazing changes in many aspects of their lives. Email me and we can set up a free 20 minute consult to talk about working together. I conduct secure video sessions with clients in CA and FL. I am an HSP specialist (Highly Sensitive Person), and I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies and mindfulness techniques to help people to more deeply understand themselves.
Laura Eklund
I have been a therapist since 2004 working in both private and group practice with adults and children before joining with Kaiser Permanente psychiatry in 2012, recently returned to sole private practice in 2021. I earned my clinical social work degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, which was awarded a top 5 ranking in the field. I additionally have completed post-graduate studies at University of Virginia Mary Ainsworth Clinic and American School of Clinical Psychology in Washington DC. While I enjoy use of various therapy methods, including CBT and ACT to treat anxiety and depression, I have a particular passion in the use of EMDR for trauma and stress disorders. I consider myself very privileged to have trained with and sought consultation with Andrew Leeds, who is an EMDRIA board member and foundational researcher in the field. .Many of my clients have reported this technique to be a fast and highly effective treatment that they wish they had considered sooner. Please feel free to look over the links regarding the high-effectiveness of EMDR and to reach me with any questions. Additionally, I have extensive expertise in the area of dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) another great therapy style that I can strongly recommend, I was very fortunate to be part of a 2012 Ben Hudnell Grant to develop a DBT program for Kaiser Permanente’s Psychiatry Department, initially at the Washington DC clinic and then later heading the program for KP Psychiatry in Pleasanton, CA; running these programs from 2015-2021. I find the coping skills taught in DBT to be essential, not only for reducing suffering and problem behaviors, but for helping to create a life worth living. While DBT was initially developed to assist those with Borderline Personality Disordered traits, it has broadened to include helping those looking to manage with mood swings, anger, relationship problems, binge eating, bipolar disorders, anxiety and depression, as well as assisting those is continuing recovery from addictions. I especially recommend DBT for those who struggle with anger or shutting down, as relationship dynamics are really where difficult can present. I teach both basic DBT and advanced practice, whether your new to process or experienced I am happy to support your process in session. There is the hope to include group education and process, in the future, pandemic needs permitting. I see my clients online via secure telehealth on Mondays and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays are available for in-person for those full-vaccinated and without COVID exposure concerns. You may schedule a free 20-minute telehealth consult via website below.
Lauren "Liz" Toys
I worked in the field as a mental health RN for 13 years before continuing my education to become a PMHNP. I believe that mental health plays a significant role in a person’s overall well-being including physical health, emotional health, and ability to navigate life’s often challenging hurdles that many silently face. I aspire to continue offering hope and support to anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being using the most up-to-date traditional and holistic practices tailored to meet my client’s needs. My core philosophy is based on a humanistic approach, which focuses on finding each person’s unique potential and ability to overcome their difficulties through positive personal growth. I use this patient-centered approach to help my clients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. I also encourage my clients to participate in therapy and lifestyle modifications in conjunction with medication management as this has proven to be the most effective method to long-term stability. I work closely with each client to ensure they can access any helpful resources that may benefit their treatment. I use a patient-centered care approach to help my patients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. 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: academic stress, benzodiazepine tapering, CBT-I, holistic approaches to psychiatry, trauma-informed care, eating disorders, first responders, women’s issues (PMDD, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, etc.)
Smart Talk Marriage and Family Therapy Inc.
We are a group of Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) and Associate Marriage and Family Therapists (AMFTs) here to help you feel better. Here is a brief overview of what we do. LMFTs: Our LMFTs focus on support women through their motherhood journey from trying to conceive, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. We focus on helping smart, high achieving women navigate the stressors of starting a family while maintaining their career goals. We use a compassionate electric approach to therapy pulling interventions from different theoretical orientations and customizing our care plan to fit each individual woman's unique needs. AMFTs: Our AMFTs focus on working with young adults (16-24 years old) and supporting them in their transition into adulthood. It is hard to navigate what type of career you want to have, who you want to become, and what kind of friend you want to be. Our AMFTs are here to help you figure it out and support you as you find your path in life.
Jacquelyn Meissner
My areas of specialty include dealing with interpersonal conflict, loss, divorce, trust issues, chronic illness, depression, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, and other life stressors that can be overwhelming. I am here to support you on your journey in reestablishing a connection with yourself. Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past, or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want, I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity and without judgment. As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I strive to support individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficult life events. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Sabina Harris, MFT
Welcome! What is a mosaic? It is little imperfect pieces of glass or tile that come together to form beautiful art. How can we create a mosaic within ourselves and in our lives? All the broken pieces of glass or tile can represent trauma, experiences, life journeys, and parts of our self that we sometimes don’t necessarily know how to understand them to incorporate them into our sense of self. I have a passion for working with people to help them to understand these broken pieces, and help them to put these pieces together in a way that creates the beautiful mosaic that is YOU! I have 18 years of experience, specializing in working with transition-aged youth (ages 16-24), adults, and people of color that struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, among other life challenges that people may face. I also strive to understand what your needs are and work with you in a way that can meet those needs to best assist you in therapy. Please contact me if you are interested in taking a step forward in your life journey that can lead to discovering and understanding the beautiful mosaic of you!
Lumenate Integrative Therapy
College is often a time of growth, transition, pressure, and uncertainty — and at times, it can feel overwhelming trying to manage everything on your plate. Trying to balance school, relationships, family expectations, work, social life, and your own mental health can feel like a lot. You may be feeling more anxious than usual, struggling in relationships, finding it harder to stay motivated, or feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself. Maybe things don’t feel as okay as they look from the outside. Sometimes having a space to talk openly and make sense of what you’re feeling can make a meaningful difference. Therapy can offer a space to slow down and reconnect with yourself. At Lumenate, we offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can better understand what you’re experiencing and feel supported in the process. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, identity questions, stress, or life transitions, therapy can help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident in yourself and your relationships.
Dr. Carrie Talesfore
Hello! Thank you for taking the first steps in finding a therapist who will be a good fit for you. Making changes can be difficult (and scary!), and my job is to help support you on that journey. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor in which the client and therapist are partners working towards a common goal. As the process unfolds, clients develop skills and learn strategies that they can apply not only to their current challenges, but to future difficulties that might present. Eventually, therapy is no longer needed, because clients have the tools they need to move forward on their own. I look forward to meeting you, and I hope that I can help you improve your life in the ways that you are seeking.
Breanna Aguirre
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.
RMC Therapy Group
Our practice is built on authenticity, inclusion, and meaningful connection. We support college students and young adults as they navigate the many transitions, challenges, and opportunities that shape this stage of life. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, academic or social stress, identity exploration, or relationship concerns, we offer a space where you feel genuinely seen, supported, and valued. Using somatic awareness, mindfulness, and evidence‑based approaches, we tailor each session to your individual needs. Together, we explore the mind‑body connection, nurture resilience, and create pathways for healing, growth, and self‑understanding. We are committed to inclusivity and celebrate the diverse identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences that each person brings. We recognize that change doesn’t happen in isolation it’s influenced by the relationships, environments, and communities you’re part of. While navigating life transitions can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. We walk alongside you with warmth and care, helping you strengthen connections, manage stress, and create space for personal growth, clarity, and confidence.
Margaret Wang
My ideal client is someone that’s ready to delve deeper. This person may be struggling to get out of bed or may be overwhelmed by their thoughts. Perhaps these habits impact their motivation or energy levels. This person may notice that their self-doubt interferes with their goals and overall meaning in life. My specialties include depression, and anxiety. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space so that you can learn to cope with difficult feelings, and develop a sense of confidence in yourself. I have successfully worked with athletes and their performance anxiety. One of my favorite parts about working with clients is seeing their own resilience, their ability to witness their own capabilities. It's meaningful to work alongside my clients and to provide them with the skills to work through whatever challenges come their way. If you feel as though my approach fits with you, I'd love to chat over the phone. My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and relational, meaning that my focus is not on symptom-reduction. Instead, our work together is long-term, delving deeper into childhood wounds and how these present themselves today. This work might take two to three years. Of course, this may vary from individual to individual. Because psychotherapy is based on trust, meeting on a weekly-basis is key. I am excited that you are open to making this commitment to yourself and to the therapeutic process. Groups Offered: Setting Boundaries With Others, Mindfulness For Those Who Are Skeptical About Meditation, Identifying & Expressing Emotions.
Melissa Nauman Counseling & Psychotherapy
People make the decision to engage in therapy for a multitude of reasons, all of which are valid. Some people may be ambivalent about making changes in their lives, while others might feel eager and ready to start the process. Regardless of where you find yourself on that continuum, I am here to support you. Although my background has mainly been focused around eating and body image, I see clients who are experiencing a variety of concerns: relationship issues, anxiety/depression, life transitions, unhappiness, etc. Prior to private practice, I worked with undergraduate and graduate students at Harvard University Counseling and Mental Health Service, with a specialty in supporting student-athletes and individuals with eating and body image concerns. I have also worked in psychiatric inpatient programs as well as eating disorder treatment programs. My therapeutic style is integrative, which means that our work together will draw on various approaches determined by your concerns and goals. My hope is for us to build a trusting relationship that will allow for honest reflection, helpful challenge, and ultimately positive change so that you may be able to lead a more fulfilling life.
HOPE Counseling Center
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.
Jason Wu
I have been described by clients and colleagues as non-judgmental, warm (but direct), validating, and compassionate - I'd like to think that's true, but who am I to say? In any case, my hope is to help people develop self-acceptance versus self-loathing, practice self-compassion versus self-criticism, heal past wounds or trauma that continue to cause pain today, and create a purpose-driven life built around values they care about. In my personal and professional experience, the more we can accept ourselves and our "flaws", the freer we are to make meaningful changes in our lives. I work with adults, couples, and sometimes groups. I work with all types of issues, but my specialties include adult children of narcissistic and/or abusive parents, trauma-related disorders, couples therapy, men and masculinity, managing anger, self compassion/acceptance, depression/anxiety, substance use/addiction, and cultural issues (family conflict, intergenerational trauma, issues of identity, etc.). Having been on the other side, I know it's sometimes hard to know what you need, so I offer free phone consultations to help get you started on your path. My website also has resources for self-help - feel free to browse through that as well. And I usually respond quicker to email, so please feel free to message me anytime and we can schedule a time to chat!
Jacqueline Kao
My style can best be described as insight and action-oriented therapy. I believe that once an individual has an improved understanding of their inner workings (thoughts, emotions, behaviors) and patterns of behavior, then they can begin to adopt more healthy ways of living. In sessions, I offer empathy, acceptance, guidance, and understanding, while encouraging clients to show up authentically so that they can work towards personal growth and positive change. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Dreme McLennan-- Healing Arts Counseling Center
Looking for a fresh approach to therapy? Student life is beyond stressful, and sometimes words are not enough. My approach is collaborative and creative. We step outside traditional talk therapy by incorporating drama therapy and other creative arts to imagine new possibilities, gain practical tools, and reawaken joy. Healing Arts Counseling Center specializes in depression, anxiety, life and cultural transitions, chronic illness/disability and neurodivergence.
Sarah Breismeister
For 14 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside teens and adults through some of life’s hardest moments. I especially love supporting people navigating trauma, anxiety, and depression, along with the emotional, family, and relationship challenges that often come with them. Whatever brought you to therapy, you’ve found a warm and caring place to start. Wherever you are in your journey, you don’t have to figure it out alone, and I’d be honored to help you find your way forward.
Mariah Aniasco
As a recent college graduate, I know how hard it is to not get behind or feel burnt out while trying to go to school and deal with daily life stressors at the same time. I am here to help clients navigate through their struggles, learn about themselves, and grow into the best versions of themselves. I am here to tend to each client's unique needs and help them on their journey of bettering themselves.