Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

Hi! My name is Suji Akhtar, a Korean American licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, multigenerational trauma, postpartum mental health, and immigration-related challenges. As a therapist, I'm dedicated to helping individuals navigate life transitions, heal from past traumas, and build resilience. My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion and cultural sensitivity, drawing from my own experiences as an immigrant, a parent, and a mental health professional. Whether you're struggling with the emotional rollercoaster of new parenthood, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to break free from the grips of intergenerational trauma, I'm here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for healing and growth. Together, we can explore your unique experiences and develop personalized strategies to help you overcome obstacles, manage emotions, and build resilience. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you and helping you thrive amidst life's challenges. As I am in multiple telehealth platforms, please do not hesitate to reach out to see if I accept your insurance.

Well, hey there—I'm Dr. Bennett, but around here folks just call me Nick (or “mental health wingman” because you don’t have to do it alone). I'm a Licensed Psychologist, Kentucky born with a curious mind and raised on good manners, sweet tea, and the belief that everyone’s story matters. I’m also a pretty decent listener, and the guy who’ll gently call you out when you’re being your own worst enemy (with Southern Grace, of course). I take a no-nonsense, client-centered approach to therapy—meaning we do what works, not just what’s in the textbook. I pull from all kinds of fancy-sounding things like CBT, EMDR (that eye-wiggle therapy that actually helps), mindfulness, and clinical hypnotherapy, but don’t let the big words fool you—I’m not here to confuse you, I’m here to help you get unstuck. Think of it like a mental tune-up with someone who won’t judge you for crying and cussing in the same sentence. I’ve worked with all sorts of folks—teens who'd rather be anywhere else, adults juggling more than they can carry, and elders who've seen more than most of us can imagine. I’ve helped folks through depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias (yes, including critters and public speaking), and life’s lovely little curveballs. I’ve worked with families involved with Child Protective Services, and I’ve spent time supporting folks in nursing homes, where wisdom and sass often come in equal parts. I’ve also had the honor of working with survivors of sexual assault and folks in the LGBTQ+ community—spaces where safety, respect, and a little humor go a long way. Before all this therapy business, I served in the U.S. Army and later, Army National Guard, with two combat deployments. So, if you’re a veteran or military family, know that I speak the language—boots, bureaucracy, and all. After all, camouflage isn’t just a pattern; it’s a lifestyle. Therapy doesn’t have to be stiff and clinical. Sometimes it’s about laughing at the mess while working through it. When it comes to couples therapy, I use tools like the Gottman Method and emotionally focused therapy—basically helping y’all stop talking past each other and start actually hearing one another. I have also run group therapy programs that range from LGBTQ+ support and sexual assault recovery to anger management and domestic violence work. And nope, it’s not just people sitting in a circle saying, “I’m angry.” We get real, and sometimes even have a few laughs. Outside of therapy sessions, I also do psychological evaluations—for everything from disability claims to gender affirmation surgery prep to lawsuit support. It’s serious work, and I take it seriously—but I promise not to make it feel like you're on trial. I earned my PsyD from California Southern University, where my dissertation explored the link between toxic masculinity and sexual violence. (Spoiler alert: masculinity’s not the problem—toxic masculinity is.) My postdoc training happened in the redwoods of California and the hustle of D.C., so I’ve been around the block—and the mountains—and the monuments. If you're looking for a therapist who’ll shoot you straight, bring a little humor to the hard stuff, and treat you like a person—not a project—well then, you’ve found your guy. We’ll laugh, we’ll dig deep, and we might even change your life a little. Let’s get to work, y’all.

Hi there! I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or are struggling with lingering effects of trauma. Some may feel stuck in negative thought patterns, disconnected from themselves and others, or unsure how to break free from cycles of self-doubt and fear. Many of my clients come to therapy wanting to develop skills to navigate life's challenges, build self-esteem, foster healthier relationships, and heal. Most of my work has been with young adults navigating life stressors. I foster inclusivity and take an integrative approach to therapy in order to tailor the therapy process to best suit you. I understand the next step can seem daunting. Feel free to reach out, and we can take that next step together. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions or looking to break free from past trauma, I’m here to support you on your journey to healing, resiliency, and self-discovery.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Have you been feeling sad, tearful, empty, hopeless, or worthless? Fixation on past failures or self-blame? Having a loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities? Lack of energy and lack of sleep? A feeling of churning in your stomach, light-headed or dizzy, pins and needles, restless or unable? Having trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things? Having anxiety, agitation, and restlessness? Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain? Do you feel the whole world is against you? Unloved, alone, traumatized, and thoughts of hurting yourself or others? We offer effective psychotherapy where patients will learn to identify and challenge harmful thoughts, replacing them with more realistic, healthy perspectives. My job as a practitioner is to be the calming center during therapy, incorporating medication management when necessary. Monitoring the patient's progress and celebrating success and full recovery. We believe that our patients and families deserve the best in mental healthcare delivery. Our purpose is to help eliminate the stigma and barriers to mental healthcare and to support patients at all stages of their recovery, allowing them to live their best lives. You can do this! We got you! Call us today to help you get your life back.

Struggling to achieve a semblance of work-life balance while juggling the demands of a heavy academic courseload, and research, training, teaching, and employment opportunities? It is a privilege to work together with college and graduate students on increasing a sense of well-being and actualizing potential. I typically work with clients who are looking to live their best life in both the personal and academic realms, often focusing on goals related to academic success, career/post-college life decisions, dating, and relationships. I earned my doctorate from Fordham University in New York, and have had a wide variety of clinical experiences throughout my training and career, including work in community mental health clinics, and public and private schools. My experiences working with college and graduate students in a college counseling center in Brooklyn, NY, and my own experiences as a college and graduate student, sparked my enthusiasm for providing quality and compassionate therapy for those on an academic journey. I aim to partner with you on building upon strengths while creating a manageable action plan to help you explore the solutions you seek, and improve outcomes and quality of life. I offer in-person sessions at my office in West LA, as well as via telehealth.

I work frequently with young adults as they manage increasing independence, college and work. I understand the challenges involved with balancing academic requirements, personal stressors and self care. Additionally, I am experienced in helping clients who are wanting to change their relationship patterns and behaviors, and those struggling to find effective ways to deal with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and codependency. As a clinical psychologist, I assist my clients in meeting their goals and improving their relationships. Therapy is used to improve communication, coping skills and problem solving. One of my areas of expertise is in helping clients who are working through a particularly challenging time in their lives, and having difficulty moving forward from their experience. By encouraging self expression, increased insight and problem solving in therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to facilitate positive changes. Improving self esteem through greater understanding and acceptance of oneself is part of that work.

Healing and change begins with the therapeutic relationship. Through a caring and nonjudgmental space we can process difficult emotions, gain awareness of what keeps us in suffering, and integrate newfound insights to bring relief. I am sensitive to the ways our past experiences and future anxieties impact our present. Together we will explore and discover what unfolds moment-to-moment to gain new understanding and begin healing and moving toward wholeness. I am deeply honored to witness your journey. As a veteran I understand the needs of service members, veterans and their families. I also specialize in addiction and recovery and have advanced training and experience working with anxiety, depression, codependency and trauma. I've also worked with children experiencing significant emotional and behavioral difficulties related to traumatic events. Gestalt therapy has formed the basis of my practice with special emphasis on awareness, integration and the therapeutic relationship. I am also an EMDR therapist, and incorporate depth psychological practices, imaginal methods, mindfulness techniques, and dreamwork.

Prodigy Psychiatric Group is embraced of patient centered practitioner and offers psychiatric and Therapeutic consultation, comprehensive evaluation, treatment services for a wide range of Psychiatric problems experienced by children and adults in an outpatient mental health setting. Our clinic supports individuals and their families to participate in effective decision making aimed to improve their health and well-being. We are structured to offer comprehensive mental health services in one convenient organization. We accept all major commercial insurance. Our group is contracted with most major behavioral health insurance networks in California. We are proud to offer a true continuity of care. Tele-psychiatry/Telehealth Appointment Also Available! Prodigy Psychiatric Group plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of individuals by providing a range of services that address mental and emotional challenges. Our clinic is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to improved mental health and helping them lead fulfilling lives. Here are the services which we provide – -Assessment and Diagnosis -Individual Therapy -Medication Management -Group Therapy -Family and Couples Therapy -Crisis Intervention -Psychoeducation -Holistic Wellness Approach -Supportive Services -Telehealth Services -In-person services

I help thoughtful, driven students break old patterns to build more connected lives: where impact & soul align. As a former tech leader, Stanford student-athlete, and experienced therapist, I know how achievement can hide inner conflict, and that lasting growth happens when we feel both secure and challenged. In therapy, we explore the pull between ambition and ease, connection and distance, and deeper healing.

Having trained at Notre Dame, U.C. Berkeley and Stanford, I bring rigorous scientific expertise into my clinical work with adolescents, college students, millennials and high profile professionals. I often work with high-achieving individuals who find themselves looking for practical solutions to the barriers that impede their success. My clients are often driven, maybe a little overworked, and in need of balance! Having been there myself, I get it! I aim to be part coach, part cheerleader, and part educator as I support clients in living their optimal lives zestfully and fearlessly! I love what I do and can't wait to meet you! As a TEDx speaker, top media expert, adjunct professor at Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology, tv personality and author of multiple clinical workbooks and tools, I employ a highly active approach to therapy. I combine CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology interventions. My therapy style is a blend of processing emotions and teaching critical life skills. In today's ever fast-paced world, we can feel disconnected and alone. I thrive on building relationships marked by empathy, trust, hope, and always, laughter. Being a therapist has been my life's passion since I was 11! How many therapists can say that? ***Please note I only see clients virtually part-time. Please also review my website and FAQ PRIOR to booking and inquiries. TY!!

I specialize in LGBT, couples, anxiety disorders, and trauma therapy. My approach to therapy is solution focused, together we can identify the challenges you are currently facing and create a strategy to overcome those challenges.

Hello! I’m Robin Paredes (she/ella), a 1st generation Mexican-American, Bilingual, LCSW & Reiki Practitioner. I accept Aetna & Optum/Optum EAP insurance & offer self-pay services at $145 on a weekly or biweekly basis (in-person in Covina, CA or virtually throughout CA). Short-term sliding scale available. I support 1st generation/BIPOC in pushing against misaligned cultural norms (often showing up as anxiety & depression) to develop a deeper sense of identity by teaching mindfulness skills, practicing self-compassion, improving communication skills, defining needs/boundaries & connecting to their inner knowing for a more embodied & fulfilling life. I incorporate a somatic, holistic, and culturally responsive approach to create a nurturing space where compassionate self-inquiry & healing can take place.

Whether you are experiencing difficulty in the here and now or struggling with things of your past, having a neutral, safe place to work through that is just for you can help. I have found that college students are at a prime place in their lives to make a meaningful impact through talk therapy. Career choices, family expectations, and relationships can take a toll on mental health and feel overwhelming at times. Therapy can help.

I work with clients who are asking "Who am I, apart from the things I've done, as a student, or the job I have?" The work that we'll do together will help you to create a renewed sense of purpose and meaning through empathetic, insightful therapy. Whether you're grappling with burnout, the complexities of relationships, work-life balance, life transition, anxiety, grief, or depression, I will design treatment that matches your unique circumstances and helps you thrive in the world.

As you navigate your journey toward your degree, you might be having to deal with other stressors: anxiety, depression, family separations, loved ones passing away, breakups, difficulty with school, etc. The list could become endless. I've been there and can understand how rough it could get. While in therapy, you can learn the appropriate coping mechanisms to steer in the right direction so that you can focus on enjoying your college experience. I have made the experience of doing therapy with me easier, by doing it online. This way, you don't have to sit in traffic driving to/from your appointment, and you get to sit on your own couch while holding your favorite blanket.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I bring extensive knowledge and clinical expertise to create an inclusive and supportive environment where you can achieve the changes you want. My services are designed to address, treat, and manage interpersonal conflicts and mental health challenges with a culturally sensitive approach. I'm here to provide the support and guidance when you're ready for change and growth.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

“I’m so overwhelmed, I can’t cope.” Life can be stressful–you have stress about your performance at work/school, traumatic events (pandemic, act of violence, or global uncertainty), relationships, or a life change. You have been feeling apprehension and dread and you can’t make it go away. You’re at your breaking point, close to burn out, and feeling out of control and it interferes with your everyday life, causing you to avoid things. You’ve also noticed issues with your health, problems sleeping, weight changes, inability to focus, and headaches or body pain. You want to find ways to reduce stress and replenish your resources. You’re ready to learn to say no and set good boundaries. You know it’s time to unravel limiting beliefs and find new ways to approach how you fill your time and nourish yourself. You desire your energy back, a change in attitude, and enhanced lifestyle. I can help you achieve your goals. To reach you where you are, we offer telehealth services, 24/7 online scheduling, and a client portal with hassle-free online paperwork. It’s easier than ever to fit therapy into your busy life and start making yourself a priority. Visit my website (www.losangelestherapycollective.com) to schedule a free, no-obligation 15-minute phone consultation today!