Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

I became a therapist because I’ve always been drawn to how people make sense of pain, identity, survival, and the patterns that shape how they relate to themselves and others. Before entering this field, I worked in settings where I supported people in crisis and helped connect them with care and resources. Over time, I realized I didn’t just want to help people stabilize through difficult moments, I wanted to support deeper, longer-term healing, especially around trauma, relationships, and identity. I’ve also become especially interested in couples work and relational patterns—how people affect one another, how cycles of conflict or distance develop, and how repair becomes possible. A lot of emotional pain shows up in relationships, and I’m interested in helping people slow those moments down so they can understand what’s happening underneath reactivity and disconnection. Alongside that, I’m committed to working with neurodivergent clients, including ADHD and OCD, as well as LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I’m interested in how people navigate differences in attention, regulation, intrusive thoughts, identity, and communication, especially in systems that haven’t always understood or accommodated those experiences. My goal is to create a space where those differences aren’t pathologized, but understood in context. Feeling heard is something we build actively in the room, not something that just happens automatically. I slow the process down when needed so each person has space to fully express what they’re experiencing, especially in moments where emotions are high, communication feels stuck, or patterns start repeating. I listen for both what is said directly and what might be happening underneath needs, fears, protective responses, and the meaning each person is making of the situation. In couples work, I pay close attention to the interaction itself: how cycles form, where disconnection happens, and what each person may be protecting or trying to communicate through their reactions. With trauma, neurodivergence, ADHD, OCD, and LGBTQ+ experiences, I also stay attentive to how past environments may have shaped how safe it feels to speak openly, regulate emotions, or be fully seen. I check in regularly to make sure I’m understanding each of you accurately, and I welcome correction if something doesn’t land right. The goal is for both of you to feel that your experience is taken seriously, even when your perspectives differ. Working together is a collaborative process where we look at what’s bringing you in, what patterns are repeating, and how those patterns show up both individually and between you as a couple. I don’t approach therapy as something I’m doing to you, but as something we’re actively building together over time. Trust develops through consistency, clarity, and responsiveness. I aim to create a structured but flexible space where we can slow things down enough to understand what’s happening beneath conflict, shutdown, or overwhelm. In couples work, that often means tracking the interaction in real time and helping both partners feel understood without losing sight of accountability or impact. With neurodivergence, ADHD, and OCD in particular, I also pay attention to how attention, impulse, certainty, doubt, and regulation affect communication and relationships. With trauma and LGBTQ+ clients, I focus on creating a space where safety, respect, and identity are not assumed or questioned, but actively supported. Throughout our work, I check in about how the process is feeling and adjust as needed so therapy remains useful, grounded, and aligned with what matters most to you. Outside of therapy, I like having creative outlets and noticing small, grounding moments in everyday life. I also spend time with my dog, a Beagle, Frenchie, who has a lot of personality and a strong opinion about absolutely everything. She’s a good reminder that even in deeper work around trauma, relationships, and identity, there’s still space for humor, warmth, and moments that don’t feel so heavy.

I am Daniela Paolone, a Marriage & Family therapist in California (Lic 90752) & Wyoming (LMFT-223). I am passionate about helping you move out of pain so that you can experience a more fulfilling & rewarding life. As a Latina & Italian therapist, I enjoy working w/diverse ethnic, cultural, religious & gender groups. I specialize in Latine counseling, chronic pain & illness, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, women's health, relationship stressors & caregiver support. Living with my own health challenges has helped shape my practice & approaches to give clients tailored support to help them reach their goals. Many of my clients prefer talk therapy with Brainspotting to better manage anxiety, burnout, depressed mood, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, caregiver stressors, medical trauma & chronic pain & illness experiences. Other clients I see are caregivers or parents who are overwhelmed taking care of others while not being able to look after themselves. If we get the opportunity to work together, we will explore your strengths & current ways of coping & use that to build upon & create an action plan. I focus on giving you tools, resources & exercises that are easy to use so that you can feel more at ease, more resilient & less stressed by your circumstances. You do not have to do this alone!

Welcome to our practice. We have several terrific clinicians in Beverly Hills and DTLA who are privileged to work with individuals, couples and families. Our style is focused on helping you understand your development in a way that allows you to become unstuck from your concerns. Our common sense approach is aimed at helping you gain insight into your past and present, enabling you to make healthier choices about your present and future. We treat a range of concerns, and are available to work with you in many languages. It is important to us that you feel like you can be understood, on every level. Apart from psychotherapy for individuals and couples presenting with a wide range of concerns, we conduct psychoeducational assessments of ADHD, ASD and other learning disabilities and for test accommodations. We have several skilled and experienced multiethnic therapists available in both Beverly Hills and DTLA. We understand that feeling understood on every level is critical to being able to make progress in therapy and are committed to an anti-racist, fully inclusive perspective to psychotherapy.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

It’s important to me that my clients feel that the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. The first session is free to make sure we click and I can provide referrals in the event that you’d rather see someone else. I have personal experience with many of the issues I treat which makes for a relatable and nonjudgmental experience.

Hello, and welcome. You are probably reading this because you are looking for someone who will get you—someone who can understand your struggles, offer a fresh perspective, and help you to move forward, letting go of the heaviness that you have been carrying. Maybe you have tried therapy before, or perhaps this is all brand new. Either way, finding the right therapist can be stressful. PAUSE A MOMENT. TAKE A DEEP BREATH. You are not alone. You can heal. You can experience joy and feel loved in your relationships and within yourself. I understand your struggle. I offer hope when you feel hopeless. I create a safe place for you to encounter your whole self with acceptance and compassion. My passions and specialties include working with people who are recovering from trauma, abuse, and unhealthy relationships and/or managing stress, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief, or loss. Contact me today for a free 15-minute consultation for counseling and let’s create a plan that will work for you

Are you finding it difficult to stay focused, manage your time, and stay organized? Do you struggle with meeting deadlines, keeping track of tasks, or following through on projects? As an ADHD-CCSP (Certified Clinical Services Provider), I can help guide you with targeted strategies that you can use in your daily life to perform better at work, school or in your relationships. In addition to supporting adults with ADHD, I also enjoy working with emerging adults (ages 18-29) who are navigating the challenges of undergraduate or graduate school, as well as those in the early stages of their careers. If you’ve found your way here, it’s likely because you’re ready for change. Reaching out to begin therapy can be intimidating, so good for you for taking this step. Let's find out if we may be a good fit! I offer a free 15 minute consultation call.

At West Hollywood Psychology associates, we are committed to client-centered and identity-affirming therapy, which means we listen deeply, honor each individual's unique journey, and collaborate with you to develop tailored strategies to positively impact your mental health and well-being. Our therapists represent a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and therapeutic approaches, ensuring that we can match you with a professional who truly understands and supports your specific needs.

Hi, I'm Robin, a licensed therapist/clinician. I specialize in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and ADHD, to name a few. I have experience in working with children and adolescents, I have worked on a mobile crisis team in the field, and I am currently training first responders on mental health/illness. I have a master's degree in counseling psychology from Cal Baptist University and I have trained in crisis negotiation. When working with clients, I prefer to follow their lead. There is not one particular type of therapeutic modality that I prefer to follow. Just like people, there is not always a "one size fits all" solution, and being able to pull from different modalities is essential for me. As a clinician, I find it an honor to be on this journey with you. I would like to help you find your voice in order for us to set realistic goals for your sessions. I like to create an environment where you feel validated and safe to be open, as these sessions are for you.

I strive to foster personal growth and understanding in order to heal from past wounds and resolve current psychological distress. I do this by providing a safe and non-judgmental space where people of all different backgrounds can feel comfortable sharing their struggles. It is a privilege to walk alongside you during difficult times and see you overcome your current obstacles. I seek understanding of your experience through questions, exploration, and taking on a learner’s perspective. Although I am well versed in mental health disorders and treatment, I see you as the expert of yourself. This is your life and your story. I want to collaborate with you to find the best solutions for you. I will offer tools, strategies, and skills. Most importantly, I offer a place for you to be heard and understood. Together we will learn what works best for you. My goal is for you to leave therapy feeling confident in trusting yourself and your ability to handle what life presents.

You’ve taken the first step towards healing, which is often one of the most difficult. Thank you for being vulnerable and allowing me into your space. The world changed, and so did all of us…and that is okay! I am here to partner with children, teens, young adults, adults, and couples towards achieving healing and fulfilment, however that may look to you. My You-Centered approach places you at the helm of your journey, as we use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System, and other mindfulness management strategies to transform this moment. Together, we will combine these theories when discussing matters concerning goals/aspirations, relationships, interpersonal struggles, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, stress management, phobias and fears, and substance use concerns.

College can feel like a lot. You may be dealing with stress, anxiety, pressure to perform, relationship issues, or just feeling overwhelmed and not like yourself. I’m Susan Farber, a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 25 years of experience. I work with college students to help you feel more in control of your thoughts, emotions, and reactions so you can function better day to day. My approach is practical and supportive. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with mind–body techniques to help you manage anxiety, improve focus, and regulate stress. You’ll learn tools you can actually use—whether it’s getting through exams, handling social or relationship stress, or dealing with burnout. You don’t have to have everything figured out to start therapy. If something feels off, overwhelming, or too much to carry on your own, this is a space to sort it out and get back to feeling more like yourself. I offer in-person sessions in Santa Barbara and Solvang, as well as telehealth throughout California.

Anxiety and depression are so prevalent these days. Coping with difficult transitions such as adjusting to college, being weighed down by existential/career pressures can feel so overwhelming. Romantic struggles are also stressful, including conflict with your beloved related to intimacy, infidelity, etc. Communication with your partner/family member can feel so frustrating at times. "Getting on the same page" with your partner prior to taking the next step would feel great. Coping with a loss can make you feel powerless. These are all really heavy life challenges that many of us face, but you don't have to face them alone. I am here to help. I work with individuals and couples by providing you with the tools you need for healthier relationships, better communication, and more fulfillment. I will help you sort through the various questions that impede love and joy in your life. I also offer Brainspotting, a revolutionary brain-body processing method that heals emotional wounds/traumas which may take longer to heal with traditional talk therapy alone. I look forward to offering you an opportunity for more healing!

Hi, I'm Pak P., LMFT. In my practice, I provide therapy for individuals and couples navigating stress, relationships, and emotional challenges, with a specialized focus on men’s mental health, high-performing professionals, and culturally informed care. For couples, whether you're dating, engaged, or already married, I focus on building support and improving communication. My goal is to identify areas of growth for you as a couple working collaboratively toward positive change. The therapy journey is about connecting with yourself, gaining the confidence to navigate life's changes, and making positive steps toward the life you desire. In my therapeutic approach, I create a unique treatment plan just for you based on the foundations of psychodynamic theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This creates a comprehensive and effective therapeutic experience designed for you. Psychodynamic theory helps us to explore your unconscious processes, childhood experiences, and the impact they have on your present behaviors and emotions. It provides a rich understanding of the underlying dynamics that influence your thoughts and actions. EFT focuses on the emotional bonds within relationships, emphasizing the importance of creating secure connections and emotional responsiveness. In both individual and couples therapy, psychodynamic theory allows you to better understand the roots of deep-seated patterns. This can help you recognize and address unresolved issues that may be influencing your current struggles. For example, if you are grappling with recurrent relationship difficulties, psychodynamic exploration can help you uncover patterns established in childhood that affect your perception of intimacy and closeness. It’s pretty powerful! For couples counseling, EFT focuses on the emotional dynamics between you and your partner. It helps you identify and reshape negative patterns of interaction. For instance, if you are stuck in a cycle of blame and withdrawal you might learn to express vulnerable emotions and needs breaking the continuous cycle. By integrating psychodynamic theory and EFT, therapy becomes a dynamic and holistic journey. This can help you break free from unhealthy patterns and enter into a new stage of life. Seeking assistance is a sign of courage and a willingness to deal with life’s many changes. I look forward to providing you with the support you need in this journey

Theraperspectives Counseling supports students and emerging adults navigating anxiety, burnout, identity exploration, neurodivergence, relationship concerns, life transitions, and the challenges of balancing competing responsibilities. We offer a collaborative and supportive space to better understand yourself, build resilience, and move through life’s complexities with greater clarity and confidence.

Our mission is to deliver person-centered mental health services that promote psychological wellness, healing, and growth. Through the use of compassionate and collaborative care—guided by integrity—we strive to support a meaningful and fulfilling life by nurturing emotional wellbeing, fostering valued relationships, identifying the core self, and promoting lifelong learning. We embrace a holistic approach aiming to help people cultivate a balanced lifestyle that honors personal growth, wellness, and the gradual journey of healing. We envision a community where people from all backgrounds have access to compassionate and culturally-responsive mental healthcare. By honoring each person’s unique story, we aim to establish a foundation for emotional wellbeing and meaningful self-sufficiency. Through empowerment, we strive to inspire: healing, fulfillment, and a sense of peace for all.

The people who tend to find their way to me are usually carrying more than they let on. They’re smart, self-aware enough to know something isn’t working. They’re tired of overthinking, people-pleasing, feeling like they’re watching their own life from a slight distance. Sound familiar? I’ve been doing this work for over fifteen years, but honestly the reason I’m a therapist goes back way further than that. I was the kid who noticed when people were struggling. The one who wanted to understand what was actually going on beneath the surface. That never went away. I’m a parent. I play music. I read fiction and think about it too much. I’m not a blank wall you talk at; I’m a real person, and I bring that into the room with me. If something here feels right, trust that. A free consultation costs you nothing but fifteen minutes, and you’ll know pretty quickly whether it’s a fit. No commute. No waiting room. Just show up as you are.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Seeing clients overcome their struggles and/or building further insights about themselves, inspires my drive to work in mental health care. I enjoy seeing the progress of clients and their resiliency throughout their treatment. During sessions, I use active listening skills to ensure that clients feel heard. I also continuously reflect back to clients to ensure they are being understood. If needed, I will ask for clarification to ensure I obtain accurate information given that it can play an important role in their treatment. I am transparent with clients about the structure of treatment. I provide the space for clients to share their interests and information about themselves. I also provide clients with time to share delicate information to respect their need for comfort throughout their treatment.

TBH Therapy -- because therapy is a place to be honest! We help college students navigate relationships, transitions, and figuring out who they really are in a complicated and confusing world. Several of our therapists also have training in EMDR therapy to help resolve trauma more quickly and get you back to doing what brings you joy. We also specialize in managing big emotions that overwhelm you from showing up the way you want to in your relationships, school, and work life. We have multiple providers who offer different fees based upon their experience, including some sliding scale options. Please reach out and we can help match you to the provider who will best meet your needs.

College can feel overwhelming. You’re juggling classes, work, relationships, and the pressure to have everything figured out. Maybe things look fine on the surface, but inside you feel stuck, anxious, or like something is missing. You want to feel more connected to yourself and to life, but it can be hard to know where to start. I work with students who are sensitive, curious, and deeply reflective. Many feel dismissed or misunderstood by traditional counseling services, and some are navigating neurodivergence, unconventional identities, or chronic health challenges. This is a space to explore your emotions, patterns, and experiences without judgment. My approach is grounded, trauma-aware, and holistic. We focus on what is happening in your body, your nervous system, and your inner life. Together, we create space for you to step out of old habits, hear your intuition, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that are ready to be seen and understood. If you feel like something is off or that life could feel more meaningful, this is a place to explore that safely, honestly, and deeply.