Therapists for college students near San Francisco, CA

Unfortunately, life has many obstacles and challenges leading to feelings of sadness, pain, confusion, and anger. Often individuals and couples feel stuck and don't know how to move forward. This time can feel very lonely and scary. My role as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment to process thoughts and feelings, as well as guide you in developing insight and identifying skills to help you live a happier and healthier life. I am committed in helping you heal and grow. I have experience working with individuals with a variety of conditions/issues including depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I assist couples in increasing communication skills, decreasing conflicts, and developing a healthy attachment to one another. I am trained in EMDR, Couples and Sex Therapy, as well as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I look forward to hearing from you to determine whether I would be a good fit in helping you through your growth and healing.

Are you facing changes that feel overwhelming, uncertain, or just plain exhausting? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone either. Through my work, I help support individuals and families through the inevitable shifts life brings—whether it’s welcoming a new baby, coping with divorce, relocating, transitioning into a blended family, or adjusting to a new phase of life like, going to college, getting a new job, or caring for aging parents. Transitions can be challenging and unsettling, but they also carry opportunities for growth, healing, and new beginnings. I offer a compassionate and collaborative space where you're seen as whole, already holding the wisdom to heal and grow. My approach invites you to reconnect with your resilience, explore the stories that shaped you, and discover the ones where your strength shines through—so you can reclaim your voice and choose what comes next. In seasons of change, feeling lost or unsure is completely human. I offer a nurturing space where your stories can unfold. As we uncover the strengths within you, we’ll begin to reshape your experience of belonging and safety. Growth often begins in the quiet moments of reflection, where trust can take root and new patterns of connection can bloom.

I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves a space where they can feel truly seen and heard, without judgement. Life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or uncertain about our path. My goal is to provide a space where you can show up exactly as you are, knowing you are supported and understood. With over 15 years of experience in health care settings, I work best with individuals who are motivated and ready to engage actively in their therapeutic journey. My ideal clients are open to partnering in therapy to learn practical skills for managing distress, improving emotional well-being, and enhancing daily functioning. They are eager to explore new strategies, reflect on their experiences, and take actionable steps towards personal growth. My approach integrates mindfulness practices, supportive therapy, somatic techniques, and cognitive behavioral strategies. Whether you’re navigating burnout, grief, life transitions, or seeking a deeper connection with yourself, I provide a compassionate, structured space, where meaningful change can happen. If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Whether you’re beginning your healing journey or deepening your self-exploration, I look forward to offering you supportive space to help you navigate the path ahead. Let’s connect and see if we’re a good fit!

I was trained at Yale and Columbia University, and I was a Clinical Associate Professor (affiliate) at Stanford University for 15 years. Recently, the American Psychology Association bestowed me the Fellow status, an honor for outstanding contributions to the field of psychology in Clinical Psychology (Division 12). I am also a full Professor at the California School of Professional Psychology. I am very experienced in working with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds and on extremely challenging issues. In addition, I have trained and supervised hundreds of psychologists and therapists, including Ph.D. students and post-doctoral trainees in many universities and clinical settings.

You might be feeling stuck: disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or the kind of life you want to be living. Maybe you're navigating stress from high expectations or caregiving roles, or struggling to feel close to others even when you crave connection. You may carry pain from earlier experiences or feel like you've had to hide parts of yourself just to get by. Whatever brings you here, you're considering the brave and vulnerable work of change, and that is huge. I work with people who are ready to feel more grounded, more connected, and more like themselves. I bring a particular focus on working with LGBTQ+ and multiply marginalized clients navigating the emotional toll of invisibility, hypervisibility, or living in systems not built for them, but enjoy working with clients of all identities who may be feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. I am neurodiversity-affirming, use an attachment-based lens, and provide letters for gender-affirming medical services. You don’t have to go through this alone, and you don’t have to explain your existence before we can get to the heart of things. In addition to individual therapy, I offer CNM-inclusive relationship therapy. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy and an attachment-based lens to help partners feel safer, more seen, and more emotionally connected. We focus on shifting out of reactive cycles and into more secure, responsive ways of relating. I bring a warm, relational, trauma-informed approach that honors your wisdom and your goals. Together, we can explore what’s getting in the way, deepen your emotional insight, and create space for more authenticity, clarity, and intimacy in your life. When you feel safe and seen, amazing things can happen.

We believe that you are the expert in your own life, and we are here to create a therapeutic environment that fosters real positive changes. It is our goal to assist you in becoming your best and most authentic self. Because of the uniqueness of the human experience we don't believe in a one size fits all model of therapy, therefore we tailor treatment specifically designed to meet your own unique goals and challenges.

Are you Autistic and/or ADHD and struggling in a world not designed for your neurotype? Or do you suspect that you may be Autistic and/or ADHD and want to work with a down-to-earth neurodivergent psychologist to find out? Are you looking for a therapist who gets the struggle? I offer collaborative and neurodiversity-affirming assessment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) tailored to the needs of Autistic and ADHD clients. Assessment may help you better understand yourself or your child. I offer neurodiversity-affirming Autism and ADHD assessments for all ages, and have a special interest in clients whose autism and/or ADHD are masked by other factors such as high cognitive and/or verbal ability, gender, race, age, or other psychiatric diagnoses. DBT may help you understand and manage your thoughts, feelings, and behavior to align with your goals. I offer DBT (group-only or comprehensive DBT) tailored to the needs of Autistic clients, and am currently co-authoring a manual for Guilford Press on tailoring DBT for the needs of Autistic clients.

I care about others and want to help people better understand the power of their emotions as an empowering tool to live a better life, for themselves and others in society and the communities we may be from. Mental health stigma is apparent in society, it is a mission statement for me to support in breaking stigma. I come from a multicultural immigrant and BIPOC/API background; serving this populations and the mental health challenges they may be facing in America is meaningful work to me. I understand how it feels to struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, complicated family dynamics, academic stress, racism, systemic oppression, religious trauma, chronic/rare illnesses sexual orientation discrimination, gender identity challenges; I focus my scope of practice & clinical skills towards serving these issues. I work in a client centered strength based and collaborative approach, where I work alongside clients as professional partners in treatment to focus on goals they care about and we both agree are appropriate and achievable in this treatment services setting. I ask open ended questions and take time and patience with clients to support them in feeling safe and comfortable enough to open up over time. I value constructive feedback, as the therapy space should be known that is is two humans working together towards clients’ goals, hopes, and wellness.

What inspired me to become a therapist comes from both my professional journey and my personal understanding of how complex life can be. Over the years, I have worked in multiple healthcare and community-based settings, and across each of those environments, one thing became very clear: people are not just one problem or one diagnosis. Our experiences are shaped by a combination of emotional, relational, environmental, and even systemic factors. When those pieces are not addressed together, healing can feel incomplete or out of reach. I was drawn to therapy because it allows me to work in a way that honors the full picture of a person’s life. I believe deeply in a “whole systems” approach—where we explore not only what is happening, but why it is happening, how it connects to other areas of life, and what meaningful change can look like for you specifically. My goal is not just to help resolve a single concern, but to support a process where growth in one area begins to positively influence others. In addition, my own life experiences—including moments of navigating professional and personal challenges—have given me a strong sense of empathy and respect for the courage it takes to seek support. Therapy, to me, is a space where people can safely explore, rebuild, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. Helping you feel genuinely heard is one of the most important parts of our work together. I approach this by creating a space that is intentional, unhurried, and centered around you. That means giving you the time to express yourself fully, without interruption, and without feeling like you need to filter or edit your thoughts. I use active listening throughout our sessions—not just hearing your words, but paying attention to underlying emotions, patterns, and meanings. I will often reflect back what I’m hearing and check in with you to make sure I’m understanding you accurately. This kind of back-and-forth dialogue helps ensure that your experience is not only acknowledged, but deeply understood. Research consistently shows that when clients feel heard, respected, and involved as active participants, they experience stronger engagement and better outcomes in care. Equally important, I strive to create a non-judgmental and inclusive environment where all parts of your identity and experience are welcome. Whether you are sharing something difficult, uncertain, or even hard to put into words, my role is to meet you with openness and respect. You are not just being listened to—you are being understood, validated, and taken seriously. Working together is a collaborative and evolving process. In the beginning, we spend time understanding what brings you in, what feels most important to you, and what you would like to change or explore. From there, we develop shared goals and a plan that reflects your needs, preferences, and pace. This might include structured approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with other evidence-based methods that align with your situation. As therapy progresses, sessions often involve exploring patterns, building insight, developing coping strategies, and practicing new ways of responding to challenges. There is also space for reflection, processing emotions, and making meaning of your experiences. Importantly, you are actively involved in shaping the direction of our work—we regularly revisit goals and adjust as needed. Building trust and a strong therapeutic alliance is something I approach with intention from the very first session. This includes being consistent, transparent, and respectful, as well as clearly outlining what you can expect from therapy. I also invite your feedback openly, so we can address any concerns and ensure that the process feels supportive and aligned for you. A strong therapeutic alliance—built on trust, collaboration, and mutual understanding—is one of the most important factors in successful therapy outcomes. This alliance is not something assumed; it is something we actively build together through open communication, shared goals, and a sense of partnership. My role is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to take risks, and empowered enough to make meaningful changes. I believe that therapy works best when the space feels human and relatable, so I will share small, lighthearted parts of who I am to help build connection. For example, I enjoy songwriting, spending time with my pets, gardening, and participating in community activities. These interests are meaningful to me because they bring balance, creativity, and connection into my own life. Sharing them can sometimes help create an easy point of connection and remind clients that while therapy is a professional space, it is also a genuine human relationship. Thoughtful and appropriate personal sharing can help strengthen rapport and trust, making it easier for clients to feel comfortable and engaged in the process. Ultimately, my goal is to create an environment where you feel both supported and at ease—where meaningful work can happen, but where you can also feel comfortable being yourself.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Are you struggling with overcoming depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD due to trauma? For nearly 20 years I have worked with individuals to heal from various traumatic experiences. I look to create an empowering space for all the adults I work with including tailoring therapy approaches to meet the specific needs of the individual. In my practice, I provide online individual trauma therapy to adults residing in California. Examples of trauma I help clients heal from include childhood and/or adult abuse, death of a loved one, witness of violence, intergenerational trauma, natural disasters, combat, discrimination, and life transitions such as adjusting to college. Some of the therapy approaches include EMDR, CBT, EFT tapping. Taking this first step of looking for a therapist shows you’re on the path to healing from trauma. Therapy is not always comfortable or easy. Even if you have been in therapy before, it can feel overwhelming to start the process with someone new. Finding the right fit and connection with a therapist is important for your healing journey. To schedule a free 15-min. consultation: https://www.traumahealingtherapyca.com

Do you find yourself asking “why is life so fucking hard?” Are you experiencing challenges in life or a relationship? I specialize in working with adults that are feeling like their lives or relationships are off track. I will help you identify what is important to you, how to communicate your wants and needs, and how to start aligning your life with your values. Together, we will get to know you and what’s getting in the way of living the life you want. We will develop new ways of looking at your problems and create solutions together. We will talk about who you are, what your values are, and who you want to be moving forward. I believe we can change when we feel safe, cared for, and understood. I tailor my approach to your needs to address depression or anxiety caused by trauma, relationship issues, or other life challenges. Your services are about you & what you need. I’ll help you explore your life in a way that you feel understood and safe as you learn and grow. I know that life can be overwhelming. Sometimes what we need is a place to unload & get some fresh perspective (or a kick in the ass). I started my private practice because I wanted to create a life in line with my values. Are you ready for that life? Schedule a consult & lets see if we are good fit for each other. The consult is free, and so are the jokes!

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.

I became a therapist because I genuinely care about being a steady supportive presence in people’s lives. My goal is to create a safe space where others feel heard, understood, and empowered to work through their challenges. Being a support figure means helping people recognize their strength and reminding them that they don’t have to face difficult moments alone. I strive to make clients feel heard and understood by validating their experiences without judgement. Creating a space where they feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions openly is essential to building trust. Working together in therapy we focus on building trust through honesty, consistency, and mutual respect. A strong therapeutic alliance means we collaborate as a team, where you feel safe sharing openly and confident that your goals and well-being are my priority. Through this partnership, we create a supportive foundation for meaningful growth and healing. I believe a gentle sense of humor can help ease tension and build authentic connection. While I take my client’s experience seriously, I also value moments of laughter and levity when appropriate. Creating a space that feels both safe and human allows trust to grow more naturally.

Can't stop worrying, can't concentrate, or having relationship difficulties? Perhaps you're not sure where your life is going, you've had challenging childhood experiences, or have survived life-altering events? With 20+ years of being licensed as a psychologist, I am able to integrate a wealth and depth of skills and knowledge to facilitate healing and transformation for clients. I specialize in treating anxiety and complex trauma for Asian Americans. I truly feel such privilege to facilitate and witness everyone's growth both within themselves and with others. I look forward to connecting with you and facilitating your reconnection with the confident you.

I became a therapist because I deeply believe in the power of healing, growth and change. Through my own experiences, I have come to understand the value and profound impact that compassionate support and a safe, nonjudgmental space can have on someone’s well-being. I knew I wanted to provide that for others—whether it’s through offering guidance, a listening ear, or the tools needed to overcome difficult moments. My approach to therapy is rooted in deep empathy, active listening, and respect for your unique experience. I am here to truly hear you—without judgment, without rushing to solutions. I believe in meeting you where you are, and I will always create a safe, open space where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings. At the same time, part of feeling truly understood sometimes means gently challenging patterns or thoughts that may not be serving you or guiding you to the life you want to live. It’s my belief that this balance of listening deeply and challenging constructively is key to creating lasting change. Working together will be a collaborative partnership. I will be here to offer support and understanding, but also challenge you in ways that help you move forward. It’s a journey of mutual respect, trust, and deep care, and I’m committed to patiently walking alongside you through every step.

Having trained at the University of Notre Dame (Ph.D., M.A.), UC Berkeley (APA-accredited internship) and Stanford (post-doctoral fellowship), I bring rigorous scientific expertise into my clinical work with college students. In fact, I worked at the University Counseling Centers at all three of these schools and have continued to develop a specialized private practice that focuses almost exclusively on college students. I also teach for Pepperdine University in their Graduate School of Education & Psychology. I help clients with a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, career and academic concerns, ADHD, relationship concerns (situationships, am I right? :) ), body image and eating disorders, perfectionism, college/life transitions, as well as family of origin challenges (let's say it together, boundaries...). I often work with high-achieving students who often are managing academically but struggling internally. My clients often put others first and themselves last. By the time they come to therapy, concerns have been going on for some time and they've reached a breaking point. They may feel they "should" be able to handle things on their own. As a recovering perfectionist and someone who was riddled with anxiety throughout college, I get it. It wasn't until my own training in CBT that I learned how destructive such thought patterns were. It inspired my clinical approach, as well as three clinical workbooks I've published on Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, and Positive Psychology with the top mental health publishers. Many of my clients who have been to therapy before often remark how "easy" I make the process. We laugh, we learn, and talk like old friends. Therapy doesn't have to be stuffy or stressful. It's about feeling respected, validated and heard. Learning to take care of yourself, set appropriate boundaries, and thrive! I'd LOVE to work with you! Please feel free to book a complimentary 15 minute consultation at my website below so we can connect!

I specialize in providing psychological services to children and adolescents. These include neuropsychological assessment and psychotherapy. Assessments can be invaluable tools that provide diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, and the basis for academic accommodations. The therapeutic interventions I provide to young clients can be used to address a range of common challenges including, but not limited to emotional dysregulation and behavior problems. Based on the client, therapy may take various forms and could entail a talk or play-based approach. I regularly integrate parent or family sessions when appropriate.

I understand that it can be nerve-racking to begin this process, and I commend you for taking your first steps in starting therapy! I'm a licensed therapist and I have been working in the field for over 20 years. I specialize in working with adults and teens, ages 15 and up. I am here to help you develop tools to cope, feel empowered and supported. Together, we can work towards improving your sleep, feeling less worried and anxious, improve self-esteem, and have healthier friendships and relationships. I utilize evidenced-based and strength-based interventions, including teaching mindfulness, that help people struggling with life adjustments, and issues such as women's health, school and work stress, anxiety, depression, and racial identity (such as helping multiracial people navigate stressors). While therapy can be challenging, we can still enjoy ourselves and even laugh in a safe and supportive space. I look forward to meeting you!

Oceanside Clinics is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization providing telehealth services across California. We are in-network with Aetna and Blue Shield.