Therapists for college students near San Diego State University
PHILOSOPHY I believe meaningful connections are at the center of the human experience. We are social beings that thrive when we feel accepted, connected, and loved. These feelings can give us the confidence to show up in the world as our authentic selves and embrace our uniqueness. When we have a deeper understanding of ourselves and engage in unconditional self-acceptance, we gain a greater capacity to have fulfilling relationships. APPROACH My clients find my style humorous and compassionate as well as engaging and down-to-earth. My approach is holistic, engaging in all aspects of your wellness, with consideration for your mind, body, spirit, and heart. Thinking of my client’s needs, I use an eclectic and integrative method, pulling from traditional, innovative, and evidence-based techniques. Some of the modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My objective is to help my clients feel better as soon as possible, so I maintain a Solutions-Focused framework, offering direct feedback, actionable steps, and strategies to cope with current stressors. I am committed to having a therapeutic lens that is culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, health at every size acceptance, and social justice oriented. My ultimate goal is to assist you in identifying your unique gifts and using them to actualize your best self in the world.
My clients struggle as you do. Despite being kind, highly driven, and expert problem-solvers, life is hard. When they first come in, they are anxious and burned out from helping, fixing, caretaking, and peacekeeping. They’re acutely perceptive of others’ needs, but struggle to put themselves first. They usually feel overly responsible for others' feelings and needs, trying to control what is outside their control. They have abandoned themselves and grapple with the feeling that their only worth is in caretaking for others. They are exhausted from constantly walking on eggshells with others, worrying about what they say and do. They are paralyzed by self-criticism, perfectionism, and people-pleasing as they try to prove their self-worth and earn others’ love and approval. They feel they’ve lost themselves. All these years of self-sacrifice and making themselves small for others has left them wondering, “Who am I if I'm not taking care of everyone else?” Their desire to fix and hold everyone else’s pain gets in the way of the life they want in so many ways. They aren’t the kind of person they want to be. They feel like they’re failing as a partner, friend, and family member. And their confidence at work is tanking. Before they came to see me, they thought they could never say “no” and would go on doing everything for everyone while feeling empty inside. They worried they would never be the person they wanted to be. And they were pretty certain they would live with constant fear of never being “good enough.” Like my clients, you deserve to know that you are “enough” just as you are. Your worth is not predicated on caretaking for others. You want to step into the vibrant person you know you are and can be. Reclaiming yourself and discovering who you truly are is not out of your reach. If you want to stop feeling small and not feel terrified to be your authentic self, I’d love to help you get there. You don’t have to suffer. I can help. Give me a call to start our conversation.
Thank you for being here—I'm really glad you're considering taking this step. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply curious about how therapy might support your growth, this could be a meaningful time to explore things more deeply. In our work together, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be fully heard and supported. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique goals, whether that's managing anxiety, working through past experiences, improving relationships, or simply understanding yourself better. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating room to ask the right questions. If we decide to work together, we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. Taking the first step can be difficult. If you have any concerns I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the process. Please feel free to reach out when you're ready.
I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves a space where they can feel truly seen and heard, without judgment. 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. I ensure that clients feel heard and understood by working collaboratively with them to stay on track with their goals. I invite regular feedback during sessions to ensure we are meeting their needs and addressing any concerns they may have. This ongoing communication helps me tailor the therapeutic process to their individual needs, fostering a sense of partnership and understanding. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by prioritizing a safe and welcoming space in virtual therapy, free of judgment and shame. I use humor, creativity, and metaphors to help clients connect with deeper parts of themselves, making the process more engaging and meaningful. Additionally, I follow their lead and respect their pace when addressing difficult issues, which helps create a sense of safety, respect, and partnership in our work together. I’m a big believer in small, everyday rituals, whether that’s my morning coffee routine or my daily walk in nature. It often opens the door to conversations about balance, structure, and the importance of simple habits that support well-being.”
I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck and at the mercy of depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. If you've ever felt like you "should" be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone. My approach is authentic, person-centered and collaborative, and rooted in providing an emotionally safe and accepting environment. I provide brief solution-focused therapy or longer term work. I incorporate psychodynamic and cognitive approaches including modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Your decision to seek therapy is an empowering step towards positive change. If you're ready to begin your journey of healing, growth, and resilience, I invite you to connect with me. Please reach out with any questions you have and we can set up a time to discuss your needs and determine if I am the right fit.
*Serving clients in California, Pennsylvania & North Carolina via teletherapy* I imagine you're looking for help, maybe a kind and guiding mental health professional wherever you are on your healing journey. Perhaps you've felt confused, misunderstood, unseen, overwhelmed with the constant pressures and stresses of this current moment. You may be struggling with shame, self-hatred, a lack of belonging, imposter syndrome. You might feel nervous about asking for help. I welcome the chance to work together in personalized, culturally sensitive, and confidential virtual therapy. As a multicultural and multiethnic cisfemale therapist of color, I seek to understand who you are, your worldview, and your environment. Once you reach out to me, I'll invite you to set up a consultation to discuss your needs, what's going on and how we may work together. We'll get to know each other a little. I'll also invite your questions and perspectives on what you're looking for in a therapist. Together we can help you heal, create a space to honor and respect who you are, and support a life of meaningful connection and empowerment. Contact me or schedule an initial consultation via the secure client portal https://ashleyaclemft.clientsecure.me/!
My clients usually approach me when they are ready to make a change in their lives. They are experiencing conflicts, inside themselves or with others, and are looking for an empathic, flexible and dynamic clinician to provide support and guidance. With clients and within myself, I emphasize maintaining mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health and wellness practices, as well as, feelings of HOPE and self acceptance. My clients and I are both “agents of change,” constantly progressing, and continuously developing through this journey called life. I am currently licensed and practicing in the state of California and New Jersey. I also have a permit to practice in New York supervised by Dr. Melissa Laracuenta- Hernandez.
Dr. Anna Morgan-Mullane, LCSW is a trauma-focused psychotherapist, professor, clinical supervisor, and the visionary founder of Echo Community Practice—a collective of therapists committed to healing through connection, reflection, and justice-centered care. Dr. Morgan-Mullane’s work is grounded in a deep belief that healing must be relational, liberatory, and rooted in community care. For over two decades, Dr. Morgan-Mullane has specialized in trauma-responsive therapy, relational and narrative therapy, and abolitionist clinical frameworks, offering care to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Her practice is deeply informed by somatic healing practices, critical race theory, intersectional feminism, queer theory, and healing from trauma or relational wounds. She supports clients and clinicians alike in reclaiming voice, re-authoring stories, and restoring connection in the wake of systemic trauma.
Dr. Francesca Balada has successfully assisted many individuals lead happier and more productive lives. As an independently practicing psychologist, Dr. Balada has been providing psychology services to individuals for over 15 years. She has been a licensed clinical psychologist since 2005. Dr. Balada specializes in providing Consultation, Clinical Supervision, Testing and Neuropsychological Assessments. A neuropsychologist provides specialized services from multiple perspectives: medical, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, educational, and rehabilitative. Evaluations incorporate extensive details about an individual’s medical history, developmental history, cognitive ability, academic history, and daily functioning. Dr. Balada evaluates individuals with: memory impairment, concussion, head injury, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Alzheimer’s Dementia, Frontal Temporal Dementia, Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Dr. Balada has dedicated her life to helping others reach their full potential and often lectures on the subject of neuropsychological assessment and intervention. Regarded as an expert in assessment and diagnosis, Dr. Balada has acted as a consultant for many academic institutions and hospitals, in addition to acting as a consultant and teaching expert. DR. BALADA IS CURRENTLY SERVING ANY INDIVIDUAL LIVING IN NEW YORK AND CALIFORNIA VIA TELEHEALTH
Are you someone who feels like they’re always “on”? Your mind rarely rests; constantly replays moments, worries about what’s next, or wondering if you're doing enough? For some, this shows up as anxiety and overthinking that keeps them feeling disconnected from themselves. For others, it’s the exhaustion that comes with work, school, parenting — wanting to be patient and present, but feeling triggered or stretched too thin. Underneath it all, you desire to feel calm and grounded. You want to understand why you react the way you do, how your past experiences influence your emotions today, and how to begin responding differently. My work helps you move from self-criticism to self-understanding, and from constant reactivity to clarity and connection — within yourself and your relationships. I create a space that feels safe, supportive, and curious — one where you can learn to regulate your nervous system, reconnect to your needs, and build a sense of trust in yourself.
I provide therapy in English and Spanish. I received my Master's Degree from JFK University. I have been in the Mental Health field for 18 years. In my first 10 years I worked with children, teens, young adults, and families. Since then I have been working with adults. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I utilize evidence based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, problem solving therapy, behavioral activation, and EMDR. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
I combine a warm and direct approach with evidence-based practices (and a splash of humor) to help you unpack, examine, and rewrite the narratives in your life. Drawing from modalities such as Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, we will work to align your thoughts and actions with your values so that you can lead the life you want. I view relationships and identity development through the lens of attachment theory with the goal of helping you draw clear connections from the past to the present and into an expansive and joyful future. I know this is not easy, and take care to cater our work to meet your unique needs. I work with individuals, couples, and families, and have experience treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, attachment issues, self-esteem, identity development, medical diagnoses, and trauma. I work with members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as nonmajority identified individuals. I especially enjoy working with families and individuals navigating creative blocks, pregnancy/postpartum, multicultural issues, and academic concerns. I earned a masters of science from the University of Oregon, where I received systems-based clinical training in a community counseling center, a school-based health center, and a group practice. In addition to my clinical training, I hold a masters of fine arts in Creative Writing from Oregon State University, where I also taught writing courses and worked as an academic advisor. I am a writer turned therapist who grew up in the Bay Area but spent a decade in the forests of Oregon. Raised in a Jewish South American family, I keep my culture alive through customs, food, music, and speaking Spanish whenever I can. When I’m not working, you can find me exploring the Ojai Valley while listening to This American Life, knitting hats for friends, and chasing my toddler around at the beach. Sessions are $150 for individuals and $175 for families and couples. I consider any session with minors to be family sessions as I believe this is the most effective way to treat kids and teens. As a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #144237 I work under the clinical supervision of Erika Morris, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #120118.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, emotional numbness, or sense of self; my primary goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic inner self. I aim to provide a space of growth & connection through a decolonized lens. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, emotional numbness, or sense of self; my primary goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic inner self. I aim to provide a space of growth & connection through a decolonized lens. I empower folkx to reconnect with their inner self; reconnect with their core values so that they feel empowered to live their authentic self. I use a holistic approach where I embody mind, body, and spirit. I also incorporate indigenous forms of healing in addition to Western Psychology to help you develop a sense of self that is whole. During our first session together, we will establish a baseline of what is working and build off that. My primary goal is help you develop compassion and grace for yourself; it is from this space where radical growth and healing can be cultivated.
Hi! I'm Justine Short, MS, LMFT. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. For over 10 years, I continue to have a passion for helping people in finding their inner strength in order to make positive and lasting life changes. I view my role as a therapist to walk alongside and guide others to reach their full potential. My desire is to help others become self-aware, feel confident, and reach for hope so that they can thrive in their everyday lives.
Hello! I am here to help you overcome life's challenges and live a happier and more fulfilling life. My style is to work with you collaboratively to identify your goals and empower you to achieve them. I have helped clients decrease and overcome anxiety, depression, substance use, coming out, sexual identity and gender transitioning as well as improving relationships with romantic partners, family members and co-workers. Together, we can look at your life story and rewrite your narrative to increase your self-confidence, happiness, love and joy! The best way to reach me is to call or txt me at 917-922-2650
Are you interested in exploring personal relationships, identities, or sexual issues from an open-minded and culturally sensitive perspective? When you allocate time to speak freely about issues such as; academic pressure, cultural expectations, learning disabilities/neurodivergence, gender identity/sexual orientation, sexual assault/trauma, life transitions, peer relationships, family conflict, and beyond (!) ... you empower yourself to navigate any negative patterns or relationship dynamics from a place of clarity, compassion, and curiosity - instead of criticism. We will collaborate on the best way to unpack and understand your story from a growth mindset that is sustainable + strength-based! If you're looking for a therapist who is clinical, creative, and culturally humble, please reach out for a free consultation to see if my therapeutic style suits your needs! I am a firm believer that one size does NOT fit all and I aim to approach each client with a customized treatment plan that speaks to your unique experiences & inherent strengths.
Hi! I’m Nadine! My mission is to help you course-correct to a life you feel comfortable with. We are going to research what lights you up, what feels wrong or miserable, and why this is going on for you right now. Then we will create small steps you can take towards feeling better. This hopelessness won’t last forever. And you will feel confident and competent again. You are in the middle, and the middle is always shitty and confusing, and disorienting. Together we can find where you are getting stuck. We can work on ways to help you get grounded and remember who you are. I will help you stretch and strengthen your ability to feel and navigate the big emotions that arise while narrating your story of trauma.
We are a psychotherapists in Santa Monica, specializing in anxiety, trauma, and relationships. Using a strengths-based approach, we are dedicated to supporting progress through warmth and understanding. We are eager to help clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relationships, OCD, self-esteem, and chronic illness. From helping teens with trauma and high-risk behaviors to teaching parents mindfulness strategies, we are passionate about making individuals and families feel stronger. Based on research and experience, we believe in the power of brain-body-based therapies and “focusing on the present” to improve your day-to-day life. Our passion is to help individuals grow through awareness and connection. We strive to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be. Together we can use your personal strengths to cope, connect with others, and handle life's many issues. Whatever challenges you are facing, we hope to create a safe environment to support you.
Are struggling with past or present trauma that leaves you feeling anxious, depressed, disconnected or critical of yourself? Trauma work is my specialty. I support my clients in a healing, safe environment to do the toughest work they may face...healing their past. Are your relationships suffering? Maybe you've been struggling with addiction issues. We can explore your struggles in these areas to get you clarity you desire, and an action plan for recovery. I use a combination of EMDR and other evidence- based techniques including CBT, somatic work (TRM) and parts work to reduce your anxiety, stress, negative self talk and get you moving toward your goals and living your best life. Let’s work together to transform old beliefs and heal emotional wounds in a safe, caring environment. Are you ready to get some relief? Call to schedule an initial free phone consultation at 323-350-5964