Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA
Jessica C. Lief, MSW, LCSW, MLS Speciality: Eating Disorders, Body Image, Borderline Personality Disorder, Self-Harm, Substance Use LCSW and Psychotherapist Jessica C. Lief, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm, and substance use. Jessica completed psychoanalytic training through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions, and Addictions (EDCAS) Program. She also completed the advanced clinical supervision training program through Smith College School for Social Work. Her approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, feminist/womanist theories, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety, mindful self-compassion, and mindfulness. She is particularly interested in the treatment of eating disorders as a social justice issue, as they relate to people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. She is also adept at treating individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Her grief and loss work is broad but focuses on motherless daughters, maternal grief and wounding, and emotional abandonment. Jessica also works with individuals who have experienced miscarriage, fertility-related issues, post-partum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, as well as post-partum PTSD. She also works with individuals undergoing IVF and who have struggled with women’s health issues, such as Endometriosis and PCOS, as well as individuals who are pregnant and struggling with an eating disorder. Jessica’s favorite part of being a therapist is guiding each client in their transformation and witnessing each step as it is achieved. Jessica will work with the client to identify what is deeply meaningful and important in that person’s life. The client will develop concrete skills to get their needs met directly. Jessica will help the client to develop powerful, inner resources, including self-compassion, emotion regulation techniques, radical self-acceptance, and confidence. Jessica earned her undergraduate degree from Sarah Lawrence College with a concentration in literature, nonfiction writing, and French. She earned a master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice in Social Work from New York University. She also earned a Master of Studies in Law with a concentration in Health Law with high honors from UC Law San Francisco. Currently, she is enrolled in a doctorate in social work program through Simmons University. LCSW# 87286 “Jessica’s style has been described as nurturing, empathetic, and empowering. She is direct, authentic and will never blame you for your suffering. She enjoys using humor in psychotherapy.”
Many people say that the college years are supposed to be some of the best in your life, yet it doesn't feel this way to you. Somehow you are missing out. Perhaps anxiety has you second guessing everything or your perfectionism or "OCD" has gotten out of hand. Perhaps you doubt yourself, put yourself down, or get the sense that everyone else has it all figured out except for you. Life doesn't have to be this way. I get it. I used to be a college professor and worked a lot with students transitioning to college and "adult life." I also know how hard things are when you are juggling college demands with the rest of "life," which may include a medical, family/friend, or work issue or just figuring out what you want to do with your life. Reaching out to ask for help is sign that you are aware something's not quite right in your life and you hope things can be better. Our time together is focused on helping you achieve your specific goals using treatments that are evidence-based. This means I only use the treatments that we know from research are helpful. I won't waste your time or money with treatments we know don't work. With any patient I work with, my goal is to eventually put myself out of a job. Sounds like a crazy business model, right? That is because my focus is on YOU and what you need. I want you to learn the skills that you need so you can graduate from therapy and live your best life.
Hey, I'm Briana! I help global women and gender expansive folks break free from burnout, self-doubt, low self-esteem, perfectionism, impostor syndrome, people pleasing, family/societal pressure, cultural stress, and cycles of generational trauma. Through our work, you'll release habits and patterns that sabotage your joy, unlearn oppressive beliefs you've been taught about everything from body image to your role as a woman, and reclaim yourself from capitalism, supremacy culture, and manufactured urgency. You'll tap into your own power and claim your own liberation. As revolutionary woman Assata Shakur reminds us: "we have nothing to lose but our chains." Through our work together, you'll reclaim your power, release fear and self-doubt, redefine your roles, regain confidence in your skills and gifts, reimagine relationships with community, and reconnect with rest, joy, pleasure, and play so you can survive these times. Visit my website to schedule your liberation session. Let's get you and all of us free.
We provide psychological testing and therapy to ages 1 and up. Specialize in ADHD and anxiety for all ages. Use mostly evidence based approaches.
What is an Authentic Life Path? The question should really be What is YOUR Authentic Life Path? Often in the hustle and bustle of the “real world” we kind of just go with the flow and often lose ourselves. Sometimes it is scary to live our lives authentically. Living authentically means the person you feel you truly are on the inside. I started my career in the IT field, but realized I did not have a passion for it or enjoy it. I wanted to help others. I became a licensed marriage and family therapist, and am now living my authentic life path and want to help you find and live yours. I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens and adults who identify as transgender or genderqueer. I also specialize in the LGBTQIAA+ community. I work with all religions and spiritualities and all types of families no matter what the unique makeup. I provide a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and grow into your most authentic self and find the path that is right for you. Give me a call or email if you have any questions.
Living with shame, fear and constant self-doubt can be debilitating and painful. Often times, painful emotions and difficult histories make it hard to cope the way we would prefer to. Or sometimes we think we're coping just fine but family members and loved ones are worried for us and our health. Relationships can suffer, our self-esteem dwindles and we end up feeling lonely and isolated. I help individuals and families to overcome shame, fear and doubt. I specialize in helping those whom struggle with their relationship to food, self and others (Eating Disorders). I am also adept at helping those who struggle with perfectionism, family conflict and relationship problems. You don't have to suffer alone. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or a family member, I invite you to contact me to speak over the phone and determine whether you feel I can help you.
I am a licensed physician and board-certified psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy to individual adults. My approach to treatment is empathic, collaborative, holistic, and in-depth. My style is warm, engaging and interactive. My goal is to help you heal as well as to find greater authenticity, purpose and meaning in life. I have a deep respect for personal suffering and an abiding faith in the process of psychotherapy to help us heal. When needed, I offer medication in the context of ongoing therapy. *Video sessions only at this time
Do you notice that you feel anxious or stressed and it is affecting you in your life? Are you looking for ways to feel more grounded, resourced and calm? As a Somatic Psychotherapist, I work with the mind-body connection to help clients feel more regulated. I can help you notice how patterns and experiences from your past show up today, and can help you to sort through what you would like moving forward. Using simple mindfulness practices to calm the nervous system and IFS techniques to understand and heal parts of yourself that feel stuck or protective. You’ll find sessions to be down-to-earth and practical. We can pay attention to your process, explore what comes up, and support you to build internal resources to help you feel more regulated and grounded. If you’re juggling school, relationships, or life stressors, therapy can be very helpful. I invite you to reach out to set up a free 15 minute phone consultation to see if I am a good fit for you at https://therapywithshohreh.clientsecure.me
College can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. I help students navigate stress, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions in a supportive, judgment-free space. We’ll work together to build coping skills and find strategies that fit your unique needs. Whether you’re adjusting to campus life, managing academic pressure, or looking for someone to talk things through with, I’m here to support you.
Changing Minds Inc is a behavioral healthcare practice designed to be client-centered and focused. We strive to offer quality care that is driven by the needs of the individual and facilitated by competent therapists. We offer individuals a place to begin their individual journey to self-determination and self-actualization.
The clients I work best with are often navigating significant life transitions, managing mood disorders, or healing from past trauma. Many of them feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the path forward, whether due to anxiety, depression, or challenges in their personal or professional lives. I specialize in psychological testing, not just to diagnose conditions like ADHD but to help individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves—their strengths, struggles, and the patterns that shape their experiences. My approach is collaborative and supportive, helping clients make sense of their emotions and challenges so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
I currently have limited availability; please reach out to inquire of openings (as of 06/17/2026). Growing up Asian American in San Francisco, I had the privilege of feeling like “the majority” rather than feeling like “the minority.” When my mental health took a turn in my teen years, I was fortunate to have an Asian school-based therapist who reminded me of a “cool Asian aunt.” I remember feeling at ease seeing someone who looked like me in a space I thought was only meant for white people or people who were “that crazy.” This therapist showed me that therapy could be warm, kind, and even involve the humor I needed to say the hard stuff. She showed me that people like us could receive support and care through a listening ear. (I thought the only kind of care Asian elders gave was via cut fruit.) Years later, I hope to share this same safe experience as the person now sitting in the therapist’s chair. Whether you are living out your parents’ dreams or just trying to make it through the week, I can help you explore whether your path aligns with your values and supports your growth. I promise I won’t sass you the way my former Asian auntie-like therapist might, but I’ll make sure we keep it light where it needs to be, and hold space where it’s dark. We will discover who you are and what you need, with the utmost care (and a dash of humor, because therapy is hard enough as it is).
I specialize in supporting young adults through life transitions—starting college, changing careers, managing relationships, becoming a parent, or navigating new independence. Your twenties and thirties (and beyond) can feel exciting, overwhelming, and uncertain. If life feels messy, you’re not alone. I’m here to help you make sense of your experiences, explore who you’re becoming, and move forward with clarity, confidence, and self-compassion.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting first-generation individuals navigating identity, family expectations, and the pressure to succeed. As a bilingual Latina therapist, I offer therapy in English and Spanish and understand the cultural layers that shape your experience. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard, validated, and supported as you explore your emotions, strengthen your confidence, and move toward the life you want with clarity and compassion.
I am a licensed clinician (CA LMFT 1187995) currently accepting new clients at Hidden Quest Therapy! My practice is tailored for individuals who self-identify as Geeks & Gamers, Artists & Creatives, or Spiritual seekers. I specialize in utilizing Geek & Video Game Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Spirituality to support clients in cultivating the strengths they have developed within the symbolic, inner worlds of their passions and interests. Together, we work to extend these strengths into other areas of their lives with the goal of feeling just as capable, connected to community, and called to a greater purpose in the outer world.
I’m a first-generation Latina, with a BA in Psychology from San Diego State and a MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. I am a member of Growth and Change Counseling and passionate about helping people experience results quickly and meaningfully. At Growth and Change, all therapists implement the same foundational approach that has produced our reputation for effectiveness. I deal with every issue and I am fluent in English and Spanish.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
As a queer-identifying clinician, I bring a compassionate, affirming, and inclusive approach to therapy, honoring the diverse identities and lived experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. I am deeply committed to building genuine rapport and trust, creating a therapeutic space where clients feel fully seen, supported, and valued in their authentic selves. My practice is grounded in LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming principles, informed by my B.A. in Women’s Studies and its emphasis on social justice, intersectionality, and feminist frameworks. My graduate training in Depth Psychology has enriched my understanding of the unconscious forces that shape our inner and relational worlds. From a psychodynamic perspective, I work collaboratively with clients to explore the patterns, motivations, and early trauma that influences their emotional lives and relationships. In addition to psychodynamic work, I integrate Family Systems theory and Internal Family Systems (IFS) modalities, approaches that support clients in navigating internal conflicts and relational dynamics with clarity, compassion, and self-leadership. My skills in attunement, active listening, and culturally competent, curious counseling allow me to adapt to each client’s unique needs and strengths. Whether you are seeking support for LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent identity exploration, relationship concerns, trauma healing, or personal growth, I strive to offer a therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, curiosity, and collaboration; one that fosters healing, resilience, and empowerment. If you’re curious about working together, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. It’s a chance for us to connect and see if we’re a good fit.
College can be an incredibly stressful time. Whether you are far away from where you grew up, living at home and commuting to school, or living on campus, there is an overwhelming amount of transition that happens once high school ends. Not only are you deciding what you want to do with your life and juggling schoolwork, but you are also figuring out who you are and who you want to spend your time with. This is a time where you may be able to truly be yourself for the first time in your life, where you can have a clean slate to be the person you want to be. With all of these challenges, it can feel very isolating and demanding trying to do this all on your own. It is common for college students to feel very depressed and anxious during this time, and it can also feel hard to reach out to someone to talk to about it all. You don't have to do it alone. Going to therapy is a great way to get the support you need and become the best version of yourself. I can understand why coming to therapy isn't easy though. Why tell a stranger the most personal details of your life? Because by not knowing anything about you or being a part of your life, I can offer an objective and unbiased perspective on your situation while giving you concrete tools and strategies to improve the areas you are struggling in. I've worked with many college students and have seen them make meaningful changes in their lives after going to therapy and believe that you can too. Please feel free to reach out to me and we can discuss any questions you may have, and I hope to hear from you soon!
