Skip to main content
Your message was sent successfully!

Therapists for college students near 90095

Photo of First Gen Journey Counseling and Consulting
First Gen Journey Counseling and Consulting
Psychologist
Sierra Madre, CA
Accepting new clients

Being the first in your family to navigate college and professional settings is filled with excitement, growth, transition, and joy. It can also be lonely, confusing, and stressful. Do you feel caught between two worlds (family and work/school)? Do you underestimate your value or worth in places where you experience prejudice and discrimination? Are you struggling to define or accept who you are and what you value based on tensions with family or your culture? When you are First Gen, there are often challenges in both your professional and personal life that are hard to understand and cope with but you don’t have to do it alone. Working together, we will be able to gain clarity on how your experiences are impacted by your personal and family history, your communities, and society as a whole. We will shine a spotlight on your strengths, build your confidence, and help you lean into how amazing you are. We will explore how to manage the sad, frustrating, uncomfortable, and anxious parts of your life in a way that builds you up and grounds you in your values. Existing in two worlds doesn’t have to mean separating your life. You can be your full self with anyone, anywhere. If you are ready to get started on the next stage of your First Gen journey, contact me today!

Photo of Matthew Bader
Matthew Bader
Marriage & Family Therapist
Sacramento, CA
Accepting new clients

I understand what it is like to feel lonely, stuck, depressed, and anxious about oneself and the future. It can seem tough to move on in life when life appears to move on without you. These heavy feelings and unwanted thoughts are hard to embrace even when everything is going well. Helping others work through these times of deep feelings is very important to me. My focus is to support you as you learn to generate your own purposeful action plan and create a flexible value-directed life that matters to you. You are more than your troubled feelings and thoughts. I do this by careful listening and checking for understanding by reflecting that understanding back to you, the client. I believe trust is the creation of a safe space to reveal your hurts and dreams. If you can see that you are more than your thoughts and feelings, then you can handle uncomfortable unwanted thinking and begin to heal and believe there is hopeful successes in you future.

Photo of Emily Flato
Emily Flato
Psychologist
Santa Rosa, CA
Accepting new clients

I specialize in therapy for neurodivergent adults — particularly those with ADHD or autism diagnosed later in life — who are navigating burnout, confusion about how their mind works, repeating relationship patterns, or substance use that once helped but now contributes to stress. I also work with trauma, mood concerns, and co-occurring challenges that intersect with neurodivergence. My approach is assessment-informed and collaborative, combining insight with practical tools to help you understand yourself more deeply and build meaningful, sustainable change.

Photo of Susan Russo
Susan Russo
Marriage & Family Therapist
Westlake Village, CA
Accepting new clients

I feel inspired to help individuals figure out how to manage challenges they are are facing and learn new skills to manage changes that are occurring so that they can feel more in control of their lives. I use a person centered approach to make sure that my clients feel understood, heard, and validated. I make sure to create a safe space for individuals so that they feel secure in opening up and working on issues that they are struggling with. I build a strong and therapeutic alliance with my clients through open and honest communication and creating a safe space for clients to share and explore their challenges and struggles.

Photo of Serenity Christian Therapy, Inc.
Serenity Christian Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Glendora, CA
Accepting new clients

Each individual has their own story, values and spiritual preferences. As a warm and genuine, therapist, I believe in creating a safe space to guide you through insight and self exploration, in order to obtain healing and peace. As a woman of faith I appreciate when clients integrate spiritual beliefs and values in treatment. I love helping strong women who have survived pain, to help them re-write their life story with joy, confidence and faith -Psalms 30:11. I enjoy supporting pre-marital couples who are deeply in love. Serving as a facilitator to explore and establish clear expectations prior to saying, "I do".

Photo of Laura Eklund
Laura Eklund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pleasanton, CA
Accepting new clients

I have been a therapist since 2004 working in both private and group practice with adults and children before joining with Kaiser Permanente psychiatry in 2012, recently returned to sole private practice in 2021. I earned my clinical social work degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, which was awarded a top 5 ranking in the field. I additionally have completed post-graduate studies at University of Virginia Mary Ainsworth Clinic and American School of Clinical Psychology in Washington DC. While I enjoy use of various therapy methods, including CBT and ACT to treat anxiety and depression, I have a particular passion in the use of EMDR for trauma and stress disorders. I consider myself very privileged to have trained with and sought consultation with Andrew Leeds, who is an EMDRIA board member and foundational researcher in the field. .Many of my clients have reported this technique to be a fast and highly effective treatment that they wish they had considered sooner. Please feel free to look over the links regarding the high-effectiveness of EMDR and to reach me with any questions. Additionally, I have extensive expertise in the area of dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) another great therapy style that I can strongly recommend, I was very fortunate to be part of a 2012 Ben Hudnell Grant to develop a DBT program for Kaiser Permanente’s Psychiatry Department, initially at the Washington DC clinic and then later heading the program for KP Psychiatry in Pleasanton, CA; running these programs from 2015-2021. I find the coping skills taught in DBT to be essential, not only for reducing suffering and problem behaviors, but for helping to create a life worth living. While DBT was initially developed to assist those with Borderline Personality Disordered traits, it has broadened to include helping those looking to manage with mood swings, anger, relationship problems, binge eating, bipolar disorders, anxiety and depression, as well as assisting those is continuing recovery from addictions. I especially recommend DBT for those who struggle with anger or shutting down, as relationship dynamics are really where difficult can present. I teach both basic DBT and advanced practice, whether your new to process or experienced I am happy to support your process in session. There is the hope to include group education and process, in the future, pandemic needs permitting. I see my clients online via secure telehealth on Mondays and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays are available for in-person for those full-vaccinated and without COVID exposure concerns. You may schedule a free 20-minute telehealth consult via website below.

Photo of Colleen Wong
Colleen Wong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Westlake Village, CA
Accepting new clients

As an individual who has some life experiences behind her, I understand the value of mental health services, and the importance of finding the right fit. I have a strong background in the field of social work, and appreciate the process of collaboration, being present and accompanying an individual in their journey of well-being. I strive to fully engage with you, not just to hear and to listen, but to be curious and inquisitive, to ask questions and to foster open communication. At the first session, I hope to convey to you that this is a safe and supportive spot to be heard, to speak up, and as we continue to meet, trust will be established. Building trust takes time as we get to know each other and establish rapport. I hope to meet you where you are at, to understand what will make you comfortable as we learn how to communicate. I never rush or apply pressure for you to act a certain way or provide information that you may not feel comfortable sharing. I welcome your questions and to please speak up.

Photo of Clinic for Healing and Change
Clinic for Healing and Change
Group practice
Sacramento, CA
Accepting new clients

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.

Photo of Jeanette Abney
Jeanette Abney
Marriage & Family Therapist
Oceanside, CA
Accepting new clients

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Photo of Lindsay Evans
Lindsay Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Oakland, CA
Accepting new clients

Many of the people I work with come to therapy because they are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, seeking relief from anxiety or depression, needing support as they adjust to a new life circumstance, or are wanting to develop a better understanding of themselves. During therapy, I frequently look at the relationship between your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions and how they affect your daily experiences. I can help you identify key thoughts and specific barriers or behaviors that are interfering or impacting your quality of life. As we work together, I can offer tools and concepts that may be helpful for coping with difficult emotions, improving relationships, and changing unhelpful patterns. I offer a free, 20-minute phone consultation to prospective clients. This provides an opportunity for us to determine if we might work well together. We can talk about what is leading you to seek therapy and I can provide you with more information on my approach to treatment and answer any questions you may have.

Photo of Rob Johnson
Rob Johnson
Psychologist
Saratoga, CA
Accepting new clients

Hello! I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with young adults, LGBTQ+ people (especially trans and non-binary), trauma, and emotional instability. My clients often come from backgrounds where they feel misunderstood and invalidated. They sometimes feel frustrated with their important relationships, or like they're stuck on an emotional roller coaster, or like they have trouble relaxing and feeling safe. In therapy, I create an accepting, non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel truly seen. From there, I help clients understand themselves, what they want to change in their lives, and how to reach their goals. I completed my training at college counseling centers and a hospital program serving college students. I know the challenges college students face, and I love helping students overcome those challenges. If you think we might be a good fit for therapy, please reach out! I offer free 15 minute consultation calls for anyone interested. I am currently offering therapy in person in Berkeley, CA on Saturdays and over Zoom Tuesday-Saturday in California, New York, and Virginia.

Photo of Melanie Goetz
Melanie Goetz
Marriage & Family Therapist
Carlsbad, CA
Accepting new clients

Welcome. I believe we are all wired for connection, and, whether extraverted or introverted, rejection and isolation are incredibly painful experiences. Our brains and bodies are built in such a way that protects us from threat and harm. While these protection instincts are necessary and helpful in the midst of threat, sometimes they can keep us from the connection we truly crave and need. If you're finding that your protectors are keeping you from relating with yourself, others, and the world around you, the counseling setting can be a safe place for practicing transformational skills to break free from the unhealthy, unhelpful habits. You are the owner and narrator of your own story. The counseling room becomes a place where your felt-story can be shared, heard, and healed through. My method is collaborative and holistic in nature, integrating counseling methods to meet each client's specific needs. I am trained in Gottman Method, DARe, EMDR with kids and adults, and TBRI. "Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up" (Brene Brown). Your bravery does not go unnoticed. I look forward to hearing your story, soon.

Photo of Christo Franklin
Christo Franklin
Psychologist
Monrovia, CA
Accepting new clients

The most important thing for how well and how soon you get results in therapy is that you feel comfortable, like we have good chemistry, and that I get where you're coming from. And the second most important thing is that you feel like our plan---how we're going to work together--- is exactly right for you. I think only a conversation can help you know whether I'm right for you, so I offer you a free 15 min conversation to kick my tires :-) Btw, my schedule in not on this website but on https://headway.co/providers/christopher-franklin-2?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=81956 I am a really unusual combination of qualities. Maybe you are too?... I went to Princeton and Yale, but I'm Marxist (Socialist Equality Party). I trained to be an Episcopal priest; I love and married a Muslim woman, whose parents are from India/ Bangladesh and we both appreciate Zen. Growing up with divorced parents, I went back and forth from my father's farm to my mother's townhouse...and felt at home nowhere. I fostered two people since they were 10, who are like a son and daughter to me. I served a Spanish language, Mexican immigrant, LGBTQ+ Episcopal church in Los Angeles. (I know! REALLY unusual combination, right?) I have taught psychology at undergraduate, masters and doctoral levels. I used to be a hospice chaplain and suicide negotiator (as a registered psychologist, not as a police officer) and a consulting suicidologist for ICE (yes, in 2 detention facilities, one for children the other, adults). Nowadays, I work with adult students, doing couples and individual therapy. I'm sex worker positive. (See my videos, TheSugarPsychologist on tiktok.) And I do evaluations for people adopting orphans in India.

Photo of Danielle DesRosier
Danielle DesRosier
Pre-Licensed Professional
Newport Beach, CA
Accepting new clients

You’re trying to find your footing after a major loss, a breakup, or a life transition that’s turned everything upside down. Whatever has led you here, one thing is likely true: something has shifted and you’re left trying to make sense of it. I offer a space to process the complex layers of change including grief, transition, and identity exploration. You may be holding the weight of a loss while also trying to figure out who you are and where you’re going. That’s a heavy lift. In our work, we’ll explore how your past has shaped you, how your values can guide you, and how to build a life that both honors what you’ve lost and allows you to stay connected to hope. Through compassion, insight, and gentle challenge, I’ll help you rediscover your worth and reconnect with the parts of yourself you’ve missed. This work is personal to me. My own experiences with grief and therapy are what led me here, and they give me a lived understanding of what it’s like to rebuild after loss—not from a textbook, but from my own life. I’m not here to lead from a distance. I’m here to be with you through the work, honoring your process while drawing from what I’ve learned in my own journey. If you’re feeling lost, isolated, or unsure where to start, I want you to know—you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Text, call, or email today and let's take that first step together.

Photo of Kathryn Winship
Kathryn Winship
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Berkeley, CA
Accepting new clients

My passion for working in mental health care is deeply rooted in my personal and professional experiences. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) I hold an M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Drama Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and a B.A. from Oberlin College. I have spent the past decade working in outpatient settings, providing support to individuals navigating the trauma of substance abuse, incarceration, and violence. I have also worked extensively with members of the LGBTQIIA+ community and understand the profound impact homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia can have on mental health and access to care. These experiences have fueled my commitment to promoting healing, empowerment, and inclusive care for those who face unique and systemic challenges. To ensure that clients feel heard and understood in sessions, I approach my work from a strength-based, client-centered perspective. I believe that you are the expert on your own journey, and my role is to help you identify and uncover your strengths and resources. Together, we’ll (re)learn how to apply them to your goals while connecting with new sources of support. Throughout our work, we’ll also focus on addressing challenging relationships and exploring new ways to build meaningful connections with others, ensuring that your voice remains central in the process. Building trust and a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients is rooted in empathy, transparency, and respect for each individual’s unique journey. While I primarily use drama therapy, humanistic, and narrative techniques, I tailor our work to create a plan that best fits your needs. I firmly believe that everyone has inherent worth, a meaningful story, and valuable contributions to make in the world. My approach is collaborative, ensuring that you feel heard and understood throughout the process. Additionally, I am trained in both abstinence and harm-reduction approaches and am familiar with 12-step/Recovery language and culture.

Photo of Maddi Bowman
Maddi Bowman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Palm Desert, CA
Accepting new clients

Hi I'm Maddi and I'd love to help you figure out college and all this adulting stuff. Let's face it, adulting is tough. It can feel so overwhelming trying to balance all the things like school, family, friends, errands, chores, work, self-care... Oh ya, and don't forget to make time to eat, sleep, call your mom, and figure out your future. (No pressure or anything!!) I know what it's like to feel like you have to put on a brave face for everyone and pretend that you're doing OK, while deep inside you are freaking out and on the verge of a breakdown. (It's fine, I'm fine, everything's fine...) I know what it's like to feel like you spend all your free time overthinking things, replaying interactions, and worrying that someone is mad at you. (Spoiler alert, they're not!) I want to help you do more than just survive college! Let's work together to help you break free from the self-doubt, stress, and overthinking that keeps you up at night and leaves you feeling exhausted and stuck at the end of the day. Together we can talk through things to make sense of them and find realistic solutions. This way you can leave therapy with an understanding of what's going on, and what you can do to make it better. We got this!! Reach out today and let's schedule a free phone consultation so we can see if I'm the right therapist for you. You can reach me by email or text message.

Photo of Maria Solis-Espinoza
Maria Solis-Espinoza
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Chula Vista, CA
Accepting new clients

I am a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, more resilient relationships. With a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in empowering individuals to achieve independence, confidence, and success in their daily lives. Through my education and work experience, I personalize and create interventions with the collaboration of the client.

Photo of Robert Perl
Robert Perl
Psychologist
Berkeley, CA
Accepting new clients

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Photo of Kristen Hornung
Kristen Hornung
Licensed Professional Counselor
Encinitas, CA
Accepting new clients

Do you sometimes feel stressed, exhausted, unfulfilled, or disconnected? When triggered do you shut down, have unexpected emotions, or dissociate? Do you work hard to please others and be successful, but no matter what you do, it never feels like you are good enough? Therapy may be able to help you learn new coping skills, decrease painful emotions and negative thoughts about yourself related to past events, and become more resilient. My Background and Approach: I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings while also practicing new coping or communication skills (including how to set boundaries). With a doctorate in depth psychology and training in EMDR, an evidence-based trauma therapy, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents work towards healing and growth. We can collaborate to explore the larger picture of what is bringing you to therapy and set goals. In order to help you feel safe and supported, we can balance talking about difficult topics with learning and practicing coping skills. We can explore your strengths while addressing the patterns you want to change. By exchanging feedback regularly, we can evaluate our progress and grow together. My Personal Beliefs and Interests: One of the reasons I became a therapist is because of my own recovery, which has allowed me to find joy and a sense of meaning and purpose in life. When I’m not parenting my two children or working, I enjoy reading, creative writing, and being outside. I make an effort to do something that brings me joy every day- even if it’s just by searching the night sky for the moon or talking to a friend on the phone.

Photo of Melissa Aristoza
Melissa Aristoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sacramento, CA
Accepting new clients

A desire to uplift others and highlight their strengths is what inspires me to work in the field of mental health care. I ensure that clients feel heard and understood in sessions through asking reflective questions to better understand their inner world and perspectives and creating a space that allows client to share their thoughts without judgment. It is important for me to make the client feel that they are the expert of their own issues and that we are collaborating together to shed light to solutions. I focus on client’s strengths and interests throughout our work, not just the struggles of their issues.

Filters