Therapists for college students near UCLA
Melissa Janosek
I am passionate about aligning myself with clients to support them through life transitions, achieving work/life balance, coaching around dating and communication skills, assertiveness training, boundaries and goal attainment to name a few! I find that it is so imperative to take the time to invest in personal development in order to find out what it is you really want in life and who you truly are. Therapy can provide a space where you may press the pause button to get in touch with how you are really feeling about the important areas in your life and where you may make important discoveries about yourself with a professional who is absolutely rooting for your success. I believe in creating a nonjudgmental space where you can come as you are- not the perfect, polished version you may feel pressure to be in the world. I bring my own life experience, blended with extensive training and evidence-based therapy practices to meet you where you are currently and work together to take you where you want to go. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process and prioritize working on client-identified treatment goals at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My hope is for clients is that they leave each session feeling empowered and looking forward to the next session! I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Beatriz Alejandre
The impact that we can make in an individual’s or family’s life, such as seeing them interacting in a positive manner, becoming resilient, and having better, healthier relationships with others is what inspires me. I enjoy working with families, infants, children, couples and adults who feel ready to make changes in their lives. I am a provider that is there to support and guide clients through the challenges that life brings and the healing process. It is like driving a car, I am there to the co-pilot; listen, provide a supportive environment, provide the tools and guidance through the journey. But, as an effective co-pilot, I ask my clients not to place me in the trunk of your car, as I will not be able to help and do not place me in the back seat of your car, where I cannot be effective and support you. But if you are ready to heal, I will be there with you thought this journey in the passenger seat.
Lucy Zhang | High-Functioning Anxiety & Perfectionism
College is a remarkably strange time in our lives, because so many things can be true at once. On one hand, it’s what we’ve been waiting for, and when that day arrives, we are indeed motivated, happy, and independent, and yet, the inevitable finds a way to creep back into our lives. We also feel startlingly overwhelmed, stuck in our head, and deeply unsure of what the future holds. We want to be surprised by just how much the new daily routine, relationships, family, purpose, and other people’s perceptions of us still seem to govern us, but there is also a voice inside of us that always knew the old patterns would resurface. I help young adults navigate that liminal space for when you want something more out of life, are eager about therapy as an avenue for finding it, and already exhausted the list of coping skills you found on TikTok. Therapy is a space where we get to go much deeper. We understand where the pattern came from, what it has been doing for you, what’s been happening underneath, whether it still fits the person you are & who you’re becoming, and what you can do that can actually help it shift. My work supports those struggling with cognitive overload & overwhelm, high-functioning anxiety, relationship stress, attachment patterns, trauma, perfectionism, identity emergence, and late-diagnosed neurodivergence. I like making connections and noticing the patterns with you, especially the ones that can be harder to recognize from the inside looking in, or difficult to make comprehend when trying to persist in holding all of it alone. Sometimes you know exactly what you want support in. Sometimes you don’t. You’re not sure of how you got here, why this awful feeling won’t go away, and if it ever truly will. The beauty is this: You don’t need to have it figured out in this space. A lot of the work is being curious together, making sense of the whole picture, learning to tolerate what remains ambiguous, and evermore creating more room for clarity, agency, and a life that feels like yours (that IS yours). Maybe you CAN have the life you’ve always imagined having.
Ana Popoca-Logue
I like to take a holistic approach when evaluating patient needs: our bodies and our minds are intrinsically connected; when one part is not working properly, it will affect the other parts. We must therefore look at the whole picture to try and see what is really going on. You know yourself the best: you are the expert! Whether you feel depressed, anxious, out of sorts; not sure what's really going on, but you do not feel like yourself anymore; perhaps you want to function better? You have not been sleeping well lately. You can't enjoy yourself anymore. Your friends are worried about you? Schedule a 15 min complimentary consultation to see if you could be a candidate for treatment. Send me an email: SDDNP@Proton.me Ana Popoca-Logue, DNP San Diego Doctor of Nursing Practice Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner **Serving California Residents via Telepsychiatry**
Mia Houtermans
I believe that change flows easiest from self-acceptance, and that self-acceptance is nurtured through the telling, the listening, and the embodied expressions of our lives. My approach is warm, inviting, direct and attuned. I meet my clients with interest, non-judgment, and respect. I am driven by a profound sense that individual and community care are interwoven, and that healing is a process of mourning and meaning-making. Through the formation of a safe, authentic, and reflective therapeutic relationship, I support clients in feeling and releasing pains from the past, developing a sense of presence to what is and what they dream can be, and moving towards trust in their own inner knowing. This can be a deeply personal process and a collective and collaborative one. At the foundation of my therapeutic approach is the person-in-environment ethos of social work and the art of ethnography - before I was a therapist, I was a social-science researcher with a background in cultural anthropology. I, therefore, pay close attention to the social and cultural ecosystems of one’s life, and to the stories that shape one’s identity formation. The therapeutic modalities I have found most effective to this endeavor, and have therefore prioritized, are narrative, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral, existential, and relational psychodynamic modalities. My work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and shows a commitment to exploration and innovation - one where I strive to continue to learn with and alongside the clients in my care. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.
Dave King Counseling
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Adrian Belmes, MA, AMFT
If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to realize yourself as a whole person. By integrating who we are with how we want to be, we can find peace and fulfillment through the continuous experiencing of personal truth. Together, we will work towards empowering you to live a more complete, balanced, and meaningful life. I will meet you where you are and walk alongside you. Navigating this path asks of us honesty, openness, bravery, and self-compassion. This is what we will practice together in the process of learning to hold safety and trust within ourselves. Therapy is a unique process for each person. No one size fits all. Our work together will be tailored to your needs in a language and style that works best for you. I use a primarily Psychodynamic approach which incorporates tools and techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Narrative Therapy. I have completed additional accredited training focused on providing gender-affirming care to trans clients, supporting families of trans youth, identity development in sexuality, supporting kink identity, and psychedelic exploration. I will walk alongside you in your journey of discovery, integration, and healing as you navigate the social, emotional, medical, relational, academic, and occupational barriers and hardships that you may face. It would be my honor to be part of your journey and serve to empower you to live as your authentic self.
Lauren "Liz" Toys
I worked in the field as a mental health RN for 13 years before continuing my education to become a PMHNP. I believe that mental health plays a significant role in a person’s overall well-being including physical health, emotional health, and ability to navigate life’s often challenging hurdles that many silently face. I aspire to continue offering hope and support to anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being using the most up-to-date traditional and holistic practices tailored to meet my client’s needs. My core philosophy is based on a humanistic approach, which focuses on finding each person’s unique potential and ability to overcome their difficulties through positive personal growth. I use this patient-centered approach to help my clients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. I also encourage my clients to participate in therapy and lifestyle modifications in conjunction with medication management as this has proven to be the most effective method to long-term stability. I work closely with each client to ensure they can access any helpful resources that may benefit their treatment. I use a patient-centered care approach to help my patients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: academic stress, benzodiazepine tapering, CBT-I, holistic approaches to psychiatry, trauma-informed care, eating disorders, first responders, women’s issues (PMDD, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, etc.)
Emily Eliash
In my work as a therapist, I've supported people from diverse sociocultural backgrounds, with a wide range of mental health challenges and lived experiences. I aim to provide a therapeutic environment that is non-judgemental and collaborative. My clinical style is to lead with warmth, humor, and curiosity. I value direct and open communication so that clients can have space to be themselves and keep it real. I draw from multiple evidence-based treatments, most often integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy strategies to increase effective coping responses to life challenges. It's my goal to build an authentic and trusting relationship with each individual so we can together engage in conversation that will promote insight and growth leading to movement in a personally meaningful direction. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Erica Basso
I work especially well with ambitious women and students who are used to being the “high-functioning” one: the person others rely on, who keeps achieving even when they feel overwhelmed inside. I’m particularly passionate about supporting women in STEM, medicine, law, and other male-dominated fields, where the pressure to prove yourself can make it hard to slow down or ask for support. Over the past decade, I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, and the feeling that they always need to do more. You might be dealing with overthinking, people-pleasing, self-criticism, or the sense that you’re falling behind despite everything you’ve accomplished. Students also come to me with relationship stress, family expectations, identity questions, and uncertainty about what comes next. I bring a feminist lens to therapy, which means we can look at both your personal patterns and the expectations placed on you. My style is warm, grounded, and collaborative, with enough challenge to help you make meaningful changes. Together, we’ll make space to understand what you need and build a life that supports your well-being alongside your ambition.
Merrie Sennett
I’m inspired by the opportunity to help individuals heal, grow, and reach their full potential. Witnessing people transform—whether overcoming trauma, managing stress, feeling better about oneself, or improving relationships—gives me a deep sense of purpose. I am passionate about creating a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore their struggles and gain the tools to thrive. The resilience in each of us and the power of healing inspire me daily, and drive me to continually refine my approach and use effective methods like EMDR and mindfulness to support lasting change and well-being. Since 1992 I have worked in private practice, agencies, and hospital settings with a wide range of people who seek help in handling stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, transition, stage of life issues, relationship concerns, body image concerns, compulsive eating, and crises. A main specialty is recovery from trauma and abuse and I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)–a very effective tool–as well as techniques from other trauma therapies. I have an integrative approach and use tools such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, stress management and skill-building; cognitive-behavioral elements; parts work; focusing on strengths; and psycho-education. I am warm and approachable and my clients say that I make them feel safe and accepted. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a BA in psychology from UC Berkeley and an MA in counseling psychology from John F. Kennedy University. To ensure clients feel heard and understood, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where active listening is central. I validate their feelings, reflect back their words and emotions, and ask open-ended questions to encourage deeper exploration. I regularly check in with clients for feedback on our work together, ensuring our approach is collaborative and aligned with their needs and goals. By integrating various therapeutic tools like EMDR, mindfulness, and emotion regulation, I offer a personalized approach that fosters trust and empathy, which helps clients feel genuinely supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel valued and heard. I demonstrate empathy, consistency, and respect, which helps people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I am warm and compassionate and clients sense this. I honor each person’s experience and story. I am very comfortable with emotions and the truth of one’s experience, which helps clients be comfortable with their truth and sharing that with me. I actively listen and validate the emotions, while also being transparent about the therapeutic process. By tailoring my approach to each individual’s needs and using techniques like EMDR, mindfulness, and emotion regulation, I foster collaboration and a sense of empowerment. Regular check-ins and feedback ensure that the therapy remains aligned with the client’s goals, reinforcing the trust and partnership essential to effective healing.
Marie Battaglia Westerman
Hi! I have spent my entire career working with college students - starting initially on a college campus, then to a group practice near UC Davis, and now in my own private practice. I am currently only offering telehealth services and I am licensed in California, Florida, and Ontario Canada. I love supporting young adults and adults during such a pivotal time of life; as they navigate the transition to college, the unique challenges that come with being a college student/young adult, and the healing that can happen when you find a good fit. Whether you have a history of mental health impacting you or it's your first time ever experiencing anxiety, depression, loss, self esteem, relationship challenges (among other things) I strive to provide you with a safe space to feel heard, supported, and understood.
Joanne Howe
Navigating your college years is a massive transition. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to succeed, shifting relationship dynamics, or anxiety about the future, you do not have to figure it out alone. I have been a therapist since 2011, and as a trauma specialist, I help young adults find their footing. As a UC Berkeley grad, I know firsthand the weight of high expectations. My approach is collaborative and conversational. I bring warmth and genuine care to our sessions. We will work as a team, using strategies focused on finding solutions to get to the root of what is holding you back while building practical tools for resilience. Our first session is simply a safe, supportive space to start unpacking what is on your mind. We move at your pace. Reach out today, and let's start exploring what true healing looks like for you.
Katie Fenton-Strauss
High achievers are often their own worst critics. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. As I help my clients to develop greater self compassion, they experience amazing changes in many aspects of their lives. Email me and we can set up a free 20 minute consult to talk about working together. I conduct secure video sessions with clients in CA and FL. I am an HSP specialist (Highly Sensitive Person), and I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies and mindfulness techniques to help people to more deeply understand themselves.
Ben Benjamin
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Elevating Mental Health
I hold certification for integrative psychiatric care and ADHD treatment. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from State University of New York Upstate Medical University where I received comprehensive training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of psychiatric care. My education equipped me with knowledge of mental health disorders, advanced clinical skills, and evidence-based treatment approaches. This rigorous academic background, combined with hands-on clinical experience across diverse settings, has prepared me to offer compassionate and effective care to individuals with a wide range of mental health needs.
Ginny Estupinian
Online sessions are available. Details can be found at https://ginnyestupinian.com/appointments/ In-person office sessions are now also available for those who would rather come into my office. Board-certified in Clinical Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I specialize in treating college students who are dealing with severe anxiety, depression, stress, and complex trauma. Over the years, I have worked with many college students who have found themselves feeling anxious and depressed to the point that they can't continue with school. Many students report going down the same rabbit hole; as the demands of college increase, they become strapped for time and start to neglect their usual self-care routines—eating healthy, exercising, and relaxing. Not surprisingly, their mood becomes poor. Sadly, ignoring these early changes will cause things to get worse. Students then reported no longer enjoying activities that were usually the highlight of their day, feeling exhausted continuously but unable to get a good night’s sleep. Next, their class performance suffers; they sometimes miss classes because they can’t get out of bed. In some cases, students find themselves in a dark place, barely eating, and unable to concentrate enough to read even a short paragraph in their books. It is not uncommon that thoughts begin to circle the same unpleasant memories and nagging fears, resulting in a sense of hopelessness and guilt. The good news is that, In many cases, I have been able to help those individuals feel better and develop the resilience strategies they needed so they could continue with school and graduate successfully. When we work together, you can be assured that you will never be judged; everything we discuss will be confidential. You will be provided with the most advanced techniques appropriate to your needs, and they will help you feel better about obtaining the goals you want to reach. No situation is too small or too large that I can't help you with. Call today for more information. 844-802-6512
Nili Askari
My approach to therapy is focusing on the present and working alongside clients to obtain the goals they have in order to implement a balance between emotional, social, and physical dimensions to improve their quality of life and well-being. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.
Diana Macias
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 16 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with a collaborative and compassionate approach. I work with clients facing anxiety, sadness, relationship struggles, or major life transitions, supporting them in reconnecting with their strengths, values, and goals. In therapy, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard and understood. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and family systems theory, tailoring each session to your unique needs. My goal is to help you increase self-awareness, build self-compassion, and develop practical strategies for overcoming challenges and creating a more fulfilling life. I know that opening up to someone new can feel vulnerable, and I strive to make the process approachable and collaborative from the first session. Life’s difficulties don’t need to define you – you have the ability to shape how you think, feel, and act. I would be honored to support you on your journey of growth and self-discovery.
BRAVE Wellness Studio
Tired of talk therapy that goes nowhere? You’ve seen therapist after therapist, each one listens, nods, and takes notes… but where are the practical tools for real change? If you're craving more than just conversation, you're not alone and BRAVE Wellness Studio is here to help! Holistic psychotherapy treats you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. We blend talk therapy with body-based and mindfulness techniques to uncover root causes, build awareness, and support real healing. We also offer Ketamine Assisted Therapy. Sessions are relaxed, empowering conversations that help you reclaim control. You're not broken, and you don’t have to do this alone. If you're ready to feel more connected, supported, and in control of your healing journey, we're here to walk with you. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and reclaim your BRAVEry!