Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

You've been looking for someone who truly gets what you're experiencing and can provide real tools to help you overcome it. We're not the type of therapists you'll simply vent to; we focus on providing genuine feedback and practical tools. We'll gently guide you through healing old wounds, helping you break free from old patterns, while rediscovering your inherent worth and strength.

Hi, I’m glad you found me! Life can be so stressful and maybe you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, symptoms of past trauma, grief and loss, chronic pain, or another current challenge. I want to help create a safe space where we can work through it together. I use my training and experience for a trauma-informed and compassionate approach. I often work with individuals who identify as caretakers, highly sensitive, people pleasers, and perfectionists. Give yourself the much needed self-care and send me an email so we can talk more about what’s been coming up for you. Getting started can be hard, but I’m here to be with you every step of the way.

I am a psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and I have spent the past 10 years working with folks who are excited and curious about how they can learn to best care for themselves. In general, I tend work with clients who are looking for support around their career goals, including transitioning out of or into a career, finding a better work-school-life balance, establishing or refreshing professional skills/communication, or navigating the experience of college/career integration. I have a particular passion for working with clients in "helping" industries or in training, including healthcare, healthcare administration, mental health, and teaching. I also work regularly with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mood regulation concerns. I have experience working with students, especially as they are exploring the next phase of their life. Transitions are sometimes moments of great growth and self-discovery, and often accompanied by great pain and confusion. I think addressing both side of the coin honestly and with support can help us navigate the tough stuff with a sense of clarity and hope. I currently work in a private practice clinic, and provide talk-therapy from a variety of clinical orientations. I usually go for a somewhat down-to-Earth approach when first working with someone: taking the time to learn more about what is and isn't working in their lives, thinking collaboratively with them about what some attainable long-term goals might look like, and then allowing us to settle into the process of engaging and tracking areas of growth as our work develops. Therapy is such a unique and personal process. This should work with and for you, even if it's not always easy. I'm open to meeting you and learning more...even if we aren't a great fit. I'm also happy to support your process in finding that next-right-one. I do my best to respond to voicemails and emails within 24 hours during the work week, and follow-up on all weekend inquiries by end of business on Mondays.

Hi I'm Sara a LCSW in both CA and CT. I became a therapist because of a genuine desire to help others thrive. I believe that therapy should feel like a safe and supportive space—one where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment. My goal is to motivate you towards the changes and self-discovery that you want for your life while also gaining a deeper understanding of self.

To the strong ones, You’re the one everyone leans on—but who do you lean on when the weight gets too heavy? You’ve built a life around being the reliable one, the fixer, and the steady hand in every storm. Whether in your career or your family, you are the person with the answers, the one who 'carries it well.' But high-functioning isn't the same as high-flourishing, and the pressure to maintain that strong exterior has become a silent tax on your peace of mind. Being the 'strong one' is a lonely place to be. While you’re busy taking care of the world, your own needs have become an after-thought. You deserve a space where you don’t have to perform, hold the posture, or take care of anyone else. We specialize in working with high-capacity individuals who are ready to trade "performing strength" for authentic resilience. Our approach is a blend of deep empathy and direct, results-oriented insight. This is your sanctuary—a place to deconstruct the pressure to have all the answers and finally breathe. You’ve taken care of everyone else long enough. It’s time someone held the space for you. Contact us today to schedule your free 15 minute phone consultation.

The journey to transform self-betrayal and self-abandonment into self-trust and self-love requires honesty and deep compassion for every part of ourselves and our stories. My mental health practice and my view of the world is largely informed by the belief that shame is NEVER an access point to growth, but rather, a paralyzer that keeps us stuck repeating the same cycles we might so desperately want to escape. My hope is to serve those who are frozen by shame and who see this play out in self-doubt and acts of self-betrayal, such as: 1. Substance use that brings painful consequences and actions incompatible with held values 2.Always taking the role of the “Pursuer” in romantic relationships and repeatedly finding yourself in dynamics where your effort is not reciprocated and your needs for consistency, time spent together, or commitment are not met. Additionally, being unable to communicate your needs explicitly despite desiring a committed partnership. 3. Taking on familiar responsibilities due to guilt despite these crossing your boundaries or inhibiting your own vision of what you want for your life. My goal is to take a non-pathologizing approach that asks the questions, “Why is there pain and how did it come to form?” My work is informed by the modality Internal Family Systems and, as such, we will observe and embrace every “part” of you–those that feel good and those that feel “bad”–as completely natural and understandable byproducts of your story. I use a deep focus on the body as a source of messages and valuable information with the belief that returning to the body can offer an access point to healing the Self.

Bilingual, Culturally Sensitive, Trauma-informed, Relational Psychotherapy. I believe that engaging in therapy is an act of courage because change is by definition radical. An important goal of therapy is to connect to your authentic/creative self as a way to make meaning in times of suffering. Together we will explore your personal, family, cultural, and political history to understand the ways in which your experiences shape how you feel in the world. Whether you are struggling with life transitions, finding/keeping good relationships, or trying to integrate different identities, our work can help you find some sense of cohesion. I work with adults, elders, couples, adolescents, children, and immigrant/bicultural families. I collaborate with caregivers to ensure gains in therapy are translated into other contexts. Specialties include: anxiety/depression, trauma/dissociation, immigration issues, postpartum depression/infertility, grief/loss, and career transitions.

Wellspace SF is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, happy and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide individualized and innovative support centered on the whole person. Therapist specializations include: Gen Z and Millennials, "quarterlife crises" and life transitions, trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, depression, imposter syndrome, gender, racial and sexual identity, dating + relationships, career indecision, disordered eating, body image, children of emotionally immature parents, sleep disorders, and more. Our integrative services also include health and nutrition coaching, life and relationship coaching, and career coaching. We offer complementary consultations with all of our clinicians, in-person + virtual appointments, and a convenient downtown SF location for our local clients.

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 believe change, growth, and healing are possible when we better understand ourselves and the patterns in our lives. Especially with the state of the world right now, it would make sense if your goals were to feel less anxious, less stressed, more secure, more connected, and/or safer. Through our collaborative exploration, curiosity, and empathy, I believe we can find opportunities for healing, challenge old patterns that no longer serve you, and develop a greater sense of control over your life.

TBH Therapy -- because therapy is a place to be honest! We help college students navigate relationships, transitions, and figuring out who they really are in a complicated and confusing world. Several of our therapists also have training in EMDR therapy to help resolve trauma more quickly and get you back to doing what brings you joy. We also specialize in managing big emotions that overwhelm you from showing up the way you want to in your relationships, school, and work life. We have multiple providers who offer different fees based upon their experience, including some sliding scale options. Please reach out and we can help match you to the provider who will best meet your needs.

DURING THE COVID PANDEMIC I AM OFFERING VIDEO SESSIONS. I have worked collaboratively with UCSF medical students, doctors, interns, residents, nurses and dental students for over 20 years in both individual and couples therapy. I understand the milieu that you practice and study in. I am an active and collaborative therapist and strive to build developmentally appropriate interventions to meet the needs of clients throughout the lifecycle. About half my practice is dedicated to couples work and half to individuals assisting in all aspects of communication, sexuality, reproductive challenges, parenting and work/life balance. I have expertise in trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, grief and relational issues. Send an email or call for a free 15 minute consultation.

When was the last time you had a moment to take a step back and think about if you're living the life you actually want to live? That third (or fifth, or seventh) cup of coffee may help you keep your head above water, but it can't give you the space or energy to figure out where to start, let alone where to go. Therapy is a space to figure out what’s not working, and give you the tools you need to build the life you want. More than that, therapy can be the space to figure out how you can be the person that you really want to be. You deserve therapy that is tailored exactly to you, because your goals and your dreams are unique. I specialize in working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders, and especially those who identify as LGBTQ+. We'll work together to help you process and overcome the pain and obstacles that keep you from being the person that you want to be, so that you can fully participate in and enjoy your own life. Brandon Sanderson wrote "the most important step a person can take is always the next one." You've already taken the first one by looking at therapists to contact! If you think I'll be a good fit for you, send me an email to set up a free consultation. You don't have to take the next steps alone.

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.

Genesis (Gene) Vasconez is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health care. She aims to improve the health and wellness of her patients by partnering with them and their care teams. She addresses challenges related to mental health disorders, including addiction, by following a trauma-informed model. She approaches each session to foster trust by listening to her patients and ensuring they have a choice and voice. Cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion are at the core of her care. Gene received her bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from San Francisco State University and her nursing and master’s degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She has been a part of multiple research studies focusing on addiction, psychotic disorders, suicide, and depression. She also teaches nurse practitioner students at UCSF during their community internship. Clinically she has experience in setting such as psychiatric emergency/urgent care, community clinics, and private practices. Gene is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She also serves as a San Francisco Behavioral Health Commission commissioner.

Feeling alone, gripped in anxiety and despair and other painful emotions, you might not think that anyone could possibly understand or help. As an experienced mental health professional, I know how to listen to your unique story and how to help you disentangle from the symptoms that are holding you back. Using intuitive listening skills and coming from a place of deep empathy, I will work with you, teaching you how to integrate new thinking and being skills into your life. Using Acceptance and Integration Training and depth psychotherapy, along with my extensive experience with a wide variety of people, I will help you feel better and get back on your feet towards living the life you want. I aim to help you discover your own unique inner wisdom, building awareness and emotional health for life. I work with each client individually and collaboratively to create long-term and short-term goals. For many clients the goals often include disentangling from anxiety and depression symptoms. This includes building new skills and habits that can be used on a daily basis to feel good and to prevent the symptoms from reoccurring. My clients report feeling peaceful, powerful, whole, hopeful and grounded after a session of Acceptance and Integration techniques.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience treating adolescents and adults. My approach to psychotherapy is warm, empathic, and compassionate. I treat each individual professionally and with respect. I appreciate the uniqueness of each patient and emphasize listening closely and thoughtfully, as we all possess the ability to tell our story regarding our strengths and our challenges, even when we sometimes do not realize it. I strive to create a safe environment where you can feel open to express and explore your feelings and experiences, without judgment or emphasis on what is “right” or “wrong.” I believe that therapy is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and to express our feelings freely, in an effort to learn new methods of dealing with problems, being in relationships, and pursuing our dreams. My private practice is largely informed by modern psychoanalytic theory. I provide individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I integrate themes of social justice throughout my practice, and am particularly thoughtful about the role that various cultural identifications, and their intersection, play in mental health and treatment. I also provide education, consultation, and training to professionals and students. A central aspect of my clinical thinking focuses on the role of power, privilege, and cultural dominance. Knowledge, concepts, and meaning are not developed on a solely individual basis, but rather are created through coordination and communication with others. Language is fundamentally important – it is the most essential way in which we construct reality. Our psychological experiences, including emotions, thoughts, somatic/bodily sensations, are subsequently developed within this context. I view problems in living, therefore, as relational, contextual, interpretive, and situated within the dominant discourse, expression, response, and cultural norms.

I have been practicing as a psychotherapist since 2011, and currently offer teletherapy in Virginia, California, and Oklahoma. I believe therapy is about change. My mission as a therapist is to help my clients find their way to creating balance and joy in their daily life. I believe all people have the ability to build a strong, healthy, and peaceful self. Depending on your needs, I utilize a mixture of treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy/DBT, mindfulness, solution-focused, positive psychology, and coaching to help you build more robust coping skills. I also specialize in treating drug and alcohol addiction. I am a member of the American Psychological Association

If you were looking for a sign to try therapy, consider this that sign. Life feels hard, and everyone and everything feels overwhelming. You just want to feel better but don't even know where to begin. You don't have to figure it all out on your own. So let's talk. Even better, let's collaborate. I have a relaxed style based on science but led by empathy and humor. I commonly help clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions, or even just a case of the "blahs." Our work together will be as unique as you are to pinpoint and address your personal goals. I commonly I pull from evidence-based treatments including cognitive and psychodynamic therapies geared to target unhelpful thoughts, build up your coping skills or work through past and current patterns. During our sessions, you can expect to feel safe, seen, and fully embraced- just as you are. I look forward to connecting with you to learn how we can enhance your well-being, alleviate the stress and pain you may be experiencing and find your joy again.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Newport Beach, practicing teletherapy with adults (19 and over) throughout the state of California. My practice has been focused on enabling individuals like you to go beyond surviving to optimize their well-being. Together, we can work on discovering and leveraging your unique strengths to create positive shifts and reach enhanced levels of your potential.