Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

Are you surviving — or actually thriving? I became a therapist so I could help people thrive instead of just surviving. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience helping adults heal from trauma, manage ADHD, break painful relational patterns, and reconnect with who they truly are. I specialize in working with the BIPOC community, college students, first-generation professionals, women navigating major life transitions, high-achieving adults who feel stuck despite their success, and adults with ADHD who are tired of being misunderstood. I am also one of the few LCSWs certified in financial social work — bringing a unique understanding of how money stress, financial trauma, and ADHD intersect with mental health. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. I draw from trauma-focused therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy — always meeting you where you are. Reaching out is the first act of self-care. I offer telehealth exclusively, serving adults in California, New York, New Jersey, and Florida. ¡Se habla español!

College can be exciting, but also overwhelming. If you’re feeling anxious, down, or stuck in your relationships, you’re not alone and support is available. I help students work through challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship stress in a safe, laid-back space where you can be yourself. I take a whole-person approach to healing, focusing on the connection between mind, body, and soul. Together, we’ll build on your strengths and help you feel more balanced, empowered, and in control of your life. My goal is to support your growth, help you feel heard, and walk with you through whatever you’re facing.

I support students who put a lot of pressure on themselves to succeed—whether that’s in school, relationships, or planning for the future. Many of my clients appear to “have it all together," but inside they feel anxious, burned out, or unsure of how to manage the stress. My clients come to me because they’re struggling to balance everything on their plate or want support navigating big changes like moving away from home, figuring out their identity, or making decisions about what’s next. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or like you’re carrying the weight of expectations (your own or others’), you’re not alone. In our work together, you’ll have a space to slow down, feel understood, and learn practical tools to feel more grounded and confident in your everyday life.

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.

My training exposed me to a wide range of therapeutic approaches, and I have worked with clients with major psychiatric diagnoses (7 years working in a subacute facility) and those with common anxiety and depression (decades of work life). I have long experience with university students dealing with the challenges of adjusting to overwhelming work demands and learning to navigate unfamiliar social environments. Many clients have felt that they don't make friends easily or fit in with groups. And some clients are generally insecure about whether they can succeed at a nationally rated academic institution (impostor syndrome). I work to understand what issues are most important to my clients and help them learn ways to be more comfortable with themselves and to succeed in their personal, romantic, family, socioeconomic, and academic or work circumstances. Every person has their own background and their own challenges, so everyone needs an individualized treatment. Clients with Asperger syndrome often benefit from help in dealing with social interactions and with sometimes overwhelming anxiety. Immigrants (and also people coming from remote parts of the US) may find local customs and styles unfamiliar and find help with meeting new friends and colleagues. As an immigrant myself (from Sweden), I know well what it feels like to be an outsider and have learned ways to help people adjust to new environments and different expectations. This experience has also allowed me to help many with an LGBTQ background in their family, romantic, and work interactions. Too many in our world are dealing with the after-effects of trauma in its varied forms, and finding ways to move forward and to enjoy normal relationships can be lifesaving. As a background for many clients, home experiences with one's family of origin can set the stage for ongoing unhappiness and failed romantic relationships, and this should not be a permanent obstacle to a satisfying and fulfilling life.

Virginia Psychology is dedicated to delivering exceptional assessment and therapeutic treatment to individuals across the lifespan. Our mission is to enhance mental well-being and personal growth for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples through evidence-based practices and compassionate care.

Hi, my name is Yu-Nien (Pulinda). I am a board certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (APU '21) who's worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and across a wide range of ages. I enjoying working with clients from various walks of life. My clients are often experiencing difficulties coping with emotions, feeling confused about their distress, desiring a space for authenticity and warmth, and a nonjudgmental environment. I welcome all who are experiencing various struggles in life and will support you on taking the first step towards healing. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client's unique circumstances and life experiences. The therapeutic modalities I commonly draw from include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Grief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based approaches, and Psychodynamic Therapy. As a Taiwanese bilingual (English and Mandarin) social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique experiences. Through our journey together, I will walk alongside you as you build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and develop practical tools for lasting growth and healing. 您好，我是妤寧(Pulinda)，持有加州認證Licensed Clinical Social Worker執照。在我的臨床工作經驗中，我曾與來自不同背景及各年齡層的個案合作，因此特別關注每一位來談者的獨特性，也享受了解個案不同的人生歷程與生活經驗。我發現許多個案前來尋求協助，是因為他們正在面對情緒調適上的困難、對自身的情緒困擾感到困惑，或渴望擁有一個能夠真誠表達自我、被理解、並感受到溫暖與接納的空間。我希望能提供一個不帶批判且安全的環境，讓個案能自在地探索自己的經驗與內在世界。在壓力源無處不在的世界，我們可以一起溫柔的面對焦慮、憂鬱、創傷及失去，一起消化，找到跟練習適合您的情緒穩定方法，強大您的心理能量。 我的治療取向採整合式方法，並依據每位個案獨特的處境、需求與生命經驗量身調整。我常運用的治療模式包括接納與承諾治療（Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, ACT）、認知行為治療（Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT）、悲傷與失落治療、正念取向介入，以及心理動力治療（Psychodynamic Therapy）。我相信有意義的改變建立於治療關係中的平等關係，因此我會與個案密切合作，確保治療方向符合其目標、價值觀與需求。我也特別著重找回每個來談者的自我共情（self-compassion），這也是更能療癒自己的方法之一。 我來自台灣，所以能夠流利的用英文及國語跟您合作。但我也在其他不同國家生活及移民過，所以我體會過在不同文化環境跟關係中適應和尋找自我的過程。我會考量到每位個案所處的人生階段及困擾，並尊重其獨特的生命經驗。如果我們有緣合作，我將陪伴在您身旁，協助您建立心理韌性、深化自我理解，並找到實用的，以促進持續的成長與療癒。我歡迎所有正面臨人生挑戰的人，並願意陪伴您踏出療癒旅程的第一步。

Hello my name is Diamond McMillian. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer therapeutic services that are non-bias, compassionate, and accepting of who you are. My goal is to help you identify problem areas and patterns that are causing you distress and ensure it’s a journey where you feel safe, heard, and validated. I am passionate about accompanying individuals, and couples manage and overcome trauma and on their journeys to self-development. I know firsthand the challenges of accessing support. I am open to answering any questions and addressing any fears, concerns or hesitancy.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

College is often a time of growth, transition, pressure, and uncertainty — and at times, it can feel overwhelming trying to manage everything on your plate. Trying to balance school, relationships, family expectations, work, social life, and your own mental health can feel like a lot. You may be feeling more anxious than usual, struggling in relationships, finding it harder to stay motivated, or feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself. Maybe things don’t feel as okay as they look from the outside. Sometimes having a space to talk openly and make sense of what you’re feeling can make a meaningful difference. Therapy can offer a space to slow down and reconnect with yourself. At Lumenate, we offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can better understand what you’re experiencing and feel supported in the process. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, identity questions, stress, or life transitions, therapy can help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident in yourself and your relationships.

I was born a helper and my experience in the navy enhanced my desire to help others who are struggling with mental health issues regardless of how small or how big. As a therapist I want to be able to help those who are courageous enough to seek help to improve their mental health. Being heard and understood in each session is important for every client and encourages vulnerability and completion of recommended treatment. I support this by actively listening to them, validate their emotions, ask clarifying questions, paraphrase what they say to confirm understanding, and maintain eye contact. As a therapist I know how important it is to have a healthy and therapeutic relationship with each client because no two clients are alike. I utilize active listening skills, demonstrate genuine empathy, maintain an open line of communication, and create a safe space for vulnerability to support the development of a trusting and strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients. A key element in me building a therapeutic alliance with each client is being transparent about the therapeutic process and assisting each client with setting individualized realistic treatment goals.

As your therapist, my priority is to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth and positive change. I'm excited to work with you, addressing your challenges and helping you achieve your goals. Therapy is a transformative process that can guide you towards becoming the healthiest and happiest version of yourself.

As a therapist with over 9 years experience working with adults of all age and backgrounds I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to tap into your own personal growth and healing. Anxiety, depression, self-doubt getting in the way of you living your life to the fullest? Negative beliefs holding you back from achieving success in your education, career, life or relationships? I have also worked with young and older adults who are questioning or exploring their sexuality and gender. Additionally, I am trained in a therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing where we can go even deeper than traditional talk therapy and often process these unhelpful beliefs faster. Contact me for more information about EMDR therapy. EMDR flat rate of $200.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Do you feel lost, unsure what to do with your life? Do you struggle with managing emotions like anxiety, sadness, anger, or shame? Are you tired of feeling stuck in patterns that harm your relationships with others and with yourself? Is your unhealed childhood trauma or religious trauma impacting you negatively? Do you have a relentless inner critic that takes the joy out of life? If so, I am here to help. I provide compassionate, evidence-based support to aid in healing trauma, managing difficult emotions, and decreasing sexual shame. I guide people in compassionately reconnecting with themselves, helping them heal whatever is in the way of them living their most authentic life. My approach is warm and non-pathologizing. IFS is the primary modality I use to guide clients into deep healing. While religious trauma, sexual shame, and CPTSD are my primary focus, I support people experiencing an array of challenges. I am Level 1 & 2 trained in IFS and working on a certification in Religious Trauma Studies. I provide both individual and group therapy online throughout California. I aim to create a space of safety and gentleness. With the right tools and support, healing is possible. We can create lives that are authentic, safe, and free.

Struggling with navigating life, managing in a world that may feel overwhelming, and still managing to get up every day, looking to better yourself and your relationships? You may struggle with anxiety or depression, confusion or stress due to a whole host of reasons. Infidelity, infertility, body image, low self-worth, lack of confidence, existential crises, unhealthy coping mechanisms, narcissistic moms, everyday stressors and life transitions. Anything sound familiar? You may feel isolated and alone. Don’t worry. You’re not! You are unique, but you are not alone. Many many people struggle with these things and come to learn how to live differently.

College can be exciting, but it can also be stressful, lonely, or overwhelming. If you're dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, family issues, or just feeling stuck, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. I’m a therapist who helps people work through tough emotions, build stronger relationships, and feel more like themselves again. Whether you’re new to therapy or have tried it before, we’ll work together in a way that feels safe, honest, and helpful. You don’t need to have it all figured out to get started. Let’s talk.

We are a team that values quality and effective treatments to treat various disorders. My team has a variety of experience and specialty. The treatment modalities that we use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. We treat complex trauma or single case trauma, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and relational issues.

“I didn’t find therapy, therapy found me.” I believe my own journey through various stages of life, as a teacher, coach, confidant, and parent, provided me a deep calling and inspiration to serve and support people from all walks of life as a therapist. I thoroughly enjoy the therapeutic process and empowering clients to reach their goals and beyond. It’s imperative that as a therapist, I am curious to know my client and give them the nonjudgmental space to express their issues, concerns, emotions, etc. I am an attentive listener who inspires the client to take the steering wheel of where they want to go. Through collaborative work together and keeping an open mind, I will be there for the client to explore what will work best for them and how they will get there. I approach therapy as client-centered, every person has their own story, their own experiences in life. With an empathetic ear and through the client’s self-exploration and goals in mind, I like to practice an integrative perspective that may intertwine the client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Creating a safe and supportive environment will allow for a positive therapeutic environment and promote growth.

Change is within reach. Are you struggling with burnout, anxiety, or depression? Do you feel trapped or overwhelmed by difficult emotions? Change is possible if you’re yearning for a shift in your life. I specialize in guiding individuals through transformative journeys, helping them break free from limiting patterns and heal past wounds that stand in the way of fulfillment. In my therapy sessions, you’ll find a safe haven—an open, compassionate, judgment-free space. Together, we’ll explore your inner world, uncover hidden truths, and develop new coping skills. Your authentic self awaits. My areas of focus include anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship challenges, women’s issues, and existential concerns. I help clients reclaim their vitality to live peaceful, heart-centered lives. My work with women centers on empowering them to embrace self-worth and inner strength. I utilize EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Hakomi Mindfulness techniques. I offer a holistic, personalized approach that integrates body, mind, and spirit. Certified in Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, I work with ketamine (KAP) and offer preparation and integration sessions for medicine journeys with psilocybin, MDMA, and ayahuasca. Reach out today to schedule a complimentary phone consultation.