Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Aloha! If you’re finding yourself here, you’re most likely living within my favorite demographic to work with: transitioning age youth or “TAY!” And if you’re not, I work with folks throughout the lifespan, later into adulthood too! Whether it’s a more acute seasonal life stressor, or more chronic disability, I can be just one part of your journey towards achieving whatever optimal wellness means to you (not to society)!

I am a trauma-informed therapist specializing in sexual abuse, sexual assault, trauma recovery, PTSD, and chronic pelvic pain. I like to use tactile materials in session— clay, collage, knitting, sand trays, watercolor…etc. Sometimes it’s hard to sit in a room with someone and just start talking. Art is a tool we can use to ease anxiety and greet the subconscious. I don’t take too many clients, so I care deeply about each person I work with. I will remember the names of your loved ones. I will want to see pictures of your dog. I will consult with your doctors, advocate for you, and send you resources outside of session. Most of all, I will be genuinely curious to hear what you have to say. Reach out if you want a free phone consult. We can decide together if we're a good fit. You don't owe me anything and you don't have to worry about my feelings. Therapy is your sacred space— I am here to protect it.

Worried you haven't done enough? Experiencing indecision and disappointment in your relationships? If you're struggling to manage anxiety, now might be the time to connect. I’m a first generation Latinx/e, bilingual, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist creating space for clients to experience radical self-compassion and express themselves fully. My style is warm and authentic, with some humor. I sit with clients as they experience difficult emotions, listen to what others have not been able to hear, and guide clients to connect with their self-worth and contend with the realities of life. Therapy is your time to think and feel with my support. Clients can expect a genuine interest in understanding them. I provide virtual therapy in CA for adults only, focusing on anxiety, perfectionism, stress, relationships, generational differences within Latinx/e communities and beyond. I draw from emotion-focused, psychodynamic, existential, and humanistic theories and therapy. Book your free consultation today. *Note: In the event of a medical or psychiatric emergency or an emergency involving a threat to your safety or the safety of others, do not call/email me to schedule a consultation call. See resources below: *Dial 9-1-1 for emergency assistance, Go to nearest hospital/emergency room  *Call or Text 9-8-8 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline *Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line (Available for all types and levels of crises) *Dial 877-854-3594 for Human Options, a domestic violence resource *Dial 714-842-6600 for Huntington Youth Shelter, Dial 800-914-2272 for Casa Youth Shelter  *Dial 2-1-1 for additional information about local resources closest to your area

Feeling scared, overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of who you are? Not sure who you are, how you fit in to this confusing world, or how you'll survive get these weird times? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. As a therapist, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent folks. I help with navigating a neurotypical world, identity exploration, complex trauma (CPTSD), life transitions, & more. Whether you're untangling childhood wounds, exploring your identity, or the feeling that the world that wasn’t built with you in mind, therapy can be a space to slow down, take a breath, and begin healing. As a relational therapist, I care a lot about the connection between us. Think "bestie on FaceTime" - but with real clinical training to help you! I'm person centered, which means you're the boss! I use a feminist approach because your identities matters. I'm direct (but kind!), which means I'll give you my opinion or a gentle nudge when appropriate too! I also incorporate parts work and feminist therapy into my work and enjoy using play (even with adults!). No matter where you are with your mental health, I'm ready to offer you a helping hand and listening ear. Healing and growing are ongoing journeys, I'd love to walk along side you through yours. Let's connect!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

College is a time of huge transitions, and it’s easy to feel anxious, stressed, or unsure where you stand. If you're struggling with overwhelming worry (anxiety), feeling stuck after a tough transition (like starting school or a breakup), grappling with past trauma, or just trying to figure out challenging relationships, you've come to the right place. Your Therapy, Your Tools My practice is built on the belief that you already have what you need within you (though it may not feel like it, right now) —we just need to clear out all the noise and find and focus on what actually works for you. We'll ease your mind: We use practical, science-backed strategies to help you unhook from negative thought spirals and calm that constant feeling of being "on edge." We'll discover and heal the root causes : We'll gently explore the "parts" of you that are feeling anxious, unclear, or worn out, and use powerful processing methods to reduce the intensity of recent or past trauma or fear (like EMDR and IFS). We'll help you adjust: Whether you're dealing with the stress of major life transitions or trying to set healthier boundaries in relationships, we'll create space for you to process the change and build a stronger sense of self. We'll get you grounded: I integrate the calming power of nature-based tools (in or out of the office) to help your nervous system slow down, allowing you to find a peaceful space even when deadlines are looming. We’ll work together, at your own pace, to move you from feeling overwhelmed to thriving on campus and beyond. Ready to take a breath and start building a college experience that feels authentic and manageable? Let's connect.

You find yourself overwhelmed and unable to do anything, even though you know what you should be doing. Your thoughts are causing you to spiral and you find yourself remembering every bad thing that's ever happened to you. What I want to do is bring you back to the present moment and find the way forward to give you the future you are wanting. Whether that is coping skills to help you relax, or changing your perspective to better deal with what's going on, we will find a way to help you out.

Hi, I'm Jessica Taylor Vara, LMFT, a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. On paper, your life might look pretty good. You're responsible. Capable. The person everyone turns to when they need help. But underneath it all, you're exhausted. Maybe you're constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, second-guessing yourself, or feeling like you're never quite enough no matter how hard you try. Maybe you're stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, carrying the weight of childhood experiences you thought you should be over by now, or finding yourself overwhelmed by stress, perfectionism, and self-doubt. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. I help college students, graduate students, young professionals, and adults heal from anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, relationship difficulties, and the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving people who have spent years trying to understand themselves but still feel stuck repeating the same emotional patterns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply compassionate. I integrate EMDR therapy and traditional talk therapy to help clients move beyond insight and create real, lasting change. Together, we'll work to heal the root causes of your struggles, build healthier relationships, strengthen your confidence, and help you feel more grounded, resilient, and connected to yourself. You don't have to keep carrying everything on your own. I provide online therapy for residents of California and Florida.

Sometimes it's really hard for us to ask for help-especially when you're a strong, independent woman. Therapy is a great way to reach out, learn more about yourself, and grow through any challenges you might be facing. I help women who want to change their relationship with food and their bodies. I work with women in individual, group, & virtual therapy. I have a holistic approach that covers a wide range of symptoms & issues, but I enjoy helping clients who have struggled with their weight make peace with food. I love working with college women who are graduating & seeking support for the transition, and specialize in those women experiencing a "quarter life crisis". I also have a lot of experience helping women with recovering from sexual trauma. I love working with women who may have experienced an unplanned pregnancy or abortion as well, and offer an non-judgemental, pro-choice arena to explore emotions. Starting therapy can seem scary, but its brave to get some help! Make the decision to feel better today. I am an Out of Network insurance provider-contact your insurance to see if you qualify for these benefits. Flexible spending and HSA accepted as payment. Learn more on my website https://www.jessicafoley.com/

Deciding to engage in therapy is an important step in one’s life and I am honored by the opportunity to join in this journey with you. My work with clients begins from a place of genuine curiosity and authenticity. As a relational-cultural narrative therapist I believe that the person is not the problem. The problem is the problem and we work together to develop and implement effective tools aimed to address the problem. People are also defined by stories. When these stories become problematic, people can become stuck. Together we will examine these stories and help you develop new and healthy stories for your life. Deciding to engage in therapy is an important step in one’s life and I am honored by the opportunity to join in this journey with you. My work with clients begins from a place of genuine curiosity and authenticity. As a relational-cultural narrative therapist I believe that the person is not the problem. The problem is the problem and we work together to develop and implement effective tools aimed to address the problem. People are also defined by stories. When these stories become problematic, people can become stuck. Together we will examine these stories and help you develop new and healthy stories for your life. In my work, I engage in culture-centered practices, where the role of culture is seen as integral in understanding one’s journey. While relational-cultural narrative therapy guides my work, I also incorporate other evidenced-based practices and cognitive behavioral therapy to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors. I am deeply committed to working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color) and LGBTQIA+ populations. I look forward to the opportunity of hearing your story and working with you.

You may be used to holding everything together, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in your own thoughts. Maybe you overthink everything, have trouble relaxing, feel irritable or disconnected, or find yourself carrying stress long after the moment has passed. I provide online therapy for adults in California navigating anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is warm, practical, and collaborative. I help clients better understand the patterns that keep them feeling stuck while building coping skills they can use in daily life. Our work may include exploring anxious thoughts, stress responses, avoidance, self-criticism, boundaries, emotional regulation, and the depression or burnout that can come with long-term anxiety. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially when you already feel overwhelmed. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so we can briefly discuss what you are looking for, whether online therapy may be a good fit, scheduling availability, fees, and insurance options.

I am a licensed psychologist with 30yrs. experience in general practice. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are struggling with health issues(e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Want to connect with a human being rather than an AI bot? I help highly creative people with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, life transitions (bereavement, loss of relationship, career change, etc.) and the challenges of creative careers. Many of my clients are performers, writers, musicians and visual artists. In addition, I practiced in Europe for 6 years and have broad experience working with expats, immigrants, and cross-cultural couples.

I provide individual and family therapy to adults and teenagers navigating relational challenges, life transitions, anxiety and depression. I also have extensive background working with neurodivergent people (ADHD and Autism Spectrum). I am passionate about helping individuals as they navigate life adjustments, such as starting a new job, leaving home, becoming a parent or processing a change in a relationship. I value creating a safe, open, and authentic space for people to learn more about themselves. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, collaborative and relational. I believe that our experiences throughout our lives impact the way that we see ourselves and our relationships. From this perspective, I work with clients to explore how their life experiences have impacted them. I know that it is difficult to choose a therapist. If you are curious about what it would be like to work with me, please feel free to reach out to set up a phone consultation. I look forward to hearing from you!

For me, becoming a therapist was really about wanting to support people through difficult and sometimes lonely parts of their lives. I’ve always been drawn to deep conversations and understanding what makes people feel seen, heard, and safe. Over time, I realized that being present for someone-without judgement-can be incredibly powerful. I wanted to offer that space where people can explore their story, grow, and feel more connected to themselves. It’s a privilege to be part of that process. My priority is to create a space where you can be fully yourself-without pressure, judgment, or expectation. I’ll be listening closely not just to your words, but also to what’s underneath-your emotions, your experiences, your patterns. I’ll check in with you often to make sure I’m understanding you the way you want to be understood, not just how I interpret things. We’ll move at a pace that feels safe for you, and if there’s ever a moment you don’t feel heard or something doesn’t feel right, I want to know. This is your space, and your voice matters here. In the beginning, it’s really about getting to know you-what’s going on in your life, what’s important to you, and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy. I won’t push you to share anything before you’re ready. We’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. Building trust takes time, so I focus on showing up consistently, being real with you, and making sure you feel safe to be yourself. I’ll check in with you often about how things are going-what’s helpful, what’s not, what you want more or less of. This a therapeutic partnership, and I want it to feel like we’re working together-not me telling you what to do, but us exploring things side by side.

I am a young adult & child and adolescent psychiatrist who specialize in working with college students. I think of my patients in a holistic way- using medications, lifestyle interventions, and talk therapy. I was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, and spent my childhood in Irvine. I completed most of my education on the east coast. I went to Johns Hopkins and double majored in history and public health. After college, I attended the University of Maryland for medical school. After living in Baltimore for eight years, I wanted a change of scenery and moved to New Hampshire to complete my residency training at Dartmouth. During my training at Dartmouth, I had opportunities to work with high-achieving teens and families who attended Dartmouth College with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, and perfectionism issues. After surviving long winter storms, I returned to my hometown and completed the child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at UC Irvine. I have a passion for and experience working with college students, Asian American families, and teens with LGBT backgrounds. In my free time, I like to hike, run, and kayak. Coffee is my favorite drink, and I make pour-overs every morning. As a first-generation Korean American immigrant myself, I have understood what immigrant or second-generation students go through in college and the pressures of balancing academics and family expectations. I also enjoy working with patients to explore their identities, including gender issues, sexual orientation, religion, and careers. I am double board-certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry.

Being in your late teens or early 20s can feel overwhelming at times. I work with young adults to navigate anxiety, relationships, and big life changes in a way that feels real and manageable. Together, we’ll build tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and like yourself again.

My biggest inspiration was my grandmother who thought me to help, love and inspire others unconditionally. My children and friends continued to inspire me to use my grandmother’s wisdom to empower others by being present in the time of need as well as celebrating their accomplishments. My goal as a therapist is to work with you as a partner throughout your healing process. At the end of each session, we will review what was discussed and create a plan that will help you meet your goal. You can reach me by phone in case you feel stuck or need assistance. At the beginning of treatment and each session, I will actively listen to your needs, feelings or stressors that might have contributed to you seeking help. We will develop a plan that will empower you to meet your needs, help manage your emotions and teach you coping strategies to help manage stressors.

I enjoy working collaboratively to develop goals that are realistic, meaningful, and lead to positive change. I view therapy as a journey—one that helps you find steadier footing and supports you as you move along your unique path. Although much of my background has been in public service settings working with severe mental illness, acute crises, and trauma, I welcome concerns of any size. No problem is too small or too overwhelming to bring into therapy. I invite you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you! I have been in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years and have been licensed since 2012. I have a practical, down-to-Earth style with an open-minded, solution focused approach. There is likely no issue too complicated or difficult for me to work with. I like to establish a clear treatment path with attainable goals, making it easier for you. I encourage you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you. My goal is to offer steady support and thoughtful guidance as you discover a healing path that truly fits your life. While life can be challenging, you don’t have to navigate it alone—therapy can provide a safe space to find clarity, resilience, and hope.

If you're looking for a therapist who brings authenticity, warmth, and a feminist sensibility to their work, I might be the person to help! I typically work with clients who find themselves at complex intersections of identity, especially around sexuality, gender and culture. I love working with students—previously at SJSU CAPS and currently at a private group practice. Many of my clients are AAPI children of immigrants, and/or queer and trans people of color, navigating questions about family and relationships. I can offer an affirming space work through intergenerational trauma and feelings of cultural guilt or shame. I am also able to support clients with common concerns like anxiety, depression, stress management & more. As a therapist I am interested understanding your life story as you tell it, and I'm here to help you figure out the next chapter. My goal is to help you feel greater clarity, freedom & control as the author of your story. I incorporate practical tools into my work, so that you develop new skills to deal with painful feelings and thoughts. If what I offer resonates with you, I invite you to reach out to schedule a free consultation. You'll have a chance to get all your questions about therapy answered, and schedule an intake with me (no pressure!)