Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

With over 15 years of combined experience providing mental health services, our practice provides knowledge and experience specific to working with college-aged folks. There are a lot of challenges and transitions that come with the passage of teen to adult. Recent studies suggest over 40% of college students experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. Our therapists provide guidance and tools to help you find a healing path toward wholeness and happiness. In addition, we provide expertise in the domains of identity and gender, sexual health and relationships, substance use, and trauma. We look forward to hearing from you and connecting you with the therapist who can best fit your needs.

I am Milka Galvez, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degree in nursing from Walden University. My vision of a world where mental well-being is prioritized and breaking down societal stigmas surrounding mental health inspires me to work in the field of mental health care. I start by fostering a trusting relationship where patients feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. This is achieved through active listening and open-ended questions during initial assessments to gather insights about their personal beliefs, cultural background and past experiences with mental health care. I then work in collaborative goal setting, flexible treatment approaches and continuous feedback and adjustment.

Many of the students I work with feel overwhelmed trying to figure out who they are and what they want, especially in a time that feels uncertain and constantly changing. You might be thinking about your future while also holding awareness of things like climate change, global crises, or instability in the world, which can make everything feel heavier or harder to make sense of. Some students I work with are dealing with habits like skin picking or hair pulling, while others feel burnt out, anxious, or like they’re trying to keep up but struggling internally. I take a relational and systemic approach, looking at both what’s happening internally and the larger context you’re living in, while also offering practical tools to support change. Many of my clients are thoughtful and aware, trying to make sense of themselves and the world around them. Therapy can be a space to slow things down and find ways to move forward that feel more grounded and realistic.

"If you are struggling to sit with difficult emotions and would like support, I can help. My mission is to empower you to learn how to turn towards your pain to find healing, instead of running away to endure long-term suffering. This process is done by teaching you how to sit with difficult emotions. When you can learn how to sit with difficult emotions, you can then begin to process them and to heal through them. As you begin to heal, you can then start to make peace with the past, let go of it, and bring joy in to the present. This enables you to turn slowly and gently towards the future where you can start to feel whole again. As a result, you begin to develop a deeper and more meaningful connection within yourself and with others."

I am motivated by the idea that every human being deserves to be truly heard by someone they believe cares about their wellbeing. I am confident that through mindful and empathetic exploration in a safe and trusting space, many reoccurring and/or cooccurring somatic, emotional, and psychological difficulties may be better understood and processed in a way that can facilitate a deeper understanding of ourselves and the environments in which we exist. I am an existential and humanistic provider who believes that we are driven by our unconscious and because of this, past psychological, emotional, and physical injuries may leave an imprint on our psyche that can continue to interrupt our lives and reinjure us unless we can see ourselves and our part in these injurious events differently. I use an eclectic treatment style that includes many different treatment modalities such as Mindfulness, Bilateral Tapping, CBT, DBT, cognitive reframing, and MI. I have had the opportunity to work with many different socioeconomic populations from the homeless to the very wealthy with conditions ranging from addiction and obsessive disorders to depression and anxiety. They each come with an interesting and unique perspective. I come from a background of childhood trauma, abuse, and addiction. My journey began with a 9th grade education and homelessness as I traveled my road of happy destiny to a Bachelors and Masters degree with two professional licenses (LPCC & LAADC) in the state of California, and continues to unfold today. I have turned my life’s experiences into a place of wisdom and growth and have dedicated my life and career to helping others find the light in whatever darkness they are experiencing.

I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in LGBTQ+ care. In my private practice, I offer individual and couples therapy sessions as a sexual, gender, and relational diverse provider with expert training and over ten years of service to the community. I sought additional training in couples therapy, sex therapy, and diverse relationship structures. My practice is also geared towards supporting alternative sexuality communities, including kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, and polyamory. My mission has always been to be a knowledgeable therapist so that my clients don't feel like they are educating me about their lives and can feel safe knowing they will not be judged for who they are.

I am a highly skilled Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, LPCC) with a strong academic foundation and over 13 years of professional experience. With a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, I bring a deep understanding of human behaviors and emotions to my practice. My therapeutic approach is characterized by my commitment to working from a relational lens, fostering genuine connections to facilitate healing and growth. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I have honed my expertise in helping individuals such as yourself, navigate life's challenges and complexities. My approach to therapy is rooted in relational therapy, which focuses on the therapeutic relationship itself as a catalyst for change. By creating a safe and empathetic environment, I enable my clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors within the context of their relationships, both past and present. With a deep appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and unique stories of my clients, I tailor therapeutic interventions to address each individual's specific needs and goals. My warm and collaborative demeanor cultivates a therapeutic partnership that promotes self-discovery and personal transformation.

Welcome! I'm Dr. Lin, director of Lin Psychological Services. I graduated from SUNY Albany in the Counseling Psych program in 2011 and have been a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Colorado since then. As a psychologist who has been practicing for over 14 years, I often tell my clients that taking care of our mental health is crucial to taking care of ALL of us. If we can make the effort to take care of our bodies, our people, and our belongings, why can't we make the same effort to take care for our minds? I can be the support that you need as you make the time to take care of your mental health. Over the last decade, I have dedicated my work to helping veterans with their trauma memories and other life stressors. Now I look forward to providing that same level of expertise to everyone seeking to work on themselves, with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma (including childhood, military, civilian, or sexual traumas), sleep difficulties like insomnia, difficulties with self-esteem, navigating life transitions, struggles with racial/ethnic identity due to racism, and so on. I also use evidence based treatments that provide effective tools that clients can use for the rest of their lives. If you're looking to make a change in your life, let's work together!

We are a team of highly specialized clinicians who offer in-depth, psychological services in a safe & comfortable setting. We accept many insurances, offer sliding fee scale, evening/weekend availability, & have both in-person sessions, as well as Telehealth appointments. Please visit our website for more information: DrSawires.com.

My passion for working in this field stems from a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of mental well-being. Every individual deserves the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life and I am honored to support individuals in achieving this. Witnessing the resilience and courage of my clients as they navigate mental health challenges is profoundly inspiring. It fuels my commitment to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions that empower them to overcome obstacles and thrive. By fostering empathy, awareness, and de-stigmatization, I aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals struggling with mental health concerns. I do this by practicing active listening, which involves giving my full attention to what the client is saying—both verbally and non-verbally. I reflect back what I hear to ensure I understand their perspective and emotions accurately. I also ask clarifying questions when necessary and validate their experiences, showing that I respect their feelings and struggles. By being non-judgmental and compassionate, I help clients feel safe to share more openly. Ultimately, my goal is to create a space where they feel accepted and understood, which fosters trust and the ability to make progress in therapy. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. This begins with being genuinely present and engaged in our sessions, listening actively, and responding with empathy. I also ensure that I maintain clear communication about the therapy process, respecting the client’s pace and autonomy. By being consistent, reliable, and transparent about goals and boundaries, clients are more likely to feel secure and confident in the therapeutic relationship. Additionally, I validate their experiences and emotions, which helps to foster mutual respect and understanding. Over time, this collaborative and supportive dynamic allows us to work together toward meaningful change.

I am a therapist with 18 years experience but I am also an artist and a mom and much more. I enjoy working with other creatives to conquer the anxiety that is holding them back. Anxiety and overwhelm can feel like too much sometimes, but you really can develop tools and strategies to manage or even overcome them. Let’s work together to help you start feeling better.

Hi, I'm Kim! For the past 25 years, I’ve been supporting people, just like you and me, to lead more fulfilling lives. By moving past the pain caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, shame, anger or whatever it is that leaves you feeling stuck, you’ll be able to focus on what is truly important to you. In this collaborative process, you’ll find that "you" becomes more clear allowing you to show up in the ways you'd like at home, work and in relationships. I wholeheartedly believe you have the answers you need within yourself. Together, we’ll get to know and understand the root cause of your struggles and pain, while learning new practical ways to improve daily life. All while using proven techniques and strategies that work, like EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Mindfulness and Values Clarification work. I use a holistic approach to healing knowing the mind, body and spirit are all interconnected. In addition, I provide Career Counseling and am trained to administer the World of Work Inventory (WOWI), the first empirically-based, fully-integrated, multidimensional career assessment that incorporates career interest areas, aptitude/achievement measures and work style to create actionable career matches. I commit to being fully present with you every step along the way. My down-to-earth, compassionate approach (sprinkled with a healthy dose of humor) will create a safe, judgment-free space for you to do the work needed for growth and change. Let's chat for a no charge 20 minute consultation to see if we're a good fit to get you moving on your path to healing and wellness.

Prior to being a therapist, I worked in community mental health care in San Diego and San Francisco for nine years. I believe community care and mental wellness are so important for the well-being of individuals and our communities as a whole. I practice therapy from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective. Engaging in therapy can be a big step, and I aim to be a supportive guide on my clients’ therapeutic journeys. I like working collaboratively with clients to identify specific solutions that can help improve overall quality of life. I practice therapy from a solution-focused, strengths-based, trauma-informed approach. I utilize elements of CBT, DBT, Person Centered, Narrative and Mindfulness-Based Therapy in sessions to support my clients toward well-being and growth.

I work collaboratively with people who often find me to be fun and funny, positive, caring and compassionate. As I tell clients when they express gratitude toward me for helping them, "I know some stuff. " I know some stuff about trauma and healing and how people overcome difficult pasts that affect them in the present. I know some stuff about relationships, how they go sidewise and how they get repaired. I know a lot about autism and how siblings of spectrum kids are affected and how the future can seem scary if you don't have a plan for yourself or your future. Depression, anxiety, stress, anger, procrastination, relational difficulty, trauma recovery... I know some stuff and I'm here to help you. Therapy shouldn't be scary and once we get started you'll feel well supported and see some changes that are you are looking for.

As someone who has experienced mental health both in myself and my loved ones, I feel inspired to provide care that is comforting, compassionate, and free of judgment. I am driven by being a support to those who need it, helping you improve, and guiding you towards fulfillment and your goals. I ensure you feel heard and respected by creating a comfortable environment where, together, we can explore the uncomfortable. I value establishing trust with you and I allow each client to set their own pace while I compassionately move you forward. I practice a talk therapy approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy influences. I am proud of my ability to establish trust and a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I do this by using humor and empowerment while also utilizing a direct approach. I recognize how difficult vulnerability can be so I do my best to create an environment that feels safe and enjoyable. I enter each session without judgment as I want to honor you and your experiences. I prioritize you feeling comfortable while sharing your innermost thoughts so, together, we can put the pieces back together and fortify your mental space.

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**

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.

Change naturally produces anxiety. While a certain amount of anxiety is normal for all persons, those with excessive anxiety may find themselves experiencing constant worry, doubt, and self criticism. In addition, sometimes depression, substance abuse and various disorders may follow. However, anxiety IS manageable. Mind and body will need to work together to relieve the stress that starts your anxiety process. I help you manage these stressful times and difficult life transitions through various therapies suited your unique personality and particular needs. My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental, supportive and practical. It is based on the latest successful therapies for anxiety and depression, yet tailored to your specific personality and situation. Together we will work through the sequential steps that have resulted in your distress and then follow with the processes that will bring you relief. With the Couples Counseling I do, I see my role as helping to develop healthy person-to-person emotional connections, without sacrificing individuality. Each person’s personality needs to be recognized and respected. In initial sessions, much of my focus begins with changing communication style and learning to negotiate conflict. To restore or develop trust and connection, I find that people need to first literally learn to talk to each other differently. This is not as easy as it may sound, but it is possible and it is the foundation of maintaining healthy relationships. Once respectful and caring communication is established, improved emotional connections become possible and problems can be resolved. In the addiction treatment I do, I work both with clients and their families and friends. In my 20+ years working with dual diagnosis and addictions, I have had the benefit of working in every level of care -- from substance abuse prevention to in-patient rehab treatment programs, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. One of my sincere beliefs is that there is no one way that works for everyone. Not everyone needs rehab and each situation deserves special consideration. In short, that means there are no "have to's", "must's", or "should's." I apply an approach with empathy and compassion for my clients, while bringing them the best type of care they need, and of course, never giving up.

I became a therapist because my own experiences in therapy as a client had been transformative and healing for me. I wanted to be a source of support and guidance for others to help them heal and grow. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and I'm privileged to learn about you and your experiences. I approach our work from a place of openness and curiosity in order to help give you tools and perspective that will be genuine and helpful. I work very collaboratively with you! I view my role as one that walks alongside you through the therapeutic process to help you identify and accomplish goals that are meaningful to you. I'm very authentic in my relationships with clients, and bring my full self to our sessions.

I was inspired to become a therapist by my own healing journey. I felt motivated to support other people to find their meaning by living a genuine life, establishing healthy boundaries, implementing adaptive coping skills and strategies, and using their strengths to live more joyful lives. I value each person’s individuality and offer a safe and non-judgmental space for growth and healing. I am passionate about helping others and meet my clients where they are. My hope is to guide my clients through the therapeutic process with compassion, focusing on their strengths and support systems.