Therapists for college students near 90089

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I am inspired to work in the field of mental health care to support and validate individuals who maybe having a difficult time navigating through the stressors of life. I want individuals to live not just to exist. Active listening and validation is important for every individual in a therapy session. I not only practice active listening but ensure that I have heard not only the words but the emotion and intent from the client. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship starts with active listening and empathy. I want the individual to understand that therapy at times may bring up strong and difficult emotions and I will be there through this journey. Therapy is a safe space to explore the past, present and future without judgement.

Do you find yourself asking “why is life so fucking hard?” Are you experiencing challenges in life or a relationship? I specialize in working with adults that are feeling like their lives or relationships are off track. I will help you identify what is important to you, how to communicate your wants and needs, and how to start aligning your life with your values. Together, we will get to know you and what’s getting in the way of living the life you want. We will develop new ways of looking at your problems and create solutions together. We will talk about who you are, what your values are, and who you want to be moving forward. I believe we can change when we feel safe, cared for, and understood. I tailor my approach to your needs to address depression or anxiety caused by trauma, relationship issues, or other life challenges. Your services are about you & what you need. I’ll help you explore your life in a way that you feel understood and safe as you learn and grow. I know that life can be overwhelming. Sometimes what we need is a place to unload & get some fresh perspective (or a kick in the ass). I started my private practice because I wanted to create a life in line with my values. Are you ready for that life? Schedule a consult & lets see if we are good fit for each other. The consult is free, and so are the jokes!

I work best with students who are feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of school, work, relationships, or major life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy because they're struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, burnout, or feeling stuck. Others are adjusting to college, navigating difficult family dynamics, substance and alcohol abuse, processing relationship challenges, or trying to balance everything life is throwing at them. You don't have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Whether you're looking for support through a difficult season or want to build healthier coping skills and greater confidence, I'll provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.

My goal as a therapist is to empower clients by working collaboratively and to help them learn and find the tools and skills to help themselves reach success. I aspire to provide compassionate and culturally competent care and support clients in reaching their goals. I do my best to ensure clients feel heard and understood in sessions by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore and process their thoughts feelings and emotions. As a therapist my goal is to be present and grounded in the moment to provide whatever support is needed. I believe that in order to build trust there needs to be understanding and connection. Finding common ground and being curious are integral parts of my work.

I was inspired to become a therapist as a young child, with the value of wanting to help others. Early in my career I had many mentors who encouraged me to become a therapist, they believed in me. In some moment, I realized I wanted to help people believe in themselves and to see their own possibilities. Validation is one of the most important tools I value as a therapist and as a person. I use the phrase, validate the other person’s reality that may be different from your own. I teach clients to self validate, to know what you experienced is true and real. I value the process of creating this safe space where one can see themselves just as they are. I ask for feedback to see if how I respond through validation fits for the client, if they felt heard and validated. My first response is over time. I think trust is built with consistency. I tend to follow a consistent pattern in session, I try to have a beginning, middle and end to every session. The beginning can be more of a welcoming and social experience. The middle can be sharing and revealing the deeper part of a person and what they are going through. This can feel emotional and intense at times. The end, is closure. I will help a client have some closure at the end of every session. I talk to the client about next steps, how will you spend the time after the session, and confirm when we will meet next.

Hi, I’m Suyapa (she/ella), a Spanglish bilingual first-gen Latina therapist. I provide virtual therapy for adults in California, Nevada, and Florida navigating trauma, anxiety, family roles, grief, and identity exploration—through a culturally responsive, feminist, neurodiverse-affirming, and 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive lens. If you grew up in a BIPOC or Latine/Latinx household where silence, sacrifice, or survival roles were the norm, you may now find yourself overwhelmed, disconnected from your needs, or constantly taking care of others while neglecting yourself. Maybe you’re the eldest daughter, the fixer, or the one everyone leans on—but you’re tired of holding it all together alone. My clients are often cycle-breakers who carry invisible emotional labor, many of whom grew up with siblings facing disabilities, mental health challenges, or substance misuse. They come to therapy ready to unlearn people-pleasing, set boundaries without guilt, and reconnect with who they are—beyond survival. My Approach I offer trauma-informed, relational therapy that honors your story and your culture. I use EMDR, Brainspotting, somatic and mindfulness practices, and a collaborative, holistic approach that supports healing on a mind-body-spirit level. The therapeutic relationship is central to our work—I’m here to help you feel safe, seen, and deeply supported. What It’s Like to Work With Me I’m not a blank slate—I show up with my authentic self and deep respect for your lived experience. I won’t pretend to have all the answers, but I will walk beside you with empathy, curiosity, and care as we get to the root of what’s weighing you down. Together, we’ll explore how your past is impacting your present, and build tools for healing that feel right for you.

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!

We believe that you are the expert in your own life, and we are here to create a therapeutic environment that fosters real positive changes. It is our goal to assist you in becoming your best and most authentic self. Because of the uniqueness of the human experience we don't believe in a one size fits all model of therapy, therefore we tailor treatment specifically designed to meet your own unique goals and challenges.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I’m passionate about promoting growth. I’m excited to work with you and support you on your journey to self-healing and personal development. My goal is to create a safe space where everyone feels seen, heard, and in a non-judgmental environment. I understand how hard that first step can be, and I would love to walk this journey with you.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Therapy is a unique space to explore and organize your internal emotional experiences, feel more satisfied in your interpersonal relationships, better manage and tolerate a broad range of emotions, and experience new ways of relating more meaningfully to yourself and others. Through carefully exploring your emotional and relational experiences, both past and present, you may develop a deeper sense of self-understanding, wholeness, and a renewed capacity for joy and purpose. I work from a primarily relational and psychodynamic orientation, though I am flexible in engaging with the specific needs of each client. My work is informed by a commitment to social justice and an attunement to the many social realities that influence trauma and distress. I seek to honor your multiple intersecting identities and actively explore the interaction of these with my own and within the larger culture. My goal is for clients to experience a deeper sense of safety and healing. I have 12 years of expertise working with adults experiencing trauma, anxiety and depression, adjustment and life transition issues, identity concerns, relational conflicts, spiritual and/or religious issues, and grief and loss. In addition to working with both MA- and CA-based clients in my private practice, I work as a psychologist at UCLA. Prior to this, I completed my postdoc fellowship at Boston College University Counseling Services and worked as a staff psychologist there for 3 additional years, so I thoroughly enjoy working with BC students. I look forward to connecting with you!

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.

The thing that inspires me most to work in mental healthcare is my desire to help people live the best lives they possibly can. I have always believed that the relationship you have with your clients is the most important foundational part of successful therapy. I foster that by providing a warm, inviting, non-judgmental space for my clients to be open and to feel heard, validated and supported. With my clients, I try to make sure they feel understood and like they know what to expect as we work through the healing process.

Welcome to my practice! I'm Kristen Ackerman, LMFT. I understand that college can be a rollercoaster of experiences. Whether you're riding the highs of newfound freedom or managing the lows of homesickness and academic stress, I'm here to offer support every step of the way. I specialize in helping individuals like you adjust to the transition of moving away from home, finding your footing amidst academic demands, and striking a balance between your studies and social life. Whether you're seeking to develop meaningful friendships or intimate relationships, I'm here to lend a listening ear and provide guidance. Navigating peer pressure is also a common challenge in college life, and I'm here to help you tackle those situations with confidence. Additionally, I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, and identity exploration. No matter what you're facing, you don't have to go through it alone. I understand that finances can be tight for students, which is why I offer flexible rate options. My goal is to make therapy accessible and affordable for everyone who needs it. My therapy services are personalized to meet your unique needs. I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, while also integrating talk therapy for comprehensive support. I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable and empowered to explore and grow. If you're ready to take the first step towards personal growth and making lasting changes, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Whether you prefer to call, email, or text, I'm here to support you on your journey.

Life gets complicated. Relationships strain, grief accumulates, anxiety takes hold, and sometimes the weight of simply being human becomes more than any one person should carry alone. Whatever brought you here – a specific struggle, a quiet sense that something needs to change, or simply the courage to finally reach out – you’ve come to the right place. Sequoia Counseling Collective is a group therapy practice offering compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and couples. Our team of skilled therapists specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, life transitions, perinatal mental health, and relationship challenges. We draw from a range of proven approaches including EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, CBT, ACT, and animal assisted therapy to provide care that is thoughtfully tailored to you.

There are many things that can lead a person to seek therapy. You may be experiencing a persistent feeling of fear but just can't put your finger on where it’s coming from. Perhaps you've been feeling anxious about being judged harshly by others or have been struggling with feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or loss of control. Bearing the weight of these experiences can often feel exhausting. But, you do not have to be alone in these struggles. Taking the first step to seek help can feel vulnerable and even scary. I believe that when the right conditions are present healing of the heart, mind, body, and soul can – and will – occur. Reach out today.

I support motivated individuals with childhood trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and conflict with family. Perhaps you're exhausted carrying burdens never meant to be yours. My approach is soulful, compassionate, yet unafraid to gently challenge when growth requires it. I specialize in depth therapy—exploring underlying beliefs that no longer serve you, rather than just addressing surface symptoms. I meet you where you are and walk together to rise above your current circumstances. I truly believe that you have inner wisdom that can lead you to a place of solace and healing. Together, we'll transform pain into power while honoring your resilience. With over 18 years in the mental health field, I not only extensive clinical experience but also a grounded, empathetic presence shaped by my own journey of growth and healing.

I work with couples and adults. I help college students who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or feel overwhelmed by the transition to college, their workload, or have experienced a loss. I help couples rebuild/strengthen their friendship, learn how to manage their conflict and find ways to compromise, deal with differences in parenting, process past hurt, and deal with other stressors that can impact the relationship, such as OCD, Depression, in-law problems, work schedules, or working together. I also offer premarital counseling for couples hoping to navigate important conversations prior to marriage. I support adults with work stress, anxiety, family/relationship issues, grief, divorce, and acclimating to college or any other big life transition. I'm certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and received intensive training in the Gottman Method for Couples therapy. Both are research- based, which means they have been shown to be effective. It also means that there are many tools that I can draw from to support you. Reaching out for help is a vulnerable thing and finding the right therapist is KEY to a successful journey in therapy. I offer free phone or video consultations to make sure you get a sense of what it might be like to work with me, and for me to hear more about you and make sure I have the tools/experience to help you. I hope to hear from you soon!