Therapists for college students near San Francisco State University

“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly—what is essential is invisible to the eye” (The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry). As a therapist, I work to see people with my heart and hold a hopeful space of unconditional compassion and empathy. As a trauma survivor with personal experiences in therapy, I’m aware of how vulnerable and uncertain starting with a new therapist can be. I honor the courage and openness it takes to begin any healing process. Creating safety in the therapeutic relationship is essential to me. I believe everyone has the capacity for healing already within them, and I work to empower people to connect with themselves and their unique strengths. I believe we are relational beings, and our different experiences with attachment can have profound effects on us. I value flexibility and creativity in my therapeutic style, and I draw from and integrate diverse approaches to discover what resonates with each different person. It is important to me to be intentional and considerate when holding space for culture and how different forces of marginalization affect mental health, and I work to be culturally responsive and attuned. My approach is continuously curious and trauma-informed, and one of my many passions is affirmatively supporting people around intergenerational trauma and attachment wounds. As a therapist and a human being, I try to embody a tree. This means moving slow, breathing deep, and being grounded enough to nourish connection. My favorite place on earth is the old growth forest! I also love to surf and meditate, and I appreciate breathwork and somatic/body-based techniques along my own healing path. I’ve been working in mental health for about thirteen years. I received my bachelor’s degree in English from University of California, Santa Barbara, and I finished my master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at California State University, Long Beach, where I also started writing poems for people on an old typewriter. I view therapy as a poetic process where someone gets to tell their story and shape its continuation to best honor their soul. We all need to be heard, seen, and believed in, and as a therapist, I work to cultivate this heartfelt connection.

College life can be tough - talking to someone who understands you can offer real support, so you don't have to navigate your problems alone. Suppose you are struggling between exams, trying to navigate relationships, dealing with identity exploration, anxiety, burnout, imposter syndrome, or need a space to breathe, reflect, and grow. In that case, you are in the right place. I offer flexible scheduling that accommodates your classes and competitive rates. You can contact us by phone or email to request a brief consultation. If you wish to proceed with scheduling an appointment, please book your first session using the website below.

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.

You just need to do figure out to eat for dinner, you’ve done it a million times, so why does it feel so hard? In my practice, I’ve learned that we often go through life reacting to situations without fully understanding why. I specialize in working with neurodivergent young adults (i.e. ADHD, Autism, OCD) and I'm passionate about helping people understand how their unique minds and bodies work. There is so much you are already doing instinctively to cope with things (probably a lot of it without even realizing it's a coping skill), I just get to help you figure out what that is and how to use it more effectively. By untangling your thoughts, exploring your feelings, and developing a deeper understanding of your mind and body, I will help you regain the power to build a life that works for you. Trying new things can be hard but what you’re doing isn’t easy. It’s worth giving yourself a chance. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a free consultation.

Michele Haynes is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Pacific Northwest Counseling. Michele holds a license to practice in the states of IDAHO, CALIFORNIA, OREGON & WASHINGTON. Michele utilizes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other trauma treatments (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). Her primary areas of clinical interest include couples, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment issues, relationships, and stress management. Michele EMDR certified. For individuals wanting to integrate mental health and Christianity, Michele can offer a faith-based perspective. --- Benjamin Johnstun is a counseling intern at Pacific Northwest Counseling, practicing under the supervision of Michele Haynes, LMFT. Benjamin is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwest Nazarene University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Psychology from Brigham Young University-Idaho. Benjamin is passionate about helping couples build stronger, more communicative relationships, drawing on his training in the Gottman Method. He has completed Level-2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. He is also dedicated to supporting individuals in finding purpose and meaning through a logotherapy-informed approach. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Benjamin offers a faith-based perspective for clients seeking to integrate Christian or LDS values into their counseling, while welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. Benjamin can practice in the states of IDAHO, CALIFORNIA, OREGON & WASHINGTON.

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.

Our mission at Faithlift and Hope, LLC is to instill a seed of hope in each of our clients while lifting them up in their emotional, mental and even spiritual life. We welcome all people of gender, race, age, sexual identity, and spiritual backgrounds. We utilize any and all resources like familial, social, and places of worship while integrating psycho-educational resources in a mental health setting to give clients efficient support that can help them uplift themselves and learn to hope again. We welcome all communities to find healing while ensuring privacy and confidentiality.

Hi, I am a first generation Latina and the first to graduate from college in my family. I decided I wanted to be a therapist when I took my first sociology class in community college at Pasadena City College, where my life changed thanks to the support and guidance I received from my counselor and the PUENTE Project. I am now a proud private practice owner who has two children who have taught me more than any school program could. Both of my kids have learning disabilities and one is autistic. I have dedicated most of my time to learning how to navigate the educational system and advocating for their educational needs. Because of my personal experiences with my children, I am dedicated to supporting autistic individuals through neuro-affirming therapy and have guided many people in discovering and embracing their own neurodivergence. I have worked with many clients to help them access school and work accommodations and to develop personalized sensory self-care strategies. If you feel under a lot of stress, like you are working harder than the average student only to play catch up, feel burnt out no matter how you take care of yourself, and constantly feel disconnected even from friends and family, I am here to help you figure things out, one thing at a time. If you are a student who is under a lot of stress and is experiencing anxiety and/or depression, I am here to help. Or who feels alone and disconnected from others, I am here to help.

Do you struggle with motivation and focus troubles that affects more than just your ability to get your homework done? Do you feel overwhelmed by basic tasks that you can’t seem to get started? Do you ever wonder that life could be better, your mind a little quieter? Now more than ever, young adults, are feeling overwhelmed with the life presented to them, with ADHD diagnosis becoming more frequent. I believe you can find the motivation to get control of your life again. I work primarily with young adults with ADHD and we can work on your goals together. We will start with learning how your struggles manifest uniquely in your life I approach therapy from a humanistic/person centered place, with true Unconditional Positive Regard towards you as a client and human. We will collaboratively create a plan to work towards your goals together. When we are struggling, we need a place to show up in all versions of ourselves without judgement, and I strive to create that environment for you

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I can help you cope with academic stress, anxiety, issues with parents, relationships, eating and body image, health problems, trauma, and friendships. I combine EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness. Ally to BIPOC and LGBTQIA+. Online or in person sessions available.

The students I help often experience anxiety in social relationships or work/academic related performance. They often share a lack of confidence and feeling if doubt about their competency going out into the “real world.” I help identify and enhance the qualities and strengths each client brings into therapy. By looking back at past distress or trauma, we are more able to see the present and future with more hope and optimism.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

In-network with Aetna. Tried therapy before and didn't quite help? Therapy helped before, but still struggling? My approach is different! I see people seeking support for many difficulties, including: imposter syndrome, self-esteem, boundaries, vulnerability, excessive guilt and shame, communication skills, difficulty asking for help or saying "no," and more. Reducing self-judgment will help you to make better decisions that are aligned with your core values. I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I also have extensive experience working with undergraduate and graduate students at high-pressured universities.

Making change and discovering new understandings can work together to fulfill purpose and find meaning in life. Whether it is emotional relief or emotional depth, it is figuring out what one needs to feel whole. With over 10 years of experience in crisis settings, including emergency mental health and trauma care, I use an eclectic approach to guide you through creative adjustments that foster personal growth and problem-solving. Let’s embark on this journey together! I prioritize empathic attunement to achieve detailed understanding of the person, the relationships, and the environment. By contextualizing one’s experiences we can shift our perspective around thoughts, actions, behaviors, and relationships. Prepare to share! By utilizing the tenets of Gestalt therapy, I revere the person for who they are and aim to create a collaborative process of exploration and insight. I honor the therapeutic space, holding a safe outlet for your innermost thoughts and feelings. Only through a shared space of deep understanding and acceptance can therapy truly be a mechanism of success. Unlock Your Potential with Personalized Therapy!

Talk Therapy for Students Are you feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork or are you missing your family and friends back home? Our team is here to help you find the tools and coping skills to get your mind right. Leaving home, starting university, and finding new friends can be some of the most intense pressures and stressors to manage. Our team can help you Discover new coping skills Specialize techniques to manage anxiety and depression, and negative thought loops Increase your support system that will help you manage and decrease stress Talk about your past present or fear of the future Learn new ways to manage trauma Set new goals and follow through! YOU ARE NOT ALONE! College is an exciting time filled with new experiences, opportunities, and growth. However, it can also be a challenging period, particularly for students who may face academic pressure, financial stress, relationship difficulties, or mental health issues. These stressors can quickly pile up and take a toll on a student’s well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, or burnout. As experienced therapists, we have seen firsthand the unique challenges that college students face. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of academic success, building healthy relationships, or finding your place in the world, college can be a time of intense stress and uncertainty. That’s why we believe that therapy is the most powerful tool for college students who are looking to enhance their well-being and achieve their goals. Our overarching goal is to help students to develop a better understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and provide them with the tools they need to overcome the challenges they face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or even relationship issues, therapy can help you to gain a new perspective, improve your coping skills, and increase your overall sense of happiness and fulfillment. Our number one priority is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and work towards achieving your goals. We know that every college student is unique, and take a personalized approach to therapy, tailoring our methods to fit your individual needs and goals. So, if you’re a college student looking to improve your well-being, increase your self-awareness, and achieve your full potential, we encourage you to consider therapy. We’re here to help.

I was inspired to become a therapist because I feel we are living in an age that devalues deep listening and I decided I wanted to invest my life and my soul in creating safe spaces wherein people feel heard and held. I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others feel validated, understood, and truly empowered in their journey toward self-discovery. I think it’s important to give people the space and patience to gradually sift through their thoughts and emotions in order to better understand the core reasons why they want to change. My practice involves unconditional positive regard, active listening, and creating a consistent container of respect and curiosity toward my clients. Trust requires a consistent safe presence of curiosity and nonjudgment, both of which I provide and exhibit with my clients. Therapy is a space for both therapist and client to become connected with their inner curious nature, so as to better gain deeper perspectives on the process of thinking and the ways in which our thoughts and beings are influenced by a complex layer of factors. I hope to show that my therapeutic style is an open-minded and reflective container.

In my case, it was both personal experiences and deep interest in the understanding of people. I have always been interested in how we navigate life’s challenges and how we can grow from them. Early on, I saw how powerful it can be to have someone listen with empathy and help make sense of difficult situations. That really sparked my desire to pursue therapy-to be that support for others. I ultimately believe that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes. I understand how very important it is to feel heard and understood, and I am committed to creating that space with you. I will listen without judgment and make sure I clearly hear your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I will ask questions to further that understanding and reflect back what I hear so that you know I’m with you in this process. What I want for you is to feel heard and understood, and at any time if something feels misunderstood, please let me know because it is important to me that you feel validated and respected throughout this process. We go at your pace, and I am transparent regarding the process, goals, and any obstacles. Trust means I’m here for you with no judgments and that I truly care about your well-being. Our work together will be a collaboration in which we explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. Honesty is the best policy-if something isn’t working, I encourage you to let me know so that we can make an adjustment. Most importantly, this is a safe space where you are heard, respected, and valued for your unique experiences.

Have you ever wondered if life could feel less stressful or more fulfilling? Whether you’re in school, starting your career, or navigating life as a first-generation adult, I’m here to support you. Together we’ll find practical ways to handle challenges, build coping skills, and help you feel more confident and resilient, one step at a time. During our sessions, you’ll have a caring, judgment-free space where your story matters. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven approaches to help you shift negative patterns, tap into your strengths, and make meaningful progress toward your goals. Ready to find out if we’re the right fit? Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I accept insurance and sliding scale. I offer flexible telehealth so starting therapy is convenient and accessible. Let’s connect and take your next step forward together.

I am inspired to work in the field of mental health care because of my passion for fostering meaningful change in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. My dedication to helping individuals build on their strengths and navigate challenges allows me to empower them to heal, grow, and thrive. Guided by empathy, I aim to create a space where people can feel understood and supported in their journey toward better mental health. To ensure clients feel heard and understood in sessions, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves openly. I approach each session with empathy, active listening, and cultural humility, tailoring my support to honor the unique experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ2+ individuals, low-income families, children, adolescents, and trauma survivors. By validating their feelings, recognizing their strengths, and fostering trust, I help clients feel truly understood and supported throughout their journey. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by creating a warm, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where clients feel safe to share their experiences. I honor each client’s unique strengths, values, and goals, fostering a sense of partnership and mutual respect. This approach helps establish a strong foundation for meaningful growth and healing, allowing clients to feel supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process.