Therapists for college students near San Francisco, CA

Hello, my name is Heather Pederson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego and am so glad you are here. Seeking help can potentially feel daunting, exposing, and overwhelming. It can also be our first steps toward repair, healing, and growth. I have found that people are so very strong, courageous, and hard-working, and still need some help when things get hard. I believe therapy can be a unique chance to discover parts of ourselves we forgot about, allow healing for the tender parts, and find new ways of interacting with ourselves and our loved ones that allow for deeper understanding and connection. I work with individuals and couples who often struggle with: a feeling of something between angry, sad, and fear that doesn’t have a name, as well as feelings of overwhelm, worry and stress that gets between them and their preferred lives. I seek to create opportunities in therapy to connect more deeply with the truest parts of yourself so that you can then connect more deeply with your purpose, values, and trusted others. I am trained in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (Externship with Sue Johnson, Core Skills to become Certified in progress), a Certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, Trauma Informed Care, and a graduate of Bethel Seminary San Diego with an M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy. Please contact me with any questions you might have regarding therapy. I work with college students (extensive experience working on college campuses), couples, individuals, premarital/pre-engagement, relational distress, trauma, and anxiety.

Warmest welcome! My name is Jacky Tse and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I hold Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Multi-disciplinary Gender Studies from University of Cambridge and Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, San Bernardino. I have more than 7 years of social service experience as educator and social worker, closely working with diverse populations including people with developmental disabilities, AAPI populations, LGBTQIA individuals, families in crisis, youths and children. My therapeutic interests include perfectionism, substance use disorder, anxiety and stress management. Having therapy with me is like embarking on an exciting adventure together. We may encounter different twists and turns, ups and downs, or highs and lows, but I will be your guide in this adventure of life. I specialize in utilizing person-centered therapy by exploring your strengths, exercising empathy and motivating for self-actualization. My practice is also LGBTQIA+ affirming through an intersectional lens, and I can conduct sessions in Cantonese and Mandarin. In my free time, I enjoy singing karaoke, spending time in nature, trying out new restaurants, watching reality TV shows and playing Pokemon.

Anxiety Specialists of Los Angeles is focused on treating adult individuals suffering from anxiety and related conditions.Anxiety can be caused by an anxiety disorder such as OCD, Social Anxiety disorder, panic disorder and others.Students sometimes place unrealistic pressure on themselves which can result in perfectionism. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the treatment of choice and therapy is usually short term.

Welcome—I’m Targol. I support students, young adults, and emerging professionals who are navigating one of life’s most uncertain and transformative chapters. You might feel caught between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming—managing school, work, relationships, family expectations, identity, or just trying to make sense of it all. On the outside, it may look like you’ve got things under control, but inside, you could be feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next steps. If you’ve ever thought, “I should have this figured out by now” or “Why does everyone else seem to have it together but me?”—you’re in good company. Many of my clients share those same thoughts. In our work together, we’ll create a space where you can show up just as you are—without pressure or performance—so you can begin to feel more grounded, connected, and empowered in your life. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally sensitive—I show up with curiosity, not judgment, and tailor our work to reflect your unique values, strengths, and needs. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can feel like a deep exhale. We’ll figure things out—together.

I have been working as a therapist for 16 years and specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I enjoy working with all ages as well as with individuals, couples and families. You are valuable and you deserve to be supported. I am committed to meeting you where you are at, and helping you get to where you want to go. I find joy in offering support as you work toward healing and restoration. It is important for you to know your value and to believe you can grow. I focus on helping you realize that you are worthy and deserve to reach your full potential. It is an honor to come along side you as you work hard to reach your goals.

As a proud Latina and former teen mom, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to the therapeutic space. I’m deeply passionate about mental health and the power of healing through connection, understanding, and culturally sensitive care. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, sexual violence, anxiety, and depression. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy and empowerment. I believe every person deserves to feel heard, safe, and supported especially in their most vulnerable moments. In our work together, I aim to create a space where you can begin to unlearn shame, process pain, and rebuild your sense of self with compassion and strength. Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Spaces Therapy is a marriage and family therapy practice based in Los Angeles and virtual. Our team of highly relational therapists helps individuals and couples cultivate healthier relationships and find clarity in their struggles.

Personal wellness is an ever evolving journey in the human process. The journey begins with a choice to acknowledge an issue, stressor, or area of desired growth to create a different outcome. Whether facing a new challenge, or struggling with a long standing issue, seeking professional support can be the choice that helps empower and create meaningful change. It is a privilege to serve my clients and to help them on their journeys toward meaning and personal fulfillment. It is my goal to help my clients be their best selves, even in the midst of fluctuating circumstances. My clients describe me as easy to talk to & one who challenges them, balancing listening & feedback during sessions. I do my best to tailor treatment to fit individual needs. My clients leave sessions with tools to apply between appointments. I believe growth requires work both in & out of the session. I have more than 20 years combined experience in medical and acute behavioral social work, crisis intervention, counseling, and higher education.

I specialize in sex therapy, which means that I enjoy working with individuals and couples (or people in poly relationships) who may be struggling with any sex-related issues. The types of issues that people tend to see me for include sexual dysfunctions (like problems with orgasm, erection, or sexual pain), intimate relationship concerns, sexual orientation or gender identity, and sexual trauma. I also see folks who are dealing with other issues, such as anxiety or depression. Some of the people I work with have a very specific goal for treatment, while others need more ongoing treatment for deeper, more lifelong concerns. A lot of people struggle with some aspect of their sexuality, but they may find it difficult to talk about their problems, fears, or concerns with anyone. I am very open to hearing whatever is going on in your life and I'm not afraid to talk about sex. As a sex therapist, I know a lot about sex and sexuality and I can use this knowledge to help! It can be really difficult reaching out for the first time, so it's great that you're already looking for professional support with whatever is bothering you in your life. Please reach out to me if you think that we might be a good fit in working together - I am here to hep whenever you're ready!

Here at Rachel Wakeford Therapy, I realize that no two people are the same, and tailor my therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual. I love helping people understand the things that are holding them back with an in-depth approach. After recognizing underlying problems, clients can fully realize their strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things in a different, healthier way.

My name is Nadia. I have a dual degree in Psychology and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. The most important part of my professional philosophy is my clients are my priority. I make sure that I provide my clients and my couples with professional support and alliance in a safe space. Sometimes you might feel like you get stuck in your life and could not find a way out of it. Sometimes we all are going through various challenges or adjustments in our lives which may include dissatisfaction with our career filed, relationship, a sense of our identify, and self-image.. During the therapy process, individuals as well as couples have an opportunity to communicate and process their stressors and then explore their strengths and alternative options to develop a sense of hope, rebuild self-confidence, positive self-talk, and improve interaction with their partners and friends. I use: Person-Centered therapy: I love to utilize this model with my clients because with this model they have a space in which they can communicate and process their present emotions, feelings, and thoughts with certainty that they are being understood and supported rather than judged. Solution Focus Therapy, a tool that helps individuals as well as couples repair their distressed relationship with themselves and with their loved ones, and gain greater awareness of their emotions surrounding their stressors. This model also provides individuals with strategies to effectively cope, regulate, and transform their emotions and feelings, while building tighter bonds with the people that matter most. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps you learn how to recognize and change the automatic negative thoughts that negatively influence on mood and behavior. If you feel like you’ve found yourself in a difficult situation of your life and don’t know how to deal with it on your own, please don’t hesitate to reach me out for professional help.

Michele Ellis is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong commitment to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. With over 10 years of experience in the field, Michele has developed exceptional therapeutic skills and a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and psychological issues that clients face. Her commitment to providing individualized care allows her to meet you where you are in your journey and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Each client has a unique story, and she works collaboratively with you to identify and achieve your therapeutic goals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, general life transitions, grief and loss, end of life or any other psychological concern, she will guide you through the process of healing and self-discovery. Remember, you are not alone. Michele is here to walk alongside you and support you every step of the way. Together, you can create a life filled with meaning, purpose, and emotional resilience

My name is Diadra Smith. I am an licensed clinical therapist and I use she/her pronouns. I am a clinician who identifies as black, queer, and neurodivergent. I believe all of these intersections has given me the opportunity to see myself in these communities who are often overlooked and underserved in the field of mental health. Why I got into this field was to create a space that is safe, brave, and encourages you to help find your most authentic self. I believe in abolishing and decolonizing what therapy is “supposed” to look like and who it is "supposed" to be for. I view relationships with my clients as a collaboration, asking you for your expertise on your life while I provide guidance through empowerment and advocacy. I am drawn to working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have a passion for working with BIPOC, neurodivergent folx, and LGBTQIA+ communities. My mission is to help to heal complex traumas, environmental inequities, and address intersections of identity unique to our experiences. If reaching out for help feels scary or shameful, I’d like to offer the idea that you are on the verge of change. Acknowledging what isn’t working today is a big first step to making the changes you'd like to see tomorrow. You’re coming at just the right time. However you found your way here, I am honored to be considered to walk with you on your journey.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Dan is a Psychological Associate in the State of California. As an intern, he worked in Hospice Care where he assisted clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life changes. He was also able to help clients work through anxiety, depression, and stress. Dan provided personalized help for each specific hurdle his clients faced, such as loss of job or relationship, life transitions, and end of life concerns for self or others. Dan received his Doctor of Psychology from California Southern University and his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University Maryland. His focus in therapy is based on both Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy. In Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dan is able to help the client understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option for clients, if they desire, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, Dan helps the client to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. While some of Dan’s interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns and members of the LGBT+ community, Dan is prepared to help each and every person that he can. His experience in working with people from all walks of life and diverse age groups aids Dan’s flexibility and aptitude for helping many different people seeking help.

Welcome! I have worked with college students for the better part of 20 years. I spent almost a decade working in a university counseling center and continue to partner with several local colleges as both an off- campus referral source and consultant to their campus communities. Counseling is all about the right fit, so feel free to reach out if you’d like to talk more about my practice and whether I could be of help to your situation!

Hi, I’m Melissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma-focused therapy. I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen, heard, and supported. At The Reflection Room, I offer a calm, non-judgmental space where you can move through difficult memories at your own pace. I support individuals healing from childhood and relationship trauma, PTSD and complex trauma, anxiety, shame, and patterns rooted in the past. My approach is gentle, grounding, and centered on helping you understand your story.

To be honest, “telling your story” or expressing your thoughts and feelings was not always a great experience, was it? Maybe your words (and pain) seemed to fall on deaf ears or somehow become twisted and misconstrued—sometimes used against you. You spoke, which was good, but you were not heard… and that hurts. So you silenced yourself—“maybe I should keep quiet...nobody understands”. Well, as a woman of God (who was once silenced herself), I’ve developed a very heavy conviction to be a listening ear for others who not only wish to speak, but also desire to be HEARD. That, plus understanding, is the beginning of healing and freedom. I enjoy helping individuals, couples and families through past and current challenges using faith-integrated techniques and theoretical approaches. My therapeutic style is purposed to provide you with a safe space to identify and express how your thoughts/beliefs are impacting your emotions and behavior; and thus, your life and relationships with loved ones.

Niña Aguirre is a seasoned mental health professional with over 15 years of experience and is licensed in California. She has worked extensively as both a therapist and court liaison, serving diverse populations including adolescents, adults, incarcerated individuals, and older adults. Niña is passionate about promoting mental well-being and believes deeply in the power of human connection to foster healing and personal growth. Her approach is rooted in providing personalized, thorough care that enhances self-awareness, helping clients explore past traumas and understand their impact on current behaviors and relationships. Niña’s therapeutic style is flexible and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. While she primarily practices client-centered and solution-focused therapy, she adapts her modalities to ensure a personalized approach. Her goal is for clients to feel heard, validated, and comfortable enough to freely process their emotions. Whether a session yields small insights or significant breakthroughs, Niña ensures each experience is meaningful. She is trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), interpersonal therapy, trauma-focused therapy, crisis intervention, and mindfulness, drawing on these methods to support her clients’ healing journeys and help them achieve their treatment goals.