Therapists for college students near University of Southern California
You're ambitious, kind, hardworking, and yet, something in life isn't working out. It feels like you're trying so hard, and yet, you're stuck, or somehow falling behind in a part of your life. Maybe because of stress, a past romantic relationship, or maybe because you're feeling overwhelmed. Talking with someone about worries and circumstances to heal emotional wounds takes courage. Counseling could be intimidating and stirring. Thankfully, we offer an attentive and supportive environment that is safe, private and professional for your emotional health. If you need support, reach out. We are here to help. Book an appointment to meet with us at our office in-person, or via TeleHealth.
Do you sometimes feel stressed, exhausted, unfulfilled, or disconnected? When triggered do you shut down, have unexpected emotions, or dissociate? Do you work hard to please others and be successful, but no matter what you do, it never feels like you are good enough? Therapy may be able to help you learn new coping skills, decrease painful emotions and negative thoughts about yourself related to past events, and become more resilient. My Background and Approach: I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings while also practicing new coping or communication skills (including how to set boundaries). With a doctorate in depth psychology and training in EMDR, an evidence-based trauma therapy, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents work towards healing and growth. We can collaborate to explore the larger picture of what is bringing you to therapy and set goals. In order to help you feel safe and supported, we can balance talking about difficult topics with learning and practicing coping skills. We can explore your strengths while addressing the patterns you want to change. By exchanging feedback regularly, we can evaluate our progress and grow together. My Personal Beliefs and Interests: One of the reasons I became a therapist is because of my own recovery, which has allowed me to find joy and a sense of meaning and purpose in life. When I’m not parenting my two children or working, I enjoy reading, creative writing, and being outside. I make an effort to do something that brings me joy every day- even if it’s just by searching the night sky for the moon or talking to a friend on the phone.
Jessica C. Lief, MSW, LCSW, MLS Speciality: Eating Disorders, Body Image, Borderline Personality Disorder, Self-Harm, Substance Use LCSW and Psychotherapist Jessica C. Lief, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm, and substance use. Jessica completed psychoanalytic training through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions, and Addictions (EDCAS) Program. She also completed the advanced clinical supervision training program through Smith College School for Social Work. Her approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, feminist/womanist theories, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety, mindful self-compassion, and mindfulness. She is particularly interested in the treatment of eating disorders as a social justice issue, as they relate to people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. She is also adept at treating individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Her grief and loss work is broad but focuses on motherless daughters, maternal grief and wounding, and emotional abandonment. Jessica also works with individuals who have experienced miscarriage, fertility-related issues, post-partum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, as well as post-partum PTSD. She also works with individuals undergoing IVF and who have struggled with women’s health issues, such as Endometriosis and PCOS, as well as individuals who are pregnant and struggling with an eating disorder. Jessica’s favorite part of being a therapist is guiding each client in their transformation and witnessing each step as it is achieved. Jessica will work with the client to identify what is deeply meaningful and important in that person’s life. The client will develop concrete skills to get their needs met directly. Jessica will help the client to develop powerful, inner resources, including self-compassion, emotion regulation techniques, radical self-acceptance, and confidence. Jessica earned her undergraduate degree from Sarah Lawrence College with a concentration in literature, nonfiction writing, and French. She earned a master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice in Social Work from New York University. She also earned a Master of Studies in Law with a concentration in Health Law with high honors from UC Law San Francisco. Currently, she is enrolled in a doctorate in social work program through Simmons University. LCSW# 87286 “Jessica’s style has been described as nurturing, empathetic, and empowering. She is direct, authentic and will never blame you for your suffering. She enjoys using humor in psychotherapy.”
I work best with the misfits: geeks & nerds, punks, skaters, artists, musicians, writers, and activists. . . those who "rage against the dying of the light." My area of expertise consists in helping with difficulties in social relationships. Such difficulties include finding and sustaining healthy intimacy, healing from a painful break-up or divorce, school-related problems, recovering from major loss, and growing up in difficult circumstances. I am particularly suited to helping those who have cultivated their intellects and creativity but would now like to develop a greater awareness of their emotional world. Psychoanalytic thought informs my approach, but I'm far from being the silent, blank therapist. I think the psychoanalytic tradition provides the richest and most sophisticated exploration of how we love, work, and play.
I specialize in working at the intersection of queerness, neurodivergence, and trauma. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ and neurodivergent communities, parents, military/veterans, and those with complex trauma. I lead a queer- and neuro-affirming practice. Many of my clients are trans/non-binary, Autistic, ADHDers, and trauma survivors. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 13 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships. I know you are the expert on yourself; my role is to hold space, offer tools, and be a guide for your healing journey. I use a combination of evidence-based trauma therapies, yoga/mindfulness, and an understanding of your body's response to trauma. I strive to be aware of the impact of systemic oppression and marginalization on holistic health. I use authenticity, creativity, compassion, and humor to create a space where you can feel connection and validation. My goal is to help you feel comfortable getting a little uncomfortable, in order to move into an experience of healing. I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body. I'm always engaging in continued learning so that I can provide the most informed and updated support for you. I look forward to hearing from you and working together!
Hi there, I'm Marianna! My name is Marianna Birdsong. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with the adult population and specialize in anxiety, stress, and life changes, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Perhaps you or a loved one is feeling depressed and anxious and you are not even sure why. Are you having a hard time finding satisfaction in your relationship or do you feel like the everyday stress of being a parent, working, going to school or trying to be there for everyone is too much to handle? Are you having difficulty achieving your goals? The collection of therapists at Positive Change Counseling Center are inclusive, compassionate, strength-based, solution-focused therapists who provide support and feedback to clients in a safe and comfortable environment. We work with each client to help resolve current issues and symptoms as well as long-standing patterns or behaviors you want to change. We all face challenging times and struggle through different stages in our lives. If you are looking for guidance and support to make a positive change in your life, we look forward to working with you. Please call or e-mail to make an appointment La Mesa, San Diego, Rancho Bernardo, and Ventura All of our Clinicians offer telehealth (video) sessions. Most Clinicians are also seeing clients in-person. Please contact our front desk to inquire about in-person sessions. Clients must physically be in the state of CA during telehealth sessions.
The first step to seeking help can be intimidating and the most difficult. Therapy can bring clarity and an expanded view of what’s possible. The more we understand ourselves and our experiences, the more control we have over living a life that is congruent with who we are. As your therapist, I will support you in navigating difficult emotions, better understanding yourself and accessing your strengths so you can feel like yourself again. I specialize in treating adults who are experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I create a non-judgmental space that promotes curiosity and healing. As a registered art therapist, I’m trained in providing art-based and traditional therapy sessions. I want to help you thrive and to not feel defined by the challenges you face but the resilience you possess. If you are looking for relief from challenging symptoms or looking for someone to offer consistent care and support, I encourage you to reach out and schedule a free consultation.
I support Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color through healing and meaningful life transitions. As a bicultural therapist and child of Eritrean immigrants, I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience, with a deep understanding of identity, ambition, and belonging. My work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in empathy. I create a nonjudgmental space for women navigating self-doubt, career transitions, creative blocks, or emotional wounds who are ready to move forward with clarity and confidence. Together, we break through internal and external barriers, strengthen relationships, and build lives aligned with your values and purpose. I listen deeply, validate your experiences, and stay attuned to your emotions, while also offering the gentle accountability needed to keep you grounded and moving toward your goals. I ask permission before offering advice, so you always feel safe to show up as your whole self. I specialize in supporting students managing anxiety, stress, and personal barriers. My ideal clients are curious about their identity and open to holistic practices like breathwork and meditation. We'll work toward meaningful goals at a pace that feels right for you.
My treatment focus is on neurodivergent issues and gifted learners. Therapeutic style is evidenced and strength based, multiculturally sensitive, solutions oriented, client centered, and collaborative. You are the expert on you. My role is to facilitate and support an awareness of how to implement changes to overcome unhelpful patterns in thinking and decision making. I strive to see the whole person not just a list of symptoms. Understanding your unique background is key because therapy is not a cookie-cutter approach. Currently in network with Aetna, Kaiser Permanente, Lyra Health, SpringHealth, Sutter EAP, and Cigna in certain states. I am a LMFT in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Virginia, LPCC in California, and Registered Out-of-State Telehealth Provider for Florida, South Carolina and Vermont.
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.
Hello! Are you feeling distracted, overwhelmed, easily triggered, lacking motivation, or struggling in relationships? Are you ready for change but unsure where to start? You are not alone, and I am here to support and guide you. My goal is to help you develop effective coping strategies and reclaim your life.
Hello, I’m Alison. I help young adults who are overwhelmed, hopeless or anxious feel more in control and able to manage life's stressors and challenges. Some of the issues young adults have come to see me for include: relationship concerns, feelings of being overwhelmed, struggling to adapt to college or missing home, body image issues, life transitions, questions about gender/sexuality, and personal and family trauma. Trauma can include many things, such as relationship abuse, childhood abuse, illness, death, discrimination, and adoption issues. Using talk and somatic (body-oriented) therapy, as well as the expressive arts, I help clients connect to themselves and access resources to help them feel more at peace and in control of their lives. You will find me to be authentic, caring, and a dedicated support on your journey to healing. I bring compassion, mindfulness, and creativity to my work and consider it an honor to work with my clients. As a lifelong traveler who has lived in many places, I enjoy and value working with people from all walks of life. I look forward to meeting you.
I specialize in chronic stress and trauma that disabled, neurodivergent, queer, and trans folks and their loved ones experience. I am an anti-oppressive therapist: no AI, no diagnosis without consent, and no calling the police. I have a 3 hour cancellation policy to increase access for chronically ill, sick, and disabled folks. Together we can explore topics of ableism, grief, and identity. Family, friendship, or individual sessions. My specialties include gender exploration, chronic illness, medical trauma, and caregiver support.
From the outside, everything seems great. However, you are paralyzed by fears and worries. Your inner critic is constantly telling you what you can and cannot do, leading to indecision. Always feeling like you should be doing more and nothing is ever good enough. Every day you go through the motions, yet desire for change. That change is possible. My goal is to help you achieve the results you want and to improve your quality of life. My approach is direct yet compassionate, goal oriented, and collaborative. You want to stop second guessing yourself. You want to tame your inner critic so that you can feel confident and relaxed without always wondering what others think. You want to prioritize yourself without feeling guilty. I can help you get there by offering an alternative perspective, providing support, and encouraging you to step outside your comfort zone. I offer weeknight availability to fit into your busy schedule. I look forward to empowering you on your journey towards meaningful change and a more fulling life. I welcome you to visit my website (www.oscarescobarphd.com) for more information and contact me for a free 30-Minute Phone Consultation to determine if we may be a good fit in working together.
I specialize in women's mental health, postpartum and infertility treating trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. I provide individual, couple's and family therapy in my MIssion District office.
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.
Hi, I'm Sascha, and I offer therapy for folks in California & New York. My practice is body positive, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, in solidarity with BIPOC, and is informed by Jungian and depth psychology + Gestalt therapy. Areas I specialize in include grief + loss, life transitions, identity + sexual awakening, career development, relationship difficulties, codependency, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. Reach out for a free 15 minute phone consultation. I look forward to connecting with you.
Life can be challenging and certainly has its ups and downs, it is my passion to come alongside individuals during difficult times and strive to meet you where you are, providing support and encouragement to overcome the challenges in life. I strive to assist clients to gain awareness, understanding and control over their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Through exploration, self reflection and insight I work with clients and provide the space that is necessary to process past traumas in a safe manner and allow clients to heal in a healthy way. My approach is collaborative and client centered, I strive to establish an attentive relationship and tailor my approach to each of my clients needs and personality. Based on client needs some of the modalities I utilize include CBT, SFT, Narrative Therapy, TF-CBT, EMDR or a combination. My goal is to provide a safe environment in which you can feel heard and genuinely supported. I work to assist clients identify and draw upon their strengths. I look forward to hearing from you and working with you towards a brighter future!