Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hi! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with college students across a range of concerns. College can bring a lot of unexpected demands, struggles, and adjustments, and it can be helpful to speak with someone who can join alongside you as you navigate these experiences. While I specialize in working with stress/anxiety, neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD and Autism), and relationship conflict, I've worked with many college students on their overall adjustment to college life. My therapeutic approach is warm and relational and is grounded in an attachment-based framework. In therapy, we often include a focus on both deepening insight and self-understanding (answering the "why?" questions) with practical tools and strategies you can use to get you to where you want to be (supporting you with the "what now?" focus). I use a self-compassionate lens in my work and integrate evidence-based approaches that are tailored to your individual needs. If you'd like to learn more about my approach or see if we could be a good fit, reach out today for a free consultation call. I look forward to speaking with you.

For over 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, adolescents, adults, families, and athletes through life’s challenges. From working with at-risk youth and facilitating therapy groups to providing individual psychotherapy and supporting athletes through injury and transition, I’ve witnessed the incredible resilience people carry — even during difficult seasons If you’re feeling disconnected from yourself, navigating identity shifts, recovering from injury, or carrying the impact of past experiences, you’re not alone. As a former collegiate and semi-professional athlete, I understand how deeply identity, performance, trauma, and physical experiences can shape how we see ourselves and relate to our bodies. You deserve a space where all parts of that story are welcome. My specialization is in Somatic Psychotherapy and Exercise and Sport Performance. This approach recognizes the powerful connection between mind and body. Together, we’ll increase awareness of how your body responds to stress and emotion, helping you build trust in your intuition, develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself, and feel more grounded and confident. I aim to create a supportive, collaborative therapeutic space where we work at your pace, build on your strengths, and develop coping strategies aligned with your values. My goal is to help you feel empowered in your healing process and more grounded in your everyday life.

Hi! I'm Justine Short, MS, LMFT. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. For over 10 years, I continue to have a passion for helping people in finding their inner strength in order to make positive and lasting life changes. I view my role as a therapist to walk alongside and guide others to reach their full potential. My desire is to help others become self-aware, feel confident, and reach for hope so that they can thrive in their everyday lives.

I am a licensed psychologist and certified Hendricks Big Leap Coach. One of my specialties is working with both young adults and adults, providing care for individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. In addition, I work with people who are struggling with career, academic, and sports related issue, and who want to gain clarity on next steps and or enhance their performance and well-being. I have extensive experience with somatic (whole body), client centered, and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) techniques, and have been a licensed psychologist since 2009. My treatment approach is rooted in both evidence-based practices as well as whole-body education and coaching. My academic path has included attending community college before transferring to UC Santa Barbara, where I obtained a B.A. in Biological Sciences. I then earned a M.A. is Transpersonal Psychology and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (now Sofia University). Additionally, I earned a Big Leap Coaching Certificate and completed the Leadership and Training program at the Hendricks Institute. I completed by pre-doctoral internship at Santa Clara University’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Center providing counseling services to college students. After completing my post-doctoral residency at Kaiser Permanente, I worked at a large hospital setting for 5 years where I became EMDR certified which has become a crucial part of his practice and my clients’ success and progress. In addition, I became certified in body-mind coaching, and this also has become an important part of my practice and facilitating personal and professional growth for his clients. My main goals for my patients include reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving overall well-being, and promoting personal growth and resilience. I believe that if my clients are committed to solving their primary issue, concern or potential, then they can overcome any obstacle. I have an unique view and experience with client-centered and somatic psychology that results in long-lasting behavioral changes, improved self-esteem, and enhanced well-being. I have excelled in my practice because I am passionate about helping (with their permission of course) my clients achieve their goals by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I enjoy spending time with my children and wife. I’m also an avid outdoor enthusiast, enjoy watching baseball games, and traveling and exploring different cultures. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of my clients and want to assist in empowering them to reach their full potential.

We at Affirming Therapy Center are offering TeleTherapy services (by phone or video sessions for individuals and by video sessions for relationship therapy). If you have circumstances where TeleTherapy is too limiting for your mental health care needs, we are also offering the option of in-person sessions, along with additional safety protocol and procedures in place. We understand that you may feel anxiety and stress from the uncertainty of your situation, or depression from isolation, and that you may be experiencing relationship challenges or struggling with being single in a time of social distancing. If you need additional support and are looking to start therapy, please reach out to us. We are here for you! Move from what’s now to what’s next. If you are like most people, there’s no magic moment when you find yourself saying, “I’m ready for therapy.” But there comes a time when you begin to get tired of living with things the way they are, and enough is enough. If this is where you find yourself now, you are ready for what’s next. Like any first step on a new path, the beginning of the therapeutic journey may feel unfamiliar. We know, because we have traveled this road to find the whole places in ourselves. If you are looking for more or longing for change, we can help you start the process and walk that path. Visiting the Affirming Therapy Center website indicates that you are seeking a more fulfilling and satisfying life. We can guide you as we move forward to your better place. Contact us now to get started!

At Patch Counseling, we specialize in working with students and young adults who struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, burnout, and the pressure to constantly achieve. While these patterns often begin as strengths, they can eventually lead to stress, anxiety, self-doubt, and difficulty maintaining balance. We provide a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where clients can develop healthier coping strategies, strengthen self-compassion, establish boundaries, and build confidence in their own voice. Our approach combines evidence-based skills with mindfulness and practical tools to help clients manage stress, maintain motivation, and create a more sustainable path toward their goals.

I like to work with motivated and intelligent clients who want to grow and excel. I take a strength-based approach and focus on identifying themes and patterns in your life and coming up with a concrete action plan.

Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties. I provide a warm, supportive, and interactive environment to explore and resolve your concerns by understanding their origin, acquiring the skills to utilize, implement, and attain the changes in your life that you want to achieve. Personal growth is the outcome, which enables happiness and success to follow. Each person is unique and the treatment method(s) that are utilized reflect this fact. I am highly skilled in a variety of clinical treatment methods and we will incorporate one of more of them during our work together. I look forward to helping you to become the person that you want to be.

Very often feels that if one area of your life is going well, another takes a nose dive. Often the clients I work with are determined, successful and focused but still, something feels like it is not correctly aligned. Many of my clients struggle with relationships, feeling comfortable with others, anxiety and depression. College is a formative time but can very often feel that you are alone trying to figure everything out: what do I want to do? How do I separate what I want from what my parents, friends, professors or peers want? Do I feel ready to be an "adult?" Therapy can help you figure out who you are and where you want to go. Most importantly, meeting with a therapist can help you make sense of it all.

Dr Richa Bhatia is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with 15 years of clinical experience, including serving as faculty at leading universities such as Dartmouth College and Stanford University School of Medicine. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She strives to provide high quality care in a warm, empathic, patient centered manner. Her practice focus is providing psychiatric and psychotherapy care to individuals suffering from Anxiety, OCD, maladaptive perfectionism, and/or adjustment difficulties in response to life stressors.​ Dr Bhatia provides a comprehensive evaluation to understand a patient’s unique concerns, needs and strengths. She strives to gain an understanding of each person's emotions, beliefs, life challenges, values, past experiences, and other factors that may be contributing to their present situation. Treatment may also involve understanding biological factors such as the potential effect of medications and/or medical conditions on your mental health where applicable.     She utilizes various psychotherapy modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy (insight-oriented), mindfulness based interventions, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and acceptance and commitment therapy. Medication management, where needed, is nuanced, with close monitoring, using shared decision-making. Starting a medication is a collaborative decision that is approached with nuance and thoughtfulness, aiming for the lowest effective doses. Dr Bhatia attempts to keep the medication regimen as simple as possible and has often helped simplify patient's polypharmacy regimens when indicated.

What To Expect At Your Visit: Walking Together Down the Path To the Life You Desire Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and during sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging the adoption of new attitudes and behaviors to create the outcome YOU desire. We have the tools and professional experience to help you get on your ideal track.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to support people in a wide range of settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, residential programs, and homeless shelters. These experiences have allowed me to work closely with individuals facing many different challenges and life circumstances. Working across these environments has helped me develop a flexible, compassionate approach to care. I’ve learned how to meet people where they are—whether they’re in crisis, navigating major life transitions, or working toward long-term healing and stability. My background has shaped my ability to provide thoughtful, personalized support that is grounded in real-world experience and a deep understanding of the complexities people face. I specialize in general mental health, anxiety/depression, substance abuse, and Christian centered psychotherapy. Therapy is a space for growth through trust, curiosity, and reflection. I use humor, metaphor, and insight to guide exploration with compassion, seeing vulnerability not as weakness but as fertile ground for healing, self-awareness, and resilience. Together, we'll explore root causes and develop a practical plan for change. Many notice symptom relief within weeks and continue to make steady progress, gaining a stronger sense of control and connection in their lives. Together, we'll explore your unique path toward well-being.

Hi, I'm Cienna! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. Ever since working in Orange County, I've become passionate about helping college students/young adults. From 18-30 is such a special time, but can also come with a lot of ups and downs. I've learned so much during my 20's, and I love to help others navigate similar challenges. In my work, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and a lot of mindfulness education. I believe that therapy is best when clients are seen holistically. I am Level 3 Trained in Somatic Experiencing, which helps me utilize the body as another tool in healing. I am also a person-centered therapist, which means I really want to specialize my treatment based off each unique client. I believe that you and I are equals, and we work together so that you have the best experience possible. I cherish the therapeutic relationship and am constantly honored and humbled by the work I do, and the ways clients allow me to join them in such a special way. If you're wanting support with~ -dealing with depression/anxiety -navigating romantic/platonic/familial relationships -finding who you are and understanding yourself better -figuring out what you want in life -balancing responsibilities and self-care -building a stronger relationship with yourself ~then I'd love to hear from you! If you think I'd be a good fit, reach out and we can talk further on how I can best support you.

Accepting Clients in person &Video. I help individuals with finding a new perspective and living until they can feel alive again. My focus is attachment based. I implement therapy tools according to what your needs are. I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ) trained and trauma informed. I do Sand Play and implement Expressive Art Therapy as well. I work with anxiety, grief loss, trauma, and relationships providing a safe space for you to process. My trauma support group is ongoing and goes for 8-10 weeks . If you are interested in a free consultation to see if we are a good fit for your needs please reach out to me. I look forward to working with you.

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Deciding to engage in therapy is an important step in one’s life and I am honored by the opportunity to join in this journey with you. My work with clients begins from a place of genuine curiosity and authenticity. As a relational-cultural narrative therapist I believe that the person is not the problem. The problem is the problem and we work together to develop and implement effective tools aimed to address the problem. People are also defined by stories. When these stories become problematic, people can become stuck. Together we will examine these stories and help you develop new and healthy stories for your life. Deciding to engage in therapy is an important step in one’s life and I am honored by the opportunity to join in this journey with you. My work with clients begins from a place of genuine curiosity and authenticity. As a relational-cultural narrative therapist I believe that the person is not the problem. The problem is the problem and we work together to develop and implement effective tools aimed to address the problem. People are also defined by stories. When these stories become problematic, people can become stuck. Together we will examine these stories and help you develop new and healthy stories for your life. In my work, I engage in culture-centered practices, where the role of culture is seen as integral in understanding one’s journey. While relational-cultural narrative therapy guides my work, I also incorporate other evidenced-based practices and cognitive behavioral therapy to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors. I am deeply committed to working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color) and LGBTQIA+ populations. I look forward to the opportunity of hearing your story and working with you.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

One of the greatest gifts I've received in my 19+ years of private practice, has been to witness individuals as they move towards healing, and discover a more fulfilling, whole life. The hold an eating disorder, anxiety or trauma can have on a life is profound. To watch the grip loosen, and healing emerge, is very moving. I enjoy learning, and collecting new tools and skills to help my clients. After I obtained my MSW from New York University's School of Social Work, I completed postgraduate training in eating disorders and body image issues at the Women's Therapy Centre Institute, and in Trauma Studies at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy. In addition, I completed a three-year training in Somatic Experiencing, and have assisted at professional trainings, helping other therapists to learn the model. I've led eating disorder groups for New York University's Counseling Center and various non-profit organizations, and have served as both a lecturer and group case consultant on eating disorders and trauma at postgraduate institutes in New York City. Interested in creating a culturally and spiritually sensitive practice, I completed a two-year program studying the world's major faith traditions, in an effort to better understand my clients from all backgrounds. I do not take any insurance. My fees range from $150-175 based on need, and I do not presently have a sliding scale beyond that range. If you have questions, or would like to request an appointment, please feel free to contact me. I offer ONLINE ONLY therapy in CA, CO and NY.