Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

Hi, this is Michael Courter, founder of Free At Heart Online Therapy. I personally am exceptionally happy with and humbled by the skill, warmth and intuition of these therapists and I’m sure we have a clinician perfect for you. Combined with highly technical training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and many other treatments, these therapists are capable of having a remarkably positive impact in the lives of their clients and in our community. Like my fellow therapists at Free At Heart Online Therapy, I continue to research and study the most impactful psychological theories available. It is this focus on our continuing studies and comprehensive training that allows our therapy clinic to offer exceptional and varied mental health services. In addition to offering full scope DBT, we are pleased to offer Internal Family Systems Therapy, where the goal is to permanently heal your trauma and completely transform your mental health symptoms. ​ So in the spirit of healing, I would like to officially welcome and invite you to participate with Free At Heart Online Therapy and/or refer those persons in your life that would benefit from a friendly, supportive, creative, consistent, and non-judgemental ear. Kind Regards, - Michael Courter

I have over a decade of experience serving young adults/adults struggling with issues related to identity, culture, addiction, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and trauma. These issues can greatly impact a person's capacity to manage school and work performance and create interpersonal/relationship difficulties. I have a specialty serving individuals from Asian American/immigrant/people of color communities.

My training exposed me to a wide range of therapeutic approaches, and I have worked with clients with major psychiatric diagnoses (7 years working in a subacute facility) and those with common anxiety and depression (decades of work life). I have long experience with university students dealing with the challenges of adjusting to overwhelming work demands and learning to navigate unfamiliar social environments. Many clients have felt that they don't make friends easily or fit in with groups. And some clients are generally insecure about whether they can succeed at a nationally rated academic institution (impostor syndrome). I work to understand what issues are most important to my clients and help them learn ways to be more comfortable with themselves and to succeed in their personal, romantic, family, socioeconomic, and academic or work circumstances. Every person has their own background and their own challenges, so everyone needs an individualized treatment. Clients with Asperger syndrome often benefit from help in dealing with social interactions and with sometimes overwhelming anxiety. Immigrants (and also people coming from remote parts of the US) may find local customs and styles unfamiliar and find help with meeting new friends and colleagues. As an immigrant myself (from Sweden), I know well what it feels like to be an outsider and have learned ways to help people adjust to new environments and different expectations. This experience has also allowed me to help many with an LGBTQ background in their family, romantic, and work interactions. Too many in our world are dealing with the after-effects of trauma in its varied forms, and finding ways to move forward and to enjoy normal relationships can be lifesaving. As a background for many clients, home experiences with one's family of origin can set the stage for ongoing unhappiness and failed romantic relationships, and this should not be a permanent obstacle to a satisfying and fulfilling life.

You may be trying to figure out who you are and what you want to do, possibly for the first time. You are probably navigating big changes in relationships, whether that is making new friends, figuring out where you fit in, communicating with professors/advisors, or redefining relationships with family. It can be overwhelming. While this can be an incredibly stressful time, it is also full of possibility and growth. You don't have to figure it out alone - therapy can be a wonderful place where you can slow down and get the support you need and deserve. I absolutely love working with undergraduate and graduate students. Many people who work with me are navigating something invisible that makes them feel different - whether that is anxiety or depression, a chronic health condition, grief or trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, or parts of your identity that may be unseen. I am especially passionate about working with artists/creatives, the LGBTQ+ community, and people who feel their emotions deeply. My style is empathetic, attentive, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I seek to create an affirming space where all parts of you that you wish to explore are welcomed. I bring careful listening and offer tools to help you feel more grounded, let go of unhelpful narratives, communicate effectively, and build better relationships with yourself and others.

I am passionate about empowering individuals around their health and healing process. I help my clients using a holistic approach focusing on the importance and role of self-care. As a professional helper and healer, I have had the remarkable opportunity to be a witness to people’s stories and to guide their journeys. Over the last few years, my approach has evolved beyond exploring thoughts and feelings because those that seek mental health services want to feel better and not just manage their symptoms. I utilize mind-body skills, activities (mindfulness, meditation, yoga, etc.) and one’s own strengths to guide goals of mental wellness and personal growth. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.

I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Resolving Relationship Challenges, ADHD, Autism Spectrum and Neurodiversity, and Issues related to Sexuality Diversity. I provide a warm skillful non-judgmental therapeutic relationship to explore your current life goals, assess your progress and identify adjustments and barriers. In the therapy work, we will design a plan forward that includes your specific emotional, physical and mental health needs. Taking into consideration your strengths and unique potential for change, the therapy will explore themes such as your self-narrative, capacity to communicate and understand your needs and desires and the quality of awareness and presence you want to experience in your life. Applying evidence-based tools and strategies, my treatment approach integrates psychoanalytic relational theory, DBT, AEDP and Somatic embodiment theory and practice. These foundational psychological treatment approaches comprehensively apply cutting edge cognitive and neuroscientific concepts to help inform the path through transformation and an overall sense of dynamic balance and well-being. You can expect to develop foundational observation skills to enhance self-awareness to improve your inner control of attention which will offer a range of new possibilities and choice points to contribute to your personal development. I will show you how to manage distressing emotions and learn effective strategies for interpersonal communication. By enhancing lateral thinking abilities for creative problem solving and executive functioning planning there are limitless opportunities to create the life you have envisioned for yourself. I am a parent of three children and a somatic embodiment enthusiast. I am aspiring oneironaut who seeks to explore and map the inner and outer atmospheric dimensions of experience. I obtained my Master's degree at California Institute for Integral Studies, a holistically oriented, progressive university based in San Francisco and I have been licensed 23+ years. I am currently completing my Ph.D. coursework at California Institute for Integral Studies in the Transformative Studies Department. My research interests include the phenomenological and hermeneutic dimensions of embodiment. I am an avid advocate for displacing human exceptionalism to elevate and advance our ethical responsibility towards the more-than-human co-experients that we share the Earth with.

I’ve had training in various modalities but ultimately use an eclectic approach emphasizing cognitive behavior therapy. I operate from the position that our thoughts strongly influence our moods and actions. My clients will gain a more intuitive understanding of themselves, better process their situation and consider which course of action makes the most sense. With some flexibility, a healthier perspective, and the right support, clients find that they are much more resilient and that situations don’t have to be as detrimental. My goal as your therapist is to support you on your path called life. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

My purpose as a therapist is to create a healing container that enables my clients to explore the full scope of their life. Through this exploration, I gently assist my clients to learn how their past life experiences shape and impact their current life experiences and behavior. This process allows my clients to integrate their new deep understanding of themselves as a means to begin living a more fulfilling, satisfying and functional lifestyle. I am passionate about supporting my clients through this process, helping them to see that their past may have shaped them, but does not define their future. Various areas that I specialize in treating consist of; trauma, eating disorders, performance anxiety for competitive sports, and difficulties surrounding faith. “There is healing in the river of life.” This quote by MacPowell demonstrates my belief that faith can be an integral factor towards one’s journey of healing and well-being. Difficult life experiences may have one questioning how they can ever feel whole again. I help my clients to explore their faith and belief systems, and to integrate their faith into their everyday life. For those who seek it, my faith-based approach to therapy helps clients feel safe and supported. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use this approach to help my clients heal from the past and move towards a brighter future.

Hi, I’m Michelle. I’m a licensed therapist who works well with students who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to handle everything they’re carrying, whether that’s stress, relationship challenges, family pressure, or emotions that feel too big or confusing. My approach is calm, real, and collaborative. I help you understand what’s happening inside, make sense of patterns that no longer serve you, and build clarity and confidence in how you move through your life and relationships. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Just come as you are, we’ll navigate it together.

Whether you're burdened by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, identity questions, transitions, or physical pain linked to stress or emotions, therapy can bring relief. I offer a compassionate space where you can slow down, be seen and heard, and reconnect with yourself and what you aspire for your life. I often use Internal Family Systems to help heal painful parts and foster self-compassion and inner harmony, and Somatic Experiencing to help regulate your nervous system and heal trauma. I also offer somatic movement therapy for those interested in deeper mind/body connection. I tailor my approach based on your needs. I have helped a wide range of people in a variety of situations over more than 20 years as a licensed clinical social worker. I strive to be an ally to people of color and to be culturally responsive. I work collaboratively and without judgment. I consider it a privilege to help you find joy and make the most of that which is in your control.

Hi! I am a licensed therapist practicing in person in Santa Cruz, Ca as well as virtually throughout the state of California. I primarily work with neurodivergent individuals (ages 13+), individuals looking to process trauma, and individuals/families looking to learn new coping skills. Take a peek at my website and reach out with any questions!

Welcome! I’m glad you are here. Are you struggling with worries, fears, relationships? Is stress keeping you awake at night, difficulty concentrating and getting stuff done--or maybe just wondering what is the point of it all? You want to feel happy and enjoy life, but issues with your self-esteem make it hard to feel secure. You want to be more successful in managing where to control and when to let go, but feel held back with anxiety, depression, and stress. If you feel out of balance, down, dealing with life craziness, or bad relationship cycles – I’m here for you. With over 24 years experience, I can help you feel better and make better choices. You are not alone. Using therapy tailored specifically to you, you can learn skills to set better boundaries, manage anxiety and panic, and quickly rebound from negative cycles. My style is warm, honest, and interactive. I value getting to know you and supporting you through all the stages in your life. I'm a licensed long time therapist in private practice and I have taught many college psych classes. I'm also a mom of 2 teens and a little ShihTzu dog.

I value the opportunity to support individuals uncover their inner strength, heal from the past, and rediscover hope. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and I am passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from culturally and gender-diverse communities. I belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported as individuals navigate life’s challenges. Witnessing the resilience and growth of individuals as they overcome obstacles is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. I ensure individuals feel heard and understood by providing a supportive environment where one can openly share their experiences. I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion. I work closely with individuals throughout your therapeutic journey, encouraging and empowering them to take an active role in your personal growth.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Has your college experience been different from what you were expecting or hoping for? I’ll help you get to the other side of what you’re going through. College is a massive adjustment that while exciting, can be hard. I love supporting young adults cope with the stressors that can come up socially, academically, and emotionally. I'm dedicated to helping my clients overcome feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and depression so that they can enjoy their college experiences. My approach is gentle and compassionate yet solution-oriented, ensuring you have the tools and support to move forward with confidence.

Dr. Brandon Heimberg is a licensed clinical psychologist in California. He specializes in the clinical and forensic neuropsychological assessment of traumatic brain injury, medical conditions and psychiatric conditions. Aside from comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, Dr. Heimberg provides evidence-based psychological treatment and cognitive rehabilitation services for individuals with attention, memory, other cognitive challenges, and other medical conditions. Dr. Heimberg earned his Master of Science degree in clinical psychology, followed by his Doctorate of Psychology at California Lutheran University. He received advanced training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) under a grant-funded DBT training collaboration between Dr. Jamie Bedics and the creator of DBT, Dr. Marsha Linehan. Dr. Heimberg further honed these skills in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in his externship at Ventura County Behavioral Health, treating and assessing complex psychiatric conditions and leading skills training groups using DBT principles. Dr. Heimberg completed an advanced clinical practica in neuropsychological assessment at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he saw both geriatric and neurooncology patients. Dr. Heimberg then completed a neuropsychology internship at the VA Illiana Healthcare System (APA-Accredited, Division 40), emphasizing outpatient and inpatient neuropsychological assessment and treatment of Vietnam-era Veterans. He returned to UCLA to complete a two-year clinical neuropsychology postdoctoral fellowship at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine within the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, performing neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation for post 9-11 era Veterans for UCLA Operation Mend, as well as complex medical and psychiatric, neuropsychological evaluations in the Medical Psychology Assessment Center (MPAC). Dr. Heimberg has been on various research teams at UCLA within the departments of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neuro-oncology, where he has co-authored papers featured in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Oxford Press Society for NeuroOncology. Additionally, Dr. Heimberg co-authored the cognitive training manual for UCLA Operation Mend's Balanced Recovery And Integrated Neuroscience (BRAIN) and Substance Abuse intensive treatment programs.

I provide individual and family therapy to adults and teenagers navigating relational challenges, life transitions, anxiety and depression. I also have extensive background working with neurodivergent people (ADHD and Autism Spectrum). I am passionate about helping individuals as they navigate life adjustments, such as starting a new job, leaving home, becoming a parent or processing a change in a relationship. I value creating a safe, open, and authentic space for people to learn more about themselves. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, collaborative and relational. I believe that our experiences throughout our lives impact the way that we see ourselves and our relationships. From this perspective, I work with clients to explore how their life experiences have impacted them. I know that it is difficult to choose a therapist. If you are curious about what it would be like to work with me, please feel free to reach out to set up a phone consultation. I look forward to hearing from you!

Whether it be substance abuse, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger or something else, I believe that with the right tools we can grow from these experiences and learn to cope. I strongly believe that everyone wants, can, and has the right, to be a healthy, happy individual who can grow and be successful. However, sometimes life gives us circumstances or unexpected events that make us feel this goal is out of our reach. I feel that therapy is most successful when it is a collaboration between the therapist and the client. I bring education and a variety of techniques while providing a safe and respectful yet challenging environment. You bring your authentic experiences and motivation to get better. Together, we work to figure out which areas could use improvement, what skills work for you, and the best ways to work towards your goals. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.

Dr. Danny Sharara is a board-certified psychologist who helps university students work towards greater meaning and fulfillment in their lives and relationships. His practice focuses on helping clients to better understand themselves in order to effectively pursue their goals and live from their values. Many of Danny’s clients come to his office when they are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, sleep troubles, procrastination, or when faced with important life decisions. Danny's practice also focuses on addressing grief, loss, and navigating life-transitions. Through warm, collaborative, evidence-based psychotherapy, Danny helps clients draw on their strengths to break out of old patterns, discover new perspectives, and build the lives they want through living from their deep values. Clients have described his approach as supportive, attentive, flexible, and appropriately challenging. Message to clients: Through having served as a Staff Psychologist at Carnegie Mellon University as well as through clinical training at the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University, Danny has been fortunate to work with students from around the world on a variety of presenting concerns. Danny has facilitated support groups for doctoral students and presented workshops on effective communication with advisors. He has also helped students overcome mental health challenges including procrastination, career-uncertainty, sleep difficulties, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, loneliness, and transitioning to life after graduating. Finding the right therapist is important but it can also be overwhelming. Sometimes we know we need help but not what would be helpful, or what the right approach would be. I encourage you to take a chance and reach out to see if we might be a good fit.

I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Across the Life Span since 2017. I had been practicing Medicine and Surgery in the Philippines from 1985 - 2004.