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Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

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Teva Johnstone, LCSW, OCD Specilaist

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
In-Person & Online
Ventura, CA

I treat individuals who are experiencing symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and related conditions of anxious rumination and Binge Eating Disorder. My treatment approach primarily uses the gold-standard of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) while also addressing issues of trauma and family dynamics. I approach the treatment of emotional eating with a skills based DBT approach, emphasizing emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance.

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Jenn Garlock

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online
Portland, OR

*I am licensed in both Oregon and California, and can work with students who often travel between these two states.* When the difficult experiences from your past are still impacting you, it is hard to know what to do. You don’t feel like yourself anymore, and the people in your life are starting to notice. It’s coming out at school, in your relationships, in your mood. You might be thinking “I just want to move on with my life. Why can’t I just get over it already?” But no matter how many times you try to move on, you still feel stuck. You are not alone. I help people who have been through difficult childhood, sexual, and relationship experiences look at how their experiences have shaped them, and explore how to take back their lives from the memories that have burdened them for so long. Together, we will build a trusting relationship where you can feel safe enough to explore what happened in your life, the ways you have survived, and how to get unstuck so you can move toward a life that is ruled by you, and not by the past. I know reaching out to begin therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I offer a free 15-20 minute consultation, where you can share a bit about what you would like to work on, ask me any questions you may have, and we can determine whether I might be a good fit for your needs. Please feel free to visit my website to learn more and schedule a consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!

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Lisa Tahir LLC

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online
Los Angeles, CA

* I'm licensed in Louisiana and California and would love to work with you virtually by FaceTime, Zoom, or phone. Reach out at 504-261-4443 (text) * I am in-network for many health plans for students from California through Headway Therapy. You only pay your copay through the portal. Start here: https://headway.co/providers/lisa-tahir-3?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=63753 * I am a Tulane Alum and teach in the Glass Art Department. * Check out my podcast, "All Things Therapy" on Spotify and iTunes * I've written a book on self-forgiveness and empathy endorsed by His Holiness The Dalai Lama, "The Chiron Effect: Healing Our Core Wounds through Astrology, Empathy, and Self-Forgiveness." Give me a text to 504-261-4443 to start your healing journey!

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Your Best Life Therapy

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
In-Person & Online
Santa Monica, CA

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of who you really are? College can be exciting—but it can also feel like too much. Maybe you’ve always been the one who holds it all together, gets straight A’s, and never lets anyone see you struggle. But now, you're anxious all the time, you're exhausted from trying to be “on” 24/7, and even small things feel like a big deal. You might feel pressure to meet expectations—yours or your family’s—and you’re starting to wonder if any of it really feels like you. Maybe you feel like you’re constantly performing. Like you can’t ever fully relax. Or maybe you’re starting to ask big questions about your identity, your future, your values—and it’s scary to realize you don’t have all the answers yet. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with college students who are high achievers, perfectionists, and deep thinkers—especially those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, burnout, or questions around identity and family dynamics. In therapy, you can slow down, breathe, and start untangling the pressure from what you really want. We’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, more like yourself, and more in control of your life. Sessions are confidential, affirming, and tailored to who you are—not who others expect you to be. I provide inclusive and affirming care and create a space where you don’t have to explain or defend your experiences. Online sessions available for students in CA & WA. In-person sessions available in Santa Monica, CA. If this sounds like what you need, reach out. Things can be different—and therapy is a good place to start.

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Emily Ehrens

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online
Los Angeles, CA

I became a therapist because I believe healing happens in spaces where you feel truly seen, heard, and safe. My approach to therapy is warm, relational, and deeply human. I show up as my authentic self so you can feel free to do the same – without judgment, pressure, or pretense. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, we will move at a pace that feels steady and supportive for you. Together, we create a space where vulnerability feels safe, growth feels possible, and lasting change feels attainable. Above all, I want you to feel that you don’t have to carry everything alone anymore. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and genuinely understood from the very beginning. I approach therapy with warmth, authenticity, and steady presence, helping you feel supported while also empowered to grow. Therapy with me is collaborative and personalized. I draw from evidence-based approaches while tailoring our work to your unique needs and goals. I want you to feel that you are not alone — and that meaningful, sustainable change is possible. I deeply believe in nervous system resets… and I’m usually the first one to step outside for a few deep breaths.

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Erica Chavez

Marriage & Family Therapist
Online
South San Francisco, CA

As a therapist, my goal is to collaboratively work with you and empower you to overcome personal obstacles and improve your overall sense of wellbeing. I offer a safe space allowing you to openly address your concerns and develop insight and new ways to cope. 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.

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Laura Wilhoit

Psychologist
Online
San Francisco, CA

I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including a Perinatal Mental Health-Certificate. That means I can treat people who are pregnant and experiencing mental health changes as well as those who have anxiety, depression, or bipolar episodes after giving birth. I view therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist. I like to co-create an individualized treatment plan to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. Typically, I draw from a variety of approaches, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe each person has their own unique strengths and I like to use those as a cornerstone for helping them to improve their life. In addition, we can explore new skills and how those might help. My goal is to be flexible in my style and help meet you where you are at by tailoring my approach. 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.

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Pacific Coast Therapy

Group practice
In-Person & Online
Santa Cruz, CA

Pacific Coast Therapy is here to help you through life’s ups and downs. Starting therapy is a big step and we know how important it is to find the right therapist. Whether you are looking for individual therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, or therapy for your child or adolescent — we’ve got you covered. Pacific Coast Therapy welcomes adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. Our practice is based in Santa Cruz and San Jose, California. Online therapy is offered to clients statewide. Contact us to schedule a complementary 15-minute phone consultation with a therapist.

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Yesica Pantoja-Juarez

Marriage & Family Therapist
Online
Elk Grove, CA

We would work well together if you are interested in addressing relationship difficulties, trauma, generational and cultural pressures, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use emotionally focused therapy to help you better regulate unfamiliar or suppressed emotions. Are you looking for therapy for the first time? Or do you have experience with therapy and looking to continue to focus on self-improvement? As an LMFT, my therapeutic approach can help you understand how individual problems can, at times, be connected to past and current social experiences. I have found success working with individuals interested in diving deeper into their thought patterns and exploring how their early life experiences play a role in the development of their current selves. I also take an integrative approach and use relational, cognitive, and solution-oriented techniques. My goal is to provide you with a therapeutic space to explore and understand the root causes of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I utilize the power of laughter and rapport-building conversation to build therapeutic trust. I combine relaxed conversation to better get to know you while utilizing talk therapy to help you ask and answer challenging questions. 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.

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Therapy With Micah

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online
North Riverside, IL

College can feel like a lot. Classes, deadlines, money, relationships, family pressure, and trying to figure out who you are all at once. When the stress keeps stacking up, it can feel hard to focus, sleep, or even slow your thoughts down. If your head feels like it’s constantly spinning, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to power through it by yourself. I work best with college students and young adults who feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or stuck. That might look like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or just feeling off and not sure why. I offer virtual therapy for students in Illinois and California, with a focus on helping you feel more grounded, more in control, and more like yourself again. Therapy with me is practical, supportive, and collaborative. We focus on what’s actually getting in your way right now and what will help you feel better moving forward. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting. If you’re ready for some relief and want support that meets you where you are, I’d be glad to work with you. When you’re ready, you can reach out by email or schedule a first session through therapywithmicah.com.

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Burney Therapy Group

Group practice
In-Person & Online
Newport Beach, CA

We provide comprehensive psychological services, empowering you to improve & protect your mental health. We specialize in providing personalized treatment of eating disorders, trauma, substance use disorders & obsessive-compulsive disorder. We also are experts in guiding young adults through life transitions, relationship difficulties, and identity development. We believe that with the right resources, support, and commitment, anyone can succeed.

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Mitsue Karaman Therapy

Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Online
Sacramento, CA

Hi, I’m Mitsué. College and early adulthood can be an exciting time, but they can also bring uncertainty, pressure, and questions about who you are and where you belong. You may be navigating academic stress, relationships, family expectations, identity, or a major life transition, while trying to figure out what feels right for you. I offer a warm, culturally attuned space where you can slow down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and feel more grounded in yourself. My approach is relational, somatic, and experiential. I have a particular interest in working with multicultural and immigrant young adults, who are navigating cross-cultural identities and belonging. Having grown up across cultures and lived internationally, I understand that some experiences can be difficult to put into words, especially when the people around you may not share the same cultural background. Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or simply wanting a space to better understand yourself, therapy can be a place to pause, reconnect, and move forward with greater clarity.

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Araceli Bejar Lua

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online
San Francisco, CA

My work experience has been mainly with adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. I believe that experiencing hardships can be seen as an invitation to learn more about ourselves and evolve in our life journey to reach our highest potential. My philosophy is one of a holistic approach (mind, body, & spirit). With this approach, I focus with patients to explore, as well as educate, on becoming aware of behavioral patterns, thoughts, and somatic responses. My goal is to help patients increase self-awareness, increase coping skills to manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Most importantly, I provide a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment in which patients can explore their symptoms, feelings, and life difficulties. By working together through the therapeutic process, I guide patients into a path of self-discovery and empowerment to develop into healthy and whole individuals. 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.

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Taylor Chaffin

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online
Berkeley, CA

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to create a space where patients feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely heard. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, which has given me a strong foundation in caring for individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns. I also hold a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) and have a special interest in supporting individuals through pregnancy, postpartum, and other major life transitions. My approach is focused on helping people feel more confident and seen in their day-to-day lives. I was drawn to psychiatry because I’ve always been interested in the connection between mental health, overall well-being, and how deeply our experiences shape us. Working in mental health settings early in my career showed me how important it is for people to feel truly seen, supported, and understood during vulnerable moments. That experience ultimately inspired me to become a psychiatric provider and continue helping people navigate challenges with compassion, education, and practical support. I would describe my approach as collaborative, supportive, and individualized. I believe treatment works best when patients feel comfortable being open and involved in the decision-making process, so I focus on creating a nonjudgmental environment where people feel heard and understood. When working with me, patients can expect thoughtful conversations, education about treatment options, and a balance of compassion and practicality as we work toward goals that feel realistic and meaningful for their everyday life. Outside of work, my favorite role is being a mom. Motherhood has taught me a lot about patience, flexibility, and giving myself grace during different seasons of life, which I think naturally carries over into how I connect with patients. I also love spending time outdoors, trying new restaurants, and finding little ways to recharge and stay balanced outside of work. I think those moments of connection and normalcy are such an important part of overall mental health.

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Patricia Calhoun

Clinical Social Work/Therapist
In-Person & Online
Portland, OR

Hi. If you have ended up here chances are you are questioning if you need help trying to figure something out in your life. Don't close the page...You are here and that is good. Being in college can be a really difficult transition and so much harder than you thought it was going to be. Classes, grades, friends, socializing, drugs, sex, identity, expression, first time independence, and feeling home sick. Perhaps you have dealt with mental health issues before now or maybe this is the first time you are noticing something feeling different. Whatever has brought you to deciding to seek help, know you are making a good choice. Please take a moment to look at my site, and if I am not the right one for you, then look at others. Find someone to talk to today.

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Curtin Counseling

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online
Oakland, CA

Starting college — or just trying to get through it — can bring up a lot: Am I doing this right? Do I even belong here? Who am I becoming? I’d love to help you figure it out. Together we can work through the stress of adjusting to a new place, academic and social anxiety, career uncertainty, drinking or eating patterns that feel hard to shake, or trauma that’s still asking to be understood. I especially enjoy working with students nearing graduation who are wrestling with what comes next — career direction, next steps, and the identity shift that comes with leaving college behind. Before becoming a therapist, I spent years as a professor, and my research focused on identity and belonging — so I have a real passion for working with students exploring who they are, especially those navigating race, class, gender, or sexuality, or who just feel like they’re on the outside looking in. I bring both that academic background and genuine warmth to our work together.

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Joanna Farah

Marriage & Family Therapist
In-Person & Online
Long Beach, CA

You've read the books. Listened to podcasts. Endlessly analyzed your sun, moon, and rising sign. Maybe you've even tried therapy before. And yet something still feels stuck, like there is a layer underneath the thinking that no amount of insight seems to reach. Many of the people I work with are doing everything right on paper. They are the ones who keep showing up, holding it together, being the person everyone else leans on. And they are exhausted in a way that is hard to explain to the people around them. They worry they are making the wrong choices, or that everyone else has it together in ways they secretly do not. I offer relational somatic therapy that works with your whole system. Using Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and depth psychology, we'll slow down enough to hear what your body and nervous system have been trying to tell you. Rather than eliminating parts of you that feel difficult, we get curious. Whether you have been in talk therapy for years but feel a disconnect between your head and body, you tend to avoid intimacy, you are moving through a difficult transition, or you are ready to feel more present in your own life, I would love to connect. Schedule a free consultation through my website link below.

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EverHope Therapy Group

Group practice
Online
Calistoga, CA

At EverHope Therapy Group, we believe therapy should feel like a place where you can finally exhale—where you can be honest about what hurts, feel genuinely understood, and begin to make sense of what you’re going through. We work with individuals, couples, teens, and families, supporting clients through anxiety, depression, relationships, perinatal mental health, and major life transitions. Our practice is intentionally inclusive and affirming of neurodivergent and LGBTQI+ clients, because you deserve a space where you can show up as your full, authentic self without having to explain or defend who you are. Wherever you are in life, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Even in the hardest seasons, there is hope for something different.

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Paola Johnson

Marriage & Family Therapist
Online
San Francisco, CA

My deep belief, rooted in both my practice as a therapist and in my experience healing my own trauma, is that our brains and bodies have the innate ability to heal from trauma when provided with a safe enough space to connect to and experience our internal world. As human beings, we are neurobiologically wired to be in relationships with others. For that reason, I have also learned that a key aspect of trauma recovery involves being in the presence of someone who can create safety and hold space for us to explore our own internal landscapes, somatically experiencing and releasing unprocessed emotions, and the stuck survival response trapped in the body. In therapy, I take a person-centered approach—you’ll get a chance to share all of your feelings and be heard and understood. I consider my approach holistic and integrative, using interventions informed by Polyvagal Theory and different experiential and body-based modalities such as Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). We will collaborate on what approach will be helpful and when. This collaboration will help us feel on the same page and help you feel more connected to yourself and more clear and confident about the therapy process. If you are open to approaches that are alternative to traditional talk therapy and ‘ready to do the work,’ I’d be honored to hold space for you! 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.

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Kalpa Bhattacharjee, PsyD

Psychologist
In-Person & Online
Oakland, CA

I help people who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, overwhelm, and creative blocks. An additional focus of my practice is around issues related to immigration, bicultural identity, and racial and ethnic identity. In particular, I specialize in working with college and university students, highly sensitive people (HSPs), and creatives and artists. The process of finding the right therapist isn't easy, and it's a brave choice to embark on the journey towards healing, insight, and growth. A relationship with the right therapist can be life-changing. Feeling deeply heard and able to trust your therapist is essential. I believe that an empathic and attuned relationship between the therapist and patient is vital for lasting change, and that attention to the social, cultural, and political context in which you live is important for treatment. Together, we can understand the patterns that contribute to your current distress and gently shift to new ways of relating to yourself and others. It is courageous to take steps in your search for the right therapist. Have a look here and on my website to learn more about me. If it feels like we may be a good match, please contact me to set up an initial consultation call.

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