Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA
Sharon Smith
Who I am I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey. Our First Session Our initial session will be a collaborative discussion. We'll begin by getting to know each other and exploring the specific mental health concerns you're currently experiencing. This will allow us to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. My greatest strengths As a dual-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive mental health care for a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and addiction. With experience working with diverse populations, I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals from various backgrounds. I'm committed to providing evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific needs, and I'm passionate about helping you achieve optimal mental health and well-being. Frequently Asked Questions What is your approach to care? *Trust and collaboration are central to treatment. I work with you to create a personalized, evidence-based plan that considers your symptoms, medical history, goals, and preferences. Care is structured, thoughtful, and focused on long-term stability and functional improvement. What conditions do you treat? *Telehealth psychiatric services are provided for: ADHD; Anxiety disorders; Depression; Bipolar disorder; Trauma-related conditions (including PTSD);Sleep concerns; Mood regulation difficulties All care follows current clinical guidelines and best practices. What medications do you prescribe? *Non-controlled psychiatric medications may be prescribed when clinically appropriate. Treatment is individualized and monitored closely for safety and effectiveness. Do you prescribe stimulants or benzodiazepines? *No. Controlled substances are not prescribed, including: ADHD stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin), Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin) This policy aligns with federal and state telehealth prescribing regulations. What services are not provided? *This practice does not provide documentation or evaluations for: Disability, FMLA, SSI, Work or school accommodations, Court or legal matters, Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters, DMV, FAA, or capacity evaluations, Fit-for-duty or surgical clearance, Workers’ compensation, Military or travel clearance Services are limited to psychiatric evaluation and medication management. How does telehealth work? *You will receive a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation followed by structured follow-up visits to monitor progress, adjust treatment, and ensure safe, evidence-based care.
Brenda Valenzuela
Brenda Valenzuela is a dedicated therapist who places building trust and engagement at the core of her practice. She takes a humanistic approach, focusing on understanding each individual's unique perspective and experiences. Brenda strives to create an environment rooted in empathy, respect, and authenticity, ensuring clients feel truly seen, heard, and understood. Her warm, inclusive style centers on meeting clients where they are, using thoughtful questions to tailor each session to their needs. Brenda is committed to fostering genuine connections, celebrating progress, and guiding clients through growth and healing. Outside of her professional life, Brenda is a mom, who enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, including her goldendoodle and fiancé, a firefighter in Southern California. She values family time, walks, farmers markets, and library visits, bringing the same warmth and authenticity to her personal life as she does to her work.
Lily Lu
Are you feeling stressed? Do you wake up moody? Is your anger affecting your loved ones? Has your addiction isolated you? I offer quality, personalized, empathic counseling to adults and teens as well as couples and families. You may come in for face-to-face appointments or use video conferencing or phone calls. My clinical focus includes: *Relationship issues *Depression and anxiety *Anger *Addictions Improve your quality of life today. You can feel better.
Jackie Ponce
I’m inspired by the desire to support every person I work with in feeling heard, seen, and validated in ways that are indispensable to exploring our individual growth and healing. While we cannot change any experiences or limitations in our history, I don’t believe it is ever too late to challenge erroneous or self-limiting beliefs that hinder us from evolving onto our best selves. I reassure that I trust my clients as the expert in their own personal experience. I seek to understand what familial, cultural, political, etc. circumstances influence their everyday experience. The alliance is built through curiosity and learning what an individual client values, what is most meaningful to them, and what they believe in. Additionally, trust is built through consistency and reliability from all parties. Trust should not be demanded or expected, but rather earned through time and a deeper understanding of what the client needs from the therapeutic relationship to feel safe.
Jessica Foley
Sometimes it's really hard for us to ask for help-especially when you're a strong, independent woman. Therapy is a great way to reach out, learn more about yourself, and grow through any challenges you might be facing. I help women who want to change their relationship with food and their bodies. I work with women in individual, group, & virtual therapy. I have a holistic approach that covers a wide range of symptoms & issues, but I enjoy helping clients who have struggled with their weight make peace with food. I love working with college women who are graduating & seeking support for the transition, and specialize in those women experiencing a "quarter life crisis". I also have a lot of experience helping women with recovering from sexual trauma. I love working with women who may have experienced an unplanned pregnancy or abortion as well, and offer an non-judgemental, pro-choice arena to explore emotions. Starting therapy can seem scary, but its brave to get some help! Make the decision to feel better today. I am an Out of Network insurance provider-contact your insurance to see if you qualify for these benefits. Flexible spending and HSA accepted as payment. Learn more on my website https://www.jessicafoley.com/
Gregory Gooden
I once heard someone doing a lecture say, “we know what we believe when we hear what we say.” This would definitely inform the kind of therapy you would experience with me. I view the client as the one who has the answers, and we’re working together to solve a mystery. One of my roles is to help my client tell the story, point out clues being overlooked, gently challenge entrenched beliefs, provide unconditional positive regard, and help the client make sense of their difficulties and their world. Our work together would be collaborative. I’m not a “sit, nod, and take notes” therapist. I’m interactive, and socratic, and relational. I view thoughts, feelings, and behaviors from a lens of curiosity; wondering what beliefs are behind them; helping to root out dynamics that help those things persist. Often we are stuck in a distorted comfort in familiar pain and we simply cannot see it without someone reflecting that in the room. I am an integrative (drawing from multiple therapeutic orientations) humanist-existential therapist; an enthusiastic cheerleader. I will bring humor and validation into the session. I’m passionate about brain chemistry. I am social-justice oriented. I am also trauma-informed. While I work in many different focuses of psychotherapy, I find that the most pervasive themes in my work with clients include: adjustment to life changes, problems with alcohol and substance use (and the way that co-occurring mental health issues interact with it), LGBTQIA+ topics, issues of neurodiversity, anxiety and depression, personality disorders, identity & esteem development, and healthy relationships of all shapes and sizes. I am experienced, both professionally and personally, working with a variety of relationship configurations and am highly comfortable talking about issues of sex positivity and non-standard definitions of families and relationships such as polyamory and non-monogamy. I am a licensed therapist, an addiction professional, a bit of a technology geek, and a fellow traveler in recovery. In addition to those things, I am Compliance Officer at an all women’s addiction treatment center where I’ve worked in various capacities ranging from counselor to director since 2010. I have also been an adjunct professor in the Master’s program at Pacific Oaks College, an adjunct professor for Glendale College’s Drug Studies program, and I served on the board of the California Association for Drug/Alcohol Educators (CAADE). I am a member of CAMFT at both the state level and in the San Gabriel Valley chapter.
Tayler Henderson
As an EMDR and DBT therapist, I help adults who experience anxiety, depression and/or a trauma. Perhaps you are dealing with adjusting to a stressor, life transition or just life in general. I strive to create a safe place for you to express your concerns, to feel heard and understood. My approach is very individualized based on your current needs. I am interested in the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and help facilitate an environment conducive to collaboration and understanding. I strive to provide you with the tools and strategies you need in order to help you achieve your goals. I believe therapy can be the most important form of self-care. I will work as a team with you to develop a treatment plan with goals to address your unique situation. As the famous BF Skinner stated, “A failure is not a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” I hope together we can work together to develop the tools to live a resilient, fulfilling 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.
Gwendolyn Carlson
I help my clients to develop new strategies that allow them to cope, heal, and pursue what is important to them. I would describe my therapeutic approach as collaborative, supportive, genuine, and goal-oriented. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. I believe it is important to learn about the relationships among our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. With this knowledge we can identify and practice a combination of acceptance and change skills to move forward in a desired direction. I am trained in the delivery of multiple evidence-based therapies, and I use my training to help my clients achieve their goals. Knowledge, science, and ongoing self-reflection guide my therapeutic approach and therapy sessions are tailored to the unique needs of each individual. 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.
Alexis Forgnone-Judd
It is important to me to provide skills, tools, and options for individuals to feel empowered in managing their life challenges on their own. I approach the therapeutic relationship from an open and honest space. I believe in building a relationship that is supportive, genuine, and collaborative as well as challenging and directive. Healing and progress are often made with a wholistic approach that can include additional support from families, communities, groups, and non-traditional healing practices. Thus, striving to collaborate in creating a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and individualized. 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.
Natalie Collins
I thoroughly enjoy my work as a therapist and witnessing the courage and resilience within each of my clients that guides positive change. 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.
Virginia Psychology
Virginia Psychology is dedicated to delivering exceptional assessment and therapeutic treatment to individuals across the lifespan. Our mission is to enhance mental well-being and personal growth for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples through evidence-based practices and compassionate care.
Emma Tasini
If you feel things in a big way, you are in the right place. You may be highly sensitive, an empath, or feeling the weight of injustices. I work with creative people who feel things deeply. I support in processing trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, people pleasing, gender expression, and sexuality. I am committed to social justice and believe mental health does not exist in a vacuum. We are influenced by the society and world around us. My approach to therapy is rooted in values of anti-oppression and acknowledging the systemic factors that impact wellbeing.
Mind Connections Psychology PLLC
College can be exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating academic pressure, anxiety, relationships, cultural adjustment, family expectations, identity, or simply feeling stuck, Mind Connections is here to help. Our diverse, multilingual team provides culturally responsive therapy with a special understanding of college students, international students, and Asian/AAPI communities. We offer a supportive space where you can feel understood, explore what matters to you, and develop practical tools for both your mental health and personal growth. You don’t have to wait until things become “serious” to ask for support. Sometimes, one good connection is where change begins.
Lawrence Leung
I am a CA-based therapist providing virtual therapy for LGBTQ+ teens and young adults with depression. I take an individualized and depth-based approach, following each client's lead and exploring how past relationships and experiences impact the present and future. I excel with first-timers to therapy, as well as folks who have been in therapy before and found the worksheet- and skills-based approaches unhelpful.
Dr. Rachel Tobi
Hi, I'm Dr. Tobi! I typically work with young adults presenting with various concerns including anxiety disorders, relationship issues, relational trauma (including narcissistic abuse), dating challenges, family issues, codependency, adjustment issues, confidence and self-esteem issues, and depression. I also provide psychological testing/assessment for diagnostic clarification, including ADHD testing (ADHD testing will be provided in-person in Orange County). My approach to therapy involves a holistic and collaborative process; I will work together with you on your personal journey of growth, change, and empowerment. I integrate multiple therapeutic modalities to best fit your individual needs, including CBT, DBT, internal family systems, psychodynamic, attachment, and mindfulness-based approaches. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a vital aspect of therapy. I will provide a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic space for you to feel understood and supported in. As we work on your goals together, I will provide you with effective tools to utilize while also helping you identify and strengthen your own internal resources. I am happy to offer free phone consultations to discuss your treatment needs and answer any questions you may have. You can call me at (949) 751-6157. I look forward to speaking with you and being a part of your healing journey!
Conscious Living Counseling
Hello. CLCC offers telehealth, and in-person sessions in the South Bay. CLCC employs a team of clinically rich clinicians who offer a variety of appointment options. CLCC has just opened a NJ practice. This office does is not contracted with insurance, but can provide superbills. The NJ location is in Marlton (South Jersey) and offers telehealth and in-person services also.
Jasmine Rollins
I am a Doctor of Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 9 years of professional work experience. My background involves working with anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and difficulties with self-worth. My experience population spans with a variety of ages and cultures, including minority communities, the LGBTQ community, and alternative lifestyles. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. By using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, we will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique, specific needs. Navigating life is tough, and I am here to support you in that journey. 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.
Ernesto Paz
I work well with a wide variety of psychoemotional problems such as anxiety, depression, substance misuse, and relationship difficulties with family, friendships, the self, or your love life. I provide holistic psychotherapy to help you create a more balanced, joyful, and fulfilling life. As a therapist, my broader goal is in helping you experience higher states of fulfillment, joy, and peace of mind - rather than simply helping you decrease the symptoms you're having. It's about happiness and each person's unique recipe for that. The backbone of my therapy approach is collaborative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also bring in elements from mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy and narrative therapy. I have years of experience working in addiction treatment which has allowed me to work with an incredibly diverse population of all backgrounds. 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.
Navneet Sandhu
Picture a supportive therapy room infused with the excitement of a treasure chest full of self-discovery. My therapy style is all about providing support, and education, and enhancing your understanding of how stressors may impact your life. In our sessions, we'll embark on a journey together, armed with curiosity and compassion. With my background in health psychology and biology, I bring a unique perspective to our care. Depending on your needs, we can process, develop useful coping skills, or do both to help find a balance that nourishes your mind and body. Together, we'll unravel the knots, celebrate the victories, and maybe even share a virtual high-five or two along the way. 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.
Lindsey Brown
I work with diverse students who are struggling with the impact of an overwhelming life event or transition. I specialize in sexual trauma and PTSD, but have experience working with students around relationship issues, emotion regulation, anxiety and/or depressed mood, body image concerns, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and gender identity.