Therapists for college students near San Francisco State University

Hello, my name is Jose Quiroz-Novela, and at the core of my work is the belief that healing happens in safe, affirming, and collaborative relationships. I am especially passionate about working with first-generation young adults, those within the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals balancing multiple cultural identities. I understand how systemic pressures, cultural values, and lived experiences intersect with mental health and with this foundation, I aim to provide a nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your experiences with honesty, self-compassion, and curiosity. In addition, serving as an adjunct instructor allows me to stay closely connected to current research, developmental theory, and emerging conversations in the field of mental health. My approach integrates Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help clients better understand their patterns, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect with their resilience.

What inspired me to become a therapist was my own personal experience with therapy as a young child. I wanted to help other people with their journey to become mentally healthy, mindful, and self-aware for a new lifestyle that is encouraging and fulfilling to them. My goal is to create a safe space for clients during sessions by being an observant, nonjudgmental, and an empathetic therapist. My philosophy is “Aim Small to Hit Big”, which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.

My therapy specialties are Anxiety, Addiction, family members of those with Addiction, Substance abuse Recovery and Trauma. I use a specific Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) material from a Rand Corporation Study on mood disorders to treat anxiety and related issues. I utilize an evidence-based therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat trauma or related issues. I worked in high quality treatment centers for 14 years as a therapist so I know a lot about addiction related issues. I am also a certified Life Coach.

Anxious, Overwhelmed, and Wondering: “What’s Happening to Me?” The truth is, this isn't laziness. It’s not a character flaw. And no — you're not broken. For many people with ADHD and anxiety, this cycle of procrastination, panic, and self-criticism becomes so normal, you don’t realize how deeply it’s running your life. You’re doing your best to hold it all together on the outside… but inside, it’s chaos. If you're a young, career-driven person who’s always been the “high achiever” or “the one who figures it out,” this moment of burnout can feel like hitting a wall — and not knowing how to get around it. Therapy That Helps You Live Without the Constant Inner Critic You don’t need more worksheets. Or another morning routine from Instagram. You need real connection — and some space to breathe. In our work together, therapy won’t feel like another task to complete or a performance to nail. It’ll feel like a break. A breath of fresh air. A place where sarcasm, humor, and being 100% yourself are not just allowed — they’re welcome. I help people like you: smart, creative, driven individuals who are so tired of anxiety and ADHD running the show. Together, we’ll start untangling the thoughts that keep you in panic mode and help you reconnect to yourself — the self that isn’t always in survival mode.

Being a man in the modern world can be tough, especially if you’re carrying the added burden of anxiety, OCD, trauma, or related issues, or if you’re navigating life as a neurodivergent man. Maybe you’re struggling with constant rumination, which keeps your mind and body on overdrive, draining you of your precious energy. Activities you once enjoyed may feel like chores. Self-doubt might rear its ugly head in the form of harsh self-criticism, over-cautiousness, perfectionism, or an excessive fear of failure. Relationships may become strained, leading you to excessively seek others’ approval, hide behind a mask to avoid taking social risks, or withdraw from others altogether. Left untreated, anxiety, OCD, and related disorders may lead to: • Mental symptoms such as worry, shame, and a lack of concentration. • Physical symptoms such as exhaustion, digestive issues, and muscle tension. • A lack of clarity around your purpose and direction in life. • Problems in your social life such as loneliness, social anxiety, and a lack of assertiveness. Life doesn’t have to feel this overwhelming. Change is possible. Imagine waking up with greater clarity, making decisions with confidence, and having the freedom to pursue what truly matters to you. Therapy can also help you build more authentic relationships, express yourself more confidently, and make choices based on your values rather than fear. As someone who has faced many of these struggles myself, I understand first-hand how exhausting they can be, and I have applied many of the principles I teach in my own life. Since 2016, I have specialized in helping men overcome anxiety, OCD, and trauma, while also helping neurodivergent men better understand themselves, harness their strengths, and navigate life’s challenges. I draw from both practical approaches such as CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention, while also integrating experiential approaches including mindfulness, somatic therapy, parts work, and hypnosis. If you’re struggling and you want to transform your problems into power, contact me for a free consultation.

I'm a therapist because I've had my own process with therapy. It takes strength to reach out, and I'm so glad you're here. I believe therapy can help, and that weekly sessions are only part of the picture. True growth and healing happens in applying what we talk about to your life outside of sessions. Like recovery, the therapy process is nonlinear, and the road can feel dicey before it starts to even out. I am honored to sit with my clients in the uncertainty and hold space for this, until the light begins to show through. I specialize in helping my clients with connecting to emotions, managing anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, perfectionism, and trauma. I'd love to chat with you to learn more about what brought you here, and how I can help.

* 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!

Feeling lost, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, alone? Figuring out how you feel, what you want, or who you are is just plain difficult, especially in the world we're living in now. Add to that a difficult personal history and doing 'well' can feel nearly impossible. You don't have to carry this all on your own. I became a therapist through my work in the arts and teaching meditation. I help clients develop a healthy inner life, relate to others deeply, and find meaning in their lives. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, Buddhist-based, and creative. My specialties include relationship issues, life transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, and existential dilemmas. I work with individual adults, couples, and facilitate interpersonal process groups. If you’re struggling with relationship issues: connecting with yourself or with others, experiencing grief, anxiety, or depression, or suffering through an existential dilemma, please reach out.

I graduated with a BA in Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou). I earned an ADN from Santa Monica College, Masters in Nursing Education from Phoenix University and PMHNP Post Masters Cert from Maryville University. I worked inpatient for about 3 years then switched to education. I have been an LVN instructor and director of nursing. I developed the Mental Health course for the ADN program. I taught ADN students and later became the Director of Nursing. I finished my PMHNP certificate while I was the ADN director then switched to working at Foresight full-time. I am inspired to work in mental health to improve others’ quality of life. I collaborate with my patients to come to a mutually accepted treatment plan. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: first responders, men’s issues, veterans care, binge eating disorder

I became a therapist because I believe everyone should have access to a safe space where they can feel truly heard and seen. Life’s challenges may have you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or wondering why certain patterns keep repeating. My goal is to provide a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space where you can feel supported and understood. I strive to ensure that clients feel heard by providing a non-judgmental perspective and supporting them in reconnecting with themselves in a deeper and more compassionate way. I also regularly encourage clients to share feedback and discuss any concerns they may have about the therapy process. In sessions I work to build trust and a therapeutic alliance by providing a warm and welcoming space and stressing collaboration and the client’s role as the expert in their life. I’m passionate about working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, relationship challenges, and identity related concerns. I use humor, warmth, cultural sensitivity, and curiosity to help clients gain insight into their experiences and make deeper connections with parts of themselves that they have been struggling to access. I enjoy sharing my belief in the power of routines and spending time in nature when possible, even if it’s just sitting by your window or in your yard or patio and soaking up the sun because these small habits can help alleviate at least some of our day to day stress. This often helps clients become aware of things they are already doing or may have done in the past that can have a positive effect on their well-being.

I specialize in Substance Use and Trauma. I work with individuals, families, and provide support for partners and spouses of those struggling with Substance Use. Often underlying trauma, mental and physical disorders, stress and shame, fuel substance use, so without addressing those underlying forces its very difficult to manage your life and break free from addiction. I will come along side of you and provide a safe place to process, an individualized recovery plan, tools and insight through education, and together through discovery we will set goals around breaking free from those underlying issues that drive substance abuse as well as breaking addiction itself. Please check out my website for more information: www.myrecoveryworks.org

I hold certification for integrative psychiatric care and ADHD treatment. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from State University of New York Upstate Medical University where I received comprehensive training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of psychiatric care. My education equipped me with knowledge of mental health disorders, advanced clinical skills, and evidence-based treatment approaches. This rigorous academic background, combined with hands-on clinical experience across diverse settings, has prepared me to offer compassionate and effective care to individuals with a wide range of mental health needs.

Hi, I'm Chris! Im a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with nearly a decade of experience working with diverse populations, including children and adolescents, homeless veterans, individuals struggling with substance use, and almost everything in between. My professional journey has equipped me with a deep understanding of relational dynamics and effective therapeutic techniques designed to alleviate distress in it's many forms and flavors such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and life-cycle transitions. I am passionate about helping clients navigate life's challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Are you struggling in your current relationships? You’ve noticed you put other people’s needs first, are unable to say “no” even when it hurts, get attached too quickly and worry people will leave you. If this is you, together we can explore, understand, and navigate the challenges that you’re currently facing in your relationships. You will learn how to set boundaries and learn skills that will help improve your self-esteem. Know that you're not alone.

It’s important to me that my clients feel that the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. The first session is free to make sure we click and I can provide referrals in the event that you’d rather see someone else. I have personal experience with many of the issues I treat which makes for a relatable and nonjudgmental experience.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist and Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. For me, being a physician is more than a profession—it is a vocation to help indviduals flourish. My practice is devoted to students and young adults seeking thoughtful, individualized psychiatric care that extends beyond symptom relief. I provide comprehensive evaluations that consider medical, nutritional, lifestyle, and psychological factors—including laboratory testing when clinically appropriate—to identify the contributors to emotional and cognitive health. I also specialize in evidence-based de-prescribing for patients who wish to reduce or discontinue psychiatric medications for anxiety, attention difficulties, or substance use disorders. My approach is guided by precision, humility, and restraint: using the least intensive intervention necessary while drawing upon the full breadth of evidence-based medicine. Depending on each patient's needs and goals, I integrate psychotherapy, nutrition, lifestyle medicine, exercise, targeted supplementation, and, when appropriate, carefully selected medications into a personalized treatment plan. In addition to my clinical work, I have presented internationally on psychiatric deprescribing and medical ethics. My work has been recognized with awards from the American Psychiatric Association, the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions, the American Psychoanalytic Association, and other leading professional organizations. I am the Founder & Medical Director of Verigrate Health. I am licensed to serve patients in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Lousiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin.

I understand the unique needs of various families with their children. I have a strong background in working with children as a school-based therapist, school counselor, and administrator in the school setting throughout Los Angeles County. I specialized in catering to the unique needs of working mothers, adolescents, couples seeking counseling, and families with special needs children. I am skilled with various counseling services, including individual therapy sessions, couples therapy, family therapy, parenting support programs, and relationship coaching. As a single mother of two, one with special needs. My strong suit is to specialize in working with mothers with understanding and compassion by genuinely providing empathy with the stress and pressures of balancing work and family life. I understand the needs of adolescents and recognize their need for supportive mental health services in the areas of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral concerns that they cannot manage on their own. I can support families by understanding these needs and helping parents build a strong relationship with their child/children.

I am a dedicated and compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The majority of my nursing career has been in high-acuity psychiatric settings, including psychiatric emergency, crisis stabilization, and inpatient behavioral health. I initially started in the Emergency Department as a new graduate nurse, where I realized that what truly resonated with me was the mental health aspect of patient care. Throughout my psychiatric nursing career, I’ve worked with diverse populations from pediatrics to geriatrics, managing complex psychiatric and co-occurring disorders, emergency crisis situations, and facilitating stabilization through comprehensive and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. What inspires me to work in mental health is the resilience of the people I’ve cared for, many of whom have faced immense stigma, systemic barriers, or trauma. I’ve seen how transformative it can be when someone feels genuinely heard and respected, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, foster youth, immigrants, and those struggling with disabilities or homelessness. Mental health is the foundation to overall health and quality of life. The ability to support someone in their most vulnerable moments and witness their transformation is what continually inspires my commitment to this field. My approach is person-centered, intentional, non-coercive, and collaborative care. I strive to meet each patient exactly where they are, emotionally, culturally, and developmentally, and aim to prioritize their autonomy. I offer compassionate, evidence-based guidance, especially in medication management, to ensure that each treatment plan aligns with the patient’s values, readiness, and recovery goals. My goal is to support patients in building lives that are not just symptom-free, but fulfilling, meaningful, and self-directed.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Seeking therapy can be a difficult and intimidating process, and usually this decision comes from experiencing adversity. While the process of healing is difficult, the reward of emotional wellness and positive growth is worth the journey. Therefore, my goal is to provide a space that is welcoming, safe, and supportive in order to assist you in creating long-lasting change. I welcome individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and belief systems. I have experience working with children and adults in many areas such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, blended families, parenting, grief and so much more. My work consists of using a person-centered approach while incorporating other modalities. This means I aim to provide you support, acceptance, and empathy while assisting you to work on areas that are not allowing you to become the person you would like to be. For some, that means being fulfilled, in loving relationships, living a positive life, etc. I welcome the opportunity to walk alongside you to help you process experiences, reclaim skills you already possess, or assist you in creating a new set of skills that will help you maintain your therapeutic progress. Together we can develop a treatment plan that is centered on meeting your specific needs in a way that centers the whole person.