Therapists for college students near UCLA
I use a somatic (body-based) approach through which we enter into our inner landscape through the body rather than just through the mind. We uncover patterns and ways of being which may be stuck and not moving, and we build our capacity to move with them or out of them. There is no fixed diagnosis or “fix” here, there is movement toward a fuller expression of you within your own life experience. In addition to my lived and learned experience, what I offer to you as a client is this: an invitation to try on moving more fully with your own lived experience (trauma and pain, joy and celebration, mental health/ illness, intersectional identities, and oppressive systems) in your own body, at your pace, and with choice points.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Life is rough sometimes, and it’s so easy to feel stuck, wondering where life is going. My goal is to help you find new perspectives and new ways of looking at any situation, so that you can approach life with confidence and authenticity. Along with bringing a multicultural perspective to therapy as a therapist of color, I utilize an integrative approach of Narrative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and other modalities that fit your unique life journey. I find the greatest enjoyment in working with adults, couples, and adolescents from culturally diverse backgrounds. Areas of concern that I have extensive experience in includes, anxiety, burnout, depression, interpersonal/ relationship difficulties, racial stress and trauma, general school-work-life balance stress, helping clients cultivate a healthy relationship with physical fitness, as well as those simply seeking a bit more fulfillment or life satisfaction. I also work diligently in conducting psychological assessments and ADHD evaluations. Of special interest, my research on the psychological impact of code-switching behavior in African-Americans allows me a unique perspective on how to help professionals of color learn to cope with stress. Coupled with my passion for social justice, advocacy and the role they play in mental health, my goal is to help break the stigma of mental health in communities of color. If you feel we may be a good fit, or desire to learn more about my specialties, experience & approaches to therapy, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to speaking with you!
Many times people are taught to "suck it up", and often people compare their lives to others and think "it could be worse." However these lessons and these thoughts do not often result in feeling better. Often I work with people who put on a mask that they feel they are not allowed to take down in front of others. We work together to realize that strategies that have taken you this far, tend to stop working at some point. I do not give advice, because at the end of the day, you are in charge of where you want to go and what steps you want to take. But what I can promise, is that I'm willing to walk along side you, you can test the water out and if it does not feel safe you do not have to go in, but if it's something that you want to slowly explore, we can create a space together to do so. Asking for help is a strength, although it is not always told to us. You've made it this far! Feel free to send me an email or give me a call and you can share what has been going on and we can see if you want me to join you on your walk.
Dr. Ponting is a licensed clinical psychologist specialized in treating anxiety, traumatic stress, and depression in adults and children. She focuses on improving mental health during the transition to parenthood, including pregnancy and the postpartum period. Dr. Ponting also works with families with young children ages 2-6 who have experienced a recent traumatic event. Dr. Ponting provides individualized, culturally responsive care aimed at reducing distress and enhancing the capacity to feel positive emotions. Dr. Ponting draws from several evidence-based individual and family therapies and provides services in English and Spanish.
My practice is infused with warmth, care, and heart. Since childhood, I've held a deep curiosity for the relationships that make up our world. I greatly admire and honor these connections - whether between caregivers and children, friends, romantic partners, or animals we see in nature. This curiosity led me to become a relational therapist, where I now have the privilege of walking alongside individuals and couples on their journeys, creating an environment that brings to light the connection that has always existed between us and guiding relationships toward deeper, more resilient roots together. Integrative and relational in nature, the therapeutic work I do incorporates somatics, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness practices. I hold the belief that we all carry our own innate wisdom, and as such, I create space in the therapeutic relationship for my clients to be the experts on themselves and to articulate their needs, wants, and experiences in a safe, nurturing environment. The focus within my work is less on fixing and more on accompanying your human-ness. In addition to the work I do with couples, I am passionate about providing care to those navigating the journey to parenthood. This love for the perinatal space and supporting future and new parents started when I was a child and would spend a great deal of time caring for young children in my community and connecting with their caregivers. Since, this passion has expanded through advocacy work in the paid parental leave space and training I’ve completed as a Postpartum Doula. This beautiful time of transition into parenthood brings about inevitable change, and it is a true joy and privilege of mine to hold a nurturing space for people to process these changes, cultivate connection during a time when community is needed, and heal. I'm not a parent myself at this stage in my life, yet I feel deeply called to this meaningful work of supporting individuals and couples as they navigate these profound life transitions.
**I offer Telehealth** *Sliding scale based on income** Hi! My name is Jill Pittman and I am an alumni of SCU (undergrad & grad). Therapy Sucks. It’s time-consuming, uncomfortable, and to some, it feels like a sign of weakness. Who wants to show their ugly scary part to a stranger? The reality is – if you are seeking out therapy, it means that you are strong enough and brave enough to be willing to admit that we could all use some help navigating through painful or confusing times. It is a basic human need to have other humans witness our pain, problems, joys, and successes. I'm real. I'm approachable. I may or may not have a potty mouth. And I don't think therapy should be some stale, clinical, sterile experience. In our sessions, I'll show you how to be vulnerable and genuine by being that way myself. Let me be real with you, so you can be real with me. I'll laugh at your jokes if you will laugh at mine. I might even drop some f-bombs if you are lucky. You can even show me your favorite cat video(s) or we can listen to your favorite song. I welcome diversity including all body sizes, races, sexual orientations, gender identities, religions, sexual preferences, and especially those who may feel less welcome or accepted in other settings. I am LGBTQIA affirming, Kink Aware, and Poly Friendly. Call me today to discuss how I can be a support to you.
Escondido Family Counseling Center offers comprehensive mental health care for all ages. Our services include: Adult, Adolescent & Child Psychiatry, Case Management, Individual, Couples & Family Counseling, Mental Health Services, Psychological Testing for Children & Adults and Substance Use Disorder Services. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. To schedule an appointment for mental health services at Escondido Family Counseling Center, please call (760) 546-2838.
Anxiety, sadness, loneliness, low self-esteem, self-doubt, distress, difficulty sleeping and discomfort in our bodies are indicators that we need support. I am passionate about helping clients navigate difficult transitions, using these challenges as catalysts for healing and growth. With over 25 years of experience in various therapeutic modalities, I provide client-centered and trauma-responsive therapy grounded in compassion and empathy. It is a privilege to guide clients in processing and integrating past and present experiences. I employ Internal Family Systems (IFS) "parts work" (an approach that helps us understand and heal from past experiences by identifying and addressing different parts of our psyche), attachment theory, EMDR and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT).
Every step forward begins with a spark of hope. Whether you face life’s challenges, navigate family dynamics, struggle with difficult feelings, self-doubt, and being overwhelmed, you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we’ll uncover that sense of hope — a belief that things can improve. From there, we’ll take a meaningful journey, working side by side toward healing, growth, and renewed strength. Along the way, I’ll provide compassionate guidance, tailored support, and practical tools to help you reach your goals. My approach is collaborative, relational, and strengths-based, prioritizing a safe space, unconditional positive regard, and a strong therapeutic alliance. No matter where you are on your path, I’m here to walk with you. Every person has a unique story, and every journey is filled with opportunities for healing and connection. Let’s take that first step together.
Hello! I'm Liana Huang (she/her), and I’m a bilingual, bicultural (Cantonese and English speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #119082). Growing up as the eldest daughter of Chinese immigrants who left their world in the Pearl River Delta to pursue a more abundant life for their descendants in San Francisco, I can relate to and understand the specific struggles of children of immigrants. It’s not easy navigating the unspoken pressure of repaying our parents for the sacrifices they made, the inevitable miscommunication and misunderstandings that arise as families bridge cultures and languages, and the persistent feeling of falling short of expectations. With a deep understanding of intergenerational trauma and family of origin attachment wounds, I offer a unique perspective to my clients as a therapist who has personally experienced the challenges of growing up with Asian immigrant parents. You won't have to explain what it's like to navigate cultural differences and complex family dynamics because I get it. I became a therapist because I recognize that cultural humility, while important, does not compare to the insights and empathy gained through lived experience. Together, we can work through your struggles and heal from the wounds of the past to create a brighter future. You're not alone in this journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Dr. Cawkwell is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Having been trained at several elite institutions including UPenn, NYU, Harvard/MGH, and Stanford, Dr. Cawkwell has a specific interest and expertise in ADD/ADHD, Executive Functioning, Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar Disorder, and Early Psychosis (Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorder).
I am Anita Rao, MD, an ABPN board-certified psychiatrist trained in adult psychiatry at Northwestern University, where I had the honor of being a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, recognized for teaching medical students. I earned my MD from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and obtained my undergraduate degree in International Health from Georgetown University. I adopt an approach that goes beyond treating disorders to focus on mental wellness and whole-person health. I utilize holistic treatment modalities, including evidence-based medication management, and collaborate with other members of our treatment team to ensure comprehensive mental health care. My specialization lies in anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, with a particular focus on populations that are new to psychiatric care. I take pride in delivering accurate diagnoses, including second opinion evaluations, and am committed to educating and empowering my patients to understand their illnesses and themselves.
College can feel overwhelming when stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship issues, or life changes start piling up. You may look like you’re managing on the outside while feeling stuck, exhausted, or alone on the inside. I offer a warm, supportive space to help you better understand what’s going on, build healthy coping skills, and move forward with more clarity and confidence.
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile. As a college or university student, so many circumstances can impact your ability to move forward in your classes, your degree program, and in life. I remember those years well and understand the level of commitment needed to successfully move through these years, with as little stress as possible. Know that help is available to assist you with meeting your goals both inside and outside of your academic situation. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression and focus on women's mental health issues. I enjoy partnering with women of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, throughout California, who are pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of majors. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive. When you're ready, feel free to call the phone number listed to schedule your free consultation, to determine if we are an initial fit to work together. I accept the insurances listed and I will also provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. I offer a reduced rate for students who need it. If you are without insurance right now and will be paying cash, please ask for this reduced rate when you call.
I have been a licensed Therapist for over 25 years. I have worked primarily with teens and young adults, but also with adults up through the age of 65. Much of my current practice is with young men, supporting them to overcome anxiety, depression, interpersonal and relationship challenges, life transitions, substance and alcohol use, and other related challenges. At this point I am only providing on-line therapy/telehealth. I offer free 15 minute consultations.
As a professional counselor and family therapist who's spent the better part of the past decade helping teens and adolescents navigate the transition to college and the beginnings of their young adult lives, as well as helping international students acclimate to their new environment, I'm here to let you know that ... Despite what anyone tells you, you don't need to have it all figured out. What many people don't want to admit or face is that life is a continuous process of growth and change. However, once you realize and embrace that fact, everything else becomes much easier, more rewarding, and fun. This is what counseling for college students and young adults is all about: learning to embrace change, discover who you really are, and create the relationships and life you desire and deserve. My job as a psychotherapist is to help you explore your values and beliefs and align your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with who you really are, so you can let go of any unnecessary tension, cope with and move past anxiety and depression, communicate more effectively with others, and live a more authentic and joyous life. And it doesn't have to take a long time. You don't need to be in therapy until you're middle-aged! You decide on your goals for our work together, and we'll figure out the most effective and efficient ways of achieving them. If you're ready to embrace this time in your life, discover your personal power and feel confident and comfortable making big decisions, enjoy exploring all of the possibilities for the future, and make sure you’re on the right path for you, I encourage you to contact me today.
I work really well with individuals struggling with the transition to adulthood. Are you overwhelmed by all of your responsibilities? Feeling pressure to figure it all out right now? I can help navigate the jump from dependent to independent. Additionally, I specialize in treating trauma. I have experiencing treating victims of crime, first responders and their families, survivors of sexual assault, survivors of mass shootings, as well as bullying, car accident, and trauma induced by failure to perform. Schedule a free consult and see if we are a good match for what you are trying to accomplish.
There is nothing worse than feeling like you have become a disappointment to your family. That no matter how hard you try to navigate college, nothing you do will ever be good enough. Are you looking for a way to help your family understand YOUR struggles? To validate and support you, instead of saying, "it's just a phase, it will pass" or "Everyone has a hard time, you just need to try harder" or worse, "When I was your age I went through the same thing". I believe no one knows you better than you know yourself- even your family-and I want to help you express your needs in a way your family will hear, understand and be able to support you.