Therapists for college students near San Diego State University
Hi! I have spent my entire career working with college students - starting initially on a college campus, then to a group practice near UC Davis, and now in my own private practice. I am currently only offering telehealth services and I am licensed in California, Florida, and Ontario Canada. I love supporting young adults and adults during such a pivotal time of life; as they navigate the transition to college, the unique challenges that come with being a college student/young adult, and the healing that can happen when you find a good fit. Whether you have a history of mental health impacting you or it's your first time ever experiencing anxiety, depression, loss, self esteem, relationship challenges (among other things) I strive to provide you with a safe space to feel heard, supported, and understood.
Currently prioritizing preteen, teen, and couple referrals! I believe that everyone has a story and that you are an expert of your lived experience. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, adults, and couples by helping them navigate the complexities of relational distress, trauma, and anxiety. I use trauma-informed approaches, including narrative therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS), eye-motor desensitization therapy (EMDR), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), Gottman, and exposure response prevention (ERP). Every client that I work with is provided collaborative and trauma-informed therapy, and each session is tailored to their specific preferences. In my work with couples, I use EFT and Gottman interventions to help partners better understand each other, reduce unhelpful cycles, and build skills that support a stronger, more connected relationship. With each of my clients, I prioritize providing safe, compassionate, and collaborative therapy tailored to their needs as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Together, we explore patterns, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels mindful and supportive of your pace. My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hello. My name is Theresa. Thank you for visiting my profile. People seek out a therapist for many reasons. Perhaps you are weary of struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, need support with increasing your self esteem, academic stress, or are struggling with relationships in your life. Maybe you’ve recently received a new medical diagnosis, are struggling to live with a chronic illness, or a challenging mental health diagnosis. Whatever your reason for seeking help, I will greet you with warmth, genuine interest, and a commitment to working collaboratively throughout the process of healing, and finding greater happiness and peace. I wish you well as you sift thru all of the profiles of therapists to find the best fit for you. I know that it may feel overwhelming, especially when you are feeling desperate for help. I assure you that should you reach out to me, you will feel an easy sense of connection and emotional safety. I look forward to hearing from you.
We now offer an Intensive Outpatient Mental health program! This program is 3 days each week and currently serves individuals who are 18+. We utilize a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to teach our patients tools they can utilize in their daily lives. Program is currently virtual. Ocean Psychiatry provides additional types of mental health services. Individual therapy, family and couples therapy, psychiatry, TMS and Spravato.
Dr. Kavita Ajmere is a Clinical Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA. As the former Director of Counseling Services at Harvard Westlake school, she works with students from a wide range of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Dr. Ajmere is especially interested in young adults and health related concerns; specifically, depression, anxiety and sleep. As a certified yoga instructor she has a deep appreciation for understanding the mind-body connection. In addition to her clinical practice she is an adjunct professor at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. Studying under Mark A. Reinecke, Ph.D., ABPP, ACT, Professor & Chief of the Division of Psychology, Northwestern University, Dr. Ajmere completed a year-long course on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy— a program that focuses on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Children, Adolescents, & Families. She has also completed a CBT program for the treatment of anxiety disorders with Dr. Patrick McGrath, Director of Alexian Brothers Center for Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders. As humans, we are complex, interesting, and deep. I believe in the powerful connection between our inner world and our mental health. My style is eclectic and inclusive. I present the best tools and techniques in the fields of psychology and personal growth that are most relevant and produce results. These include coaching and counseling models, cognitive approaches, body centered practices, spiritual psychology and, positive psychology.
I believe change, growth, and healing are possible when we better understand ourselves and the patterns in our lives. Especially with the state of the world right now, it would make sense if your goals were to feel less anxious, less stressed, more secure, more connected, and/or safer. Through our collaborative exploration, curiosity, and empathy, I believe we can find opportunities for healing, challenge old patterns that no longer serve you, and develop a greater sense of control over your life.
Are you struggling with intense anxiety, frequent worry, or obsessive thoughts? Do you avoid important activities because of your anxiety? Do you find it difficult to enjoy life and pursue goals because of these problems? We all experience anxiety sometimes, but if it interferes with your social life, daily functioning, or work I want you to know there is hope. I'm an experienced psychologist with a passion for helping people suffering from anxiety, worry, OCD, insomnia, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and depression. In the context of a caring and supportive relationship, let's work together on tools to combat these problems. Research has found Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are effective treatments for anxiety and depression. The CBT techniques I utilize will help you feel happier, content, less worried and anxious. Clients who are willing to work hard experience improvements in just a few months, and often retain these gains after therapy has ended.
Feeling triggered, dissociated, anxious, or stuck in patterns like people-pleasing or avoidance? Lost, confused, or frustrated as you navigate big questions about your identity, relationships, or future? You don’t have to figure it all out alone—I’m here to help. Your 20s are tough—full of transitions, uncertainty, and unexpected challenges. It can feel like a lot to handle on your own, but with the right support, you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. I specialize in helping emerging adults like you navigate this transformative decade. My approach is holistic and inclusive, and I have expertise in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma. I go beyond traditional talk therapy by incorporating a somatic approach, which helps you tune into what your body is holding onto. This not only alleviates symptoms like anxiety and depression but also helps you feel safer in your body, build confidence, uncover unconscious emotions and beliefs, set healthy boundaries, communicate effectively, and cultivate healthier relationships. Together, we’ll work to reduce overwhelm, boost focus and energy, and help you feel more alive, creative, and connected.
Many people begin therapy feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck, or unsure of where they belong. This can be especially true for those navigating multiple cultures, identities, and expectations at once. When family values, cultural norms, and personal needs don’t fully align, it’s common to feel pulled in different directions—or to quietly lose touch with yourself. Over time, this strain may show up as burnout, anxiety, relationship stress, or a lingering sense that something isn’t quite right, even if everything looks “fine” on the outside. I take a collaborative, culturally responsive approach to therapy that honors the complexity of your lived experience. I don’t believe there is one “right” way to feel, heal, or move forward—especially when identity, family dynamics, and cultural expectations play such a central role in your life. My work integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, family systems therapy, and person-centered approaches. Together, we will make sense of patterns shaped by your past experiences and relationships while building practical coping skills that support meaningful, sustainable change. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. During graduate training, I completed my internship at Gateway Public Schools, where I worked with adolescents ages 11–18. In this role, I supported students navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and a wide range of family-related and personal challenges, gaining hands-on experience working within complex systems that impact young people’s emotional well-being. Over time, clients often gain greater emotional clarity, self-trust, and a stronger sense of agency—feeling more empowered to live in ways that feel authentic rather than obligatory. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to choose between parts of yourself—you can bring all of you into the room. My goal is to create a supportive and affirming therapeutic space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. We will explore how family dynamics, identity development, and cultural influences have shaped your experiences, while also focusing on what matters most to you moving forward. Outside of therapy, I value humor, perspective, and taking meaningful chances in life. One quote that resonates with me is: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky — Michael Scott. This mindset reflects my belief in growth, courage, and the importance of showing up for yourself—even when the next step feels uncertain.
Many people say that the college years are supposed to be some of the best in your life, yet it doesn't feel this way to you. Somehow you are missing out. Perhaps anxiety has you second guessing everything or your perfectionism or "OCD" has gotten out of hand. Perhaps you doubt yourself, put yourself down, or get the sense that everyone else has it all figured out except for you. Life doesn't have to be this way. I get it. I used to be a college professor and worked a lot with students transitioning to college and "adult life." I also know how hard things are when you are juggling college demands with the rest of "life," which may include a medical, family/friend, or work issue or just figuring out what you want to do with your life. Reaching out to ask for help is sign that you are aware something's not quite right in your life and you hope things can be better. Our time together is focused on helping you achieve your specific goals using treatments that are evidence-based. This means I only use the treatments that we know from research are helpful. I won't waste your time or money with treatments we know don't work. With any patient I work with, my goal is to eventually put myself out of a job. Sounds like a crazy business model, right? That is because my focus is on YOU and what you need. I want you to learn the skills that you need so you can graduate from therapy and live your best life.
If you were looking for a sign to try therapy, consider this that sign. Life feels hard, and everyone and everything feels overwhelming. You just want to feel better but don't even know where to begin. You don't have to figure it all out on your own. So let's talk. Even better, let's collaborate. I have a relaxed style based on science but led by empathy and humor. I commonly help clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions, or even just a case of the "blahs." Our work together will be as unique as you are to pinpoint and address your personal goals. I commonly I pull from evidence-based treatments including cognitive and psychodynamic therapies geared to target unhelpful thoughts, build up your coping skills or work through past and current patterns. During our sessions, you can expect to feel safe, seen, and fully embraced- just as you are. I look forward to connecting with you to learn how we can enhance your well-being, alleviate the stress and pain you may be experiencing and find your joy again.
I specialize in working with female students who are struggling with anxiety or stress. Maybe you are noticing burnout and feeling a lack of interest in classes, feeling stressed with upcoming exams, feeling anxious making new friends, or feeling completely overwhelmed by the sorority system at school. College or graduate school is meant to be an experience of self-discovery, but you may find yourself isolating, worrying, anxious, or overwhelmed. The pressure to excel academically, anxiety of moving away from home, the demands of coursework and deadlines, and the challenges of making new friends can all contribute to anxiety and stress and just feeling down. If you are looking to feel in control of your life again and get back to enjoying life, you have come to the right place! As someone who experiences anxiety myself and struggled to get into the groove of college, I I get it! I would love to support you in coping with any anxiety or stress you are currently experiencing to help you feel relief and get back that enjoyment of life! Please reach out today.
Finding a healthy balance between work and fun can be challenging. Trying to excel in academics, sports, and career goals, while also enjoying the college experience, and life in general might seem out of reach. Stress and burnout affect people of all ages and in any stage of life, career, or sport. I can help you to reconnect with yourself and rediscover meaning. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space to explore how. I work with clients aged 17 +. Challenges and topics include burnout, self-esteem, ADHD, high performance/intelligence, perfectionism, grief/loss, relationships, trauma, and self-improvement.
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.
College is a time of growth, change, and sometimes a lot of pressure. If you’re feeling depressed, anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself, therapy can help you create space to reflect, reset, and move forward with intention. We begin by building trust, so you can explore what’s coming up for you and build tools to feel more grounded and confident.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Hey I'm Ari (she/her) and I am glad you've stumbled on my profile. Early adulthood is a time of intense change, individuation, social pressure, and self-doubt. I support teens and young adults with identity exploration, improving relationships with themselves and others, building resilience, and much more. If you're a college student looking for some mental health support, I'm looking forward to connecting with you to see if we may be a good fit. While I work with clients from a variety of backgrounds, identities, and presenting concerns, I have specialized training in supporting the mental health of LGBTQIA+, transgender & gender diverse adolescents and adults. Being a student is difficult enough as it is, but having to navigate gender, sexuality, identity, and relationships on top of these stressors is a lot. I help college-age students to improve their mental health in the midst of social, structural and institutional barriers. With a holistic understanding of the impact that societal oppression has on mental health I am dedicated to healing, wellness & joy. Our time together will be collaborative & affirming, and we will co-create a supportive space for you to increase self-understanding, improve your relationship with yourself and others, build resiliency and develop tangible tools you can use to improve your mental health. Finding a therapist you mesh with can be a process that takes time, resources and energy. I understand how important it is to work with a therapist who shows up as a whole, authentic person, so I prioritize genuine connection in our work. I invite you to contact me with questions you may have about working together and to schedule a no-cost 15 minute consultation so we can get to know one another. Head over to my website for more information about how I work.
The most important factor in the therapy process is feeling like you can be authentic and honest with your therapist. Let’s see if we could be a good fit! I am passionate about joining clients on their journeys to increase their overall well-being. I enjoy working with college students and young adults. During these phases of life, transition is constant. Many clients I see begin therapy due to lasting effects of trauma, overwhelming feelings, difficulty adjusting to new circumstances, or disruptive behaviors that interrupt their daily lives. I view my role as to walk alongside clients, offering support, tools, and fresh perspectives as they find their own path toward healing, growth, and making peace with the impact of past experiences. I currently have openings available for new clients. Right now I am offering virtual sessions only. I am partnered with Headway who will confirm your in network status and take care of all insurance billing. Please feel free to reach out on my website or via email to schedule a free 15 min phone consultation.
I became a therapist to offer the kind of space I often needed growing up, where emotions can be messy, stories are honored, and healing means reclaiming parts of yourself that were silenced. I bring a warm, grounded presence to my work, and collaborate with each client to shape therapy around their pace and needs. I specialize in supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients navigating anxiety, depression, grief, identity struggles, intergenerational trauma, and the stress of living in systems that weren’t built to support them. As a South Asian therapist, I know what it’s like to feel torn between cultural expectations and your own sense of self. Whether you're questioning your place in the world, or working to feel at home in your body or identity, I offer a space where all parts of you are welcome. I’m not here to fix you or rush you. I’m here to walk alongside you as you build a deeper sense of self-trust, clarity, and possibility. If you're looking for a therapist who sees the full picture, including your inner world and the systems you're navigating, I’d love to connect.