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Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

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Laura Arevalos
Pre-Licensed Professional
Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin? You’re not alone and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Welcome to The Center of Resiliency. My name is Laura, and I’m honored you’re here. I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can finally exhale. You are taking the first step and reaching out for therapy can feel hard, my hope is to offer you safety, understanding, and support as you begin your journey toward healing and growth. I work with individuals ages 16 and up who may be feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Many people I support are navigating anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, life transitions, or relationship challenges. I also work with couples who want to improve communication, rebuild trust, or feel more connected in their relationship. In addition, I have a special passion for supporting parents of children with special needs and understand how emotionally and physically demanding that role can be. You don’t have to carry everything on your own. In our work together, you can expect a warm, honest, and collaborative approach. Therapy with me is not about being “fixed,” but about helping you better understand yourself, build healthier patterns, and develop tools that fit your real life. We will move at your pace and focus on what matters most to you. My goal is for therapy to feel like a partnership where you feel empowered, not judged. I am currently completing my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at National University, with training in both individual and relationship-focused therapy. Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, listening to music, and getting lost in a good book. My own life experiences have shaped my belief that healing happens through genuine connection, compassion, and feeling truly seen. If you’re considering therapy, I would be honored to walk alongside you.

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Tara Kolar, PsyD
Psychologist
Berkeley, CA

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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Jenaiah Sauceda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brentwood, CA

My name is Jenaiah Sauceda, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Brentwood, CA. My journey in the field of mental health began with a deep-rooted passion for helping others, a value instilled in me by my family, which has a strong legacy in the helping professions. With dual Bachelor’s degrees in Women and Gender Studies and Social Work, alongside a Master’s Degree in Social Work focusing on Individuals, Families, and Groups from San Francisco State University, I have cultivated a solid foundation for my practice. Currently, I am advancing my education by pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology, with the goal of achieving this by the end of 2025. I specialize in supporting women through various challenges, including relationship issues, divorce, adoption, infertility, parenting challenges, as well as managing depression and anxiety. My approach to therapy is solution-focused, incorporating client-centered, supportive therapy, CBT, DBT, and behavior activation techniques. With a decade of experience and licensure since 2018, I have worked in diverse settings, including child welfare, adoptions, hospitals, and prisons, providing comprehensive mental health treatment. As a wife and mother who grew up in the Bay Area, I understand the complexities of life and the hurdles we all face. I believe that seeking support is a courageous step toward healing and growth. I recognize the stigma surrounding mental health and the barriers it creates, and I am committed to breaking these generational cycles. Together, we can change the narrative around mental health and foster openness and understanding. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward healing and growth.

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Erin Haentjens
Marriage & Family Therapist
Berkeley, CA

For over 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, adolescents, adults, families, and athletes through life’s challenges. From working with at-risk youth and facilitating therapy groups to providing individual psychotherapy and supporting athletes through injury and transition, I’ve witnessed the incredible resilience people carry — even during difficult seasons If you’re feeling disconnected from yourself, navigating identity shifts, recovering from injury, or carrying the impact of past experiences, you’re not alone. As a former collegiate and semi-professional athlete, I understand how deeply identity, performance, trauma, and physical experiences can shape how we see ourselves and relate to our bodies. You deserve a space where all parts of that story are welcome. My specialization is in Somatic Psychotherapy and Exercise and Sport Performance. This approach recognizes the powerful connection between mind and body. Together, we’ll increase awareness of how your body responds to stress and emotion, helping you build trust in your intuition, develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself, and feel more grounded and confident. I aim to create a supportive, collaborative therapeutic space where we work at your pace, build on your strengths, and develop coping strategies aligned with your values. My goal is to help you feel empowered in your healing process and more grounded in your everyday life.

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Sandra Merino PMHNP-BC 661-383-1943
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Castaic, CA

I specialize in general, integrative, and functional psychiatry with medication and non-medication healing recommendations for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and much more. Client-centered care is my top priority. I believe in a holistic view and collaborative approach to mental healthcare. Every client is approached thoroughly to determine the best care. I value integrative and complementary therapies and will offer these options alongside medication when needed or desired by the client. I am nationally board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I am licensed to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am committed to providing you with the care you deserve.

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Kristen Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist
Bakersfield, CA

Do you ever feel like no matter what you do, it’s never enough? Maybe you’re caught in cycles of people-pleasing, anxiety, or perfectionism—always showing up for others but still questioning your own worth. On the outside you may look like you’re holding it together, but inside you’re exhausted. If you long for authentic relationships and the confidence to feel secure in yourself, therapy can help. Our work together is deeper than surface-level talk therapy. Through IFS and a warm, supportive approach, I’ll help you uncover the root of what’s keeping you stuck. Clients often say I bring a calming, compassionate presence while also gently challenging them to see things in new ways. I specialize in helping high-achievers in Bakersfield and across California heal the roots of shame, anxiety, and people-pleasing. My goal is for you to feel more confident, connected, and at peace with yourself. If you’re ready to take that first step toward lasting change, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

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Griffin Saxon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Los Angeles, CA

College can be a period of life, and it can suck. My goal is to help it be a great experience! I mostly work with students dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma. Maybe you're having difficulty finding motivation to complete work, or feel like you're lost at sea and overwhelmed with the ton of responsibilities you have to take on. Or it could be figuring out who your are, who your people are, and what's your greater meaning in life. My goal is to help people build positive relationships and habits to bring joy and meaning to their lives. If you're looking for some support and guidance as you go through college or are looking into the future (it's some scary/awesome stuff!), please reach out for a free 15-minute consult. You can contact me via text, phone, or schedule a consultation on line. Also I'm a queer therapist, using a trauma-informed and intersectional lens in my work. If that vibes with you, sweet!

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Thomas McDonagh
Psychologist
San Francisco, CA

While I see people for many types of reasons, I usually see clients individually that are looking to work on a present centered issue. These typically include school issues, work stress, relationship problems, or difficulty coping with anxiety / depression symptoms. In graduate school I was part of the sports psychology department. During this time I assisted in two different research studies. The first examined flow states in athletes (getting in "the zone"). The second study examined the effects of concussions in athletes. I draw upon these experiences to help students focus and stay motivated. I also had a side job in graduate school where I helped coach college students that had difficulty adjusting to college life. These practical, real world skills are something I continue to teach to this day. When meeting with a client, I keep the atmosphere relaxed and inviting. I want people to feel comfortable, but also know they are receiving "evidence based" care. This means what I say in our meetings is supported by research. That is why I use treatments that incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques. These treatments are supported by current research and have a high rate of success.

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Rose Thorn Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooklyn, NY

College is a big transition time that can bring up big feelings. I'd love to support you as you navigate new independence, relationships, academic stress, family dynamics, self-esteem, etc. My practice is warm, mindful & explorative. I offer a really empathic listening ear but lots of direct support and reflections too. Let's talk more and figure out what you need together.

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Ryan Stone, Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Fullerton, CA

The college experience can be a mixed bag. New environments, forming new relationships, academic pressures - and all while trying to tend to your mental health? Some of your peers seem to be navigating things better than you feel like you are. It is normal to be overwhelmed and feel out of your element. In my practice, I aim to create a collaborative environment for the most challenging emotions you feel to have a space to be heard and understood. I have experience working with grief/loss, life transition issues, family conflict, and anxiety/depression in my work with clients. Please feel free to reach out for a free phone consultation.

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Cindy Cruz
Psychiatrist
San Francisco, CA

I am a double board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, and provide psychotherapy and personalized medication treatment. The core of my work is to provide a safe environment, where we build a strong and trusting relationship. I will help you explore your own story, current life challenges and open up possibilities for change in your life. Where medication can help, we can consider that option together. I consider ongoing therapy as an important part of optimizing any treatment with medication that can change your mood and behavior.

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Hsiao-Chu/Sandra Huang
Pre-Licensed Professional
Milpitas, CA

You may be feeling tired of the world as it is—overstimulated, uncertain, and emotionally demanding. Whether you appear strong and capable or feel overwhelmed, many people are carrying fear, exhaustion, and a longing for something steady to hold onto. The people I work with often feel worn down by repeating patterns like people-pleasing or overextending, or feel stuck and disconnected when life feels unstable. I provide a grounded, safe environment where you can truly slow down and breathe. My approach bridges the gap between traditional clinical expertise and alternative ways of healing. I offer evidence-based practices like CBT, ACT, MBCT and Narrative Therapy. In addition to this, I also integrate somatic-based practices, Buddhism psychology, Akashic Record reading, and other spiritual healing practices into our work together. I work with self-identity, relationships, burnout, boundaries, and life transitions—especially during times of uncertainty. My goal is to help you develop an inner anchor you can return to when life feels chaotic, and to support you in moving toward a life that feels more aligned, peaceful, and sustainable.

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Ellen Ottman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Oakland, CA

I am passionate about helping people find ways to live their lives more fully. I take a holistic approach to therapy - believing that the mind and body are interconnected and equally important parts in the journey of growth and integration. I blend somatic therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, and mindfulness to help my clients connect to themselves more deeply and move towards a place of healing and self-compassion.

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Elle Michel
Marriage & Family Therapist
Los Angeles, CA

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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Jazzmin Grigsby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sacramento, CA

As a therapist, I’m here to be supportive of your goals and help you feel confident in taking your next step towards rediscovering you. I believe in being authentic and invite you to come as you are by being your true self. I’ll help challenge your perspective and reframe any unhelpful thinking that may be getting in the way of your life. Life is already difficult with enough uncertainty in the world, but having a safe place to talk freely about yourself and the things that impact you is greatly needed. My clients are typically women, BIPOC, LGBTQ and others that are looking for a place to take the mask off, improve their self-identity and esteem, improve their relationships, and take steps toward building the best versions of themselves.

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Erika Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist
Gardena, CA

Do you struggle with feelings of not being enough, self-doubt and self-criticism? Do you have difficulty expressing your feelings, communicating your needs or setting boundaries? Do you stay in relationships that make you feel unloved, unseen and unheard? Are you constantly worried or overthinking, making it difficult for you to make decisions, take risks or try new things? You're feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward in life. Starting therapy is the first step. “Everything starts with and how you feel about yourself. Start feeling worthy, valuable and deserving of what life has to offer". -Unknown. Call today! I provide a safe space where you can be yourself, be vulnerable and share your struggles without being judged. Together we will work on helping you gain a better understanding of yourself by identifying triggers and behavior patterns that are impacting your life and relationships. I will provide you with tools to help you learn how to better manage symptoms. Call today to schedule your complimentary 15-minute consultation. During the call, I will answer any questions you may have to help you determine if I am a good fit for you. Virtual Only (Daytime and Evening Availability).

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Dr. Priscilla Malm @ Grow + Well Therapy
Psychologist
Redwood City, CA

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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Tessa Reynosa
Marriage & Family Therapist
San Francisco, CA

Hello, I’m Tessa! I believe that everyone's stories should be heard, their experiences valued, and their strengths recognized. My goal is to create a space where my clients feels safe, understood, and trusted. As a biracial Latinx cisgender woman from a large blended family, my own background influences my approach to therapy. I’ve had the privilege of working with students, parents and families from diverse backgrounds in private practice, community mental health, and school settings. Together, we can navigate challenges related to relationships, family dynamics, life transitions, trauma, loss, identity work, anxiety and depression. Our therapeutic relationship may sometimes look like laughter and smiles, and other times look like facing difficult feelings, delving into your beliefs shaped by cultural and relationships, while honoring your strengths and values that make you, YOU! As your ally and collaborator, I will meet you with compassion, acceptance and empowerment, wherever you are in your journey. We will work together to closely connect you to your goals and preferred sense of self. If you’re interested in working together, please feel free to reach out.

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Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Los Angeles, CA

My name is Daniel Chandler. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I see patients via Telehealth to allow for easy access to mental health needs. I deliver open, honest, non-judgmental, authentic care to every patient I work with. I use a collaborative approach, with shared decision-making, to address all necessary goals. I want to get to know you, your goals for treatment, and your priorities so that I can tailor your treatment to match your needs. I welcome clients of diverse backgrounds, including persons identifying as POC, LGBTQIA+, spiritual, religious, and anyone with their own unique identity.

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Sabrina Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
loma linda, CA

College can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. You might be trying to balance school, work, relationships, family expectations, or your own mental health — often without much time to slow down. If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, disconnected, or unsure how to manage everything, you’re not alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can process what you’re going through, understand your stress, and learn practical tools to feel more centered and capable. My style is relatable and collaborative, and you can come exactly as you are. Sessions are virtual and easy to fit into a busy student schedule.

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