Therapists for college students near 90089

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

Dr. Aw's primary interest is the intersection between mental and physical health. Dr. Aw’s philosophy is that one does not exist outside the other. Furthermore, depression and anxiety in patients who are also suffering from medical issues can feel significantly worse, and it is his goal to get patients on a holistic road to recovery. An ideal patient for Dr. Aw understands that it takes a team to get them feeling better, and it is a collaboration between the patients themselves and Dr. Aw.

If you are considering therapy, I'd be glad to provide you with a free consultation over the phone. I believe that the relationship between the client and therapist plays a significant role in helping people overcome school stress, painful emotional experiences, destructive interpersonal patterns, and other obstacles that get in the way of us experiencing our lives from a place of openness and security. I work closely with student clients to explore the role that their unique circumstances play in how they see themselves and others. My approach to treatment relies on non-judgment, compassion, and respect for all of my clients. I utilize various therapeutic approaches and provide psychological testing, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic interventions. Your needs matter, and I will work to stay attuned to them throughout the treatment. I have fifteen years of experience treating college students, adults, children, and adolescents in various treatment settings. Through working in a collaborative and integrative manner, and treating the whole individual, I aim to help those I work with negotiate your unique place vis a vis your relationships and your greater environment. I believe that this approach can lead to lasting and meaningful changes in one's life.

Prior to completing my PMHNP training, I worked extensively as a registered nurse in the department of medical surgical and telemetry units. Through my experience in the hospital setting, I witnessed reduced health outcomes of patients who were suffering from mental health illnesses, and that is when I realized my passion to pursue the field of PMHNP because I felt that’s where I could make the greatest positive impact on the health outcomes of my patients. I completed my MSN in PMHNP and after passing the board exam, I began working at Foresight Mental Health as a PMHNP. I greatly appreciate the collaborative team at Foresight that is composed of a multidisciplinary team of specialists. I believe mental health is a core pillar of overall health. I’m inspired to work in the field of mental health care to produce a positive impact in the lives of patients suffering from mental health illnesses and empower my patients to gain a sense of understanding and control in regards to symptoms relief in order to live a more fulfilling and peaceful life. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, I believe it is critical to look beyond the symptoms by investigating triggers of symptoms, family/individual psychiatric/medical history, lifestyle habits, evaluating a patients perception of their symptoms and how its affecting their lives, and also working to develop a catered approach to developing a treatment plan in collaborating with my patients.

I became a therapist because I’ve always been drawn to how people make sense of pain, identity, survival, and the patterns that shape how they relate to themselves and others. Before entering this field, I worked in settings where I supported people in crisis and helped connect them with care and resources. Over time, I realized I didn’t just want to help people stabilize through difficult moments, I wanted to support deeper, longer-term healing, especially around trauma, relationships, and identity. I’ve also become especially interested in couples work and relational patterns—how people affect one another, how cycles of conflict or distance develop, and how repair becomes possible. A lot of emotional pain shows up in relationships, and I’m interested in helping people slow those moments down so they can understand what’s happening underneath reactivity and disconnection. Alongside that, I’m committed to working with neurodivergent clients, including ADHD and OCD, as well as LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I’m interested in how people navigate differences in attention, regulation, intrusive thoughts, identity, and communication, especially in systems that haven’t always understood or accommodated those experiences. My goal is to create a space where those differences aren’t pathologized, but understood in context. Feeling heard is something we build actively in the room, not something that just happens automatically. I slow the process down when needed so each person has space to fully express what they’re experiencing, especially in moments where emotions are high, communication feels stuck, or patterns start repeating. I listen for both what is said directly and what might be happening underneath needs, fears, protective responses, and the meaning each person is making of the situation. In couples work, I pay close attention to the interaction itself: how cycles form, where disconnection happens, and what each person may be protecting or trying to communicate through their reactions. With trauma, neurodivergence, ADHD, OCD, and LGBTQ+ experiences, I also stay attentive to how past environments may have shaped how safe it feels to speak openly, regulate emotions, or be fully seen. I check in regularly to make sure I’m understanding each of you accurately, and I welcome correction if something doesn’t land right. The goal is for both of you to feel that your experience is taken seriously, even when your perspectives differ. Working together is a collaborative process where we look at what’s bringing you in, what patterns are repeating, and how those patterns show up both individually and between you as a couple. I don’t approach therapy as something I’m doing to you, but as something we’re actively building together over time. Trust develops through consistency, clarity, and responsiveness. I aim to create a structured but flexible space where we can slow things down enough to understand what’s happening beneath conflict, shutdown, or overwhelm. In couples work, that often means tracking the interaction in real time and helping both partners feel understood without losing sight of accountability or impact. With neurodivergence, ADHD, and OCD in particular, I also pay attention to how attention, impulse, certainty, doubt, and regulation affect communication and relationships. With trauma and LGBTQ+ clients, I focus on creating a space where safety, respect, and identity are not assumed or questioned, but actively supported. Throughout our work, I check in about how the process is feeling and adjust as needed so therapy remains useful, grounded, and aligned with what matters most to you. Outside of therapy, I like having creative outlets and noticing small, grounding moments in everyday life. I also spend time with my dog, a Beagle, Frenchie, who has a lot of personality and a strong opinion about absolutely everything. She’s a good reminder that even in deeper work around trauma, relationships, and identity, there’s still space for humor, warmth, and moments that don’t feel so heavy.

I am a trauma therapist who specializes in supporting individuals through difficult events. I work with people throughout California virtually and in person in Santa Barbara, CA. I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. My primary therapeutic approach is psychodynamic, with a focus on helping people gain deeper insight into their inner world and life experiences. However I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) into my work as needed and/or desired. I am in-network for CenCal insurance

Many struggle with anxiety and depression, and this is not uncommon. Whether it be nervousness, sadness, relational difficulties, or feeling like we aren't where we are "supposed to be" in life, there are many obstacles that cause us to feel "stuck." My job as a therapist is to help you get "unstuck" by aiding you in better understanding the underlying factors contributing to these difficulties, many of which are often rooted in thinking habits and relational patterns. My primary focus is on anxiety and depression, and how the combination of unhealthy thinking and unhealthy relational patterns cause us to feel anxious and depressed. I have additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) both of which are approaches proven to assist with anxiety and depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on the connection between how we think and our mood, and Interpersonal Therapy focuses on the connection between how we relate to others and our mood. I understand that you are busy, and therefore offer early morning and evening hours, and I am also available through telehealth. Many find telehealth convenient, as you can be anywhere in the state, and we can still meet.

Everyone has a story. Do you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed by thoughts that bring fear, leading to a cycle of overthinking? Do you tend to be tough on yourself, which can result in feelings of sadness, loneliness, or isolation? Are there times in your relationships when you feel unheard, leaving you frustrated and unsure? Have you considered that things could get better? Just remember, you're not alone in this. There’s hope! Many people go through similar struggles with relationships, challenging thoughts, and a mix of emotions.

Welcome to my practice! I'm Kristen Ackerman, LMFT. I understand that college can be a rollercoaster of experiences. Whether you're riding the highs of newfound freedom or managing the lows of homesickness and academic stress, I'm here to offer support every step of the way. I specialize in helping individuals like you adjust to the transition of moving away from home, finding your footing amidst academic demands, and striking a balance between your studies and social life. Whether you're seeking to develop meaningful friendships or intimate relationships, I'm here to lend a listening ear and provide guidance. Navigating peer pressure is also a common challenge in college life, and I'm here to help you tackle those situations with confidence. Additionally, I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, and identity exploration. No matter what you're facing, you don't have to go through it alone. I understand that finances can be tight for students, which is why I offer flexible rate options. My goal is to make therapy accessible and affordable for everyone who needs it. My therapy services are personalized to meet your unique needs. I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, while also integrating talk therapy for comprehensive support. I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable and empowered to explore and grow. If you're ready to take the first step towards personal growth and making lasting changes, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Whether you prefer to call, email, or text, I'm here to support you on your journey.

I specialize working with gender and sexuality, anyone struggling through life transitions and change, folks who identify as highly sensitive people. I also focus on using self compassion techniques and perspectives and provide trauma informed, social justice/feminist oriented, and culturally attuned care. I fully enjoy both of us benefiting from building a meaningful relationship together, because I see it as an honor to be a part of your journey towards self actualization and well-being. I’m personable, transparent, enjoy humor, connection and appreciate depth. I'd honestly love to hear from you!

I support folks in exploring how they want to walk through the world. I believe each person can define themselves and find their healthy. Therapy is a collaborative experience; you bring your life experience, and I bring support from a mental health standpoint.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Welcome! I provide an environment where you can share your past experiences and current stressors to shed what no longer serves you. My journey to becoming a therapist began while I was working in the education system. As I worked with students struggling academically, I became aware of how relationships, stressful life events, and home dynamics could impact their overall well-being. This led me to discover my passion of helping others heal and grow. I focus on creating a therapeutic relationship centered around comfort and safety. As treatment progresses, I help you gain awareness of the thoughts and habits that are negatively impacting your well-being. I will challenge you to use the knowledge and tools you're gaining during our sessions to make the necessary changes to become your best self. If you feel that I can provide you with the support you deserve reach out so that we can connect.

https://care.headway.co/providers/alejandra-arias?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=195190

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I currently have immediate openings for teletherapy and I also offer walk-and-talk sessions at the San Jose Rose Garden. I am licensed in both California and Texas. I have more than ten years of experience working with adolescents and young adults. I most frequently help my college-aged clients navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, ADHD, executive dysfunction, giftedness, self-esteem and body image issues, relationships, grief, disordered eating, and trauma. I specialize in, and especially enjoy working with, ADHD, gifted persons, and college-aged young adults. As a private practice clinician since 2012, I take an affective, strengths based, approach to therapy. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. I work with individuals and families, and I facilitate an LGBTQ+ inclusive group for college-aged young women and non-binary persons. My style of therapy is centered, relaxed, and collaborative. It is vital to my practice that clients know they are talking to a real human being, and my client-therapist relationships are built on mutual trust and safety. I believe that mental healthcare should be holistic. To get at the whole person, I like to explore the interplay between movement, nutrition, sleep, and time spent in nature. And because mental health impacts so much of our lives, I often advocate for my clients and help coordinate support with other academic and healthcare professionals. I strongly believe that mental healthcare should be accessible and easy to navigate for everyone. I welcome clients from all communities, backgrounds, and walks of life. Outside of my home office, I am an avid hiker and eater of takeout. I’m learning to surf, and my favorite part of every day is spending time with my sixteen-year-old wiener dog.

Many of the students I work best with feel pressure to "have it all together" on the outside—yet inside, they're overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, or past trauma. They may be high-achieving, creative, or deeply caring individuals who feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. In our work together, I provide a warm, grounded space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. I use practical, body-based tools along with talk therapy to help you feel more empowered, connected, and aligned with who you truly are. Therapy doesn’t have to be about fixing what’s “wrong”—it can be about reconnecting with your inner strength and learning new ways to care for yourself.

As a compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my commitment to enhancing patient outcomes is at the forefront of my practice. By providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment, encouraging open communication, and individualizing care aimed to fit specific and unique needs and goals; my commitment to individuals is patient-centered and genuine. I have comprehensive experience with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and believe that creating a collaborative relationship while utilizing the most up to date, evidence-based research recommendations is what will propel individuals to attain a life of fulfillment. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, assisting a wide range of diverse populations across the lifespan. I have experience working with the underserved population, veterans and active duty military members. Helping others has always been deeply rooted into who I am as a person, as a mother, a wife, a friend, and now as a provider. Mental health was an area that I was initially drawn to after walking into a psychiatric hospital as an inexperienced nurse years ago. I was unsure of what to expect at the time, and to be frank; I was intimidated. What I saw walking through the hallways of this psychiatric hospital stayed with me and continued to influence the type of care, understanding, and at times companionship that I provided to individuals. What I saw was sadness in their faces, a loss of hope, limited resources and support, a lack of direction. However, it quickly became apparent that those same individuals just wanted the same things I did; fulfillment, a sense of purpose, meaningful relationships, happiness. My work in mental health is inspired by my innate need to inspire change, recovery, to instill hope, to build an alliance and assist clients who are struggling and ready to make a positive change. Mental illness is treatable and recovery is possible. I emphasize psychoeducation, ensuring that clients are well-informed to pursue treatment options that align with their priorities and goals. My philosophy is to always allow clients to make educated decisions regarding their care, communicating my professional recommendation, while still facilitating autonomy of care. 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: academic stress, benzodiazepine tapering, BIPOC mental health issues, deprescribing, holistic approaches to psychiatry, LGBTQIQ2s+ mental health, personality disorders, sexual dysfunction, addiction psychiatry/dual diagnosis, eating disorders, first responders, grief, men’s issues, sex-positive, kink allied, veterans care

I strive to foster personal growth and understanding in order to heal from past wounds and resolve current psychological distress. I do this by providing a safe and non-judgmental space where people of all different backgrounds can feel comfortable sharing their struggles. It is a privilege to walk alongside you during difficult times and see you overcome your current obstacles. I seek understanding of your experience through questions, exploration, and taking on a learner’s perspective. Although I am well versed in mental health disorders and treatment, I see you as the expert of yourself. This is your life and your story. I want to collaborate with you to find the best solutions for you. I will offer tools, strategies, and skills. Most importantly, I offer a place for you to be heard and understood. Together we will learn what works best for you. My goal is for you to leave therapy feeling confident in trusting yourself and your ability to handle what life presents.