Therapists for college students near San Diego State University

If you feel like you’ve been missing out on life due to your mental health, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, OCD, addictions, relationship or sexual issues, or the unique pressures of working in the entertainment industry, I’m here to help. My approach is compassionate, direct, and tailored to your needs—offering a space where you can explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful change. I specialize in working with young adults, professionals, and individuals seeking relief from overwhelming thoughts, addictive patterns, and life transitions. Together, we’ll identify what’s holding you back, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling. Stress, self-doubt, and old patterns can make it hard to move forward, even when you know something needs to change. Having grown up as a professional child actress, I’ve experienced firsthand the pressures of performance, perfectionism, and identity—shaping my understanding of how early experiences can impact mental health. In therapy, we’ll focus on what’s actually getting in your way—not just surface-level fixes, but meaningful shifts that help you feel more grounded and in control of your life. If you’re looking for a space to figure things out without judgment, let’s talk.

I enjoy working with those who are struggling with social and general anxiety, adjusting to major transitions in life (like starting college, changing majors, planning graduation), and identity. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hola-Welcome! My name is Prisma Martinez, I am a first-generation Mexican, daughter of Immigrants, and a Spanish speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My mission is to provide a compassionate space where teens, young adults, parents, and professionals can access culturally sensitive mental health support as they prepare for and navigate life. My work is inspired by curiosity, creativity, and courage to cultivate a world where each unique individual has the confidence, tools, and hope they need to break cycles, heal, and thrive without shame, blame, or doubt holding them back. I offer free consultations to explore the possibility of working together to help you Cultivate the life you deserve & overcome stressful life transitions such as Adolescence, College Life, Adulting, and Parenting. All services are provided virtual at the convenience of your comfort space.

Our Mission is to provide accessible, culturally responsive mental health care that empowers historically and systemically marginalized individuals, families, and communities to heal, grow, and thrive! As a community-focused agency, we are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where clients and employees can show up as their full, authentic selves. Through compassionate, holistic, and collaborative treatment, we strive to increase access to high-quality, consistent, and effective mental health services that honor each person's unique experiences and needs.

College can be viewed as one of the most exciting times in your life yet it can also be filled with stress and pressures not only academically but also socially in friend and intimate relationships. It can be a time to figure out who you are and what you want for your future. Sometimes what stands in the way of figuring these big questions out is difficult experiences that are hard to talk about, self doubt, and anxiety. I create a space to focus on you and empower inner growth in order to make positive change towards the life you want to live.

From the very first meeting, I approach each client with a deep respect for their lived experience and an understanding that beginning therapy can feel both vulnerable and courageous. My intention in that initial session is to create a space that feels grounded, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, where clients can begin to share at their own pace. I focus on listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and gaining a holistic understanding of what brings them in, while also attending to their strengths, values, and hopes for change. Establishing a sense of safety and trust is central, as I view the therapeutic relationship itself as a meaningful foundation for growth. My path toward becoming a therapist was shaped by a longstanding curiosity about human behavior, emotional resilience, and the ways people make meaning of their experiences. Over time, this curiosity evolved into a commitment to supporting others through life’s challenges in a purposeful and compassionate way. I have been particularly inspired by witnessing how individuals can develop insight, shift patterns, and reconnect with their sense of agency when provided with the right support. This work continues to be deeply meaningful to me, as it allows me to walk alongside clients as they navigate change, cultivate self-understanding, and move toward greater well-being. I approach the development of trust and a strong therapeutic alliance as an intentional, ongoing process grounded in consistency, transparency, and genuine attunement. I prioritize active listening and strive to understand the client’s experience from their perspective, reflecting both content and emotion to communicate empathy and validation. I am mindful to move at a pace that feels comfortable for the client, recognizing that trust develops over time and cannot be rushed. Ultimately, I view the therapeutic alliance as the foundation of effective therapy, and I remain committed to fostering a relationship in which clients feel seen, heard, and empowered throughout their process. One personal detail I sometimes share is my appreciation for incorporating music into my daily routine as a way to feel grounded and centered. I find that music can be a simple yet meaningful way to regulate mood, create a sense of calm, and reconnect with the present moment.

I became a therapist because I genuinely care about being a steady supportive presence in people’s lives. My goal is to create a safe space where others feel heard, understood, and empowered to work through their challenges. Being a support figure means helping people recognize their strength and reminding them that they don’t have to face difficult moments alone. I strive to make clients feel heard and understood by validating their experiences without judgement. Creating a space where they feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions openly is essential to building trust. Working together in therapy we focus on building trust through honesty, consistency, and mutual respect. A strong therapeutic alliance means we collaborate as a team, where you feel safe sharing openly and confident that your goals and well-being are my priority. Through this partnership, we create a supportive foundation for meaningful growth and healing. I believe a gentle sense of humor can help ease tension and build authentic connection. While I take my client’s experience seriously, I also value moments of laughter and levity when appropriate. Creating a space that feels both safe and human allows trust to grow more naturally.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing psychotherapy in the state of California. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, depression, peer/interpersonal relationship conflicts, bullying, life transitions, low self-esteem, burnout, insomnia, anger, panic attacks, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is client centered, strength-based, and solutions focused. I strive to create an environment where you feel supported, safe, and free of judgment. My goal is to provide you with the tools to enhance your quality of life and feel more confident with navigating life's presenting challenges. My promise as a therapist is to be with you every step of the way. I look forward to meeting you!

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who offers warm, trauma-informed support to college students, emerging adults, women, teens, children, and the perinatal community. Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, especially when you are overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. I see that step as an act of courage, and I feel honored to hold space for each client’s story. I am originally from the U.K. and later moved to California, where I earned my MSW and began my work as a therapist. Like many college students and young adults, I have experienced major life transitions, identity shifts, and grief. Those experiences shape how I work and allow me to meet clients with steadiness, empathy, and genuine care. My work is rooted in attachment-focused therapy. I support college students and young adults who feel stuck in relationship patterns, struggle with anxiety or self-doubt, or feel disconnected from themselves or others. I specialize in helping clients process trauma that has gone unprocessed and is now showing up in the way they see themselves, relate to others, and move through the world. Many of the clients I work with learned early on to adapt, stay strong, or put others first, and now find themselves feeling overwhelmed, emotionally shut down, or unsure how to ask for support. In therapy, we focus on building safety, understanding how past relationships shape the present, and developing a more compassionate relationship with yourself. I provide affirming care to LGBTQ+ clients and take an empowering, decolonizing approach that honors each person’s lived experience and identity. I draw from attachment-based therapy, parts work, somatic approaches, CBT, and EMDR to support healing that feels safe, collaborative, and meaningful. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside students and young adults during this stage of life, offering consistent, compassionate support as they build deeper self-trust and more connected relationships.

Hello, Taking the step towards therapy can be a big one, sometimes filled with anxiety or fear. I try to alleviate any concerns and provide a safe place for you to work toward your goals. I specialize in mood issues such as stress, anxiety and depression, and I specialize in treating trauma and PTSD. I utilize a blend of therapy models including CBT, DBT and EMDR. Reach out today to set up a free consultation. I look forward to working with you.

Hello there! In my approach to therapy, I emphasize empathy and active listening, creating a compassionate environment where my clients feel heard and validated, fostering a safe space for exploration and growth. I also incorporate positive self-talk and affirmations, encouraging clients to build resilience and self-esteem. My communication style is characterized by warmth, active listening, and empathy. I foster an open and non-judgmental atmosphere, encouraging clients to express themselves freely. My compassionate approach combines encouragement and positive reinforcement, helping clients feel supported as they explore their thoughts and feelings.

**Welcoming New Clients in CA and TX** Adulting is already hard enough; throw in infertility, postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy following loss (heIlo, anxiety!), loss/grief, trauma, relationship/communication issues and family conflict and now you've got discomfort, unpleasant feelings, disconnection and stress. While we may not be able to change all of the obstacles in your life, we can definitely work together to adjust expectations, reinforce coping skills, strengthen resilience, improve communication skills, set boundaries and elicit clarity and direction. We work collaboratively to support clients (after all, you are the expert on your own life) to utilize the strengths you already possess, identify obstacles and challenge unhelpful thoughts or patterns. We specialize in pregnancy following loss, infertility, miscarriage/infant loss, bereavement, trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, relational issues. Change is so hard! It can be overwhelming to consider what life would feel like without distress and uneasiness. However, you are more courageous than you give yourself credit for- you've made it this far, after all! Together, we can have candid conversation about your feelings and concerns and support your shift toward clarity, balance and stability.

You’ve taken the first step towards healing, which is often one of the most difficult. Thank you for being vulnerable and allowing me into your space. The world changed, and so did all of us…and that is okay! I am here to partner with children, teens, young adults, adults, and couples towards achieving healing and fulfilment, however that may look to you. My You-Centered approach places you at the helm of your journey, as we use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System, and other mindfulness management strategies to transform this moment. Together, we will combine these theories when discussing matters concerning goals/aspirations, relationships, interpersonal struggles, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, stress management, phobias and fears, and substance use concerns.

Feeling alone, gripped in anxiety and despair and other painful emotions, you might not think that anyone could possibly understand or help. As an experienced mental health professional, I know how to listen to your unique story and how to help you disentangle from the symptoms that are holding you back. Using intuitive listening skills and coming from a place of deep empathy, I will work with you, teaching you how to integrate new thinking and being skills into your life. Using Acceptance and Integration Training and depth psychotherapy, along with my extensive experience with a wide variety of people, I will help you feel better and get back on your feet towards living the life you want. I aim to help you discover your own unique inner wisdom, building awareness and emotional health for life. I work with each client individually and collaboratively to create long-term and short-term goals. For many clients the goals often include disentangling from anxiety and depression symptoms. This includes building new skills and habits that can be used on a daily basis to feel good and to prevent the symptoms from reoccurring. My clients report feeling peaceful, powerful, whole, hopeful and grounded after a session of Acceptance and Integration techniques.

Katherine is a warm and engaging therapist who values honesty and transparency in her interactions with clients. She is passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals and find joy in their lives. She believes that therapy is a collaborative process and works closely with clients to create a customized treatment plan that meets their unique needs. Having recovered from her own eating disorder, Katherine is able to bring a unique level of empathy and understanding to every session. Clients can expect to feel heard and validated but also pushed to confront their thoughts and behaviors in a supportive environment. Her encouraging approach helps clients feel comfortable opening up and sharing their feelings, and her humor adds a refreshing, lighthearted touch to the therapeutic process. Katherine earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Women and Gender Studies from Furman University and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Carolina. She has worked in all levels of care from outpatient to residential and most recently was the Program Director of a telemedicine Intensive Outpatient Program for Eating Disorders and the Director of Behavioral Health for a national telemedicine company. Katherine has over a decade of experience treating a wide range of issues including eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders and substance use disorders. She holds independent licenses to practice Social Work in 15 states and is currently pursuing her Eating Disorder Specialist certification through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals.

Arboris Counseling Collective currently consists of two clinicians: Rachel Kinnard (LMFT161752) and Nicole Rodriguez (LMFT159223) Rachel specializes in treating generalized anxiety, body dysmorphia, and complex trauma, with a specific focus on helping individuals untangle the complexities of their lived experiences. If you are feeling stuck, uncertain, or disconnected, Rachel is here to help you move toward greater clarity, confidence, and alignment within yourself. Nicole is a late-diagnosed ADHD clinician that specializes in support individuals navigating neurodiversity. This can range from suspecting possible ADHD to support those with autism. To learn more about their individual styles please visit us at arboriscounselingco.com and/or schedule a complimentary (free) 15 minute consultation call

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Do you think about what kind of person you'd like to be, but feel uncertain, nervous, lost, or overwhelmed about how to make the change? College is an exciting time to explore your identity, learn how to build meaningful relationships, and to find a purposeful career. If you're hoping to feel more confident in who you are, feel more certain about your direction in life and live up to your potential, you've come to the right place. Dr. Grace specializes in asking these "big questions" in life. She marries the wisdom of Buddhist practices with the science of psychology to deepen clients' self-awareness and exploration, and uses a multiculturally sensitive lens to identify how our environments may have shaped our beliefs, motivations, and behaviours. Clients often say that sessions with Dr. Grace feel productive, with a balance between insight and action. Her presence is calming and non-judgmental, encouraging clients to maximize their growth. She is a MSU alumni, having previously worked at CAPS, and offers fully virtual services in both English and Mandarin. Evening hours available.

Through a warm, mindful, and compassionate approach to therapy, I aim to foster a welcoming and safe space for you to explore your journey to meaningful healing and self-discovery. Welcome, my name is Vi! I hold different marginalized identities as a woman of color, an immigrant from Việt Nam, a former international student; and have lived experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, racism, and oppression. I also hold privileged identities: able-bodied, cisgender, straight, Christian, and grew up in a middle-class family. These identities allow me to discover life through these intersectional lenses, and I am grateful for all of them. Through my own healing journey, I instantly learned clinicians with similar identities and cultural backgrounds who could fully facilitate a space of growth in my identity as an Asian immigrant woman was lacking. This disheartening experience fueled my passion to provide a space to highlight and honor immigrant and AAPI experiences through my work as a licensed clinical psychologist. It is a privilege and blessing for me to be able to provide the space that was previously unavailable, and to collaborate with international students, immigrants, and AAPI-identified folks, as well as individuals who occupy an intersection of their identity that is marked by marginalization and oppression.