Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hi, I’m Tim Hooey, a Level II Certified Restoration Therapist and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). College can be an exciting time of growth and discovery — but it can also feel overwhelming, confusing, and lonely. Many of the students I work with are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship stress, identity issues, or feeling disconnected from themselves or others. You might feel stuck, unsure of who you are, or weighed down by pressure to figure it all out — and that’s okay. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. In our work together, I create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can be real about what you’re going through. My approach focuses on helping you understand yourself more deeply, heal from what’s holding you back, and build healthy, meaningful relationships. Whether you’re facing academic stress, family issues (including foster or adoptive family dynamics), or just feeling lost, I’m here to support you. I also bring years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals navigating personal growth, which gives me insight into the unique challenges of this life stage — like managing independence, setting boundaries, and figuring out your identity. Together, we’ll explore what matters to you and find practical tools to help you move forward. What makes me passionate about this work is seeing students reconnect with their authentic selves, gain confidence, and feel empowered to face life’s ups and downs. You deserve a space where you’re fully seen and heard — and therapy can be that place. In our first few sessions, you can expect to feel supported and understood. We’ll talk about what’s been weighing on you and what you hope to change, and I’ll help guide us toward a plan that feels right for you. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, and I’ll be there to walk alongside you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start working through what’s holding you back — or even if you’re just curious about what therapy could be like — I’d love to connect.

When clients ask what inspired me to become a therapist, I share that I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space for children, couples, and families to feel seen and understood. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I’ve experienced how culture, family dynamics, and life experiences shape who we are, which led me to this work—helping individuals and families better understand themselves and each other. To help you feel heard, I focus on building a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment. Whether I’m working with a child, a couple, or a family, I approach each person with curiosity and cultural humility, making sure everyone’s voice is valued and understood. Working together is a partnership. I use a systems perspective, so we’ll explore how relationships, communication patterns, and family dynamics impact your experiences. With children, this may look like play-based or developmentally appropriate support; with couples and families, we’ll work on communication, boundaries, and strengthening connection. I build trust by being consistent, transparent, and genuinely engaged so you feel supported as we navigate challenges together. My ultimate goal is to understand you as an individual and provide a space where you can become your authentic self. I have had success working within the LQBTQ+ POC community as well as with children of immigrants. I enjoy joining my clients on their path to self-acceptance and self-empowerment.

Is heavy stress and anxiety making it hard to feel steady, present, and focused as you move through the semester? You might get stuck in loops of overthinking about grades, deadlines, money, or the future, while your body stays tense and on edge. For some students, social anxiety can be its own grind, making you skip gatherings or spend too long replaying conversations afterward. Sometimes anxiety doesn’t just make you worry—it forecasts disaster and turns choices into landmines. Left running in the background, it can spill into perfectionism, stress-eating, zoning out, or leaning on weed or alcohol to take the edge off. You deserve support that helps you function and feel better. Not just pushing through, but building a foundation of well-being that lasts beyond the semester. In our work, we’ll address the anxiety and help you feel like yourself again with clearer thinking, a steadier mood, and more ease in your body. I’ve spent 13 years helping people with anxiety, and I know the unique pressures of college life. Together, we’ll find practical, compassionate ways to feel more grounded and zoned-in. My style is gentle and collaborative, yet active in guiding the work. You don’t have to power your way through alone. Take the first step toward change and book a free intro call on the calendar section of my website.

If you've experienced abuse, assault, or trauma, you know the impact can feel overwhelming, affecting your sense of self, emotional wellbeing, and the relationships in your life. I specialize in supporting individuals healing from sexual, physical, emotional, or spiritual abuse and trauma, helping you rediscover freedom and connection. I also enjoy working with individuals exploring their gender or sexual identity and the LGBTQIA2S+ community, offering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to process and find joy. With nearly a decade of experience, I'm here to affirm that healing is possible. I use EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and more to support healing from sexual assault/abuse, emotional/physical/spiritual abuse, trauma/PTSD, and relationship challenges. I provide a warm, affirming space for LGBTQIA2S+ folks and those exploring gender or sexual identity. I also offer EMDR Intensives for focused healing. Above all, I believe the therapist-client relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. Together, we'll foster a collaborative dynamic as we work to find an approach that feels right for you. I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation via my profile or my website. I look forward to connecting with you!

Deeper Than Color is a team of therapists who offer psychotherapy addresseing oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. We work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigionous and Native American, and other People of Color as well as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, performer, educator, and professional clients. We focus on your goals and create safe spaces where you can share without judgment. We work with you to heal trauma, embrace identity, and improve relationships. We also help you cope with stress, overcome barriers, and achieve your aspirations. We are here to support you.

I find inspiration in helping others that are struggling with mental health problems. My clients have my attention, support, and feel heard and validated. I also collaborate with them to address their problems or distress. As a registered therapist, I strive to meet the client where they are at in life and help them move forward in their individual goals. I work with people from all age groups, religious and cultural backgrounds, states of life (pregnancy), and the LGBTQ population. I have experience working with individuals suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders, grief and loss, trauma symptomatology, medical conditions, and dual diagnoses. I have a passion for reaching out, connecting and relieving mental suffering. I have specialized training working in the following areas: CBT, DBT, Clinical Sexology training in Florida, and TRAUMA training in SEP (Somatic Experiencing Practitioner), EMDR. I have worked with couples using the Gottman method, attachment issues and communication skills. My PhD is in international psychology and I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds.

Life gets complicated. Relationships strain, grief accumulates, anxiety takes hold, and sometimes the weight of simply being human becomes more than any one person should carry alone. Whatever brought you here – a specific struggle, a quiet sense that something needs to change, or simply the courage to finally reach out – you’ve come to the right place. Sequoia Counseling Collective is a group therapy practice offering compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and couples. Our team of skilled therapists specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, life transitions, perinatal mental health, and relationship challenges. We draw from a range of proven approaches including EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, CBT, ACT, and animal assisted therapy to provide care that is thoughtfully tailored to you.

Our clinicians are trained in numerous evidence based and best practices including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and Trauma Informed Care.

What inspires me to work as a therapist is the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution on a daily basis. As an immigrant woman of color, who is bilingual and bi-cultural, my family’s struggle to achieve mental health despite deep seated stigma and shame illuminated my commitment to work as a therapist. Clients are the owners of their lives, and I respectfully honor their right to self-determination. A basic guiding principle in my therapeutic work is that clients are able to succeed when they choose their goals and their psychological needs are met. As such, it is my job to encourage competence and mastery of their own paths. That is, what works is what works for the client! Trust is the cornerstone that allows positive growth in therapy, which for me includes empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard of the client. Reinforcing that we are all doing the best we can, and that coming to therapy is not a failure, but rather it is a growth opportunity.

My path to becoming a therapist grew out of my experience working in crisis settings, including emergency mental health and trauma care. I had the privilege of supporting people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and I saw firsthand how powerful it can be to have someone who listens without judgment and helps make sense of overwhelming experiences. Those experiences inspired me to continue this work in a way that allows for deeper healing and long-term growth. I believe that change and self-discovery go hand in hand, and I’m passionate about helping people find relief, build resilience, and create meaningful lives that align with who they are. Feeling heard begins with taking the time to truly understand your story. I prioritize empathic attunement, meaning I listen carefully not only to what you’re saying but also to how your experiences, relationships, and environment have shaped your perspective. Rather than making assumptions or rushing toward solutions, I work collaboratively with you to understand what your experiences mean to you. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe bringing your thoughts, emotions, and questions without fear of judgment. As we build that understanding together, we can begin exploring new perspectives and identify changes that feel authentic and meaningful. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership. You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to help guide the process with curiosity, compassion, and clinical experience. I draw from Gestalt therapy and other evidence-based approaches to help increase awareness, strengthen insight, and support practical changes that fit your unique goals. Building trust takes consistency, honesty, and mutual respect. I’ll check in regularly about how therapy is feeling for you, welcome your feedback, and adjust our work together as your needs evolve. My hope is that our therapeutic relationship becomes a place where you feel accepted, challenged when appropriate, and supported as you grow. One thing I enjoy sharing is that I love spending time outdoors. Whether it’s going for a hike, exploring a new trail, or simply getting outside to reset, I find that nature helps me stay grounded and present. It’s a reminder that taking small moments to recharge can make a big difference, and I encourage clients to discover what helps them reconnect with themselves in their own lives.

In these challenging times, I am inspired by helping clients find their strengths and provide a safe space for healing to achieve their mental health goals. I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, personal growth, and life balance. As a Filipino American Therapist, I aim to understand unique challenges and different cultural perspectives, providing compassion and culturally affirming space for clients of all backgrounds. I approach each session with warmth, understanding, and respect to all clients, while establishing clear boundaries and allowing clients to open up at their own pace.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I understand the unique needs of various families with their children. I have a strong background in working with children as a school-based therapist, school counselor, and administrator in the school setting throughout Los Angeles County. I specialized in catering to the unique needs of working mothers, adolescents, couples seeking counseling, and families with special needs children. I am skilled with various counseling services, including individual therapy sessions, couples therapy, family therapy, parenting support programs, and relationship coaching. As a single mother of two, one with special needs. My strong suit is to specialize in working with mothers with understanding and compassion by genuinely providing empathy with the stress and pressures of balancing work and family life. I understand the needs of adolescents and recognize their need for supportive mental health services in the areas of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral concerns that they cannot manage on their own. I can support families by understanding these needs and helping parents build a strong relationship with their child/children.

You want to feel like a team again. But lately, it’s been harder to talk without tension or connect without effort. Under the surface, something’s missing: trust that your relationship is solid, the comfort of being understood and appreciated, or the closeness that makes you feel like you’re truly in it together. Couples counseling helps you shift out of reactive cycles and into meaningful connection. You’ll learn to communicate with care, listen with empathy, and build a foundation that is steady and supportive so your relationship feels like home again. I see couples in person in San Luis Obispo and online across California, Washington, Florida, and South Carolina.

I am passionate about supporting clients to heal and thrive in their lives – reaching their goals and a sense of self that brings wellness and fulfillment. I have 15 years of professional experience working in social programs and services – including a diverse range of clients, including veterans, LGBTQI+, seniors, high-achieving professionals, students and young adults. I work with people experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use/harm reduction, anger management, severe mental illness, workplace challenges and career goals. I am interested in working with individuals of all ethnicities, faiths, cultural/belief systems, genders, and sexual orientations. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and my Masters Degree from the University of Southern California (USC). I work with clients as experts in their own lives. I focus on collaborating with clients to identify their intrinsic strengths to build resilience and achieve the life they want for themselves. I believe that developing awareness and understanding of one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions develops personal insights and motivation to support optimal mental health. I utilize evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, combining motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, mindfulness, art therapy, coaching and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to build tools for healthy functioning and overall wellness.

My educational, professional, and personal experiences, combined with a profound desire to help people heal and grow, are the foundation of my work as a psychotherapist. I provide a space where you are free to explore and share yourself. I strive to create an environment that allows you to safely discuss, reflect, uncover, and change. My ability to help people feel safe, accepted and welcome has been the cornerstone of my success as a psychotherapist. You may come as you are to address the things that are affecting you today.

Promoting a healthy mental health in society is what inspires me. As a proud Latina Clinical Social Worker, I bring my cultural heritage and professional expertise to empower individuals in their healing journey ensuring they feel seen, understood, and supported. I strive to provide a supportive and affirming environment. I understand that every individual has unique needs. I ensure to assess and explore which modalities and treatment would serve most effective. I believe healing is not linear, but living a life with a better quality can be possible with the right support and direction. Creating a strong therapeutic alliance is of the upmost importance in therapy. Having a strong alliance is like having a strong foundation in a house, with a strong foundation any strong house can be built. I develop trust, rapport, connection and unconditional support striving to be the best therapist for my clients.

I’m inspired on a daily basis when I witness the transformative power therapy. I have a deep desire to help, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. It’s important for me to establish a safe and trusting environment where you feel heard, understood, respected, so we can foster a sense of collaboration to facilitate healing and positive change. I do this by meeting you where you currently are in your life and utilizing evidence-based approaches to therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, plus Mindfulness, to process through anxiety, depression, relationship problems, life transitions, self-improvement, and career related stress. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important things in therapy. I build trust and strength in the relationship through empathy and listening. I make a great effort to get an understanding of your personal story and how it may be currently impacting you, while being supportive and validating.

Other than helping others create change and learn to love themselves because they deserve to, I want to help others understand themselves on a deeper level. In my professional experience, I see how much clarity and knowledge about ourselves can foster our relationships within ourselves and with others. I ensure that my client feel heard and understood by providing an affirming, open minded, and empathetic approach. I find it important to actively listen to my clients and paraphrase or summarize what they had said to make sure I heard them right. I create a non-judgmental and encouraging space that allows for my clients to open up and express themselves authentically.