Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life. At Waterside Psychology, we offer a custom approach for each of our clients! We start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live better lives is our passion! Whether it's setting boundaries, grieving a loss, navigating a life transition, or changing a behavior that keeps you stuck, we help you feel better so you can live the life you've dreamed of. Contact us for a free consult and we’ll get started on your journey together!

If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to realize yourself as a whole person. By integrating who we are with how we want to be, we can find peace and fulfillment through the continuous experiencing of personal truth. Together, we will work towards empowering you to live a more complete, balanced, and meaningful life. I will meet you where you are and walk alongside you. Navigating this path asks of us honesty, openness, bravery, and self-compassion. This is what we will practice together in the process of learning to hold safety and trust within ourselves. Therapy is a unique process for each person. No one size fits all. Our work together will be tailored to your needs in a language and style that works best for you. I use a primarily Psychodynamic approach which incorporates tools and techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Narrative Therapy. I have completed additional accredited training focused on providing gender-affirming care to trans clients, supporting families of trans youth, identity development in sexuality, supporting kink identity, and psychedelic exploration. I will walk alongside you in your journey of discovery, integration, and healing as you navigate the social, emotional, medical, relational, academic, and occupational barriers and hardships that you may face. It would be my honor to be part of your journey and serve to empower you to live as your authentic self.

I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in LGBTQ+ care. In my private practice, I offer individual and couples therapy sessions as a sexual, gender, and relational diverse provider with expert training and over ten years of service to the community. I sought additional training in couples therapy, sex therapy, and diverse relationship structures. My practice is also geared towards supporting alternative sexuality communities, including kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, and polyamory. My mission has always been to be a knowledgeable therapist so that my clients don't feel like they are educating me about their lives and can feel safe knowing they will not be judged for who they are.

Hi there. Firstly, my name Siobhán is Irish & pronounced like sha-v-on. And I am glad you are here! Mental health is vital for navigating life. And having someone in your corner with expertise, compassion, & independence is a great way to cope. I truly believe meaningful therapy comes when YOU feel a connection with your clinician. So finding a fit for you is vital. I approach everyone as a fellow human & use my bubbly personality, genuine curiosity, & compassion to develop rapport. Together we will collaborate to find a way to invite joy back into your life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to explore your journey together. Functional mental health is vital for navigating the inevitable transitions of life. And having someone in your corner with expertise, compassion, & independence is a great way to persevere. I truly believe meaningful therapy comes when YOU feel a connection with your clinician. So, finding a fit for you is vital. Chat with me for a free consultation.

Healing and growth often begin with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. As a bilingual therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, I bring over 14 years of experience supporting individuals across multiple stages of life, with a special focus on older adults and young adults navigating life transitions, relationships, identity, grief, and emotional healing. Clients often appreciate that I’m not simply someone who nods and listens. I’m an active collaborator in the therapy process. Together, we explore the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck so you can gain deeper insight, heal at the root, and move toward the version of yourself you want to become. Some of the most meaningful feedback I’ve received from clients includes: “I’ve never thought of it that way before,” “I could hear your voice echoing in my head and I knew what I needed to do,” and “You’ve opened my mind to things I never realized before.” Those moments of realization, when clients uncover the root of a pattern, reconnect with themselves, or discover purpose within painful experiences, are some of the most fulfilling parts of the work I do. My greatest joy is witnessing a person’s transformation toward deeper self-love, stronger self-trust, and greater discernment in how they move through relationships, choices, and life itself. I believe healing is not about becoming someone entirely new, but about returning to yourself with more clarity, compassion, and intention. Outside of the therapy room, I’m a proud plant mom, an actively involved auntie to my adorable niece and nephew, and currently obsessed with perfecting homemade matcha lattes. Small rituals like these remind me how healing often lives in the everyday moments.

Gregory E. Koch, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in California providing safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic care to both individuals and couples. Dr. Koch is devoted to helping clients feel safe in their relationships after experiencing abuse and trauma. He believes deeply in the power of positive human connection and that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities. This is reflected in the honesty, respect, and trust that he provides for each person he serves. Dr. Koch provides in-office and teletherapy services for adults, couples, emerging adults, and adolescents. Areas of Specialization: -Undergraduate and Graduate Student concerns -Anxiety -Abuse & neglect -Generational trauma -Life transitions & change -Relationships -Trauma & post-traumatic stress My Philosophy and Approach: The ability to feel safe is one of the most important aspects of mental health. When we grow up with family dynamics that make us feel unsafe or invalidated, we can struggle to feel accepted and understood. I am committed to helping stop emotional wounds from being passed down through generations by teaching strategies to move from blame and reactivity to empathy and connection. My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued. My approach to therapy is caring, collaborative and action oriented in a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework. I utilize an integrative approach that includes Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which are both evidence-based practices that can help reduce trauma-related symptoms. An area that is very close to my heart is working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQ+/GSRD communities. Clients of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationships are warmly invited to explore these identities in my practice. I also have extensive background related to the developmental tasks of early adulthood. I am passionate about helping emerging adults and adolescents develop confidence and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. What You Will Experience Working With Me: When we experience any kind of trauma, we have both emotional and physical reactions. This can look like anxiety, trouble sleeping, feeling disconnected, having intrusive thoughts, or withdrawing from others. We will work together to develop practical tools and strategies to address these problem areas and help you navigate through even the most challenging life circumstances. Clients that I work with appreciate my integrative approach, which is a whole-person perspective that treats both the mind and body. For example, I emphasize practices that draw attention to your breath and body to promote relaxation and teach you techniques for quieting the mind and calming the body. Integrated therapy has been found to be particularly helpful for anyone who has experienced trauma, as well as anxiety, stress, and challenges with work-life balance. My Work With Couples: One of my strengths as a therapist is to guide people to improve their relationships. We can learn the most about ourselves in the context of meaningful relationships and I view conflict in romantic relationships as an opportunity for profound and powerful growth, learning, and healing. I provide couples therapy that is accessible for all partners in romantic relationships. This means that I welcome clients of all genders, sexualities, and relationship diversity. You might ask, “What is ‘relationship diversity’?” It can mean many things, such as polyamorous couples, non-monogamy, and different types of kink relationships. I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), an evidence-based, interactive, and action-oriented approach. In IRT, you will learn a new way of talking to your partner to improve your communication and help you understand them on a deeper, more empathetic level. I am also trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, which I integrate with IRT. Education & Training: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Gender and Human Sexualities, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, San Diego Professional Affiliations & Duties: -Member, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee for UCSD Student Health and Wellbeing Cluster -Member, UCSD’s Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Issues -Member, University of California-wide Transgender Care Team -Adjunct Professor, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University -Invited presenter to community and university-based groups and organizations on a variety of topics Professional Memberships: -California Psychological Association (CPA) -San Diego Psychological Association (SDPA) -Imago Relationships North America (IRNA)

We are a team of highly specialized clinicians who offer in-depth, psychological services in a safe & comfortable setting. We accept many insurances, offer sliding fee scale, evening/weekend availability, & have both in-person sessions, as well as Telehealth appointments. Please visit our website for more information: DrSawires.com.

Have you ever felt like life's daily stressors are too much to handle? Are you wondering where you can turn to find some extra support? We all face challenges in our life, whether it is a transition to a new school or job, conflict in relationships, or difficulty managing our emotions. Seeking professional help can be the first vital step in making a change. I work with young adults looking to transform their lives. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to explore the shifts needed to launch you into a life filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment. I help individuals by first identifying the negative patterns that are holding you back and then establishing a plan to move things forward. I emphasize a strengths-based approach in my practice. I have specialized training and experience treating anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance/alcohol abuse, and trauma. My office is conveniently located in La Jolla and is walking distance to UCSD. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to answer any questions you may have and to explore if I am the right fit for you or your family. Telehealth services provided through Doxy.me; super bills provided for insurance reimbursement. I look forward to speaking with you.

I’m Rachel Benavidez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Perinatal Mental Health–Certified clinician specializing in women’s mental health. I help women experiencing prenatal and postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and the emotional challenges that can arise during pregnancy, the postpartum period, and early motherhood. Together, we work to understand how stress and anxiety show up in the body and develop practical tools to regulate the nervous system, reduce overwhelm, and restore a sense of balance. I am deeply passionate about supporting women during pregnancy and postpartum because mothers deserve the best. I integrate somatic therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) into my work, helping women understand how stress, anxiety, and trauma can be stored in the body. By learning to recognize the body’s signals and gently work with them, we can reduce feelings of overwhelm, regulate the nervous system, and support emotional healing.

I am motivated by the idea that every human being deserves to be truly heard by someone they believe cares about their wellbeing. I am confident that through mindful and empathetic exploration in a safe and trusting space, many reoccurring and/or cooccurring somatic, emotional, and psychological difficulties may be better understood and processed in a way that can facilitate a deeper understanding of ourselves and the environments in which we exist. I am an existential and humanistic provider who believes that we are driven by our unconscious and because of this, past psychological, emotional, and physical injuries may leave an imprint on our psyche that can continue to interrupt our lives and reinjure us unless we can see ourselves and our part in these injurious events differently. I use an eclectic treatment style that includes many different treatment modalities such as Mindfulness, Bilateral Tapping, CBT, DBT, cognitive reframing, and MI. I have had the opportunity to work with many different socioeconomic populations from the homeless to the very wealthy with conditions ranging from addiction and obsessive disorders to depression and anxiety. They each come with an interesting and unique perspective. I come from a background of childhood trauma, abuse, and addiction. My journey began with a 9th grade education and homelessness as I traveled my road of happy destiny to a Bachelors and Masters degree with two professional licenses (LPCC & LAADC) in the state of California, and continues to unfold today. I have turned my life’s experiences into a place of wisdom and growth and have dedicated my life and career to helping others find the light in whatever darkness they are experiencing.

Hi, I’m Suyapa (she/ella), a Spanglish bilingual first-gen Latina therapist. I provide virtual therapy for adults in California, Nevada, and Florida navigating trauma, anxiety, family roles, grief, and identity exploration—through a culturally responsive, feminist, neurodiverse-affirming, and 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive lens. If you grew up in a BIPOC or Latine/Latinx household where silence, sacrifice, or survival roles were the norm, you may now find yourself overwhelmed, disconnected from your needs, or constantly taking care of others while neglecting yourself. Maybe you’re the eldest daughter, the fixer, or the one everyone leans on—but you’re tired of holding it all together alone. My clients are often cycle-breakers who carry invisible emotional labor, many of whom grew up with siblings facing disabilities, mental health challenges, or substance misuse. They come to therapy ready to unlearn people-pleasing, set boundaries without guilt, and reconnect with who they are—beyond survival. My Approach I offer trauma-informed, relational therapy that honors your story and your culture. I use EMDR, Brainspotting, somatic and mindfulness practices, and a collaborative, holistic approach that supports healing on a mind-body-spirit level. The therapeutic relationship is central to our work—I’m here to help you feel safe, seen, and deeply supported. What It’s Like to Work With Me I’m not a blank slate—I show up with my authentic self and deep respect for your lived experience. I won’t pretend to have all the answers, but I will walk beside you with empathy, curiosity, and care as we get to the root of what’s weighing you down. Together, we’ll explore how your past is impacting your present, and build tools for healing that feel right for you.

With over 15 years of combined experience providing mental health services, our practice provides knowledge and experience specific to working with college-aged folks. There are a lot of challenges and transitions that come with the passage of teen to adult. Recent studies suggest over 40% of college students experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. Our therapists provide guidance and tools to help you find a healing path toward wholeness and happiness. In addition, we provide expertise in the domains of identity and gender, sexual health and relationships, substance use, and trauma. We look forward to hearing from you and connecting you with the therapist who can best fit your needs.

You just need to do figure out to eat for dinner, you’ve done it a million times, so why does it feel so hard? In my practice, I’ve learned that we often go through life reacting to situations without fully understanding why. I specialize in working with neurodivergent young adults (i.e. ADHD, Autism, OCD) and I'm passionate about helping people understand how their unique minds and bodies work. There is so much you are already doing instinctively to cope with things (probably a lot of it without even realizing it's a coping skill), I just get to help you figure out what that is and how to use it more effectively. By untangling your thoughts, exploring your feelings, and developing a deeper understanding of your mind and body, I will help you regain the power to build a life that works for you. Trying new things can be hard but what you’re doing isn’t easy. It’s worth giving yourself a chance. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a free consultation.

FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". We're here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. Our goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, identify how you can become the best version of yourself, and be confident in the resilient person you are. We work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues, life transitions, and trauma who want to build a better future. We have been told by clients our therapists are warm, caring, skilled, and authentic. We primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients achieve more skillful ways of coping. If you want to work towards positive change in mind and body wellness, we're ready when you are.

My name is Victoria Kapper and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#100449) in the state of California and based in San Diego. I’m committed to walking alongside you or your family to overcome stressful experiences and gain a deeper understanding of yourself and others. I whole-heartedly believe that the most significant indicator of successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My approach is engaged, compassionate, strength-based and solution-focused. I strive to create an open, respectful and safe environment where clients can address sensitive matters and experience growth, insight and change. I integrate evidenced-based practices with empathy, unconditional positive regard and genuineness in treatment. I help to find solutions to problems while providing support and the tools to foster resilience that will lead to lasting changes. I graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development, as well as a Master of Social Work degree. My areas of speciality include treatment for anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and life adjustments/changes across the lifespan. For youth counseling, I hold certifications in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). I'm currently accepting new patients and can't wait to meet you. Call text or email to inquire about a free 15 minute consultation to start your journey today. You can also book a consultation online through my website.

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 became a therapist because my own experiences in therapy as a client had been transformative and healing for me. I wanted to be a source of support and guidance for others to help them heal and grow. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and I'm privileged to learn about you and your experiences. I approach our work from a place of openness and curiosity in order to help give you tools and perspective that will be genuine and helpful. I work very collaboratively with you! I view my role as one that walks alongside you through the therapeutic process to help you identify and accomplish goals that are meaningful to you. I'm very authentic in my relationships with clients, and bring my full self to our sessions.

We grieve any time life changes directions, and even positive changes can bring about difficult feelings. You may be struggling with the death of a loved one, demands of school or work, adjusting to a new relationship, or considering the next chapters of your life. With experience in oncology, young adult parental loss, anticipatory loss, and sudden death, I provide you with support, insights, treatment, education, and guidance during times of transition and beyond. While some clients make the choice to pursue working with a therapist because of a specific life event or situation, others make the choice because of a desire for self-growth and a general improvement in well-being. Regardless of your reason, I welcome you to contact me. It's not easy to seek support. I'm easy-going, approachable, and genuinely want you to feel better. Send me a message and we can figure out how to make that happen.

Hello! I support young adults navigating the stress of emerging adulthood, career stress, and relationship dynamics, including anxious attachments. I specialize in offering care to survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence. You're not alone, and you're brave for considering a change. Let's see how we can help you reclaim freedom, joy, and meaning in your life.

My name is Jovelyn, but I go by Jovi. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist with a diverse background working with families, children, teens, and adults. I’m passionate about supporting clients on their journey toward personal growth, inner peace, and life satisfaction. My approach is direct, caring, genuine, and often infused with humor. I understand therapy can feel intimidating, but if you’re open and ready to do the work, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.