Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

I was inspired to become a therapist by my experience working with adults with developmental disabilities. I found deep fulfillment in making a positive impact with the people in my community and wanted to make that the focus of my life. I offer a warm and kind presence that allows my clients to speak without judgment. My approach is highly focused on the underlying feelings that inform how we navigate life. Utilizing a balance between compassion and direct communication, my aim is to create an atmosphere that is kind and comforting while respecting the work we do and the need for honesty. I believe in the ideas of genuineness, empathetic understanding, and unconditional positive regard for my clients. My goal is to demonstrate acceptance for my clients from a holistic perspective that includes every aspect of who they are. Understanding all of the facets and intersecting identities that make up a person, allows me to support them at my best. I also wish to provide my clients with useful tools that can help them to be their best selves both within a relationship and individually.

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.

Many of the students I work with feel overwhelmed trying to figure out who they are and what they want, especially in a time that feels uncertain and constantly changing. You might be thinking about your future while also holding awareness of things like climate change, global crises, or instability in the world, which can make everything feel heavier or harder to make sense of. Some students I work with are dealing with habits like skin picking or hair pulling, while others feel burnt out, anxious, or like they’re trying to keep up but struggling internally. I take a relational and systemic approach, looking at both what’s happening internally and the larger context you’re living in, while also offering practical tools to support change. Many of my clients are thoughtful and aware, trying to make sense of themselves and the world around them. Therapy can be a space to slow things down and find ways to move forward that feel more grounded and realistic.

Let’s be honest, although change is inevitable, it can be really stressful. We all deserve to be seen, heard and loved. To know we are not alone. Together, we can work through your concerns so you can be the best version of yourself.

Sean O’Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a Board Certified Licensed Psychologist living in San Diego, California, with over 30 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O’Hara has 2 convenient office locations in San Diego County, Rancho Bernardo, California and La Jolla, California. Dr. O’Hara also frequently travels throughout the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O’Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and rock concert tours. Dr. O'Hara accepts many insurances through Headway.co https://care.headway.co/providers/sean-o-hara-3?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=135088

Change naturally produces anxiety. While a certain amount of anxiety is normal for all persons, those with excessive anxiety may find themselves experiencing constant worry, doubt, and self criticism. In addition, sometimes depression, substance abuse and various disorders may follow. However, anxiety IS manageable. Mind and body will need to work together to relieve the stress that starts your anxiety process. I help you manage these stressful times and difficult life transitions through various therapies suited your unique personality and particular needs. My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental, supportive and practical. It is based on the latest successful therapies for anxiety and depression, yet tailored to your specific personality and situation. Together we will work through the sequential steps that have resulted in your distress and then follow with the processes that will bring you relief. With the Couples Counseling I do, I see my role as helping to develop healthy person-to-person emotional connections, without sacrificing individuality. Each person’s personality needs to be recognized and respected. In initial sessions, much of my focus begins with changing communication style and learning to negotiate conflict. To restore or develop trust and connection, I find that people need to first literally learn to talk to each other differently. This is not as easy as it may sound, but it is possible and it is the foundation of maintaining healthy relationships. Once respectful and caring communication is established, improved emotional connections become possible and problems can be resolved. In the addiction treatment I do, I work both with clients and their families and friends. In my 20+ years working with dual diagnosis and addictions, I have had the benefit of working in every level of care -- from substance abuse prevention to in-patient rehab treatment programs, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. One of my sincere beliefs is that there is no one way that works for everyone. Not everyone needs rehab and each situation deserves special consideration. In short, that means there are no "have to's", "must's", or "should's." I apply an approach with empathy and compassion for my clients, while bringing them the best type of care they need, and of course, never giving up.

I was inspired to become a therapist by my own healing journey. I felt motivated to support other people to find their meaning by living a genuine life, establishing healthy boundaries, implementing adaptive coping skills and strategies, and using their strengths to live more joyful lives. I value each person’s individuality and offer a safe and non-judgmental space for growth and healing. I am passionate about helping others and meet my clients where they are. My hope is to guide my clients through the therapeutic process with compassion, focusing on their strengths and support systems.

My passion for working in this field stems from a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of mental well-being. Every individual deserves the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life and I am honored to support individuals in achieving this. Witnessing the resilience and courage of my clients as they navigate mental health challenges is profoundly inspiring. It fuels my commitment to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions that empower them to overcome obstacles and thrive. By fostering empathy, awareness, and de-stigmatization, I aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals struggling with mental health concerns. I do this by practicing active listening, which involves giving my full attention to what the client is saying—both verbally and non-verbally. I reflect back what I hear to ensure I understand their perspective and emotions accurately. I also ask clarifying questions when necessary and validate their experiences, showing that I respect their feelings and struggles. By being non-judgmental and compassionate, I help clients feel safe to share more openly. Ultimately, my goal is to create a space where they feel accepted and understood, which fosters trust and the ability to make progress in therapy. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. This begins with being genuinely present and engaged in our sessions, listening actively, and responding with empathy. I also ensure that I maintain clear communication about the therapy process, respecting the client’s pace and autonomy. By being consistent, reliable, and transparent about goals and boundaries, clients are more likely to feel secure and confident in the therapeutic relationship. Additionally, I validate their experiences and emotions, which helps to foster mutual respect and understanding. Over time, this collaborative and supportive dynamic allows us to work together toward meaningful change.

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.

We all have the ability to be our best selves, sometimes we need support as we strive to discover what that looks like. I draw from diverse treatment modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Play Therapy. I have a BA in Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University as well as an MSW from San Diego State University.

"If you are struggling to sit with difficult emotions and would like support, I can help. My mission is to empower you to learn how to turn towards your pain to find healing, instead of running away to endure long-term suffering. This process is done by teaching you how to sit with difficult emotions. When you can learn how to sit with difficult emotions, you can then begin to process them and to heal through them. As you begin to heal, you can then start to make peace with the past, let go of it, and bring joy in to the present. This enables you to turn slowly and gently towards the future where you can start to feel whole again. As a result, you begin to develop a deeper and more meaningful connection within yourself and with others."

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!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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.

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.

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.

Our goal at the office of Kirstin Filizetti, Ph.D. is to help you uncover your potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, one of our counselors look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. We specialize in working with: Mood disorders, Anxiety & Stress, Trauma, Relational problems, Adolescent Issues, LGBT individuals, Life Transitions, Career issues, Substance abuse/dependence, Mindfulness and Personal Growth. We also offer psychological assessments and evaluations, including: (1) testing for ADHD, (2) evaluation for learning disabilities, (3) employment screening, and for (4) diagnostic clarification purposes. Feel free to review our website for more information about how testing can be helpful for you at this time.

Tired of talk therapy that goes nowhere? You’ve seen therapist after therapist, each one listens, nods, and takes notes… but where are the practical tools for real change? If you're craving more than just conversation, you're not alone and BRAVE Wellness Studio is here to help! Holistic psychotherapy treats you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. We blend talk therapy with body-based and mindfulness techniques to uncover root causes, build awareness, and support real healing. We also offer Ketamine Assisted Therapy. Sessions are relaxed, empowering conversations that help you reclaim control. You're not broken, and you don’t have to do this alone. If you're ready to feel more connected, supported, and in control of your healing journey, we're here to walk with you. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and reclaim your BRAVEry!

I am a highly skilled Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, LPCC) with a strong academic foundation and over 13 years of professional experience. With a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, I bring a deep understanding of human behaviors and emotions to my practice. My therapeutic approach is characterized by my commitment to working from a relational lens, fostering genuine connections to facilitate healing and growth. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I have honed my expertise in helping individuals such as yourself, navigate life's challenges and complexities. My approach to therapy is rooted in relational therapy, which focuses on the therapeutic relationship itself as a catalyst for change. By creating a safe and empathetic environment, I enable my clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors within the context of their relationships, both past and present. With a deep appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and unique stories of my clients, I tailor therapeutic interventions to address each individual's specific needs and goals. My warm and collaborative demeanor cultivates a therapeutic partnership that promotes self-discovery and personal transformation.

Stress, Anxiety, Overwhelm, and Uncertainty. How long can we go on like this? What happens when it gets to be too much? Living like this can push you past your limits. I notice that people tend to seek help for "mental health" when the symptoms of stress that affect their "physical health" worsen. My approach to helping clients is rooted in my understanding that mental, physical, and emotional health are all inextricably intertwined. I work with Highly Sensitive Persons (see the self questionnaire at: www.hsperson.com) who struggle to cope with the fast paced, overwhelming and uncertain environment our lives have become. I also work with many people who recognize their childhoods as having been painful or traumatic.I am trained in EMDR. Therapy can help develop the tools you need to create the life you want to live.