Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA
What inspired me to become a therapist comes from both my professional journey and my personal understanding of how complex life can be. Over the years, I have worked in multiple healthcare and community-based settings, and across each of those environments, one thing became very clear: people are not just one problem or one diagnosis. Our experiences are shaped by a combination of emotional, relational, environmental, and even systemic factors. When those pieces are not addressed together, healing can feel incomplete or out of reach. I was drawn to therapy because it allows me to work in a way that honors the full picture of a person’s life. I believe deeply in a “whole systems” approach—where we explore not only what is happening, but why it is happening, how it connects to other areas of life, and what meaningful change can look like for you specifically. My goal is not just to help resolve a single concern, but to support a process where growth in one area begins to positively influence others. In addition, my own life experiences—including moments of navigating professional and personal challenges—have given me a strong sense of empathy and respect for the courage it takes to seek support. Therapy, to me, is a space where people can safely explore, rebuild, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. Helping you feel genuinely heard is one of the most important parts of our work together. I approach this by creating a space that is intentional, unhurried, and centered around you. That means giving you the time to express yourself fully, without interruption, and without feeling like you need to filter or edit your thoughts. I use active listening throughout our sessions—not just hearing your words, but paying attention to underlying emotions, patterns, and meanings. I will often reflect back what I’m hearing and check in with you to make sure I’m understanding you accurately. This kind of back-and-forth dialogue helps ensure that your experience is not only acknowledged, but deeply understood. Research consistently shows that when clients feel heard, respected, and involved as active participants, they experience stronger engagement and better outcomes in care. Equally important, I strive to create a non-judgmental and inclusive environment where all parts of your identity and experience are welcome. Whether you are sharing something difficult, uncertain, or even hard to put into words, my role is to meet you with openness and respect. You are not just being listened to—you are being understood, validated, and taken seriously. Working together is a collaborative and evolving process. In the beginning, we spend time understanding what brings you in, what feels most important to you, and what you would like to change or explore. From there, we develop shared goals and a plan that reflects your needs, preferences, and pace. This might include structured approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with other evidence-based methods that align with your situation. As therapy progresses, sessions often involve exploring patterns, building insight, developing coping strategies, and practicing new ways of responding to challenges. There is also space for reflection, processing emotions, and making meaning of your experiences. Importantly, you are actively involved in shaping the direction of our work—we regularly revisit goals and adjust as needed. Building trust and a strong therapeutic alliance is something I approach with intention from the very first session. This includes being consistent, transparent, and respectful, as well as clearly outlining what you can expect from therapy. I also invite your feedback openly, so we can address any concerns and ensure that the process feels supportive and aligned for you. A strong therapeutic alliance—built on trust, collaboration, and mutual understanding—is one of the most important factors in successful therapy outcomes. This alliance is not something assumed; it is something we actively build together through open communication, shared goals, and a sense of partnership. My role is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to take risks, and empowered enough to make meaningful changes. I believe that therapy works best when the space feels human and relatable, so I will share small, lighthearted parts of who I am to help build connection. For example, I enjoy songwriting, spending time with my pets, gardening, and participating in community activities. These interests are meaningful to me because they bring balance, creativity, and connection into my own life. Sharing them can sometimes help create an easy point of connection and remind clients that while therapy is a professional space, it is also a genuine human relationship. Thoughtful and appropriate personal sharing can help strengthen rapport and trust, making it easier for clients to feel comfortable and engaged in the process. Ultimately, my goal is to create an environment where you feel both supported and at ease—where meaningful work can happen, but where you can also feel comfortable being yourself.
My name is Diadra Smith. I am an licensed clinical therapist and I use she/her pronouns. I am a clinician who identifies as black, queer, and neurodivergent. I believe all of these intersections has given me the opportunity to see myself in these communities who are often overlooked and underserved in the field of mental health. Why I got into this field was to create a space that is safe, brave, and encourages you to help find your most authentic self. I believe in abolishing and decolonizing what therapy is “supposed” to look like and who it is "supposed" to be for. I view relationships with my clients as a collaboration, asking you for your expertise on your life while I provide guidance through empowerment and advocacy. I am drawn to working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have a passion for working with BIPOC, neurodivergent folx, and LGBTQIA+ communities. My mission is to help to heal complex traumas, environmental inequities, and address intersections of identity unique to our experiences. If reaching out for help feels scary or shameful, I’d like to offer the idea that you are on the verge of change. Acknowledging what isn’t working today is a big first step to making the changes you'd like to see tomorrow. You’re coming at just the right time. However you found your way here, I am honored to be considered to walk with you on your journey.
Integrated, individualized counseling, coaching, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology!
Hi there! Feeling overwhelmed by the whirlwind of transitions, anxieties, and "what ifs" that come with this exciting, yet sometimes challenging, chapter of life? You're not alone. I'm Ronna, an LCSW with 18+ years of experience supporting women like you through the ups and downs of adjusting to college life. From homesickness and relationship hiccups to career-path stress and future worries, I've seen it all, and I'm here to help you navigate it with confidence and clarity. ✨ My approach is all about you and your unique journey. We will work together to identify your strengths, understand your challenges, and develop personalized strategies for managing stress, enhancing interpersonal relationships, and making confident decisions about your future. My solution-focused style empowers you to identify practical coping skills and strategies that actually work, paving the way for the positive change you can see and feel. I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your experiences without judgment. I am here to be your guide, your cheerleader, and your partner in progress as you navigate towards a fulfilling college experience and a bright future. Remember, you've got this, and I'm here to help. Reach out today and let’s start building your brighter future together! My areas of expertise include: • Adjustment to college life • Stress management and anxiety reduction • Building healthy relationships • Managing academic pressures and career exploration • Fostering self-compassion and resilience
Our mission is to deliver person-centered mental health services that promote psychological wellness, healing, and growth. Through the use of compassionate and collaborative care—guided by integrity—we strive to support a meaningful and fulfilling life by nurturing emotional wellbeing, fostering valued relationships, identifying the core self, and promoting lifelong learning. We embrace a holistic approach aiming to help people cultivate a balanced lifestyle that honors personal growth, wellness, and the gradual journey of healing. We envision a community where people from all backgrounds have access to compassionate and culturally-responsive mental healthcare. By honoring each person’s unique story, we aim to establish a foundation for emotional wellbeing and meaningful self-sufficiency. Through empowerment, we strive to inspire: healing, fulfillment, and a sense of peace for all.
As your clinical psychologist, with over 30 years experience, I am committed to creating an environment where you feel safe and understood. I will assist you in addressing and exploring the challenging issues that have kept you from living the life you would prefer. Originally from SoCal, I have lived in Athens for a total of ten years, have two adult children, and have worked extensively with college students, at both UGA and CSUN. Although it needs to be challenging at times, my goal is to make therapy a very positive, fun, and productive experience for you. I work together with you,utilizing cognitive-behavioral techniques, with an emphasis on solution-based therapy. Having spent almost nine years post-grad (3.5 years Masters, 5 years Doctorate), I personally know the challenges of being a student. I personalize my approach to be the one that is most effective for " you." We will work to find healthy changes that are important in assisting you to be happier, less anxious or depressed, and more fulfilled.
Have you ever wondered if life could feel less stressful or more fulfilling? Whether you’re in school, starting your career, or navigating life as a first-generation adult, I’m here to support you. Together we’ll find practical ways to handle challenges, build coping skills, and help you feel more confident and resilient, one step at a time. During our sessions, you’ll have a caring, judgment-free space where your story matters. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven approaches to help you shift negative patterns, tap into your strengths, and make meaningful progress toward your goals. Ready to find out if we’re the right fit? Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I accept insurance and sliding scale. I offer flexible telehealth so starting therapy is convenient and accessible. Let’s connect and take your next step forward together.
I became a therapist to welcome everyone so they feel safe and can be heard without judgement. My goal is for my clients to feel supported, heard and feel connected to someone they trust. I ensure that clients feel they are heard and understood by helping them stay on track with their goals and life experiences. I invite feedback during our sessions so that their needs and concerns are addressed. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by prioritizing a safe and welcoming space in remote therapy. My approach is to use humor, creativity and metaphors to help the clients connect. I want to make the process of therapy more engaging and meaningful. I enjoy family life. I run every day first thing in the morning to feel connected and balanced. I also enjoy watching college basketball – especially when my team wins.
I have always wanted to make a positive impact and in my journey to figuring out what that was, I realized I enjoyed providing people with emotional support and that is when I decided to become a mental health therapist. This is a safe, nonjudgmental space. What is it that you need to feel heard and understood? I do not come from an expert stance. I believe you are the expert in your life and we are both coming together to work collaboratively on how to help you along your life journey.
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.
Our therapists' diverse backgrounds and specialties allow us to work with clients across the lifespan with a wide range of issues. Therapists at Abundance Therapy Center are passionate and committed to improving the emotional and mental health of our clients and provide an individualized approach to therapy to meet your specific needs. Our therapists are highly trained in their skills but more than that, they are strength-based, non-judgmental, and can provide a safe, healing space for you. We have therapists who are bilingual and bi-cultural in Korean, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, and Farsi. We also have therapists with a Christian background who can provide faith-based therapy.
My goal is to help you develop healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I draw from interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy approaches to create a space that feels safe, compassionate, and tailored to you. Together, we’ll work to understand your experiences, develop new coping strategies, strengthen your resilience, and help you move toward the life you want. I believe therapy works best when it’s a partnership—one where you feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
My inspiration of becoming a therapist started at a young age in recognition of the desire to help people in a capacity that was natural and enjoyable to me. I have naturally been a compassionate person that can listen to any person regardless of differences and similarities in dynamics and backgrounds. I practice a warm and welcoming approach when discussing mental health with clients. I support the client to gain successful emotional wellbeing to establish a fuller and more joyous relationship with others and the environment around them. I specialize in supporting individuals who experience a range of mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, healthy coping skills, trauma, grief, anger, stress management, relationship issues and healthy conflict skill building. I am guided by primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment Theory and Family Systems Theory while considering the cultural, social and emotional context of the client. I help clients build on their strengths while addressing the concerns and goals. I have professional Social Work clinical experience working in outpatient clinical settings supporting children, adolescents, teens, military veterans and adults within my professional Social Work experience. I follow the lead of the client to develop trust, rapport, support, and empathy for all clients. I create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to ensure each individual client feels comfortable sharing their lived experiences without judgement. I am patient with each client and take an individualize approach to meet the client where they are.
Hi, I’m Julie! I’m so glad you’re here. I identify as a cisgender Latina woman and am proud of my Puerto Rican heritage. I love working with college-aged adults navigating the big transitions of this stage—figuring out who you are, what you value, and how to manage all the pressures that come with it. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone—and therapy can help. My approach combines practical coping skills with deeper exploration of your thoughts, emotions, and the many parts that make you who you are. I believe we all carry an innate inner wisdom, and my goal is to help you reconnect with yours—building self-trust, compassion, and healing from within. I look forward to connecting and supporting you on your journey.
My name is Wendy Silva, I am a bilingual (Spanish & English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering Teletherapy in the State of California. I work with individuals who may be going through difficult times and may be struggling with managing their responses. You may be noticing patterns that continue to perpetuate thoughts and emotions that can be difficult to understand. In therapy, we can work together in identifying and understanding the “origen” of our patterns and work towards embracing growth, healing, and change. I believe therapy should be a safe space to process your emotions and thoughts without feeling judge and I aim to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space to facilitate growth and healing. I utilized an eclectic approach, utilizing therapeutic approaches and interventions that tailor to my clients needs. With that being said, I mostly work from a psychodynamic therapeutic approach and my focus is to support the client with self-reflection, self-examination and explore the source of your challenges. I will support you with identifying and implementing effective coping skills to live a healthy emotional lifestyle.
You may be used to holding everything together, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in your own thoughts. Maybe you overthink everything, have trouble relaxing, feel irritable or disconnected, or find yourself carrying stress long after the moment has passed. I provide online therapy for adults in California navigating anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is warm, practical, and collaborative. I help clients better understand the patterns that keep them feeling stuck while building coping skills they can use in daily life. Our work may include exploring anxious thoughts, stress responses, avoidance, self-criticism, boundaries, emotional regulation, and the depression or burnout that can come with long-term anxiety. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially when you already feel overwhelmed. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so we can briefly discuss what you are looking for, whether online therapy may be a good fit, scheduling availability, fees, and insurance options.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
I love supporting college students at every stage — first-year to returning adult learners — who are navigating a season of life full of change, uncertainty, and big questions. Maybe you're struggling to make friends or be yourself. Maybe friends aren't the issue, but your romantic life feels chaotic and it's something you'd like to develop. Perhaps relationships aren't it at all; school feels overwhelming and stressful, and you're not really sure what you want to do. My experience is rooted in helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship challenges, academic stress, emotional overwhelm, and much more that is associated with this stage of life. I want to help you understand yourself more clearly and experience yourself with confidence. Sometimes concrete skills can help with that, but mostly, I want to provide you with a space that feels safe to talk about the difficult things showing up in your life. Together, we can discuss what you're needing at this time.