Therapists for college students near University of Southern California
I work best with the misfits: geeks & nerds, punks, skaters, artists, musicians, writers, and activists. . . those who "rage against the dying of the light." My area of expertise consists in helping with difficulties in social relationships. Such difficulties include finding and sustaining healthy intimacy, healing from a painful break-up or divorce, school-related problems, recovering from major loss, and growing up in difficult circumstances. I am particularly suited to helping those who have cultivated their intellects and creativity but would now like to develop a greater awareness of their emotional world. Psychoanalytic thought informs my approach, but I'm far from being the silent, blank therapist. I think the psychoanalytic tradition provides the richest and most sophisticated exploration of how we love, work, and play.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in empowering people like you to identify needs, realize strengths, and rewrite stories. I am passionate about helping my clients discover tools and develop skills to help deal with life's stressors and overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. As a Black woman, I understand the importance of representation and having a safe space to process and cope with traumatic events and daily challenges. When working with clients, I use a holistic approach with a nonjudgmental lens to support you where you are today!
Have things started to feel harder than they used to? This is a good sign. It's time to take care of you in a more meaningful way than you've experienced before. I work with clients who report feeling dismayed by their reactions to work stress, school stress, and/or relationship stress. I'm a deeply empathetic, yet directive therapist. I draw from multiple research-backed approaches to address your needs and goals. I have extensive experience working with overwhelm, stress, and depression, as well as PTSD, with adults, children and families. I feel honored to work with clients in what I consider to be a sacred process. Most of my clients report that they feel relief and hope within the first session. Clients see continued improvement as we process challenging experiences together and honor the natural wisdom and sense of personal power that arises from the work. Over time, experiences of reactivity, as well feelings such as anxiety, anger, sadness, and joy all become meaningful and helpful when we hold them with curiosity and compassion. And despite my education and training, I want you to know that I won't ever be 'done' finding parts of myself that need more love, or areas of my life that stretch me when I least expect it. It's because I lead a truly human life, combined with experience and support, that I know the courage and hard choices it takes to make this step toward healing.
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile. As a college or university student, so many circumstances can impact your ability to move forward in your classes, your degree program, and in life. I remember those years well and understand the level of commitment needed to successfully move through these years, with as little stress as possible. Know that help is available to assist you with meeting your goals both inside and outside of your academic situation. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression and focus on women's mental health issues. I enjoy partnering with women of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, throughout California, who are pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of majors. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive. When you're ready, feel free to call the phone number listed to schedule your free consultation, to determine if we are an initial fit to work together. I accept the insurances listed and I will also provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. I offer a reduced rate for students who need it. If you are without insurance right now and will be paying cash, please ask for this reduced rate when you call.
Alex is one of the experienced therapists at SD Zen. He is a licensed clinical social worker with 10 years of experience and helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. He has dedicated his career to supporting and empowering individuals to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Alex utilizes his experience in CBT, psychoanalysis, and family systems theory to guide his patients to their desired goals. Alex has a talent for creating a safe and welcoming space for his clients to share their struggles. He works collaboratively with them to develop personalized treatment plans that meet their specific needs.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Do you feel overwhelmed or struggle to relieve stress, manage anxiety, depression, or build healthy relationships? Are you carrying unprocessed trauma from the past and feeling stuck, yet ready to rediscover a sense of agency and move toward growth and healing? Taking the first step and reaching out for support can feel scary, but it is also an act of courage. Together, we can collaborate to create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling. Contact me for a free 15 minute consultation.
My ideal client is someone who is ready for self-exploration and personal growth, whether they are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem issues, or trauma. They seek a safe, supportive space to better understand themselves, overcome challenges, and develop healthier coping strategies. They aspire to improve their mental well-being, gain deeper self-awareness, and make lasting, positive changes in their life. Together, we’ll work toward helping them unlock their full potential and create a more fulfilling, balanced life. I can help by providing a supportive space to explore and address your challenges. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Psychoanalytic Therapy, I’ll help you uncover the root causes of your struggles, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and develop strategies to improve your emotional well-being and create lasting change. I know reaching out for support can feel like a tough step, but you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a straightforward, supportive space where we can tackle your challenges head-on and make real, lasting changes. If you're ready to take control of your journey and level up, I invite you to take that first step with me.
Welcome! My name is Rachel and I work with young adults who are navigating the effects of traumatic experiences. I believe that anything that overwhelms our capacity to cope and move forward can be traumatic, and this often shows up as anxiety, chronic disconnection, or feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. I help clients become more aware of body sensations, thinking traps, and response patterns to stressful situations. We will collaborate to move towards a life where you feel more centered and connected with your self, your values, and the world around you. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective and include experiential, present-focused exercises in sessions to help deepen the mind-body connection and equip clients with tools to use in daily life. I love to walk alongside my clients towards feeling more grounded, authentic, and alive, moving at a pace that feels safe and gentle. If you are looking to reconnect with your vitality and resilience in a compassionate space, I would love to connect and see if we are a good fit. I offer virtual and in-person therapy, with the option for walk and talk sessions.
I work frequently with young adults as they manage increasing independence, college and work. I understand the challenges involved with balancing academic requirements, personal stressors and self care. Additionally, I am experienced in helping clients who are wanting to change their relationship patterns and behaviors, and those struggling to find effective ways to deal with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and codependency. As a clinical psychologist, I assist my clients in meeting their goals and improving their relationships. Therapy is used to improve communication, coping skills and problem solving. One of my areas of expertise is in helping clients who are working through a particularly challenging time in their lives, and having difficulty moving forward from their experience. By encouraging self expression, increased insight and problem solving in therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to facilitate positive changes. Improving self esteem through greater understanding and acceptance of oneself is part of that work.
Aldemar is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), with 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. He also has a degree in Psychology, which compliments his clinical and social work skills to formulate a more comprehensive and wholistic approach to therapy. Additionally Aldemar is a Certified Trauma Professional, and uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as his primary theoretical approach to trauma. He believes that each individual brings into his/her therapy experience a unique set of skills, which he encourages to identify through Narrative Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is another modality, which Aldemar often uses with his clients to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns, and replace them with healthy habits to achieve a optimal mental health. Aldemar believes in the human connection., which is the power to positively influence others. He welcomes you to a safe space, where you can become the best version of yourself, and he commends you for taking charge of your life through therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? One key factor to predict positive change is the trust you have with your therapist. That is my goal. I utilize my cultural sensitivity to understand my clients' struggles. I have experience using mindfulness-based techniques and insight oriented approaches. I have worked with college students and older adults. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. I truly believe that we can profoundly better ourselves through the moments in our lives where we face challenges by defining how we will see the problem and take action, rather than letting the problem define how we see ourselves. I will work with you, as a member on your team, to help you live better.
As a proud Latina and former teen mom, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to the therapeutic space. I’m deeply passionate about mental health and the power of healing through connection, understanding, and culturally sensitive care. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, sexual violence, anxiety, and depression. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy and empowerment. I believe every person deserves to feel heard, safe, and supported especially in their most vulnerable moments. In our work together, I aim to create a space where you can begin to unlearn shame, process pain, and rebuild your sense of self with compassion and strength. Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
I am a 1st generation, Belizean-American who was raised in Los Angeles, CA. I received BA from UC Riverside, c/o 2008 and MSW from USC, c/o 2010. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, families, children and couples addressing mild to moderate-severe mental health challenges. I enjoy using a person-centered approach and meeting my clients where they are using various treatment modalities which include: cognitive behavior therapy, narrative therapy and solution-focused therapy. As well incorporating spiritual and holistic practices within my treatment as well!
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy works best when you feel truly seen and understood. I meet clients where they are and provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore life’s challenges. My work focuses on helping clients process stressors, navigate difficult experiences, and move toward meaningful personal growth. My approach is compassionate, open-minded, and flexible. I work collaboratively with clients to find practical, meaningful solutions while also creating space for deeper reflection. I can be both straightforward and grounded when needed, while also using metaphor and insight to help clients better understand themselves and their experiences. In our first session, you can expect a relaxed and supportive environment where we focus on getting to know you—your story, your goals, and what brings you to therapy. We’ll begin identifying what you’d like to work on and start building a plan that feels manageable and aligned with where you are, helping you move forward at your own pace.
I work best with clients who are passionate about self-discovery, social change, and navigating life’s challenges. Many of the individuals I support are exploring identity, facing societal pressures, or advocating for human rights, including LGBTQ+ issues, women’s rights, and other radical movements. College can be a time of immense growth and uncertainty, and I help students manage stress, relationships, and personal identity while balancing academic and social expectations. Whether struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or navigating systemic injustices, I provide a supportive, affirming space to explore these challenges. My goal is to empower clients to embrace their authentic selves and build resilience in the face of adversity.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Pause and imagine what life could feel like if the past no longer dictated your present. Imagine permitting yourself to grow in new directions, breaking free from painful relational patterns, or no longer paying a heavy price for success and achievement. I help adults and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges. Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals feeling stuck, disconnected, or exhausted. Others are navigating trauma, loss, life transitions, or questions of identity, seeking clarity and relief. I believe everyone can unlock their innate capacity to heal and grow. In our work together, you’ll find a safe and collaborative space to slow down, reflect, and begin practicing new ways of relating to yourself and others. My approach combines a relational psychodynamic foundation with evidence-based methods, including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT, DBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked in international business across multiple countries, which shaped my appreciation for cultural and contextual influences. I now support adults navigating perfectionism, stress, career pressures, and major transitions. I offer both in-person and teletherapy.
As a mental health clinician, I find a great joy in working with young individuals in their early 20's and 30's who may struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Through active listening and communication, client's have found therapy to be a place to "think out loud" and allow themselves to feel or experience emotions that would otherwise be ignored and forgotten. Therapy is a place to being authentic, to grow in self awareness, and to be empowered by one's successes and shortcomings. I am passionate about supporting the Asian American community. As an Asian American therapist, I want to support Asian American individuals who may struggle with cultural identities, family relational issues and addressing culture specific topics that impact one's social and emotional wellness.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.