Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

If you need support for a challenging situation, dealing with work/life stressors, struggling to make healthy changes or ready to get unstuck and move in a new direction in your life, I can help you with your journey to living in the world as your most authentic self. By holding a safe space for you to be heard without judgement, I hope to help you see your existing values, strengths and learn new skills to help you adapt and cope. I am passionate about whole person health and helping you achieve your goals of growth, wellness, and personal joy. As a first generation Filipino American, I understand the stigma around expressing emotions and seeking mental health services in Asian American and minority communities. Suppressed emotions can lead to emotional distress, affecting body and soul. As a licensed clinical social worker with decades of experience in healthcare, I've seen the toll firsthand. I decided to become a therapist when I realized that it's ok to have uncomfortable feelings, to acknowledge them and and learn from them what we really want.I realize how daunting this first step to reaching out can be and am grateful you’ve taken the time to look into self care for yourself. I offer a free 15 minute consultation to see if we'd be good fit.

What inspired me to become a therapist was my own personal experience with therapy as a young child. I wanted to help other people with their journey to become mentally healthy, mindful, and self-aware for a new lifestyle that is encouraging and fulfilling to them. My goal is to create a safe space for clients during sessions by being an observant, nonjudgmental, and an empathetic therapist. My philosophy is “Aim Small to Hit Big”, which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.

Are you often feeling worried and anxious? Are you finding it hard to manage all of the responsibilities in life? Perhaps, you're feeling stuck or stagnant in life, and seeking purpose and direction. You’re not alone—and you deserve to feel peace, gratitude, and fulfillment in your relationships, your work, and your personal life. Change is possible. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger to navigating life transitions, identity formation, parenting and/or grief, I am here to walk with you and empower you to live in freedom. My goal is to help you reconnect—with yourself and with others. I lead with empathy, curiosity and compassion and take the time to understand who you are and the experiences that have shaped you in this world. I team with you to identify goals that fit your needs and equip you to live an empowered life that feels most authentically you. I have a heart for people and helping people live fuller, more connected lives is my passion. Therapy with me is a space where you can show up exactly as you are, feel truly heard, and take steps toward the life you’ve been longing for. Let’s take the first step together. Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation.

I profoundly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to create a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I help people utilize their inherent strengths, build meaningful support systems, and develop practical skills that promote lasting change and personal growth. I am driven to help individuals overcome generational trauma and break free from cycles of pain and suffering. "I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel seen, heard and valued. Together, we work towards achievable goals, cultivate resilience, navigate challenges, and foster emotional well-being. I am committed to providing culturally competent and affirming care to all those I serve. In my practice, I find fulfillment in working with a diverse range of communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrant families, and college students. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from various cultural backgrounds through life transitions and psychosocial stressors. I approach each session with empathy, curiosity and respect towards all experiences. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by collaborating on goals, honoring your pace, and highlighting your strengths as we work through evidence-based strategies.

I am a PMHNP who graduated from Cal State LA’s MSN program. I have experience working in phase 1 and 2 clinical research helping develop new medicines for mental health patients. I also have my own family history of mental health issues. My ability to connect with my patients deeply inspires me to keep working in this field. I get to know every patient’s background, lifestyle, relationships, occupations, hobbies, stressors, and medication history very thoroughly to develop a holistic approach to create a plan with the patient to ensure effective care.

Are you looking to make some changes in your life? Let's make it real and transformative together. As a seasoned and licensed psychotherapist, I'm here to be your guide, helping you connect with your inner voice, find balance, and foster the rich, fulfilling relationships you truly deserve. My approach seamlessly weaves together Western and Eastern Psychology, uniting Mind, Body, and Spirit to deepen your relationship with yourself. Specializing in various modalities such as CBT and MBSR, I am equipped to assist in healing emotional trauma, anxiety, mental blocks, and pain, while also fostering creativity and high-level performance.

Life can be overwhelming, and asking for help takes courage. Whether you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply need support processing life’s changes, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where we focus on your strengths, explore your goals, and move at a pace that feels right for you. Sessions are available in English or American Sign Language to meet your communication needs. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy, grounded in trust and open communication. We'll set meaningful goals together, and I’ll support you using your strengths while building new skills. You can expect empathy, respect, and a space that truly honors your voice. Let’s connect and explore how I can support you. I offer telehealth sessions to fit your needs and schedule.

Talk Therapy for Students Are you feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork or are you missing your family and friends back home? Our team is here to help you find the tools and coping skills to get your mind right. Leaving home, starting university, and finding new friends can be some of the most intense pressures and stressors to manage. Our team can help you Discover new coping skills Specialize techniques to manage anxiety and depression, and negative thought loops Increase your support system that will help you manage and decrease stress Talk about your past present or fear of the future Learn new ways to manage trauma Set new goals and follow through! YOU ARE NOT ALONE! College is an exciting time filled with new experiences, opportunities, and growth. However, it can also be a challenging period, particularly for students who may face academic pressure, financial stress, relationship difficulties, or mental health issues. These stressors can quickly pile up and take a toll on a student’s well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, or burnout. As experienced therapists, we have seen firsthand the unique challenges that college students face. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of academic success, building healthy relationships, or finding your place in the world, college can be a time of intense stress and uncertainty. That’s why we believe that therapy is the most powerful tool for college students who are looking to enhance their well-being and achieve their goals. Our overarching goal is to help students to develop a better understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and provide them with the tools they need to overcome the challenges they face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or even relationship issues, therapy can help you to gain a new perspective, improve your coping skills, and increase your overall sense of happiness and fulfillment. Our number one priority is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and work towards achieving your goals. We know that every college student is unique, and take a personalized approach to therapy, tailoring our methods to fit your individual needs and goals. So, if you’re a college student looking to improve your well-being, increase your self-awareness, and achieve your full potential, we encourage you to consider therapy. We’re here to help.

Heather Ward, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, is a licensed therapist with deep roots in college campus mental health, having provided counseling and wellness support across multiple higher education settings in the Los Angeles area. Trained at the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education, Heather has worked at Pierce College, West LA College, and California State University, Northridge, where she managed large student caseloads, coordinated care with multidisciplinary campus teams, and developed workshops focused on building healthy relationships and emotional resilience. Heather brings a warm, collaborative style and a nonjudgmental presence to her work with students navigating depression, anxiety, identity shifts, and the pressures of academic life. She draws from attachment-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-oriented approaches to help clients build emotional regulation skills and strengthen their sense of self during pivotal life transitions. Earlier in her career, Heather also contributed to campus mental health from an administrative lens, developing and implementing strategic mental health and counseling initiatives at UCLA Extension — giving her a uniquely well-rounded perspective on how students are supported at an institutional level. Heather is committed to culturally sensitive, inclusive care and has experience supporting diverse student populations across community college and university settings.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, veteran, and former ER nurse and healthcare administrator dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized mental health care. My background in emergency medicine taught me how to support people through some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments of their lives. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I value creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where patients feel safe being themselves. I take a collaborative and down-to-earth approach to treatment, with a focus on helping patients feel understood, empowered, and supported in building meaningful, lasting change. My path into psychiatry was shaped by both my professional and personal experiences. Working as an ER nurse, I saw firsthand how deeply mental health affects every aspect of a person’s life and how often people were struggling silently long before reaching a crisis point. Those experiences inspired me to pursue a role where I could build longer-term relationships with patients and focus not only on stabilization, but on healing, growth, and overall quality of life. As a veteran and member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also understand the importance of feeling seen, heard, and supported, which continues to influence the kind of care and environment I strive to provide for my patients. I take a collaborative, patient-centered approach to treatment and believe the best care comes from truly understanding each person’s unique experiences, goals, and challenges. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel comfortable being open and honest. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, surfing, and endurance training. Staying active and spending time outdoors are important parts of how I maintain balance and mental wellness, and I enjoy connecting with patients over the importance of finding healthy outlets and activities that bring meaning and fulfillment outside of work and daily stressors.

I was inspired to become a therapist by a deep belief in the human capacity for transformation. I hold hope for change even in the midst of struggle. Having walked my own journey of growth, I understand the courage it takes to be vulnerable and to trust another person with your story. I honor the sacredness of the therapeutic relationship and approach it with presence, compassion, and integrity. Working together is a collaborative and evolving process. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a nonjudgmental energy into the room. I meet each client as they are — without assumptions — and seek to understand their unique narrative. Trust is built through authenticity, attunement, and consistent care. I believe that when people feel safe and truly heard, they are better able to access their own strengths, heal old wounds, and move toward a more grounded and empowered way of living. My role is to walk alongside you — supporting self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change at a pace that honors your process. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work, concentrating in Mental Health, from the University of Southern California. My work is grounded in a holistic, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach that honors the whole person — mind, body, spirit, relationships, and lived experience. I believe healing is not just about reducing symptoms, but about reconnecting to one’s inner resilience, wisdom, and capacity for growth. Transformation often unfolds through connection, safety, and feeling deeply seen. I strive to create a therapeutic space that nurtures all three. My work is guided by an intersectional lens and cultural humility. I recognize that each person carries layered identities, experiences, and histories that shape how they move through the world. By honoring these complexities, I collaborate with clients to co-create meaningful, personalized treatment that aligns with their values, culture, and goals.

If you feel like you’ve been missing out on life due to your mental health, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, OCD, addictions, relationship or sexual issues, or the unique pressures of working in the entertainment industry, I’m here to help. My approach is compassionate, direct, and tailored to your needs—offering a space where you can explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful change. I specialize in working with young adults, professionals, and individuals seeking relief from overwhelming thoughts, addictive patterns, and life transitions. Together, we’ll identify what’s holding you back, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling. Stress, self-doubt, and old patterns can make it hard to move forward, even when you know something needs to change. Having grown up as a professional child actress, I’ve experienced firsthand the pressures of performance, perfectionism, and identity—shaping my understanding of how early experiences can impact mental health. In therapy, we’ll focus on what’s actually getting in your way—not just surface-level fixes, but meaningful shifts that help you feel more grounded and in control of your life. If you’re looking for a space to figure things out without judgment, let’s talk.

I love being a Mental health Therapist. I have been licensed as a Marriage and family child therapist, since January, 5 1985. I have worked in private practice and with Medical groups to provide the best mental health care available to each individual and to our community. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and with adolescents to improve daily functioning and improved mental health. I see each client as an individual with past experiences that only they can share their own history. It is very important to listen to what the client has experienced and to share their history. Trust and an empathetic relationship is paramount to have the client feel heard and safe.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

As a therapist, I pride myself in the confidentiality and the general skills I can offer you like any other therapist. However, what you can expect with my practice goes beyond the standard therapeutic experience. My practice is person-centered and non-judgmental across several subjects, domains, circumstances, and themes. I also pride myself in being multi-dimensional in identity politics; I am Trans-Affirmative, LGBTQ+ Affirmative, Sex-positive, Body positive, Kink-positive, and more. I approach the world and my work from a lens of inclusivity rather than exclusivity. We all deserve quality care regardless of how we identify. Reach out for your free consult. Please be aware that while this site asks me to include my initial and ongoing session fees, it does not allow me to clarify my sliding scale; please feel free to inquire about that if needed. I would be honored to take this journey with you!

Working in the mental health field inspires me because of the resilience I see in people. Even in life’s hardest moments, you have the capacity to heal, grow, and build a meaningful life. My role is to help you reconnect with your strengths, navigate challenges, and discover what works for you. In sessions, I focus on authenticity and clarity. I listen closely and with empathy, because your experiences and feelings truly matter. My approach is trauma-informed, meaning I’m mindful of how past experiences can shape the present, and I aim to meet you where you are without judgment or pressure. I draw on an integrative and holistic approach, addressing the connection between mind, body, and emotions to support your overall well-being. Trust and connection often develop naturally in the therapeutic space. For many clients, having a nonjudgmental person to share with—someone who listens without an agenda—can be profoundly impactful. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to explore, grow, and rediscover that life is worth it, and so are you.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University, where I graduated with honors. I began my nursing career in 2019 and have been dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys ever since. My approach blends clinical expertise with empathy, always aiming to create a safe, supportive space where patients feel truly heard and understood. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported. Mental health care allows me to walk alongside people during some of their most vulnerable moments, offering compassion, understanding, and evidence-based tools to help them heal and grow. I’m passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and creating a safe space where individuals can share their stories and work toward their goals. I believe the most effective care happens when it’s built on true partnership. I make sure to take the time to listen to each individual’s goals, concerns, and values, and together we create a plan that feels both effective and meaningful to them. I make sure to explain treatment options clearly so that they can make informed choices with confidence and as treatment progresses, I remember to stay flexible and responsive, adjusting the approach as needed to ensure that it continues to align with each patient’s preferences and values.

Hi, I'm Chris! Im a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with nearly a decade of experience working with diverse populations, including children and adolescents, homeless veterans, individuals struggling with substance use, and almost everything in between. My professional journey has equipped me with a deep understanding of relational dynamics and effective therapeutic techniques designed to alleviate distress in it's many forms and flavors such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and life-cycle transitions. I am passionate about helping clients navigate life's challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Hi! I’m Jada Thompson, a Licensed Couple and Family Therapist. I am a proud second-generation Mexican American, born and raised in the Big Sky State of Montana. I moved to the Los Angeles area over ten years ago to feed my sense of exploration and reconnect with my family, culture, and self. My early life experiences, including the sudden death of my mother during childhood, have shaped me into the person I am today and fueled my drive to pursue a career in mental health. I graduated from Alliant International University in Los Angeles with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. While working in community mental health, I continued to grow in my work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I offer individuals a compassionate space to explore identity, relationships, and life transitions with curiosity and respect. Whether facing cultural or religious trauma, rejection, or the pain of not feeling fully seen, we work together to uncover the roots of struggle and build tools for greater freedom, resilience, and fulfillment in the present.

Clients I work with are typically struggling with perfectionism, eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, and difficulty with the college transition. I want to learn about your unique story so that we can create meaningful positive change in your life. As your therapist, I like to focus on staying in the present moment, finding skills to regulate emotions, and tapping into your mind/body/spirit. Because of my own background and identities, I am passionate about working with athletes, LGBTQ folks, People of Color, and trans-racial adoptees. I am located in Los Angeles and work with clients throughout California using a secure Telehealth platform, Simple Practice.