Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Welcome! I’m Jill. If you haven’t been feeling like yourself and want to feel better, then I’m glad you’re here. Together we can explore what may feel difficult–anxiety, life changes, boundaries and relationships. I enjoy teaching clients coping skills to help manage mental health symptoms. If you’d like to learn more about my approach, please visit my website. Thanks, I hope to meet you.

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.

I have always been passionate about understanding others. I believe that most peoples’ actions and beliefs make sense once you understand the full context of their stories. However, we often judge others instead of taking the time to do this. Having a non-judgmental space to explore one’s emotions and experiences is a gift I believe everyone should have access to. Therapy is special because in addition to providing that non-judgmental space, I also can offer practical tools and support for mental health based on my education and experience as a therapist. During our first session, I will ask you to share about why you are seeking therapy and what goals feel important to you. Then, we’ll talk about the ways I can support you in reaching those goals. It’s important to know that I always assume the best in my clients, and my only goal for you is that you are able to live in a way that aligns with your own values and aspirations. Sometimes, I will point out when my clients actions don’t align with their values, as this enables us to truly reflect and grow. Every client has a different comfort level when it comes to how much and how soon they share things with me. I build trust with my clients by showing up consistently and honestly, and I trust that my clients will share things with me when they’re ready. In my past work, I have especially connected with young adults who are processing childhood trauma. I also have had many Asian American clients who are interested in further exploring their cultural identities in therapy. Whatever your background, it would be an honor to work with you and be part of your story.

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 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.

As an effective professional, I assist clients in reaching their goals. My therapeutic style emanates warmth, compassion and professionalism. My approach is collaborative, authentic and client-centered. I empower clients by building upon their strengths. I provide a safe, caring and nonjudgmental environment. Each session promotes personal growth and success!

I became a therapist because I genuinely love seeing people’s lives improve and expand in ways that feel meaningful to them. There is something incredibly powerful about watching someone move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed, to feeling more clear, confident, and hopeful. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are, and feel truly safe, heard, and understood – without fear of judgement. I feel therapy should be a collaborative process where we work together to explore what you’re going through, and develop practical tools to help you move toward the life you want. Wherever you’re starting from, I’m here to support you with compassion, curiosity, and respect. I will help you feel heard and understood by creating a safe space where you can show up exactly as you are, and speak openly about whatever you’re going through, without fear of judgment. From the very beginning, my focus is on truly listening, taking time to understand your experiences, your perspective, and what matters to you most. I approach our work together with compassion and curiosity, and I’ll check in with you to make sure you feel supported and understood. As we build that trust we’ll work collaboratively to explore what’s been holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you move forward toward the life you want. My goal is for you to feel not only heard, but genuinely supported, respected, and empowered through our work together. I’m someone who appreciates meaningful conversation, quiet moments, and really getting to know people below the surface. I find this creates a comfortable, grounded environment where you can feel safe and at ease, being yourself, without any pressure to “perform”. I like spending quiet moments in nature. My favorite routine is drinking my morning coffee outside with my dogs, meditation, reflecting on hope and positivity, and listening to music is also inspirational for me.

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.

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.

Welcome to Thrive! We are a group practice serving San Diego and the greater CA area as we are now offering online only sessions due to Covid19. We love working with college students and young adults and everyone in our office specializes in this age group. We tend to work with diverse clients in terms of their experiences and needs but always approach our work from a fun, collaborative, and client centered perspective. We focus on building relationships with our clients as our most important goal and then working towards the goals that client chooses. Plus, since there are 6 of us at Thrive, I believe that most students can find a therapist at Thrive who will be a good fit for them!

I’m a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping adults who feel stressed, overloaded or unsure of their next step. My background includes years of clinical work in medical and behavioral-health settings, where I’ve supported people navigating work pressures, relationship challenges and major life changes. I bring a calm, organized style with a focus on helping you feel respected, understood and grounded. I work especially well with adults looking for clarity, LGBTQ+ clients seeking an affirming space and anyone who wants steady support while making meaningful changes in their day-to-day life.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I am Milka Galvez, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degree in nursing from Walden University. My vision of a world where mental well-being is prioritized and breaking down societal stigmas surrounding mental health inspires me to work in the field of mental health care. I start by fostering a trusting relationship where patients feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. This is achieved through active listening and open-ended questions during initial assessments to gather insights about their personal beliefs, cultural background and past experiences with mental health care. I then work in collaborative goal setting, flexible treatment approaches and continuous feedback and adjustment.

As a couple and family therapist, I have a strong conviction in the healing power of healthy relationships.  Connecting to your authentic self and fostering wellness in all relationships in your life is a primary focus of my work.  I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy for youth and adults of all family and relationship constellations. My holistic approach incorporates body, mind and spirit to help you create your full personal and relational potential.  In my practice, I utilize psychotherapy, EMDR, somatic awareness, meditation and mindfulness practices, movement, and other modalities to facilitate the growth and change you seek.  I would be honored to support you on your journey.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Are you feeling stuck, burned out, or overwhelmed by the everyday stresses of life? Perhaps anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges are weighing you down. Seeking meaningful change but finding it hard to move forward? Are you a member of a BIPOC community or other resilient community who is feeling isolated, overwhelmed and desiring a safe space to heal? My practice is warm, compassionate, and strength focused, emphasizing true collaboration. I prioritize creating a secure, welcoming setting where every client feels heard, seen and respected—a vital foundation for addressing deeply personal issues. I believe this is the foundation of a good working relationship to address such sensitive personal matters. Drawing from evidence based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic work, multicultural frameworks, and mindfulness—I tailor my approach to each person’s unique story, identities, and challenges. By honoring your individual experience, we can work together toward lasting well being and the changes you envision.

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.

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.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or unsure where to turn, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Therapy Changes is a San Diego psychology practice offering compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Our team is composed exclusively of licensed clinical psychologists with doctoral-level training who provide thoughtful, high-quality care tailored to your needs. Our office is located in Mission Valley, and we also offer teletherapy throughout California. Our team specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, relationship challenges, perinatal mental health concerns, and life transitions. Our team of talented therapists are trained in advanced approaches to support meaningful healing and lasting change. We believe therapy should offer focused guidance when you need it most. We help clients find symptom relief while building practical skills for resilience and growth. We take time to understand your goals and create a thoughtful plan. Call to speak with our Client Care Coordinator and get matched with the right therapist.

We are a group practice that specializes in supporting teens who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, and self-esteem. We provide in-person services near UCSD, as well as virtual therapy sessions to students across CA.