Therapists for college students near University of Southern California
If you’re looking for a therapist who values curiosity, empathy, and an ongoing commitment to social justice, I might be the person you’re looking for. My clients come to therapy with a variety of concerns, including healing from trauma, chronic pain, stress, and anxiety. Others are looking for support around relationships and intimacy. Many of my clients identify as queer, disabled, non-monogamous, or women in STEM. I have specialized experience supporting students who have experienced interpersonal violence, such as sexual assault or domestic violence. I use a somatic, mind-body approach in my work, and view therapy through a liberatory, intersectional lens. If that sounds like a good fit, I invite you to book a free, 20-minute consultation with my practice to learn more!
I honor and respect the opportunity I have to help my clients recognize their worth, build trust in themselves and others, and empower them to be their authentic selves. I strive to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, seen and truly understood. I use a client centered approach while working to build rapport with clients. I use a mix of ACT, CBT, DBT, Solution focused and MI to assist clients in identifying their values, exploring how their thought and behavioral patterns are serving them, increase their distress tolerance, build mindfulness and relaxation skills to help them meet their goals.
If you are feeling stuck, disconnected, or having trouble coping with anxiety or depression, you are not alone. You may be struggling to find balance in your life, or noticing that attachment and trauma from childhood is impacting you presently. Perhaps you recently lost a loved one, are navigating a new chapter of life that has you feeling anxious, or just feel like you are stuck in a rut and need someone to talk to. I work with adults and teens/adolescents on addressing anxiety and depression, unpacking past experiences, improving emotional regulation, building healthy boundaries with loved ones, healthy self-esteem, and more. As a therapist, I provide a challenge-support environment where I encourage you to reflect and explore your values while providing empathy, warmth, and humor. Therapy can be scary because we are asked to go outside our comfort zones, but growth stems from change. I utilize a myriad of theoretical approaches to find a style that works best for you. For LGBTQIA+ identifying individuals, I provide gender and sexuality affirming therapy and can work with you on identity exploration, navigating queer relationships, or coping with the impact of stigma, discrimination, and bias. My therapy office is an accepting and safe space for queer folk.
People make the decision to engage in therapy for a multitude of reasons, all of which are valid. Some people may be ambivalent about making changes in their lives, while others might feel eager and ready to start the process. Regardless of where you find yourself on that continuum, I am here to support you. Although my background has mainly been focused around eating and body image, I see clients who are experiencing a variety of concerns: relationship issues, anxiety/depression, life transitions, unhappiness, etc. Prior to private practice, I worked with undergraduate and graduate students at Harvard University Counseling and Mental Health Service, with a specialty in supporting student-athletes and individuals with eating and body image concerns. I have also worked in psychiatric inpatient programs as well as eating disorder treatment programs. My therapeutic style is integrative, which means that our work together will draw on various approaches determined by your concerns and goals. My hope is for us to build a trusting relationship that will allow for honest reflection, helpful challenge, and ultimately positive change so that you may be able to lead a more fulfilling life.
Hello, I am a psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. I have a couple of openings this spring/summer! My experience has allowed me to bring a deeper perspective to situations, and I know the value of giving that feedback to my clients. Do you want help with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss & grief, life transitions, cultural/racial issues, health problems and substance use? Send me a message and I'd be glad to do a free consult call with you. If I'm not the right therapist for you, I'm happy to give you some names of colleagues. I use a variety of approaches like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic and Existential therapies. I'm licensed in Colorado, California and 42 other states through PsyPact. That means when you go home for the summer/breaks and it's likely I'll be licensed in your home state!
Maybe you are experiencing a lot of anxiety or feeling pretty low with depression. Some days feel like you are barely hanging on. Being in school and going through these emotional hardships is not easy. If you are looking for help I am here to walk with you and help you address your anxiety, depression, or past trauma. You are very brave to seek help and I would love to get connected with you. I offer a free 15 minute consultation to see if we would be a good match. You can call/text me or schedule a consultation directly on my website. I am looking forward to connecting.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, working with you to achieve your unique goals. I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Collaborative Therapy, Mindfulness- Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). Outside of my passion for helping clients build fulfilling lives and meaningful connections, I’m a dog lover, enjoy doing yoga, spending time in nature, and cooking.
I'm a queer white therapist who has been working with teens and young adults for over 10 years. The physical, social, and emotional transition into adulthood can be awesome, but is cal also jarring and overwhelming - I'd like to help make it easier. I have a lot of experience helping deal with issues related to stress, perfectionism, sex and sexuality, identity, and relationships. I also can help support and heal trauma symptoms. I also specialize in anti-racism and anti-oppressive activism. If you're curious about that work I'm at www.ar-tic.org. You can also learn more about my thought process and creativity via www.shealowery.com. I hope to hear from you soon!
I specialize in Substance Use and Trauma. I work with individuals, families, and provide support for partners and spouses of those struggling with Substance Use. Often underlying trauma, mental and physical disorders, stress and shame, fuel substance use, so without addressing those underlying forces its very difficult to manage your life and break free from addiction. I will come along side of you and provide a safe place to process, an individualized recovery plan, tools and insight through education, and together through discovery we will set goals around breaking free from those underlying issues that drive substance abuse as well as breaking addiction itself. Please check out my website for more information: www.myrecoveryworks.org
I find inspiration in helping others that are struggling with mental health problems. My clients have my attention, support, and feel heard and validated. I also collaborate with them to address their problems or distress. As a registered therapist, I strive to meet the client where they are at in life and help them move forward in their individual goals. I work with people from all age groups, religious and cultural backgrounds, states of life (pregnancy), and the LGBTQ population. I have experience working with individuals suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders, grief and loss, trauma symptomatology, medical conditions, and dual diagnoses. I have a passion for reaching out, connecting and relieving mental suffering. I have specialized training working in the following areas: CBT, DBT, Clinical Sexology training in Florida, and TRAUMA training in SEP (Somatic Experiencing Practitioner), EMDR. I have worked with couples using the Gottman method, attachment issues and communication skills. My PhD is in international psychology and I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds.
Hi there, are you experiencing stress in your relationships or in a life transition? Are you feeling a lot of worry or doubt? I may be able to help. I have a compassionate approach to navigating these struggles and skills in regulating emotions. Feel free to contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult or if you have any questions
Reaching out for help is often the most difficult step. We may think “Why wasn’t I strong enough to deal with this on my own?” or “What is wrong with me?”. We may even downplay our experiences, thinking “There are others who have it worse” or “I’m just being dramatic.” It’s okay to have these thoughts, and it’s okay to realize that we can’t do it all on our own. As your therapist, I am here to support you in all aspects of the human experience – especially the ones that make us question ourselves. Whether it be feelings of shame, grief, inadequacy, or something else that is challenging to name, I will be there to guide you gently through. I utilize empathy, compassion, and gentle curiosity in the therapy room. As a collaborator in your process, I will help you to explore and discover while always allowing you to set the pace for your own journey. As a companion, I will be by your side when difficult emotions arise – guiding you through coping mechanisms, providing resources, and strengthening support systems. I believe that everyone has within themselves exactly what they need to live their most satisfying life. My role is to help you uncover that which is already within. In this way, I utilize a Solution-Focused approach to highlight strengths and identify small steps towards healing and change. I also integrate techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and IFS in order to tailor therapy specifically to each person’s needs. As a Latina and descendent of immigrants myself, I am passionate about intergenerational healing and breaking cycles. I take an inclusive approach to therapy, taking into account social, political, cultural, and economic contexts when considering family stories and histories. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples navigating the stressors associated with living in different cultures and mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Reaching out for help is an act of courage. I am glad you are here.
I am a TELEHEALTH provider with openings:) Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you experience racing thoughts, have trouble sleeping and hardly ever feel at ease? Are you feeling sad, down, as if a dark cloud is over you? Do your feel like you are treated as a number and not as a person when you look for help? I can help you and provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. I find joy in seeing my clients feel calm, happier, improve their relationships and feel like themselves again. I aim to help my clients find a medication treatment that is right for them. Everyone deserves to feel well and live to the fullest. I get you. I understand that you may be uncertain about taking medication, or perhaps you may need your medication adjusted. Your treatment plan will be continuously modified to fit your needs.
I was drawn to the field of therapy because I’ve always been deeply interested in understanding the complexities of human emotion, relationships, and resilience. Over time, I witnessed how meaningful it can be for people to have a space where they feel truly heard and supported through life’s most difficult moments. I am inspired by the strength individuals show in facing their challenges, and I am passionate about helping clients navigate their experiences, gain insight, and create meaningful change in their lives. Seeking therapy is an important step toward growth and healing, and I am committed to providing a supportive, collaborative environment where clients feel safe to explore their challenges and strengths. My clinical work is grounded in evidence-based practices and tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and issues related to self-esteem and emotional regulation. My approach integrates trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and attachment-focused work. I work with clients to not only address current symptoms but also to identify and process underlying patterns that may be contributing to ongoing distress. With experience in both treatment facility and private practice settings, I bring a comprehensive understanding of complex clinical presentations. I am dedicated to helping clients develop insight, build effective coping strategies, and foster lasting personal growth. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful work in therapy. From the very beginning, my focus is on creating a space where you feel safe, heard, and respected. I approach each client with genuine curiosity, empathy, and non-judgment, allowing us to build trust at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Through open communication, collaboration, and consistency, we work together to create a partnership where you feel supported in exploring difficult emotions and experiences. I am committed to honoring your unique story while helping you gain new insight and develop effective tools to support your growth. Working together will be a collaborative process where we move at a pace that feels right for you. In the beginning, we’ll spend time getting to know each other, learning about what’s bringing you in, what you’re hoping to get out of therapy, and what feels important to you. Building trust takes time, and I truly respect that.
If you're looking for a therapist who brings authenticity, warmth, and a feminist sensibility to their work, I might be the person to help! I typically work with clients who find themselves at complex intersections of identity, especially around sexuality, gender and culture. I love working with students—previously at SJSU CAPS and currently at a private group practice. Many of my clients are AAPI children of immigrants, and/or queer and trans people of color, navigating questions about family and relationships. I can offer an affirming space work through intergenerational trauma and feelings of cultural guilt or shame. I am also able to support clients with common concerns like anxiety, depression, stress management & more. As a therapist I am interested understanding your life story as you tell it, and I'm here to help you figure out the next chapter. My goal is to help you feel greater clarity, freedom & control as the author of your story. I incorporate practical tools into my work, so that you develop new skills to deal with painful feelings and thoughts. If what I offer resonates with you, I invite you to reach out to schedule a free consultation. You'll have a chance to get all your questions about therapy answered, and schedule an intake with me (no pressure!)
Seeking help says a lot about you! It means you are open to becoming the best version of you; strong, authentic, balanced. My objective is to provide you with realistic tools for problem solving stressors, while reconnecting you to what truly matters in your life. My background in trauma work allows me to incorporate evidence based interventions and techniques to help adjust your thoughts about yourself and to minimize unhelpful habits that are keeping you from feeling whole. I incorporate grounding work as a way to connect mind, body, heart and spirit, and foster a sense of hope. I have been told I am "Minnesota nice", (a midwesterner at heart...I admit). I am a strong listener and lead with empathy, as I believe a trusting relationship aids in your healing. (p.s...sometimes you might catch a glimpse of my dog Guinness nearby he is a great listener too!) I know when to challenge, and when to allow for space. I have worked with dual diagnosis, addiction, learning disability/neurodivergent, first responders, veterans, couples/families, youth, students and artists.
Gregory E. Koch, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in California providing safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic care to both individuals and couples. Dr. Koch is devoted to helping clients feel safe in their relationships after experiencing abuse and trauma. He believes deeply in the power of positive human connection and that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities. This is reflected in the honesty, respect, and trust that he provides for each person he serves. Dr. Koch provides in-office and teletherapy services for adults, couples, emerging adults, and adolescents. Areas of Specialization: -Undergraduate and Graduate Student concerns -Anxiety -Abuse & neglect -Generational trauma -Life transitions & change -Relationships -Trauma & post-traumatic stress My Philosophy and Approach: The ability to feel safe is one of the most important aspects of mental health. When we grow up with family dynamics that make us feel unsafe or invalidated, we can struggle to feel accepted and understood. I am committed to helping stop emotional wounds from being passed down through generations by teaching strategies to move from blame and reactivity to empathy and connection. My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued. My approach to therapy is caring, collaborative and action oriented in a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework. I utilize an integrative approach that includes Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which are both evidence-based practices that can help reduce trauma-related symptoms. An area that is very close to my heart is working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQ+/GSRD communities. Clients of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationships are warmly invited to explore these identities in my practice. I also have extensive background related to the developmental tasks of early adulthood. I am passionate about helping emerging adults and adolescents develop confidence and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. What You Will Experience Working With Me: When we experience any kind of trauma, we have both emotional and physical reactions. This can look like anxiety, trouble sleeping, feeling disconnected, having intrusive thoughts, or withdrawing from others. We will work together to develop practical tools and strategies to address these problem areas and help you navigate through even the most challenging life circumstances. Clients that I work with appreciate my integrative approach, which is a whole-person perspective that treats both the mind and body. For example, I emphasize practices that draw attention to your breath and body to promote relaxation and teach you techniques for quieting the mind and calming the body. Integrated therapy has been found to be particularly helpful for anyone who has experienced trauma, as well as anxiety, stress, and challenges with work-life balance. My Work With Couples: One of my strengths as a therapist is to guide people to improve their relationships. We can learn the most about ourselves in the context of meaningful relationships and I view conflict in romantic relationships as an opportunity for profound and powerful growth, learning, and healing. I provide couples therapy that is accessible for all partners in romantic relationships. This means that I welcome clients of all genders, sexualities, and relationship diversity. You might ask, “What is ‘relationship diversity’?” It can mean many things, such as polyamorous couples, non-monogamy, and different types of kink relationships. I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), an evidence-based, interactive, and action-oriented approach. In IRT, you will learn a new way of talking to your partner to improve your communication and help you understand them on a deeper, more empathetic level. I am also trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, which I integrate with IRT. Education & Training: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Gender and Human Sexualities, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, San Diego Professional Affiliations & Duties: -Member, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee for UCSD Student Health and Wellbeing Cluster -Member, UCSD’s Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Issues -Member, University of California-wide Transgender Care Team -Adjunct Professor, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University -Invited presenter to community and university-based groups and organizations on a variety of topics Professional Memberships: -California Psychological Association (CPA) -San Diego Psychological Association (SDPA) -Imago Relationships North America (IRNA)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working in the Bay Area since 2016. If you are experiencing stress, depression, low self-esteem, career/life transitions, family/relationship issues -- I can help you come up with a personalized plan for getting better by providing a confidential, trusting and supportive environment and sincere, direct and flexible interactions with me. I can also assist with anxiety, obsessions and compulsions, traumatic experiences, and alcohol/drug use. I am particularly attuned to working with both first and second generation immigrants and those balancing multiple cultural identities. We will collaborate to better understand the sources of frustration and discontent in your life, and work towards genuinely expressing your emotions, finding better ways to cope, and understanding and connecting with yourself and others. My aim is to help you develop compassion, forgiveness, and self-awareness, and help you become the best version of yourself. I use therapy techniques that are backed by research and clinical evidence (see my website). Since starting therapy can be difficult, I offer a free phone consultation to get you started. Please email or call me, and I will be happy to help you decide if therapy is the right choice for you. I am fluent in both English and Hindi. I accept both Lyra and Modern Health.
Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder or any of the issues that come along with one (i.e. anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, guilt, shame, body image distress, or difficulty in relationships), I would love to help you. Sometimes when you’ve felt anxious or burdened for long enough, it can begin to feel as though this is how it is always going to be. You might even find yourself saying that this is just the life you deserve. Maybe you are a Christian who is trying to make sense of how you are feeling while also navigating your faith. I am here to tell you healing is possible! Therapy with me is a place where you can freely be you, without judgement, as we work together to help you to become a healthier, more whole version of yourself. I offer therapy that allows you to bring in your faith (triumphs, struggles, and all). You don't have to figure it all out on your own (thankfully!). If you feel that I might be a good fit for you, please call or email me to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation or to book your first appointment.