Therapists for college students near UCLA

My approach to therapy is rooted in a belief that change is possible. Most of my clients come to me because something in their lives isn't working. Whether the problem is familial, romantic, professional, emotional, or even existential, I find it usually comes down to a matter of relationship. How are we relating to the things that cause us to suffer? When we understand these relationships and the parts we play in them, we are free to make different choices, and to experience our lives, ourselves, and our loves in richer, more fulfilling ways. While I see clients with a wide range of presenting issues, I have a high level of expertise in family conflict, childhood trauma, addiction, codependency and eating disorders. I also have a passion for helping artists of all kinds to overcome the self-limiting beliefs that lead to creative blocks. I have additional training in EMDR (an evidence based model for trauma therapy), mindfulness practice, and family systems, and I hold an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process in working towards ones goals. I see my role in the therapeutic process as a privilege and strive to create a safe, judgment-free space for my clients. Through insight, compassion, warmth and humor, I hope to establish a trusting relationship and provide my clients with a safe space to share. I look forward to walking with you on your journey.

I’m Rachel Benjamin, and I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges to build more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Together, we’ll identify the patterns and barriers that have been holding you back and work toward lasting change around your strengths and values. If you are thinking about starting therapy, or returning after some time away, but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Taking that first step can bring up a mix of emotions. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time, it likely means you’re ready to begin exploring meaningful change. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected, or uncertain about your next steps. Perhaps your relationships, career, or daily routines no longer feel fulfilling. You might notice a tendency to prioritize others’ needs over your own, or find yourself longing for a deeper sense of purpose and connection. Therapy is a process of self-discovery and growth. It’s not always easy especially if you’ve spent years living according to others’ expectations but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m currently accepting new clients for both individual and couples therapy. If you’re curious about how therapy might support you, I invite you to reach out.

Therapist Kal Zeryihun values helping individuals identify and shift patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior that keep them stuck so they can live more meaningful lives based on their values. She uses a mind and body-integrated approach to healing, such as increasing awareness of the gut-brain connection and incorporating mindfulness practices along with traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Link to schedule a consultation https://CreateWellness.as.me/

Hi there! I am Janna Spiegel, an LCSW with over 5 years of experience supporting college-aged women like you navigate life's twists and turns. Whether you're adjusting to campus life, facing relationship hurdles, grappling with the pressure of future choices, or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and stress – I'm here to help you find your footing and thrive. I use a warm, empathetic approach, creating a safe space where you can explore your challenges without judgment. We will work together to understand your unique experiences and develop practical solutions that empower you to take control. I use a combination of solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral strategies and a client-centered approach, tailoring each session to your specific needs and goals. We'll work on building resilience, managing stress, navigating relationships, and making choices that align with your values and goals. Whether you are navigating through homesickness, academic pressures, career dilemmas, or relationship challenges, I offer a non-judgmental space, where you will have the opportunity to delve into your experiences without reservation. I am here to serve as your guide, be your biggest supporter, and your collaborator on your journey towards a rewarding college experience and a promising future.

Genesis (Gene) Vasconez is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health care. She aims to improve the health and wellness of her patients by partnering with them and their care teams. She addresses challenges related to mental health disorders, including addiction, by following a trauma-informed model. She approaches each session to foster trust by listening to her patients and ensuring they have a choice and voice. Cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion are at the core of her care. Gene received her bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from San Francisco State University and her nursing and master’s degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She has been a part of multiple research studies focusing on addiction, psychotic disorders, suicide, and depression. She also teaches nurse practitioner students at UCSF during their community internship. Clinically she has experience in setting such as psychiatric emergency/urgent care, community clinics, and private practices. Gene is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She also serves as a San Francisco Behavioral Health Commission commissioner.

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Hi! Welcome to my small online practice, and congratulations on taking the step in looking into therapy - I know it can be challenging! My primary goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and comfortable space where you can be yourself and open up about things that you may be struggling with, or things that are causing you stress. Our sessions will not be a one-sided conversation, nor will they be mundane (trust me!), but rather there will be a lot of conversation and interaction, and together we can work on the things you want to change. I want you to find the peace and healing that you desire. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults with various diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, etc. I specialize in crisis intervention, grief, and play therapy. More importantly, I show up with authenticity and walk your journey with you. I will maintain a compassionate atmosphere where you will be heard and supported, while also challenging you when necessary so we can work together in creating a space for your personal growth and healing.

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Many of the students I work with feel overwhelmed by their thoughts, anxious about the future, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. Some deal with intrusive thoughts, constant worry, or panic that gets in the way of school, relationships, or sleep. Others are coping with past experiences, burnout, or the pressure to “keep it all together.” I offer a space where you don’t have to pretend you’re fine. Together, we slow things down, understand what’s happening in your mind and body, and build tools that help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control of your life.

Navigating college life isn’t easy—and you don’t have to do it alone. At Resilient Heart Therapy, we support college students through the stress, uncertainty, and transitions that come with academic life. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, identity questions, or the impact of past trauma, we’re here to help. Our online therapy services are designed to be flexible and accessible, so you can get the support you need—whether you’re on campus, back home, or somewhere in between. Many of our clients are young adults navigating perfectionism, self-esteem, social pressure, and big life decisions. We offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore what’s weighing on you and gain tools to cope, grow, and thrive. You're juggling a lot. Therapy shouldn’t be another source of stress. Let’s talk about what you’re going through and how we can help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected.

Here at Rachel Wakeford Therapy, I realize that no two people are the same, and tailor my therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual. I love helping people understand the things that are holding them back with an in-depth approach. After recognizing underlying problems, clients can fully realize their strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things in a different, healthier way.

You feel like you’re drowning in the midst of all the big changes going on in your life. You feel alone and long to deeply connect with others, but you often end up feeling disappointed, unseen, used, or heartbroken. You’re overwhelmed with the transitions happening in your life and the confusing emotions going on inside of you, but you beat yourself up for being “too sensitive”. You’re working so hard to have a successful career and fulfilling relationships, but you never feel like you’re enough. You just want to feel better, but you don’t know where to begin. You want to successfully navigate these changes and emotions in a way that helps you understand who you are and what you want. You want healthy, vibrant relationships where you feel loved and accepted. You want to know that it’s not just okay to be you, but that being you is more than enough. You want to live an authentic life that really matters. I’m passionate about serving emerging adults in my practice because I know personally how hard and confusing this time of life can be. I use Brainspotting and the Enneagram to help you grow individually, along with Emotionally Focused Therapy and Prepare/Enrich to help you create vibrant, healthy relationships. I’ve created a welcoming space where you can feel embraced and cared for as we engage the difficulties that are getting in your way and deep dive into your inner world. Interested in getting started? Let’s talk!

My clients usually approach me when they are ready to make a change in their lives. They are experiencing conflicts, inside themselves or with others, and are looking for an empathic, flexible and dynamic clinician to provide support and guidance. With clients and within myself, I emphasize maintaining mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health and wellness practices, as well as, feelings of HOPE and self acceptance. My clients and I are both “agents of change,” constantly progressing, and continuously developing through this journey called life. I am currently licensed and practicing in the state of California and New Jersey. I also have a permit to practice in New York supervised by Dr. Melissa Laracuenta- Hernandez.

Many people say that the college years are supposed to be some of the best in your life, yet it doesn't feel this way to you. Somehow you are missing out. Perhaps anxiety has you second guessing everything or your perfectionism or "OCD" has gotten out of hand. Perhaps you doubt yourself, put yourself down, or get the sense that everyone else has it all figured out except for you. Life doesn't have to be this way. I get it. I used to be a college professor and worked a lot with students transitioning to college and "adult life." I also know how hard things are when you are juggling college demands with the rest of "life," which may include a medical, family/friend, or work issue or just figuring out what you want to do with your life. Reaching out to ask for help is sign that you are aware something's not quite right in your life and you hope things can be better. Our time together is focused on helping you achieve your specific goals using treatments that are evidence-based. This means I only use the treatments that we know from research are helpful. I won't waste your time or money with treatments we know don't work. With any patient I work with, my goal is to eventually put myself out of a job. Sounds like a crazy business model, right? That is because my focus is on YOU and what you need. I want you to learn the skills that you need so you can graduate from therapy and live your best life.

Dr. Ponting is a licensed clinical psychologist specialized in treating anxiety, traumatic stress, and depression in adults and children. She focuses on improving mental health during the transition to parenthood, including pregnancy and the postpartum period. Dr. Ponting also works with families with young children ages 2-6 who have experienced a recent traumatic event. Dr. Ponting provides individualized, culturally responsive care aimed at reducing distress and enhancing the capacity to feel positive emotions. Dr. Ponting draws from several evidence-based individual and family therapies and provides services in English and Spanish.

Are you someone who typically "has it all together," yet is struggling underneath the surface? Do you find yourself easily overwhelmed with stress, anxiety, or other difficult emotions? Maybe you struggle seeking out support, even during times of challenge or transition. You're ready to feel at peace and to know your worth. Your teens and twenties are full of possibility, growth, and challenge. You’re exploring your identity, your future, and how you fit in - which can be simultaneously exciting and terrifying. Whatever it is you’re dealing with - stress over school, relationship challenges, substance use, family conflict, anxiety, depression, etc - therapy can help. I don’t practice one-size-fits-all therapy. Each person is unique, and comes to therapy for different reasons. You’ll find that our counseling sessions feel collaborative and supportive, honoring your personal strengths and drawing on authenticity, humor, and compassion to help you reach your goals. I typically see clients online via video sessions, but if you're in San Diego, we can also meet at a local park or beach for a walking/Ecotherapy session!

I understand that asking for help may not come easy and may be a difficult process. Taking that first step is one of many ways I believe can improve your quality of life. I am here to join you on your journey for growth, compassion, and self-love. We will work as a team in achieving your goals and aspirations to improve your life functioning.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

You’ve been holding it together the best you can, but you are tired. Exhausted from the constant worry, waiting for the next shoe to drop, and never feeling like you’re enough. Sleepless nights, self criticism, and gripping anxiety may make sense given everything you’ve been through, but you are ready to find some relief and start caring for yourself as much as you care for those around you. I help women and teen girls feel confident that they can handle what life throws their way, to feel empowered to honor their needs and boundaries, and to overcome the past to find new patterns of relating to themselves and others. Together we can compassionately untangle what it is that gets in the way of living the life you long for and reconnect to a more easeful, connected, and authentic way of being in the world. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma, caregivers, and social and environmental justice activists seeking sustainable involvement in movements for change. Schedule a free consultation with me (online booking available through my website) to start shifting the patterns that keep you from feeling calm, confident, and connected to your life.