Therapists for college students near UCLA
Helen Crew
I’m a first-generation Latina, bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist who works with young adults and adults navigating anxiety, relationships, family stress, identity, and the many transitions life brings. I understand that life doesn’t always go according to plan, and sometimes we find ourselves trying to navigate changes we never expected. I’m especially passionate about women’s mental health and supporting women through the many layers of womanhood—from relationships and identity to pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, loss, and the everyday demands of caring for others while trying not to lose yourself in the process. My approach is warm, direct, and solution-focused. I’ll listen and validate your experience, but I’ll also challenge you when needed because I believe therapy should help you create meaningful change—not just talk about what isn’t working. I accept insurance to help make therapy more accessible. To learn more about my approach, specialties, and availability please visit my website.
Stanly Tran
My aim is to help clients understand how their history and programming influences patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior. When insight and self-awareness of these patterns is established, we will develop ways to shift the combination of these things in a direction that is consistent with what is important or helpful. My experience has primarily been in a variety of outpatient mental health settings, including community mental health, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization program, primary care integration, and private practice. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Jennifer Oetinger, LMFT
Do you struggle with feeling inferior or plagued with self-doubt? Is anxiety or stress making it difficult to feel motivated and be productive? Take the first step with me - a supportive space to feel heard and acknowledged. Find the hope you have been looking for to make growth and positive change in your life! My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which involves exploring the beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors causing distress and using healthy strategies to regulate the emotions and respond effectively. I also incorporate a trauma-informed, strength based approach, and mindfulness. If you are interested in learning more about what to expect with therapy or want to see if we would be a good fit, please call or email me to set up a free 15 minute consultation call! I look forward to meeting you!
Phyu-Phoebe Htut
I believe that each of us are experts in our lives and my goal in therapy is to support people finding meaning and purpose in their lives by providing safe and non-judgement space. One of my favorite quotes in life is “I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become” by Carl G. Jung. I like to work collaboratively with my clients by using strengths-based, attachment focus and the client-centered approach to achieve their individual goals in life. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Ileana Gallegos
I work best with college and graduate students who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Many of the students I support are navigating academic pressure, relationship stress, family dynamics, identity questions, or major life transitions. Some feel like they’re constantly “pushing through,” even when they’re exhausted or unsure of what they want. In therapy, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can slow down, understand what’s coming up for you, and learn practical ways to cope, set boundaries, and feel more grounded. My approach is collaborative, honest, and focused on helping you feel more confident and emotionally steady in your day-to-day life. If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, direct, and supportive while also offering real tools you can use outside of sessions, we may be a good fit.
Lawrence Leung
I am a CA-based therapist providing virtual therapy for LGBTQ+ teens and young adults with depression. I take an individualized and depth-based approach, following each client's lead and exploring how past relationships and experiences impact the present and future. I excel with first-timers to therapy, as well as folks who have been in therapy before and found the worksheet- and skills-based approaches unhelpful.
Alma Morales Risse
Psychology Today Profile https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/120300
Brandon Waugh
Hi, my name is Brandon Waugh and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of San Diego California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress and depression using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy and a whole system perspective to help my clients work toward their mental health and life goals. My approach varies based on the needs of each of my clients. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Person Centered Therapy while maintaining a whole system perspective. This approach helps the client better understand their internal experiences both as influenced by their own history and beliefs as well as the environment in which they live. I have found that my approach works best with adults living with the experience of anxiety, stress and depression. We often work to cope with the stress of daily life, relationship difficulties or working toward a goal of creating a better life. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. We will work together to explore the direction in which our time together will take. We will take the time to discover what we would like to accomplish and begin to explore the path toward these goals. In our first session together we will take the time to get to know one another. We will work to better understand the needs and goals being brought into our space together. We will also begin to explore some of the options to move forward in our journey toward these goals. I have always aspired to be a calming and helpful presence to those with whom I spend time. I feel nourished by the experience of aiding others on their path toward their goals and am looking forward to working with you in the near future.
Amy Votta-Fierro
With over 20 years of experience as a mental health practitioner and advocate in the field of social services, I bring a strength-based, solution-focused approach to my work, identifying achievable goals as we navigate your growth and healing together. I provide a supportive and compassionate space to address, explore, and process life's transitions and stressors, while building upon your resiliency. Therapy is an individualized journey and partnership between us. One in which I strive to assist you in identifying effective coping and self-care strategies to live your most authentic, joyful life. Goals stem from your inner guidance, wisdom, and sense of self. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Grace Trueblood
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides support for individuals and families. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals experiencing a wide range of emotional challenges. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, identity, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, stress management, trauma, and life transitions. I am passionate about creating a collaborative relationship to support and empower people to achieve their goals and strengthen their innate resilience. I understand the importance of creating a space where you feel safe and heard. My style is interactive, experiential, and adaptable; guided by the following post graduate trainings/certifications: ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing. I work collaboratively with you and support you in finding a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. You’ll be met with warmth and curiosity. I intend to get to know you - your story, your hopes, your needs, and your goals. It takes courage to seek therapy, and I look forward to supporting you.
Nahid Fattahi
As a clinician I work mainly from behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, relying on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in healing painful experiences, managing stress, other mental health struggles, and relationship issues. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Marketing and Project Manager in Silicon Valley’s high-tech industry, having that experience has helped me to also have a successful track record in working with professionals facing job stress, addiction issues, and burnout — some of whom want to make big changes in their careers. In addition, I have lived in different parts of the world, and I’m trilingual (English/Farsi/Hindi), so my professional and personal life experiences as a secular Muslim woman have helped to build my therapeutic framework for engaging diverse clients and to continue to provide therapy from a cultural humility perspective. Furthermore, I teach the psychology of human sexuality and geriatric psychology as an adjunct professor at Pacific Oaks College, and in my spare time, I write for Psychology Today and other media platforms. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to develop a collaborative relationship where each client feels empowered to act as an expert in developing effective coping skills, manage anxiety, depression, navigate difficult life transitions, and enhance communication skills and relationships. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.
Jacqueline Davis, LPCC, CFRC
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Nancy Lyle
I have been a therapist for 6 years and have worked with many populations, including the forensic population, both incarcerated individuals, those on probation, as well as first responders and their families, which includes spouses, adolescents, and the LGBTQ+ community. I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and enjoy working with individuals. I not only have a Masters in Clinical Counseling but also a Masters in Forensic Psychology. I am also currently working on my dissertation for a PhD. I enjoy helping my clients process and grow and teach them how to come to their own solutions for past and present life stressors. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Michael Leone-Aldrich
College can be an incredibly stressful time. Whether you are far away from where you grew up, living at home and commuting to school, or living on campus, there is an overwhelming amount of transition that happens once high school ends. Not only are you deciding what you want to do with your life and juggling schoolwork, but you are also figuring out who you are and who you want to spend your time with. This is a time where you may be able to truly be yourself for the first time in your life, where you can have a clean slate to be the person you want to be. With all of these challenges, it can feel very isolating and demanding trying to do this all on your own. It is common for college students to feel very depressed and anxious during this time, and it can also feel hard to reach out to someone to talk to about it all. You don't have to do it alone. Going to therapy is a great way to get the support you need and become the best version of yourself. I can understand why coming to therapy isn't easy though. Why tell a stranger the most personal details of your life? Because by not knowing anything about you or being a part of your life, I can offer an objective and unbiased perspective on your situation while giving you concrete tools and strategies to improve the areas you are struggling in. I've worked with many college students and have seen them make meaningful changes in their lives after going to therapy and believe that you can too. Please feel free to reach out to me and we can discuss any questions you may have, and I hope to hear from you soon!
Alissa Young, LCSW
About Me. Hi, My name is Alissa Young and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy services to College Students and Young Adults within the State of California. A little bit about me, I was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, California. Clients would describe me as a ‘safe space’, where clients can feel validated and supported when sharing their challenges and seeking mental health support. Clients also describe me as motivating, comfortable, and strengths-based focused. I truly value hosting a therapeutic space where both parties are engaging in a confidential safe space, as their authentic selves - judgment free zone. My Ideal Client. If you searched terms such as “Therapist for College Students”, “Black Female Therapists”, “BIPOC Therapist”, and “EMDR Therapist in California”, you’re probably in the right place! My ideal clients are the students, parents, and professionals that feel a sense of connectedness when they read more about me. My ideal client is the person I see in the mirror - which is pretty amazing and full of resiliency and strength, ready for open and honest conversations - ready for CHANGE!
Jessica Ojeda
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has provided psychotherapy, family therapy, and group services in English and Spanish for over nine years. I work with adults and families specializing in mental health and/or co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, trauma, and chemical dependency. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and brief therapy to help you decrease symptoms while developing more meaningful life experiences. My goal is to work with you in a collaborative manner to increase your self-awareness and develop healthy coping skills and problem-solving capabilities while using and developing your personal strengths. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
Franklin Smith
Greetings from Frank Smith, LMFT. Let me offer a truism: whether positive or negative, most behavior is learned. Behavior often results in patterns. Those patterns can be positive and life affirming. But they can also be maladaptive and impact our happiness and relationships. Do you wonder why can't you break these destructive patterns? I can help you unravel where they came from. Let me be your psychological navigator to help you let go of the past and have a better and more fullling life.
Channing Richmond
My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in strengths-based, collaborative, empowering, and respectful techniques. I am seeking to support clients being seen in a world that does not always validate one's existence. I hope to be a helpful guide in the journey of life to help clients notice the innate wisdom that already exists within themselves. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.
Julia Beecher-Flad
I specialize in working with ADHD, stress, perfectionism, "people pleasing," self-esteem and the struggles of young adulthood. You'll find me to be genuine, warm, caring and detail-oriented when it comes to you and your needs. My practice is a place where you'll feel heard and understood. Let me be your guide as you navigate life's stresses, your symptoms, a big change, difficult relationships, or whatever might be getting in the way.
Marcia Greene
I can help you reduce anxiety, stress and the effects of grief and trauma as well as support you through a life transition to find greater meaning, purpose and passion in your life. My work is guided by a strengths-based approach, operating with the understanding that people are capable of initiating positive changes in their lives given the right environment and support. While the course of therapy depends on many variables, I am committed to working with care, efficiency, and an intensity that can help reduce or alleviate symptoms in as short a time as possible. I believe change and healing comes from a combination of insight and action that happens in the context of trust, safety, choice, compassion, and connection. My mission as a therapist is to meet you where you are, build trust and act as a guide in pursuit of your goals. I'm an integrative therapist, which means that I draw from several different psychotherapy orientations. My work is informed by modalities including ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Hakomi (a mind-body approach), Gestalt and mindfulness practices. I tailor sessions to the particular needs and goals of each individual. This flexible approach helps reveal the dynamics that are unique to your situation which may be creating obstacles to living your best life. Together, we identify these obstacles, assess their impact and resolve them directly. Clients describe living with more confidence, joy, courage, and authenticity as they let go of limiting beliefs and behaviors, and integrate the benefits from our sessions back into their daily lives. Whether you want to heal from past experiences, develop tools to prosper or reach a specific goal, we work collaboratively. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.