Therapists for college students near University of Southern California
Monique Hickmon
Monique is a CBT & solution focused therapist who believes therapy should be practical, honest and actually useful. She specializes in working with anxiety, depression & grief. She has a particular strength in supporting teenagers & adults through life transitions, emotional overwhelm & those ‘I know something needs to change’ moments. Her style is warm & collaborative-while still being direct & challenging when needed. Monique believes real growth happens when clients feel supported and gently pushed out of unhelpful patterns. Sessions are structured but flexible, with a strong focus on insight skill-building & real world application. Monique values transparency in the therapeutic process and where you don’t have to have it all figured out…we’ll start where you are.
Jessica Clifton
Online therapy appointments available and easily scheduled through www.parheliawellness.com to make the process of getting help easier. You are the expert of you. As such, collaboration and trust are key parts to helping you guide treatment to suit your needs and meet your goals. In our first appointment, I hope to work with you to help you decide your next steps. To schedule an online appointment, click on the "website" button where you can click on "request appointment." A bit about me. I have a strong affection for anything outdoors where I can run, climb, hike, ski, and explore with my family and friends. My personal and professional experiences have prompted me to use advocacy as a tool to contribute to positive meaningful change working towards a more equitable, inclusive and just world. This is reflected in my work as a clinician, researcher, and community service member. For this reason, I am committed to lifelong experiential learning and growth to hone my capacity for cultural humility. I welcome adults of all ages, abilities, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and spiritual beliefs to reach out for care.
Colleen Wong
I've worked with parents in the Sacramento area for 2 decades now, but as my own children have grown into young adults I have also made a shift into working with college students of any age. I'm not sure whether it's an openness to learning that extends to person growth, my ability to relate to the challenges of academia, or what exactly makes the relationship so successful, but I have found it to be mutually beneficial to the students I work with. I use an eclectic approach of mindfulness, psychodynamic, and CBT to balance short term immediate benefits with long term personal growth.
Maggie Purdy
In my case, it was both personal experiences and deep interest in the understanding of people. I have always been interested in how we navigate life’s challenges and how we can grow from them. Early on, I saw how powerful it can be to have someone listen with empathy and help make sense of difficult situations. That really sparked my desire to pursue therapy-to be that support for others. I ultimately believe that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes. I understand how very important it is to feel heard and understood, and I am committed to creating that space with you. I will listen without judgment and make sure I clearly hear your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I will ask questions to further that understanding and reflect back what I hear so that you know I’m with you in this process. What I want for you is to feel heard and understood, and at any time if something feels misunderstood, please let me know because it is important to me that you feel validated and respected throughout this process. We go at your pace, and I am transparent regarding the process, goals, and any obstacles. Trust means I’m here for you with no judgments and that I truly care about your well-being. Our work together will be a collaboration in which we explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. Honesty is the best policy-if something isn’t working, I encourage you to let me know so that we can make an adjustment. Most importantly, this is a safe space where you are heard, respected, and valued for your unique experiences.
King Counseling LLC
College is such a roller coaster. You may be feeling overwhelmed, apathetic, anxious, and always just going through the motions. Even though "everything's fine", you can't help but feel like the daily grind of "needing to be productive" could go a bit smoother. Maybe that irritation with that one roommate still lingers throughout our week. Or maybe the thoughts about that one moment during last night's date keep popping into our head as we're trying to concentrate during our morning lab. As a first generational Asian American, I can relate to the pressures of being independent and needing to keep up with school while still trying to have my own life. Schedule slots for yourself during the week to process the things we take on and carry within us. After all, they have a way of harboring and distracting our minds and bodies, clouding our judgement, taking away from our motivations, focus, and keeping us emotionally distant from those around us. If you live in NV or CA, I offer virtual telehealth sessions so that you can benefit from them right from your home or office. With flexible scheduling, my goal is to help you create habits using targeted solution focused therapy. I offer a variety of options, catered to your busy schedule. Integrate the "mental gym" into your week so that you can incorporate the benefits right away. It's better to process through it instead of holding it all in. You can be successful AND feel confident, calm, and in control. Our first session: will be a casual meeting to talk about how I can best help you. We will discuss the areas that you'd like to work on, collaborate and come up with a schedule that best suits you. Therapy can last anywhere from 3 months to a year depending on how consistent our meetings are. Client that I've worked with have experienced improvements within the first few sessions. If you're interested, reach out today to schedule a free consultation with me.
Lilia Wang
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.
Michelle Wong
I support students who are experiencing stress, both academically and interpersonally. I recognize the layers of pressure that may be coming from family, peers, and yourself. School can be a challenging environment and finding support is not always easy. I provide a space to be heard and for you to process anything that's on your mind. I am warm and nonjudgmental.
Aspiring Families Center for Mental Health and Wellness
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Danielle A Haynes
I partner with individuals offering compassionate, trauma-informed care that promotes healing and personal growth. Partnering as a relational helper, I hope to expand from problem-focused stories to those of strength and resilience, matched with empowerment and a clearer sense of agency, working together to create the desired changes. I have experience working with individuals, from diverse backgrounds. My areas of work have included but are not limited to struggles around anxiety, depression, identity concerns, self-esteem issues, trauma, life transitions, relational issues, and daily stressors. I use an eclectic approach, drawing from various practices such as relational therapy, narrative therapy, client-centered therapy, attachment theory, some features of dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic framework, and I approach therapy through a mindfulness, justice-orientated, culturally sensitive, queer-affirmative and a trauma informed lens. I believe in a relational process in which finding a therapist that is a "good fit" as the groundwork for a supportive, transformative process. I believe that every individual can examine their life's journey and own their story; all while strengthening self-compassion and working to navigate who and how to be in relationships. Stepping into the therapeutic process is the first movement towards self-discovery and growth! "Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do" -Brene' Brown
Stacy Heiser
Hi, I’m Stacy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with neurodivergent adults, especially those with ADHD. I help clients learn how to manage executive functioning challenges, emotional regulation, and relationship struggles with more confidence and self-compassion. As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent adult, I bring both professional and lived experience to my work with clients. Together, we’ll explore how your past experiences and environments have shaped the way you see yourself and the world. Then we'll create a plan that works with your brain and utilizes your strengths. My style is warm and conversational. My approach integrates Adlerian priniciples and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Adlerian therapy helps individuals understand how early experiences shape beliefs like shame or "being lazy." ACT adds tools to manage overwhelm, relate differently to difficult thoughts, and take values-based action. Finding the right therapist is important. If you think I may be a good fit, please feel free to reach out.
Katie Hurley, LCSW
I am a trauma-informed therapist specializing in sexual abuse, sexual assault, trauma recovery, PTSD, and chronic pelvic pain. I like to use tactile materials in session— clay, collage, knitting, sand trays, watercolor…etc. Sometimes it’s hard to sit in a room with someone and just start talking. Art is a tool we can use to ease anxiety and greet the subconscious. I don’t take too many clients, so I care deeply about each person I work with. I will remember the names of your loved ones. I will want to see pictures of your dog. I will consult with your doctors, advocate for you, and send you resources outside of session. Most of all, I will be genuinely curious to hear what you have to say. Reach out if you want a free phone consult. We can decide together if we're a good fit. You don't owe me anything and you don't have to worry about my feelings. Therapy is your sacred space— I am here to protect it.
Sarah Korda
Client's that work well with my collaborative style are often people who are struggling with life transitions. I often connect with people who are working to find different methods to manage anxiety and perfectionism. I also hold space in my practice for queer couples.
Isela Garcia White, LCSW
Welcome! I'm Isela Garcia White, LCSW (she/her), therapist and owner of Lotus Bloom Therapy. I specialize in working with undergraduate and graduate students- especially Latinx, BIPOC, first-generation, and immigrant students who are navigating high academic pressure, anxiety, depression, impostor feelings, perfectionism, and the challenge of balancing family or cultural expectations with school demands. With several years of experience supporting students at Stanford University and Stanford School of Medicine, I understand the unique mix of stress, identity-related experiences, and relationship changes that can come with campus life. My approach is warm, culturally responsive, and straightforward, offering a safe space to be heard, develop coping strategies, and strengthen your confidence and well-being. If this sounds like the kind of support you’re looking for, I invite you to message me here, or at www.lotusbloomtherapy.org. You may also schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to help consider if we'd be a good fit. https://isela-garcia-white.clientsecure.me I’d be honored to connect and see how we might work together.
Rachel Preloh, LCSW
Welcome! My name is Rachel and I work with young adults who are navigating the effects of traumatic experiences. I believe that anything that overwhelms our capacity to cope and move forward can be traumatic, and this often shows up as anxiety, chronic disconnection, or feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. I help clients become more aware of body sensations, thinking traps, and response patterns to stressful situations. We will collaborate to move towards a life where you feel more centered and connected with your self, your values, and the world around you. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective and include experiential, present-focused exercises in sessions to help deepen the mind-body connection and equip clients with tools to use in daily life. I love to walk alongside my clients towards feeling more grounded, authentic, and alive, moving at a pace that feels safe and gentle. If you are looking to reconnect with your vitality and resilience in a compassionate space, I would love to connect and see if we are a good fit. I offer virtual and in-person therapy, with the option for walk and talk sessions.
RMC Therapy Group
Our practice is built on authenticity, inclusion, and meaningful connection. We support college students and young adults as they navigate the many transitions, challenges, and opportunities that shape this stage of life. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, academic or social stress, identity exploration, or relationship concerns, we offer a space where you feel genuinely seen, supported, and valued. Using somatic awareness, mindfulness, and evidence‑based approaches, we tailor each session to your individual needs. Together, we explore the mind‑body connection, nurture resilience, and create pathways for healing, growth, and self‑understanding. We are committed to inclusivity and celebrate the diverse identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences that each person brings. We recognize that change doesn’t happen in isolation it’s influenced by the relationships, environments, and communities you’re part of. While navigating life transitions can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. We walk alongside you with warmth and care, helping you strengthen connections, manage stress, and create space for personal growth, clarity, and confidence.
Danny Sharara
Dr. Danny Sharara is a board-certified psychologist who helps university students work towards greater meaning and fulfillment in their lives and relationships. His practice focuses on helping clients to better understand themselves in order to effectively pursue their goals and live from their values. Many of Danny’s clients come to his office when they are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, sleep troubles, procrastination, or when faced with important life decisions. Danny's practice also focuses on addressing grief, loss, and navigating life-transitions. Through warm, collaborative, evidence-based psychotherapy, Danny helps clients draw on their strengths to break out of old patterns, discover new perspectives, and build the lives they want through living from their deep values. Clients have described his approach as supportive, attentive, flexible, and appropriately challenging. Message to clients: Through having served as a Staff Psychologist at Carnegie Mellon University as well as through clinical training at the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University, Danny has been fortunate to work with students from around the world on a variety of presenting concerns. Danny has facilitated support groups for doctoral students and presented workshops on effective communication with advisors. He has also helped students overcome mental health challenges including procrastination, career-uncertainty, sleep difficulties, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, loneliness, and transitioning to life after graduating. Finding the right therapist is important but it can also be overwhelming. Sometimes we know we need help but not what would be helpful, or what the right approach would be. I encourage you to take a chance and reach out to see if we might be a good fit.
Dreme McLennan-- Healing Arts Counseling Center
Looking for a fresh approach to therapy? Student life is beyond stressful, and sometimes words are not enough. My approach is collaborative and creative. We step outside traditional talk therapy by incorporating drama therapy and other creative arts to imagine new possibilities, gain practical tools, and reawaken joy. Healing Arts Counseling Center specializes in depression, anxiety, life and cultural transitions, chronic illness/disability and neurodivergence.
Oceanside Clinics
Oceanside Clinics is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization providing telehealth services across California. We are in-network with Aetna and Blue Shield.
Veronica Daniel
Hi, I’m Veronica. I believe that life feels best when we prioritize taking care of ourselves. I specialize in supporting women struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or high sensitivity to embrace their whole self with compassion and acceptance by using a therapy approach that is supportive, informative, and sometimes even a little fun. My goal is to help you tune into your innermost needs and show up for yourself in ways you never have before!
Relucent Psychology Group
Relucent Psychology Group is a private-pay therapy practice based in San Jose, CA, offering thoughtful, personalized mental health care for teens, college students, and adults. We know that college can be an exciting but also overwhelming time - whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationships, identity, family expectations, or just trying to figure out your next steps. Our therapists provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. We go beyond surface-level coping skills and focus on helping you understand yourself more deeply - so you can create meaningful, lasting change in your life. We offer support for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, academic stress, and life transitions. Our team uses evidence-based and insight-oriented approaches like EMDR and IFS, tailoring therapy to what actually works for you. At Relucent, we believe therapy should feel collaborative, empowering, and real. Whether this is your first time reaching out or you’ve been in therapy before, we’re here to meet you where you are.