Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

As an observer of human behavior and relationship, I see the sticky interconnectedness of self, other, and systems that often imprisons us in behaviors, thoughts, and reactions that can feel unchangeable. I believe people often do the best they can to face the challenges of life, yet in doing so, some of what we discover works at first, fails us long-term. And it’s here that we often feel trapped—between doing what we know to do and knowing what we’re doing is no longer working. That’s where I come in. I’m here to help you find freedom in areas that seem unchangeable, freedom in living into your best self, and freedom in healthy relationship. It’s a journey, but a worthy one, and one that you don’t need to travel alone.

My therapeutic approach deals with stories, and I am interested in including modern ways of storytelling into the work we do through digital media, technology, and even video games. I believe that stories are created through a variety of mediums that include art, play, and experience. I encourage the people I work with to explore all of the ways they have to come to know the world around them to make our time together even more fun, engaging, and relevant to you. In my practice, my goal is to collaborate with my clients in better understanding how they’ve storied their lives, challenging dominant narratives and systems of oppression, and exploring more preferred ways of being. The theories that inform my work include: narrative therapy, collaborative therapy, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength-based therapy. Someone who might be interested in working with me is open and willing to explore the different ways that therapy can "be"! I invite collaboration and exploration in the work we do together, so feel free to bring the passions that drive you along with the obstacles you are facing into the room. Music, art, games, movies, even the people in your life are all resources to bring to therapy that can help to better understand the person you want to be and the story you want to tell. My experience as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American is what inspires me to support others in their identity development. Navigating the endless messages and oppressive narratives that make up the modern, cultural milieu can be overwhelming and limiting. My hope is to create a non-judgmental space where the people I work with can challenge these dominant social narratives that attempt to tell them who they are or who they should be and begin crafting their own unique, preferred sense of self. I believe in challenging the notion that therapy is apolitical. I believe that the work that we do in attempt to better ourselves as individuals undoubtedly impacts and is impacted by those arounds us whether it's friends, loved ones, neighbors, or strangers across the globe. This is why I use social justice framework in my practice as I hope to promote total wellbeing not just for the client but for the larger communities and systems we are a part of.

Personal wellness is an ever evolving journey in the human process. The journey begins with a choice to acknowledge an issue, stressor, or area of desired growth to create a different outcome. Whether facing a new challenge, or struggling with a long standing issue, seeking professional support can be the choice that helps empower and create meaningful change. It is a privilege to serve my clients and to help them on their journeys toward meaning and personal fulfillment. It is my goal to help my clients be their best selves, even in the midst of fluctuating circumstances. My clients describe me as easy to talk to & one who challenges them, balancing listening & feedback during sessions. I do my best to tailor treatment to fit individual needs. My clients leave sessions with tools to apply between appointments. I believe growth requires work both in & out of the session. I have more than 20 years combined experience in medical and acute behavioral social work, crisis intervention, counseling, and higher education.

When I was a senior in high school, I began to struggle with severe anxiety and panic attacks. It wasn’t until I found a counselor that allowed me to feel comfortable sharing my insecurities and fears, that I learned to take control of my worries. I instantly felt more at ease when I knew I was going to see my counselor. That is when I realized: I want to be that sense of warmth and guidance for others. I obtained my Master’s degree in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling. I am EMDR trained and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorders, self-esteem and mood disorders. I am dedicated to utilizing the most effective treatment interventions that will match your needs. I understand that we all go through our own unique stories of both happiness and pain. I aim to be the person that can work with you to find greater health and healing in your life. I provide a safe, genuine, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel free to explore your true self.

I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, life-transitions, parenting or relationship concerns, adjustment difficulties, body image issues, self-esteem building, racial & cultural identity, academic/work challenges, trauma, family of origin issues, and stress management. I am passionate about providing services to a diverse community, specifically those who may feel marginalized or struggle to access services. I provide an environment that is non-judgmental, utilizing a caring and collaborative approach to help clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary and challenging, yet exciting and hopeful too.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I know that change is hard and seeking support is brave. It is a privilege to be alongside you in your journey towards becoming the person you want to be and living the life you want to live. Our therapy will be a space where it is okay to show up as your authentic self and share your feelings. We will collaborate to identify and work towards the changes you want to see in your life, brainstorm ways to overcome patterns you may feel stuck in, and support you in gaining the insight needed to foster progress. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, perfectionism, school and work stress, self-esteem, attachment, and interpersonal and family relationships. My approach aims to be relational, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I strive to bring empathy, humor, and a nonjudgmental approach to the therapy space to support you in your journey. I use an integrative, holistic approach that pulls from different therapeutic specialties that we will tailor specifically to your identified wants and needs - such as narrative therapy, family systems, mind-body connection, solution-focused, and emotion and person-centered.

I help teens and adults who struggle to connect or communicate with their parents, friends or partners. They might spend too much time on social media, struggle to feel good about themselves, have low self-esteem, have a hard time with setting boundaries, or struggle to put their needs before others. They might date people they wish they didn’t, but don’t know how to end things, or stop patterns of behavior. They may struggle with managing school life, work life, home life or social life. I enjoy working with these clients and helping them find ways to have a better and more balanced life. I can help you by making you feel comfortable and safe in my office to tell me anything that weighs on you, or keeps you up at night. I will provide you a judgement-free space where you can talk, yell, swear, laugh or cry through the many emotions, and ups and downs that get thrown at you in life. I can also hype you up and hold you accountable. Quit second guessing yourself that you "don't really need therapy", or that things really "aren't that bad." You don't need to justify needing additional support right now. Sometimes simply talking to someone once a week is all we need to feel better, and you deserve to feel better. You deserve to feel heard, understood and validated.

What if we viewed therapy as a sacred act of self care? Life is constantly changing and evolving so I am here to help to bring more clarity in your life while holding hope. Let me help you make things figureoutable. I love empowering individuals to live their most purposeful life through self exploration and goal setting. We collaborate to help gain insight into your individualized needs. My approach is strengths based, holistic and down to earth. During therapy you can express yourself in a safe place. I can support you to discover helpful ways to express feelings, identify individual strengths, gain insight and access problem solving skills to regain equilibrium. I offer evidence based tools to put in your tool belt to help with emotional regulation. I also support pet parents during loss and grief. You are the expert in your own life and I look forward to guiding the therapeutic process for healing. I offer a warm, non judgmental environment for you to express your authentic self. I believe it's important to take care of your mind, body and soul. I look forward to hearing about your goals. Please reach out if you're interested in working together.

**Therapy that honors who you are and who you're becoming.** College can be an exciting time, but it can also be confusing, lonely, overwhelming, or just straight-up messy. As a therapist with over ten years of experience, I love working with college students as they navigate anxiety, depression, identity exploration, academic and life stress, trauma, and big transitions. My goal is to offer a space that feels safe, grounded, and affirming, where you can be fully yourself and work toward what matters most to you. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, mindfulness, and solution-focused work to support your growth and healing. I also bring a trauma-informed lens to all I do and strive to adapt therapy to meet your unique needs and goals. As a white therapist deeply committed to racial justice, I actively work to dismantle white supremacy in my practice, relationships, and within myself. I welcome clients of color and am committed to providing a space where you feel safe, valued, and respected. This is lifelong work I approach with humility, openness, and a lot of care. I am also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ students and have experience supporting queer, trans, and gender-expansive young people in finding safety, clarity, and connection. Therapy is a place to slow down, tune in, and make meaning. I feel lucky to do this work and would love to hear from you if it feels like we might be a good fit.

Thanks for your interest. If you're feeling stuck, stressed out, not feeling or being your usual self, you've made the right step in reaching out. It takes courage to reach out since the thought of needing help can feel anxiety producing but that usually goes away and you'll be glad you did. Learning how to cope with stress, stressful people and situations is what I do best. Whether it's collaborating to find a solution, facing your fears, or a finding a way to reduce the symptoms that your sources of stress are causing, we can make a difference. Thanks for letting me help you make the difference you need.

Hello! Our clinic specializes in eating disorders (EDs), PTSD, borderline personality disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation. We use treatments that have proven efficacy whenever possible and are committed to staying abreast of the latest research in the field. Our director, Dr. Julie Trim, served as Director of the UCSD Adult Eating Disorders program for 11+ years and is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UCSD. Dr. Trim has directly supervised countless psychology trainees, publishes in scientific journals, gives presentations and trainings, and holds leadership positions in professional organizations. We have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and are proud to provide adherent individual DBT, DBT skills groups, and phone coaching. We also provide evidence-based ED treatment, and offer meal support at Gravity Heights (an award-winning restaurant next to our office) for clients who need nutritional support or help with food exposures. While we all try to savor the goodness in life, it's not always easy. There are so many stressors that we face in today's world, so many competing demands. Things that you used to do easily may now be hard, or things others do easily may feel impossible. Whether it's a long-standing problem or a bump in the road, getting professional help can be life-changing.

I specialize in working at the intersection of queerness, neurodivergence, and trauma. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ and neurodivergent communities, parents, military/veterans, and those with complex trauma. I lead a queer- and neuro-affirming practice. Many of my clients are trans/non-binary, Autistic, ADHDers, and trauma survivors. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 13 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships. I know you are the expert on yourself; my role is to hold space, offer tools, and be a guide for your healing journey. I use a combination of evidence-based trauma therapies, yoga/mindfulness, and an understanding of your body's response to trauma. I strive to be aware of the impact of systemic oppression and marginalization on holistic health. I use authenticity, creativity, compassion, and humor to create a space where you can feel connection and validation. My goal is to help you feel comfortable getting a little uncomfortable, in order to move into an experience of healing. I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body. I'm always engaging in continued learning so that I can provide the most informed and updated support for you. I look forward to hearing from you and working together!

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Welcome! Pamela Berkinsky is a holistic psychotherapist experienced in working with individuals and couples in the areas of trauma, grief, depression, personal growth, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship challenges as well as spiritual and existential issues. She is an intuitive practitioner who blends psychotherapy with somatic based practices, as well as EMDR, and IFS with holistic practices including visualization, energy psychology, breath work and somatic movement practices She loves working with highly sensitive people. Her practice is LGBTQIA+ and poly affirming. She is deeply compassionate, and non-judgmental.

Adjusting to college can be overwhelming. Even though this is a life event that is planned, it can still be a culture shock for many. Making new friends, adjusting to a different type of structure, and being away from family and loved ones for the first time can increase feelings of anxiety. You might find yourself over-analyzing your social interactions with your peers in a way that you didn't do with your childhood friends whom you've known for the majority of your life, or maybe you are having a hard time managing your class schedule and assignments when school came easy to you in the past. Whatever may be coming up for you, I am here to support you. We will work together to develop helpful coping skills to manage feelings of stress and anxiety, calm the negative self-talk that often comes with increased stress, and process your recent life transition in order to feel more at ease with the change. My approach is warm, casual, and strength-based. I use gentle and validating conversation to help improve your confidence, challenge your inner-critic when it tries to take over, and make you feel empowered to take your anxiety head-on. Finding a therapist and making the initial step to start therapy can be intimidating and overwhelming. I invite you to contact me for a free initial consultation so I can answer your questions, address any worries or concerns about therapy, and ensure my therapy style is what you are looking for.

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Chelsea Sterling is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of San Diego. Her clinical experiences include providing individual therapy, group therapy, crisis counseling and psychosocial assessments through work in short-term acute residential treatment (START) programs, outpatient mental health clinics and an alcohol treatment facility. She is a certified Domestic Violence Counselor. Chelsea has expertise in the following modalities: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR).

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Life brings challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and maybe even a little stressed. We all can use some support and guidance during these rough patches in our life. I get that. In my practice I offer another way of looking at these obstacles, while rediscover your strengths and welcome your vulnerabilities. My approach to healing is warm, and compassionate. I utilize holistic, humanistic and mindfulness approaches. Using modalities like EMDR, I can help clients heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and navigate life’s transitions. As a therapist I offer practical tools to reduce stress and build positive coping skills while building self-esteem, so you can face life challenges. You can learn more about me at https://womanhoodcounseling.com

If you have found yourself here it is because you are wanting to make a change in your life and/or your relationships. Maybe you have been being experiencing pain, are feeling overwhelmed at work or at home, have been experiencing low self-esteem, or you are stuck in a relationship that is no longer serving you. The therapeutic process is a powerful one where you get to work through your emotions and thoughts to see if these thoughts and emotions are in service to you. We believe that these emotions we experience are telling us something about our needs, and rather than not listening to this, we encourage our clients to lean into the experience of feeling. We are here to walk through this process with you and it is our absolute privilege to be engaging in this work with you. Here at Living Within Therapy we work with individuals coping with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and loss to name a few. We use evidence-based approaches, including but not limited to: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy; however, we tailor our approach to meet your needs. In addition, we work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and are LGBTQIA affirming. We work collaboratively with our clients throughout the entire process to ensure your needs are being met. Feedback is imperative within the therapeutic relationship to make sure this is happening for you. Our main objective is to assist you in feeling safe to share your experiences and to discover hope and your strengths within the therapeutic process so that you can connect with yourself and your values. We believe that the client/therapist relationship is the most important component of therapy; therefore, we offer a free fifteen-minute phone consultation to help you determine if we are the right fit. Looking forward to hearing from you in the near future.