Therapists for college students near 92182
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.
In our first session together, I also welcome you to my real or virtual office and I invite you to make it your own safe space. I explain that therapy is a process, a relationship, and an adventure. It's also a gift of discovery and renewal that only you can give to yourself, especially in our challenging days. In this process, my role is to listen, to support, to challenge, to guide, and to celebrate you as you are becoming more courageous to face the parts of yourself you were avoiding, more accepting of yourself and of others, and fully present in your life. For over 25 years, I have practiced psychotherapy with people from all walks of life. My approach evolves as your process deepens and your needs change. As an ordained minister, I also have training and formation in spiritual direction and I can help you explore spiritual and faith concerns as part of the therapy process. I believe we are created with a tremendous capacity for good and we are given inner resources to overcome the gravest difficulties. This faith renews my love for my work and my strength as a therapist. I feel the greatest joy when I witness people's healing from emotional pain as they are making peace with the past and with the challenges of the present.
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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.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
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.
I believe exploring the narratives of an individual and highlighting points of resiliency can empower and increase personal morale for those he works with. collaboratively. I utilizes a variety of other interventions as clinically indicated. While I specialize in working with children, teens, transitional age youths, and families of color, I have continued to provide therapeutic support to people of all walks of life, in the communities that I serve. I have been a volunteer bereavement counselor for children & teens for many years and have extensive education, training and clinical experience in this area. I am also passionate about foster care on the non-profit side, actively creating change within the system through advocacy and creating spaces for continued conversations, for the marginalized teens.
I have always found it easy to be in tune with emotions and I feel like I can provide a non-anxious presence that can help guide. I believe two of my biggest strengths are being an empathetic and understanding person, and as cheesy as it sounds, I truly take pleasure in knowing that I can utilize these strengths to offer support to my future clients during some of their most challenging times. I also have experience working with many different people in different settings and that has allowed me to widen my understanding and it has positively impacted how I practice. I make sure to be visibly engaged through validating thoughts and feelings as well as utilizing reflective listening skills. I recognize I am human and if I do not understand something I am courageous enough to ask questions and gain insight on my client’s perspective, background, culture, faith, etc. It is not lost on me that it is a privilege to work with people at such a vulnerable level. I always aim to provide a safe, empowering, yet warm environment for all of my clients. And I am also not afraid of big emotions, on the contrary I welcome them. I believe the hour we have together is your time to be able to freely express your most inner thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward seeking therapy—which can be intimidating for many people. I understand that discussing sensitive topics with a stranger can feel daunting. Therefore, I create a warm, non-judgmental, and culturally responsive environment that builds trust and allows clients to share their deepest vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or ridicule. Whether you're dealing with academic stress, anxiety, low self-worth, identity development, or relationship challenges, I aim to empower clients on their therapeutic journey by providing tools and strategies that address barriers to YOUR value-driven goals. I will work alongside you as a team to ensure we're aligned and that each effort contributes to transformative healing. In therapy, I utilize evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills training, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These approaches stress the importance of being present through mindfulness, embracing internal experiences, and committing to value-driven goals that foster a meaningful life worth living. Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, and at times, it involves trial and error. I offer a free initial 15-minute phone consultation to help potential clients and I determine whether we are a good match.
***Currently serving individuals in California and Oregon*** Hello! My name is Carlota, and I am a social justice advocate; a believer in science; a fierce and overly-obsessed dog mom to two wacky pups; an immigrant; and steadfast in my conviction that we have a fundamental obligation to help one another if we have the means and capacity to do so. I am a licensed clinical social worker, and have been in practice since 2013. I completed my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley in 2008, and received my Master of Social Work (MSW) in 2013 from the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. I embrace evidence-based and research-supported therapies, while also honoring the power of the therapeutic relationship and process. I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety and panic, grief and loss, interpersonal difficulties, and life transitions. I am a trained teacher of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD and Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depression (IPT-D). I also have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for Bipolar Disorder, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for the treatment of PTSD in children and teens. Why might I be a good fit for you? Because I get it, and I am whole-heartedly with you on this journey. I know that coming to therapy is a profound undertaking, and that what I will ask of you in this process is not easy. Introspection, change, and confronting avoidance are hard, and so I strive to provide a safe, authentic, and collaborative environment that honors your story, experience, and identity with compassion and without judgment; I strive to be worthy of bearing witness to your story. ***Sirviendo a personas ubicadas en California y Oregón*** ¡Hola! Mi nombre es Carlota, y soy amante de la justicia social; una creyente en la ciencia; una mamá de dos perritos excéntricos; una inmigrante; y firme en mi convicción de que tenemos la obligación de ayudarnos unos a otros si tenemos los medios y la capacidad para hacerlo. Soy una trabajadora social, y he estado en práctica desde 2013. Me gradué de UC Berkeley en el 2008, y recibí mi Maestría en Trabajo Social (MSW) en el 2013 de la Universidad de Washington en San Louis. Acepto las terapias basadas en la evidencia y respaldadas por la investigación, al mismo tiempo que honro el poder de la relación y el proceso terapéutico. Me especializo en trauma, depresión, el trastorno bipolar, ansiedad y pánico, duelo y pérdida, dificultades interpersonales, y transiciones de vida. Soy una maestra capacitada en Reducción del Estrés Basado en Mindfulness (MBSR), y estoy certificada en Terapia de Procesamiento Cognitivo (CPT) para el trastorno de estrés postraumático y Psicoterapia Interpersonal para la Depresión (IPT-D). También tengo una amplia entrenamiento en Terapia Dialéctica Conductual (DBT), Terapia Interpersonal y de Ritmo Social (IPSRT) para el trastorno bipolar, y Terapia Cognitiva Conductual Centrada en el Trauma (TF-CBT) para el tratamiento del trastorno de estrés postraumático en niños y adolescentes. ¿Por qué podría ser una buena opción para ti? Porque pongo todo mi corazón para estar contigo en este viaje. Sé que venir a terapia es una empresa profunda y que lo que te voy a pedir en este proceso no es fácil. La introspección, el cambio, y la confrontación de la evitación son difíciles, y espero proveer un entorno seguro, auténtico, y colaborativo que honre su historia, experiencia, e identidad con compasión y sin juzgar; me esfuerzo por ser digno de ser testigo de tu historia.
Whether you’re starting fresh, returning to school, or trying to find your footing again, support is needed. I’ve been there myself, and I understand how demanding and overwhelming this stage of life can feel. Your schedule is constantly changing, relationships can feel uncertain, and even when this is “supposed” to be the best time of your life, it can still feel like too much. Many of the students and young adults I work with come to therapy carrying pressure from school, family expectations, relationships, work, or simply trying to keep up with life. My goal is not to add to that pressure, but to create a space where you can slow down, process what you’re carrying, and build practical tools to manage stress, anxiety, overwhelm, and life transitions. Together, we work on building coping skills, managing stress and anxiety, improving self-understanding, and finding healthier ways to navigate the demands of everyday life. I support college students, young adults, and returning students in creating more balance while still making space for who they are outside of school, work, and expectations.
Healing and change begins with the therapeutic relationship. Through a caring and nonjudgmental space we can process difficult emotions, gain awareness of what keeps us in suffering, and integrate newfound insights to bring relief. I am sensitive to the ways our past experiences and future anxieties impact our present. Together we will explore and discover what unfolds moment-to-moment to gain new understanding and begin healing and moving toward wholeness. I am deeply honored to witness your journey. As a veteran I understand the needs of service members, veterans and their families. I also specialize in addiction and recovery and have advanced training and experience working with anxiety, depression, codependency and trauma. I've also worked with children experiencing significant emotional and behavioral difficulties related to traumatic events. Gestalt therapy has formed the basis of my practice with special emphasis on awareness, integration and the therapeutic relationship. I am also an EMDR therapist, and incorporate depth psychological practices, imaginal methods, mindfulness techniques, and dreamwork.
Great to meet you! As a trauma-informed therapist, I'm passionate about helping people navigate the deep impacts of trauma, anxiety, and depression. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to carry the weight of painful experiences while trying to function in daily life. I believe healing happens not by "fixing" people, but by reconnecting you with your inner strength and resilience. Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, feelings of sadness, or the lasting effects of trauma, I will tailor each session to your unique needs and pace.
I am a licensed psychologist with strong specialties in treating folks with eating disorders and anxiety. I also have extensive experience working with people with depression and relationship concerns. I am a compassionate, direct therapist. I work collaboratively with my patients to set and achieve their goals. These goals often include increased self-acceptance, as well as changes in mood, thought patterns, and behaviors. My therapy is rooted in empirically based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic theory, and neuroscience research. I develop customized strategies to help my patients manage painful thoughts and emotions, change unhelpful behaviors, and increase motivation. I also help cultivate self-compassion and self-understanding. Self-understanding promotes self-acceptance. When you allow yourself to be who you are, your inner critic has no leverage, and you move more easily toward a meaningful and fulfilling life. For most of my patients, this is the ultimate goal. Please go to my website for more information. My blog describes many of the concepts and strategies I use.
As a seasoned Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized training in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics and certification as an NMT trainer, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My focus is on working with individuals coping from daily stressors to severe mental illnesses, offering compassionate support and tailored interventions. Beyond my therapeutic skills, I have a passion for photography, capturing the world's beauty through my lens, and I'm a seasoned bowler who enjoys friendly competition. In addition, I'm an enthusiastic lover of trivia and a member of Mensa, reflecting my dedication to intellectual growth and problem-solving. What sets me apart is my approach to therapy. I embrace an eclectic approach, primarily person-centered and solution-focused, but I am highly adaptable and quick to learn new modalities. I consider myself a "jack of most trades" always willing to explore innovative ways to help my clients. My open-mindedness enables me to engage effectively with clients, including those with psychotic disorders, using a compassionate and individualized approach. Moreover, I am fluent in English and Tagalog and can engage in conversational Mandarin, offering a more culturally sensitive and inclusive therapeutic experience. When faced with difficult challenges, we'll figure out a way to make it work (together), ensuring my clients receive the best possible care. My multifaceted background ensures a holistic and dynamic approach to therapy, fostering healing, growth, and resilience for my clients.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I use these models to treat depression, anxiety and/or others forms of conflict. I incorporate self-care disciplines that involve a holistic healing approach through relaxation, meditative skills and mindfulness practices.
You're ambitious, kind, hardworking, and yet, something in life isn't working out. It feels like you're trying so hard, and yet, you're stuck, or somehow falling behind in a part of your life. Maybe because of stress, a past romantic relationship, or maybe because you're feeling overwhelmed. Talking with someone about worries and circumstances to heal emotional wounds takes courage. Counseling could be intimidating and stirring. Thankfully, we offer an attentive and supportive environment that is safe, private and professional for your emotional health. If you need support, reach out. We are here to help. Book an appointment to meet with us at our office in-person, or via TeleHealth.
Are you stuck? Your journey towards empowerment and freedom starts now. You will build the skills to overcome your personal struggles and with those you love. Everyone has capacity for positive growth. You will be provided with a genuine, empathic, and safe space to allow you to tap into your innate power for growth and development. Our early childhood experiences and attachment styles shape our personality and behavior. Working on your past relationships will help you gain insight into your current situation, then use that insight to reduce daily stress and find your way. My experience includes working with a diverse group of children, adults, and adolescents in the areas of relationships, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, coping skills, and emotional regulation. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a very effective way to heal from traumatic memories or events.
To the strong ones, You’re the one everyone leans on—but who do you lean on when the weight gets too heavy? You’ve built a life around being the reliable one, the fixer, and the steady hand in every storm. Whether in your career or your family, you are the person with the answers, the one who 'carries it well.' But high-functioning isn't the same as high-flourishing, and the pressure to maintain that strong exterior has become a silent tax on your peace of mind. Being the 'strong one' is a lonely place to be. While you’re busy taking care of the world, your own needs have become an after-thought. You deserve a space where you don’t have to perform, hold the posture, or take care of anyone else. We specialize in working with high-capacity individuals who are ready to trade "performing strength" for authentic resilience. Our approach is a blend of deep empathy and direct, results-oriented insight. This is your sanctuary—a place to deconstruct the pressure to have all the answers and finally breathe. You’ve taken care of everyone else long enough. It’s time someone held the space for you. Contact us today to schedule your free 15 minute phone consultation.