Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

Dr. Johnson offers a supportive and approachable therapy experience that blends real-world strategies with expert care. Her warm, down-to-earth style helps students feel comfortable while working through challenges like anxiety, stress, and depression. With over 15 years of experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dr. Johnson focuses on practical tools and personalized support to help each student build confidence, manage emotions, and navigate college life more effectively.

Melanie invites you to explore and embrace all the parts of who you are, recognizing that your intersecting identities shape your experiences and the way you interact with the world. She takes a thoughtful, down-to-earth, and at times, direct approach that blends working toward meaningful goals with staying present. With warmth, honesty, and just the right dose of humor, she creates a space where you feel safe enough to risk vulnerability. You might benefit from working with Melanie if: - You're facing a big change, like a breakup, a move, a new job, or a loss, and feeling untethered. - You've achieved a lot, but continue to be plagued by anxiety, depression, burnout, and self-doubt. - You're an athlete, artist, or high performer, whose inner life doesn't match your outer success. - You're processing trauma or childhood experiences that still impact you today. - You want support managing stress, emotion dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. - You're tired and frustrated by not getting what you want out of your relationships. - You wish you could set appropriate boundaries, find the words to articulate the internal workings of your mind, and have the confidence to express your needs.​

My interest in mental health began from a desire to understand how our experiences shape who we are. This curiosity grew into a passion for helping others explore these influences, gain deeper insight, and create healthier ways of relating to themselves and the people around them. The more we understand ourselves, the more we can understand others. Whether you’re coming to therapy during a difficult time or seeking support for accountability and personal growth, what matters most is simply showing up for yourself. That act of showing up can be one of the hardest things we do. Yet it is also essential, not only for your own well-being, but for your ability to show up more fully for the people and things you care about. I view therapy as an act of kindness toward yourself, an intentional pause to check in, look inward, and take meaningful steps toward becoming your best self. Over time, this process can create a ripple effect of growth, both within yourself and across all areas of your life.

Becoming the parent of a child with autism was a catalyst that fundamentally reshaped my world. Initially, I attempted to navigate the complexities of raising a neurodivergent child in isolation, drowning in a sea of anxiety, grief, and anger. It wasn’t until I sought therapy and connected with a community of parents on the same emotional rollercoaster that the fog lifted. Therapy — and the support of others who understood — changed everything. That experience led me to this work. From the moment you log on for your telehealth appointment, the space belongs entirely to you. It is a place where you can cry, laugh, and share your highs and lows without fear of judgment. You don’t need to have a plan or know exactly where to start; just being here is the beginning of discovery. You will be seen, you will be heard, and we will take this first step together. I believe therapy works best when we walk the path together. My approach is built on your strengths and tailored to your unique needs. You will always be met with acceptance, empathy, and respect—never judgment. Rather than giving you answers, I am here to help you uncover your own truth and take the lead in your healing. I want you to leave our time together feeling deeply seen, supported, and ready to move forward with confidence. I’ve recently discovered a quiet peace in making soap and candles. There is something beautiful about the way we must melt down solid wax to reshape it, or how we must wait patiently for soap to cure before it is ready. It reminds me so much of therapy. We need time to soften, space to be molded, and patience to let our new insights settle. It has taught me that healing is a craft—one that simply cannot be rushed.

The human mind is a fascinating place. I am constantly in awe of how deeply intricate and nuanced it is. I know that for many of us it doesn’t always feel this way. The hardships of life can, over time, make the mind into an unpleasant, stressful, and even terrifying place. My goal is to help make therapy, and the journey of exploring and understanding your mind, a less daunting process. I want to join you and guide you in peeling back the layers, making sense of the chaos, and finding safety and peace in your mind. For me, the key ingredient to effective therapy is curiosity. I want you to not only feel that I am listening to you, but that I am interested in what you have to say. I work to create a therapeutic environment where you feel that we are working collaboratively to understand the difficulties in your life, and to identify what you need to feel more capable and fulfilled. My style of therapy focuses on accessing and exploring the wisdom that already exists in your mind and nervous system, and interpreting it in the context of your past and present experiences. Nothing is more important in the therapy process than the relationship between therapist and client. Little can be accomplished in terms of exploring and understanding your mind unless you feel some degree of trust and safety with your therapist. I understand that trust needs to be earned, and that a sense of safety takes time to develop. I strive to nurture these by prioritizing consistency and honesty in all of our interactions. I want you to know and feel, above all, that I am on your side, and to have a clear understanding of the work we are doing together.

I was inspired to become a therapist because I have always had a passion for helping people in whatever way that I can, without judgement and assumptions. I continue to be inspired on a daily basis by the work that I do with my clients, and helping guide them to the solutions that they are looking for in therapy. I believe in the idea of ensuring that clients feel heard, understood and validated in what they are feeling. I ensure this by providing a safe, nonjudgmental therapy space for clients to feel comfortable in opening up about what brought them into therapy and how we can work through those concerns. Clients are encouraged to additionally express any concerns that they have should those arise. I speak with my clients on the idea of collaboration throughout treatment, as well as building a strong therapeutic rapport from the start. I bring in a sense of humor, respect and honesty about things as well. In addition to all of this, I allow for my clients to speak their mind about what is impacting them, and to provide them that space in order to express those feelings. I am a big proponent of positive self-care, something that I encourage my client to utilize throughout each week. I share my enjoyment of listening to music, watching sports, reading, physical activities, and playing guitar. It helps open the door to discussion about self-care techniques that clients can utilize when they are experiencing difficulties in their lives.

I became a clinical counselor because I believe healing begins when someone feels authentically heard. Life can be incredibly loud, leaving us feeling disconnected from what matters the most. I provide a quiet, attentive space dedicated to your voice and your experiences. Whether you’re facing uncertainty or deep challenges, my goal is to ensure you feel fully understood and supported during life transitions. I believe the therapeutic relationship is important and I foster transparency in my work. I seek to have genuine curiosity to collaborate in having clients identify connections in thought process, emotions, and behaviors. This process is your journey, and you are the expert on your own life. I follow your lead, respecting the pace that feels right for you. This collaborative approach ensures that our work together is grounded in safety, dignity, and a shared sense of purpose. If it rains during our session, I might look out a window for a second because that ‘rain smell’ is my favorite.

I work best with students who may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure of themselves and are looking for a safe place to talk. Many are dealing with anxiety, low mood, past experiences, low self-esteem or challenges with friendships, school, or family, and want support in figuring things out. They’re often ready to better understand themselves, learn ways to cope, and feel more confident in their daily lives. In our work together, I offer a warm, supportive, and culturally affirming space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. We’ll take things at your pace while building practical tools and helping you feel more in control, connected, and supported.

I work best with students who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of themselves while navigating school, relationships, work, or major life changes. You might be holding a lot together on the outside while feeling emotionally drained or stuck on the inside. If you’re looking for therapy that feels warm, supportive, and collaborative—where you can go at your own pace—we may be a good fit.

You just need to do figure out to eat for dinner, you’ve done it a million times, so why does it feel so hard? In my practice, I’ve learned that we often go through life reacting to situations without fully understanding why. I specialize in working with neurodivergent young adults (i.e. ADHD, Autism, OCD) and I'm passionate about helping people understand how their unique minds and bodies work. There is so much you are already doing instinctively to cope with things (probably a lot of it without even realizing it's a coping skill), I just get to help you figure out what that is and how to use it more effectively. By untangling your thoughts, exploring your feelings, and developing a deeper understanding of your mind and body, I will help you regain the power to build a life that works for you. Trying new things can be hard but what you’re doing isn’t easy. It’s worth giving yourself a chance. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a free consultation.

Greetings and welcome to my professional profile. I am committed to providing exceptional care with a focus on individual needs. My medical career has spanned the challenging environment of acute psychiatric care to the compassionate realm of family health services. As a Nurse Practitioner, my approach involves a comprehensive understanding of your health. I meticulously compile your medical history and conduct thorough examinations to ensure we address all aspects of your well-being. Interpreting laboratory tests and devising customized care plans are among my core competencies. My proficiency extends to minor surgical procedures and advanced diagnostic evaluations, collaborating with physicians to deliver seamless care. My capabilities also include remote consultations for an array of healthcare institutions, where I oversee laboratory analyses, medication management, and coordinate referrals to specialists as necessary. I am adept at performing in-depth health assessments during home visits, ensuring continuity of care and clear communication with your primary healthcare provider. My nursing experience encompasses both the fast-paced medical-surgical settings and the intensive care required in psychiatric wards, where I have provided direct patient care and leadership to healthcare teams. Reflecting on my earlier career in the Philippines, I gained valuable experience in anesthesia and served as a proactive community health officer, implementing vital health initiatives and providing direct patient care. I am dedicated to imparting knowledge that empowers you to make informed decisions regarding your healthcare. Patient safety is my foremost priority; I am vigilant in identifying potential risks and implementing necessary interventions without delay. I invite you to consider me as your healthcare ally. Let us collaborate professionally to achieve optimal health outcomes for you.

I have had the honor of working as a therapist for 30 years in various settings such as a battered women’s shelter, Child Abuse Reunification programs and the Private Sector. My style as a therapist is calm, empathic and compassionate while using my training, experience and humor to assist my clients on their journey of growth and healing. My practice is focused on helping individuals and couples live a more connected and authentic life, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety and depression, and creating a life that they have always dreamed of. I specialize in working with women and young adults who are moving away from a negative relationship or who are in transitional stages of their lives. I work collaboratively with the client to explore the patterns in their life that are inhibiting them from living the life they desire. I focus on the whole person, mind body and soul to heal the pain from the past and create new and more effective means of communicating with others and in the world in which they live. In my practice I utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Therapy and Visualization to provide the most effective ways to regain balance and mental health.

I'm Brooke Sundin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the owner of Light Minds Child and Family Therapy, a private practice based in Brentwood, Los Angeles. I work with college students and young adults adjusting to new responsibilities and the growing pressures of adulthood. The clients I work with are often dealing with anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem struggles, and the life transitions that come with this stage: starting or finishing college, moving to a new city, figuring out relationships, choosing a path, or grieving the version of life you thought you'd have by now. Some of what we work on is symptom-focused. A lot of it is bigger than that, like building a clearer sense of who you are and what you actually want. My approach is collaborative, interactive, and warm. Therapy can be a vulnerable space to step into, and I'm here to cheer you on along the way. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all model, so I adjust my approach based on what you actually need. I draw on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. I'm also certified in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) through the Yale Child Study Center, which I use when parents want to be part of the support system. I'm licensed in California, Florida, Utah, and Tennessee, and I see all clients via secure telehealth, which tends to work well for college students juggling class schedules, internships, and a life that doesn't sit still. Reaching out for support is one of the hardest steps, so thank you for considering me. If it seems like we could be a good fit, I'd be honored to learn more about your story and welcome you to the Light Minds family.

Seeing clients overcome their struggles and/or building further insights about themselves, inspires my drive to work in mental health care. I enjoy seeing the progress of clients and their resiliency throughout their treatment. During sessions, I use active listening skills to ensure that clients feel heard. I also continuously reflect back to clients to ensure they are being understood. If needed, I will ask for clarification to ensure I obtain accurate information given that it can play an important role in their treatment. I am transparent with clients about the structure of treatment. I provide the space for clients to share their interests and information about themselves. I also provide clients with time to share delicate information to respect their need for comfort throughout their treatment.

I always felt that I was called to help others. Growing up in South Los Angeles, I developed a sense of culture and community amongst Black and Brown people as well as a respect for the struggle. I grew up around artists, musicians, poets, leaders, givers, and eccentrics from all walks of life. During this time, I discovered how much I enjoyed listening to people, problem-solving, and motivating others to succeed and explore their authentic selves. I started off as a mentor in undergrad, inspiring other young people of color to attend college and think outside of the box in regards to their futures. I continued working with children, teens, and adults with special needs until I landed a position as an intern at a non-profit mental health agency in South Los Angeles. After I obtained my license as a marriage and family therapist, I continued to grow as a clinician, supervisor, and manager at the nonprofit while also taking on teen and adult clients in the private practice setting. My intake process is a free-flowing conversation where I provide a warm environment for you to feel comfortable opening up about yourself and what brings you to therapy. I used a standard intake questionnaire that can be filled out online and reviewed during the first session in order to assist with goal-setting and creating our therapy journey together. Progress is something that we agree upon collaboratively. I do give assignments as appropriate and depending on the goals we have established together. These assignments are not designed to feel like work but rather stepping stones to help you along on your quest for inner healing and positive change. I enjoy working with clients who want to grow and learn about themselves while tackling life's challenges.

I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my Bachelors of Science in Nursing at Mount Saint Mary’s University and earned my Masters of Science in Nursing at Cal State Long Beach. Prior to my career as a nurse practitioner I worked in emergency nursing and inpatient psychiatric settings. Prior to my nursing career I served in the US Army as a medic and completed my enlistment as a Sergeant. I am a married mother of twins and my interests include learning to play the drums and guitar, going to the gym and astrology. I am inspired to work in mental health as I believe wellness is multifactorial. The state of our mental health is what can influence our ability to function in our day to day. People of all walks of life, including myself, have either experienced a need for mental health care or loved someone who has. I am thrilled to provide care in a time where mental health is becoming less stigmatized. It is extremely rewarding to witness what a profound impact high quality mental health care can provide. I tailor my approach and treatment plan to align with preferences and values through thorough assessment and consideration. I ask questions and I encourage my clients to do the same. Care should be collaborative and that includes hearing and respecting the individual seeking care. I provide recommendations for individualized treatment plans and work together to develop a treatment plan that is right for the client’s perceived needs. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: academic stress, BIPOC mental health issues, LGBTQIQ2s+ mental health, first responders, racial identity, sex-positive, kink allied, transgender care, veterans care

Are you looking to make some changes in your life? Let's make it real and transformative together. As a seasoned and licensed psychotherapist, I'm here to be your guide, helping you connect with your inner voice, find balance, and foster the rich, fulfilling relationships you truly deserve. My approach seamlessly weaves together Western and Eastern Psychology, uniting Mind, Body, and Spirit to deepen your relationship with yourself. Specializing in various modalities such as CBT and MBSR, I am equipped to assist in healing emotional trauma, anxiety, mental blocks, and pain, while also fostering creativity and high-level performance.

My name is Wendy Silva, I am a bilingual (Spanish & English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering Teletherapy in the State of California. I work with individuals who may be going through difficult times and may be struggling with managing their responses. You may be noticing patterns that continue to perpetuate thoughts and emotions that can be difficult to understand. In therapy, we can work together in identifying and understanding the “origen” of our patterns and work towards embracing growth, healing, and change. I believe therapy should be a safe space to process your emotions and thoughts without feeling judge and I aim to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space to facilitate growth and healing. I utilized an eclectic approach, utilizing therapeutic approaches and interventions that tailor to my clients needs. With that being said, I mostly work from a psychodynamic therapeutic approach and my focus is to support the client with self-reflection, self-examination and explore the source of your challenges. I will support you with identifying and implementing effective coping skills to live a healthy emotional lifestyle.

I am passionate about working with college students! Are you struggling at school? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with College Students, individuals and teens with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse. Here are are comments from my past clients "Maria is an excellent therapist. She has been instrumental in my recovery." "Maria was helpful especially since I was new to therapy." I am passionate about helping students conquer their fears & improve their self-esteem. My success comes from listening & being present with my clients in order to understand their experiences. I am available to see clients on Sundays!

In-network with Aetna. Tried therapy before and didn't quite help? Therapy helped before, but still struggling? My approach is different! I see people seeking support for many difficulties, including: imposter syndrome, self-esteem, boundaries, vulnerability, excessive guilt and shame, communication skills, difficulty asking for help or saying "no," and more. Reducing self-judgment will help you to make better decisions that are aligned with your core values. I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I also have extensive experience working with undergraduate and graduate students at high-pressured universities.