Therapists for college students near UCLA

I specialize in working with female students who are struggling with anxiety or stress. Maybe you are noticing burnout and feeling a lack of interest in classes, feeling stressed with upcoming exams, feeling anxious making new friends, or feeling completely overwhelmed by the sorority system at school. College or graduate school is meant to be an experience of self-discovery, but you may find yourself isolating, worrying, anxious, or overwhelmed. The pressure to excel academically, anxiety of moving away from home, the demands of coursework and deadlines, and the challenges of making new friends can all contribute to anxiety and stress and just feeling down. If you are looking to feel in control of your life again and get back to enjoying life, you have come to the right place! As someone who experiences anxiety myself and struggled to get into the groove of college, I I get it! I would love to support you in coping with any anxiety or stress you are currently experiencing to help you feel relief and get back that enjoyment of life! Please reach out today.

Julie has been in practice for over 25 years, she specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy—The most effective and well studied modality of psychotherapy. Dr. Osborn worked at UCI Neuropsychiatric Center in Orange, CA for over 10 years. She volunteers for Families Forward in Irvine offering counseling to families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Mycbtpodcast was started in 3/2020 and has listeners from all over the world. It is a free resource to learn CBT tools. Dr. Osborn is a Certified TEAM Therapist: LEVEL 2 and has been featured on many reputable publications such as the OC Metro and the OC Register as well as been invited as a guest therapist on the Dr. Phil Show. In 2006 Dr. Osborn was included in Empires “Who’s Who Honors Edition 2005-2006 for Outstanding Professionals in their field”.

Your mind never stops running, yet you still feel “behind.” You're juggling so much—college, career, relationships, identity, or maybe even starting a family. Add in anxiety, the weight of expectations, or ADHD and it can all feel like too much. There is an easier way. Let me help you find it. I’ll provide a culturally affirming, trauma-informed space where we work with who you are—not against it. Together, we'll develop strategies to manage overwhelm, improve focus, and quiet that inner critic. Our work will be collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in curiosity. My goal is to help you experience more calm, confidence, and clarity in your daily life. I'm Nicole Castillo, MA LMFT—founder of MentalPaz, Latina therapist, new mama, and young breast cancer survivor who gets what it's like to balance identity, ambition, and healing. With over a decade of experience, I couldn’t be more passionate about working in solidarity with my clients. Ready to stop figuring it all out alone? Reach out for a free consultation. Let's chat!

I help clients deal with depression, anxiety and the struggles with navigating relationships and life changes. We work together to discover, and help you move towards a path in life that works well for you. I offer a warm and accepting space where you can contemplate your current life path and explore your hopes and dreams.

My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face today. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, perfectionism, or just feeling stuck, this is a space where you don’t have to go through it alone. I believe therapy works best when we work as a team. Together, we’ll explore what support looks like for you emotionally, academically, socially, and beyond. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, build on your strengths, and create a path that feels true to who you are and where you want to go. This process is about you, and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

You don't want to be a burden on others, so you keep it all inside, even when you're overwhelmed. Everyone thinks you're fine, but there's part of your story you never say aloud and it feels like you're about to snap. You know you have so much privilege, but what are you supposed to DO with it except feel immobilized by shame? As a bookworm and psychotherapist, I know the power of stories, especially the ones we didn't choose: family secrets, relationship and sexual difficulties, alcohol use, faith transition and deconstruction, burnout in passion jobs, people-pleasing, anxiety, financial wealth, and privileged identities. You want to learn to speak up without it costing you everyone you love. You want to learn how to give without shame or fear of being found out that you have SO MUCH. You want to create in a world that wants you to monetize everything. I get it, and I've been there. Your story won't be the same as mine, but I've helped clients like you make changes that last. I can help you find more peace in your relationships and write your future story.

College students are going through transitional times in their lives. They are learning how to navigate life on their own while balancing new responsibilities, changes in relationships, and the building of their adult identities. Many find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, or lost when unforeseen challenges come their way, their life expectations aren’t met, or childhood wounds become harder to ignore. I support clients with coping with current life stressors, overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing, and processing grief and trauma from the past.

Danielle Cooper, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of the Center of Behavioral Therapy and Consultation for OCD and Anxiety. Dr. Cooper has unique expertise in evidence-based cognitive-behavioral treatments for OCD, PTSD, and anxiety-related disorders, having trained and worked alongside internationally recognized leaders in the field as a former Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. She has extensive experience working with college students struggling with anxiety and perfectionism. Drawing upon her clinical expertise, research knowledge, and experience, Dr. Cooper provides the most potent and effective treatments available for OCD, PTSD, and anxiety. She also specializes in brief evidence-based cognitive behavioral interventions for insomnia and nightmares. Dr. Cooper currently offers telehealth appointments to patients in PA, NJ, and CA. Prior to founding CBTCOA, Dr. Cooper was an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at the world-renowned Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety (CTSA) in the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. Cooper also established and was the Director of the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for OCD. While at CTSA, she was involved in clinical work, administration, supervision, teaching, research and consultation. Dr. Cooper received her B.A. in Psychology from Bucknell University and M.A. in Psychology from Boston University working at the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CARD). She then worked as a clinical research coordinator at the Boston VA. Dr. Cooper obtained her M.S. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Ohio University. She completed her clinical internship at the Ann Arbor VA and her post-doctoral fellowship at CTSA. Dr. Cooper has worked in various clinical settings, such as in an academic medical center, a university counseling center, a community mental health center, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, multiple VA medical centers, and private practice. She has received extensive training from leading experts in the field on the assessment and treatment of OCD, PTSD, and anxiety-related disorders. She is a certified clinician, consultant, and supervisor in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) for PTSD and Exposure and Response Prevention (EXRP) for OCD.

My therapeutic style is warm and genuine and I like to use humor when appropriate. I am a big proponent of using therapeutic techniques that have good research evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for adolescents and adults. CBT teaches clients coping skills to manage their emotions and behaviors. It also changes clients' emotions by helping them change their thoughts and behaviors. I provide CBT to address the following presenting problems: depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and difficulties adjusting to major life changes. DBT is an adaption of CBT that was developed to help clients with multiple problems in multiple areas who struggle with chronically dysregulated emotions. These clients may also have suicidal behaviors, self-harm behaviors, impulsive behaviors, difficulties in their interpersonal relationships, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I also have specialty training in the DBT Prolonged Exposure protocol for individuals with comorbid Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD. In terms of my education and experience, I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Stony Brook University in 2014. I then participated in my first postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington with Dr. Marsha Linehan, the developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Afterwards, I completed a postdoctoral fellowship with Dr. Jacqueline Pistorello at the University of Nevada, Reno, focusing on providing clinical services to college students and conducting research on evidence-based treatments for suicidal behaviors. As a faculty member at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, I taught medical students, psychiatry residents, and child psychiatry fellows about psychology, therapeutic techniques, and how to interact with patients. I opened my private practice in 2017 in Reno, Nevada and recently moved to Virginia.

Hi! I'm Michelle, an associate therapist committed to helping children, teens, and adults navigate the challenges of life with compassion and clarity. I specialize in supporting clients through anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, and women’s issues. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of support, I’m here to walk alongside you. I believe therapy should be flexible and tailored to your unique needs. There’s no single approach that works for everyone, which is why I adjust my therapeutic methods to best serve you. Whether we focus on practical strategies, deep emotional work, or a mixture of both, my goal is always to meet you where you are and help you move forward at your own pace. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space is at the heart of my practice. I want you to feel heard, understood, and empowered as we work together to address your current struggles and set meaningful goals for your future. If you're ready to take the first step toward healing and growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on this journey.

I have personal, lived experience with all of my primary areas of focus. I have a wide array of specialties because life presented many unexpected changes that resulted in a fulfilling career. I remember feeling out of place throughout my childhood, but I didn't know how to convey my feelings. My childhood was always unpredictable and chaotic so I was able to recognize those things in others. I didn't understand what I was feeling at the time, but I remember thinking, "how is no one seeing this or saying anything?". From a young age I had a deep sense of connection to the unmet needs of others. I was always told that I was "resilient" but I didn't want to have to be that, it didn't feel fair. Through my own personal growth I learned how to transform my emotional wounds into a way to serve others. We can't undo what was done to us, but we can take charge of how our needs are met from this point forward. I am a Depth psychotherapist and strongly rely upon experiential therapy. This means that you can expect to address the underlying deeper issues. One of the strongest components of the therapeutic process is receiving validation and genuine understanding. This results in a vulnerable and open relationship between the client and the clinician. I have a diverse background and support issues in my practice, that I have personally experienced. I have worked in a variety of mental health, rehabilitation, and addiction settings, including both: in-patient psychiatric hospitals, treatment facilities, residential, and outpatient programs, as well as caregiving facilities for persons experiencing disabilities. I spent the first part of my career as a clinical case manager working with the homeless, veterans, and persons experiencing addiction and acute mental illness. My practice focuses on assisting individuals in establishing a centered approach to their lives by digging up the past and connecting to their core values. Some of the most important aspects in my life include: advocacy, rehabilitation, fostered autonomy, and being in-tune with the needs of a wide variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I rely on your intuition and guide you to reaching your empowered self. Together we will connect to your mind, body, and unmet emotional needs. I will help you recognize and understand how your emotions impact your thoughts and decisions. I will help you develop awareness of your internal thoughts, foster insight into your body’s responses, and teach you to listen through somatic awareness.

I believe in the spirit of human potential, and finds purpose in working with others to create an environment for positive transformation, personal development, and healing. I would describe myself as a holistic practitioner finding inspiration from many different wisdom traditions. As a yoga & meditation teacher, my approach stems from Eastern philosophy, specifically Tibetan Buddhism.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I know the bravery it takes to ask for help and you deserve the support you are seeking. In my experience, working in many different counseling contexts, I have come to believe in the healing of a safe space with unconditional listening. I have walked clients through crisis, transitions, grief, relational strain, identity questions, major anxieties, depression, everyday stressors and growing pains. I have developed, taught and led programs and counseling services for youth and families within school districts, the church and the foster/probation system. My educational background is in psychology and faith integration, which supports my approach in helping deconstruct beliefs and/or incorporating truths and traditions into practice. It is my goal to walk alongside you and equip you with awareness and skills to manage as you move forward. I am Level II trained in Restoration Therapy and also teach psychology at Point Loma Nazarene University. I am a southern California native who loves calling San Diego my home. I enjoy the beach, a classic comedy TV show, and all things chocolate! I believe therapy is most effective with the right fit, so feel free to contact me to see if I can help in any way.

I am a dedicated therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions and more. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience, I offer personalized support in a warm and nurturing virtual environment. Your well-being is my priority, and 1 am committed to providing you with the guidance and tools needed to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. Together, we'll explore your unique journey, uncovering insights and developing strategies for meaningful growth and healing. Whether you're facing overwhelming emotions, navigating major life changes, or seeking clarity and direction, 1 am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, towards a more fulfilling and empowered Life.

Many people begin therapy feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck, or unsure of where they belong. This can be especially true for those navigating multiple cultures, identities, and expectations at once. When family values, cultural norms, and personal needs don’t fully align, it’s common to feel pulled in different directions—or to quietly lose touch with yourself. Over time, this strain may show up as burnout, anxiety, relationship stress, or a lingering sense that something isn’t quite right, even if everything looks “fine” on the outside. I take a collaborative, culturally responsive approach to therapy that honors the complexity of your lived experience. I don’t believe there is one “right” way to feel, heal, or move forward—especially when identity, family dynamics, and cultural expectations play such a central role in your life. My work integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, family systems therapy, and person-centered approaches. Together, we will make sense of patterns shaped by your past experiences and relationships while building practical coping skills that support meaningful, sustainable change. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. During graduate training, I completed my internship at Gateway Public Schools, where I worked with adolescents ages 11–18. In this role, I supported students navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and a wide range of family-related and personal challenges, gaining hands-on experience working within complex systems that impact young people’s emotional well-being. Over time, clients often gain greater emotional clarity, self-trust, and a stronger sense of agency—feeling more empowered to live in ways that feel authentic rather than obligatory. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to choose between parts of yourself—you can bring all of you into the room. My goal is to create a supportive and affirming therapeutic space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. We will explore how family dynamics, identity development, and cultural influences have shaped your experiences, while also focusing on what matters most to you moving forward. Outside of therapy, I value humor, perspective, and taking meaningful chances in life. One quote that resonates with me is: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky — Michael Scott. This mindset reflects my belief in growth, courage, and the importance of showing up for yourself—even when the next step feels uncertain.

Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties. I provide a warm, supportive, and interactive environment to explore and resolve your concerns by understanding their origin, acquiring the skills to utilize, implement, and attain the changes in your life that you want to achieve. Personal growth is the outcome, which enables happiness and success to follow. Each person is unique and the treatment method(s) that are utilized reflect this fact. I am highly skilled in a variety of clinical treatment methods and we will incorporate one of more of them during our work together. I look forward to helping you to become the person that you want to be.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

My practice model is all about helping clients explore themselves and their place in the world. As a licensed psychologist with experience working in a variety of care settings, I have expertise in treating depression, anxiety, lifestyle stress, trauma, addiction, and spiritual/existential distress. My therapy takes a nonjudgmental, compassion oriented focus. Through guiding my clients to approach themselves in more open and honest ways, I help them uncover their core needs so that they may lead lives that feel vibrant and fulfilling. I view health as a balance between mind, body, spirit, and environment. As such, my therapy style is holistic. I regularly guide my clients in mindfulness-based practices and offer an approach that blends Internal Family Systems therapy with somatic work and cognitive-behavioral exploration. In a culture where consciousness altering drug use is on the rise, I also work with clients to gain optimal wellness following challenging, disorienting, or invigorating psychedelic experiences. My passion for the Enneagram heavily informs my therapeutic lens, and I happily teach this tool to clients interested in evolving their understanding of self. I work to bolster my clients’ strengths while developing new skills and fresh insights. With sensitivity to the health impact of both personal and cultural forces, I strive to create a safe, welcoming space for my clients to explore all facets of their identities.