Therapists for college students near UCLA
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Hey! I’m Afshin — pronounced “of-sheen,” like the glimmer in your eye when you realize you're allowed to feel your feelings and still be funny about it. Looking for someone who’s real, queer, neurodivergent-friendly, and actually shows up in the room with you? I’m really glad you’re here. I work with new parents running on crumbs and caffeine, teens navigating identity and pressure, young adults facing messy transitions, and LGBTQIA+ folks tired of translating their experience for people who just don’t get it. I pull from Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, and Solution-Focused approaches — but mostly, I bring curiosity, honesty, humor, and a human-first vibe. I don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” healing. Some weeks we’re untangling trauma; other weeks, we’re celebrating tiny wins — like eating a real meal or setting a boundary without the shame. My core values? Radical kindness, transparency, and the belief that being “too much” is a damn superpower. If you’re craving therapy that feels like a mix between a grounding conversation and a gentle push toward who you actually want to be — let’s talk. I’m here when you’re ready.
When we think of art, we typically think of paintings, films, and music. But what about living life? Ancient Greek philosophers believed that living life is an art. They also thought that, with practice, we can learn to be better artists. I believe that to live well, to navigate the challenges and struggles of life in a way that is authentic to who we are and who we want to be, would be nothing short of creating a masterpiece. Just like there is no one right way to create art, there is no one right way to live life. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that aims to create art through the life we live. I work with people of all ages and cultures who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, and self-esteem issues, among other concerns. I also have extensive experience working with teenagers and young adults, especially those struggling with difficult life transitions, anger issues, and problematic video game/internet usage. Remember, there is no one right way to create art, but there is a way that works best for you. That is what we are working toward. If you are struggling with any of these issues, or you are the parent of someone who is, it would be my honor to schedule a free consultation session with you, learn more about you and your goals, and see if we are a good fit.
Therapy offers a confidential place of refuge where you can be seen and heard. Together we will explore how daily external pressures and feelings of self-blame, self-criticism, fear or sadness, as well as loss and past trauma, may be affecting your ability to move forward or express yourself in an authentic way. By devoting time and attention to understanding your unique story and the ways in which past relationships shape current ones, you can gain greater self-awareness and an understanding of how underlying feelings and thoughts are affecting your mood. In building a strong, supportive relationship I will help you uncover core issues. I primarily use a psychodynamic, creative approach to guide my clients towards greater self-compassion and clarity that will allow you to feel more confident in your ability to change and heal.
My passion is utilizing the powerful benefits of EMDR with creative people, performers and survivors of trauma who are ready to live without anxiety, depression, dissociation, phobias, addiction, and post-traumatic stress. By providing relationally-focused EMDR along with advanced training in psychotherapy methods (e.g. complex developmental trauma, attachment theory, neuroscience, Polyvagal theory, CBT, ego states, psychodynamic, object relations & “parts work”) we work together to: ✦ Discover the origins of limiting beliefs in order to update old narratives about how you get to show up in the world, who you are, and what you deserve. ✦ Alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms through a positive, growth-oriented process grounded in the philosophy that everyone is seeking wholeness. I have more than 25 years' experience in private practice specializing in trauma and creativity, and I am committed to continued learning and growth as a way of life. Having led thousands of EMDR sessions since 2010, I’m also an EMDRIA Approved Consultant teaching other EMDR Clinicians best practices through case consultations and presentations, and speak internationally about creativity, post-traumatic growth, creative artist issues and the benefits of EMDR therapy at conferences, on podcasts, as a TEDx speaker, and on TV. For more information about my training and experience please visit www.askdrcheryl.com
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves a space where they can feel truly seen and heard, without judgment. Life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or uncertain about our path. My goal is to provide a space where you can show up exactly as you are, knowing you are supported and understood. I ensure that clients feel heard and understood by working collaboratively with them to stay on track with their goals. I invite regular feedback during sessions to ensure we are meeting their needs and addressing any concerns they may have. This ongoing communication helps me tailor the therapeutic process to their individual needs, fostering a sense of partnership and understanding. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by prioritizing a safe and welcoming space in virtual therapy, free of judgment and shame. I use humor, creativity, and metaphors to help clients connect with deeper parts of themselves, making the process more engaging and meaningful. Additionally, I follow their lead and respect their pace when addressing difficult issues, which helps create a sense of safety, respect, and partnership in our work together. I’m a big believer in small, everyday rituals, whether that’s my morning coffee routine or my daily walk in nature. It often opens the door to conversations about balance, structure, and the importance of simple habits that support well-being.”
Many of the students I work best with seem like they’re keeping up on the outside, but inside feel anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out. You might be juggling academic pressure, relationships, or big life decisions while feeling stuck or unsure of how to move forward. Many have tried to push through or talk things out, but still feel caught in the same patterns. If you’re looking to better understand yourself and feel more balanced, supported, and grounded, we may be a good fit.
I have been in practice for over 16 years. I utilize CBT, ACT, Solution Focused and attachment theory. I work well with anxiety, grief and loss, phase of life issues. I also specialize on race and cultural identity, immigration, and first-generational issues. My approach is empathetic, honest and direct. I offer assistance with life transitions, grief, confidence, goal setting and achievement. By viewing your situation through a trauma informed and culturally competent lens, we will build strategies to overcome obstacles. I am very familiar with the cultural and sociological challenges that can consume our daily lives. I am familiar with the stigma attached to therapy and the perception of weakness that can be associated with seeking treatment. In reality, true strength comes from the ability to recognize and acknowledge you need help.
Combining the imagination of a poet with the skills of a psychologist, Dr. Owen (she/her) is an engaged and active listener. She sees the goal of therapy as helping students reduce current distress, resolve symptoms, and enhance their sense of passion and purpose. Dr. Owen uses insight-oriented and existential perspectives to deepen conversations, including informed consideration of family, societal, racial, gender/sexual orientation, and cultural dynamics that may be impacting you. This approach helps provide a through-line of inquiry across sessions. To help people start feeling better in the short-term, Dr. Owen uses the skill-sets of cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed practice, mindfulness, and somatic work to address things impacting your ability to function in school and to work toward feeling better day to Dr. Owen is a secular therapist who also specializes in working with exvangelicals—people who have grown up in or left fundamentalist religious churches or spiritual groups—as well as anyone who is on a path of deconstruction, i.e., deeply examining their religious/spiritual beliefs or faith. Dr. Owen has been in academia herself, having worked at a community college, a state university, and a small, highly selective liberal arts college, so she understands things unique to academia you may be struggling with. Common issues include navigating political issues with graduate students, undergrad challenges such as choosing a major and dating, worries about career, and working through cultural and identity issues. For students residing in Hawai’i, Dr. Owen is able to accept HMSA insurance.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
My training is in both medical and clinical mental health settings where I have gained an expertise in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep concerns and insomnia, chronic pain and other chronic illness adjustment difficulties. I also have a passion for working with mothers and women who are pregnant or postpartum and are looking for support through these critical life stages.
Hi, I’m glad you found me! Life can be so stressful and maybe you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, symptoms of past trauma, grief and loss, chronic pain, or another current challenge. I want to help create a safe space where we can work through it together. I use my training and experience for a trauma-informed and compassionate approach. I often work with individuals who identify as caretakers, highly sensitive, people pleasers, and perfectionists. Give yourself the much needed self-care and send me an email so we can talk more about what’s been coming up for you. Getting started can be hard, but I’m here to be with you every step of the way.
As a young therapist, I bring both professional expertise and personal insight into the intricate dynamics of college life. Having navigated the complexities of college myself, I comprehend the intricate tapestry of pressures, relationship dynamics, substance use concerns, and the myriad challenges that accompany this transformative period. I'm not just a therapist; I'm a compassionate guide committed to your well-being. I’ve been through the complexities of college life and I understand the pressures, relationship dynamics, potential substance use concerns and the different challenges that come with this transformative period in your life. From the outside looking in, parents don’t always understand the challenges that come with college life, and I want to be that supportive other to help you get through it. Therapy is a sacred space and my focus is helping you get to the root cause of your struggles. I find that healthy relationships are the key for psychological, physical, and spiritual health. I provide awareness into your behaviors, and the ability to see the underlying issues of why you're unsatisfied with your life. If you're having difficulty regulating your emotions when it comes to romantic relationships, or feel that you find yourself in the same relationship again and again, then you have come to the right place. I will help you get to the core of these issues, and find yourself content with your personal relationships. I create space and offer insight into your behaviors, and together, will teach you about repetition compulsion. You will feel that you have control of your emotions, over codependency, and be free of addictive behaviors. You can heal. I am not the type of therapist that will sit back and just listen, I truly want to help you turn over your pain and be free. I offer a strong, empathetic approach, and teach my clients how to feel confident within themselves. You will receive guidance from me. We will be engaging in dialogue. I am direct but compassionate, and want to teach you how to be direct and vulnerable too. You will leave each session gaining insight into your behaviors. You will challenged and supported.
Hi! I am a MFT licensed in California. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. My specialities are stress and depression management. I am someone that will confront you on the things you do not see (or may not want to see). I will teach you how to manage stress. I will teach you how to live with depression. I advocate for you and I PUSH YOU. If we do not end up being a good fit, I will refer you. All sessions are virtual or over the phone! Accepting clients in CA only. Availability: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays mornings and midday. IMPORTANT: I can only work with you if you create a profile on growtherapy.com. This is where I will bill for sessions. Please confirm I accept your insurance.
I love working with college students. The transition to college can be a lot to manage. There are so many new experiences, pressures, and decisions, which can become overwhelming. I was in college the first time I met with a therapist. As exciting as life was, it was also one of the most difficult times. Reaching out for help had an enormously positive impact on my life; significant enough that it led me to pursue a career as a therapist. I consider my style to be patient, flexible, and caring. I am ready to meet you where you are at, no matter how big or small your challenges or goals may be. I am here to support you.
My approach to therapy is rooted in a belief that change is possible. Most of my clients come to me because something in their lives isn't working. Whether the problem is familial, romantic, professional, emotional, or even existential, I find it usually comes down to a matter of relationship. How are we relating to the things that cause us to suffer? When we understand these relationships and the parts we play in them, we are free to make different choices, and to experience our lives, ourselves, and our loves in richer, more fulfilling ways. While I see clients with a wide range of presenting issues, I have a high level of expertise in family conflict, childhood trauma, addiction, codependency and eating disorders. I also have a passion for helping artists of all kinds to overcome the self-limiting beliefs that lead to creative blocks. I have additional training in EMDR (an evidence based model for trauma therapy), mindfulness practice, and family systems, and I hold an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University.
As you navigate your journey toward your degree, you might be having to deal with other stressors: anxiety, depression, family separations, loved ones passing away, breakups, difficulty with school, etc. The list could become endless. I've been there and can understand how rough it could get. While in therapy, you can learn the appropriate coping mechanisms to steer in the right direction so that you can focus on enjoying your college experience. I have made the experience of doing therapy with me easier, by doing it online. This way, you don't have to sit in traffic driving to/from your appointment, and you get to sit on your own couch while holding your favorite blanket.
Do you feel like something is wrong with you? Are you wishing you could just "stop"? Do you always feel like adults don't understand? My practice is based around what happened to us, not what is wrong with us. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative, interactive and fun space where you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to meet your goals. Together we will learn, build on your strengths, and celebrate your wins. I am here to support & guide you through this process, together.