Therapists for college students near 90089

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Texas (licensed in both Texas and California), I specialize in providing support and guidance to individuals navigating ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence. My online practice is built on a foundation of empathy, multicultural competence, and the creation of safe, nonjudgmental space for all clients. I believe every person's journey is unique and deserves an approach tailored to their specific needs. By integrating evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of neurodivergent experiences, I help clients uncover their strengths, develop tools for success, and to live authentically in a world that was not created for them

I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, self-harm, binge eating, substance abuse, and grief. I am trained in the application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I practice an array of therapeutic techniques including tenets of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and grief therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to provide concrete tools for them to cope in everyday life. I provide an empathetic and a non-judgmental environment.

“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly—what is essential is invisible to the eye” (The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry). As a therapist, I work to see people with my heart and hold a hopeful space of unconditional compassion and empathy. As a trauma survivor with personal experiences in therapy, I’m aware of how vulnerable and uncertain starting with a new therapist can be. I honor the courage and openness it takes to begin any healing process. Creating safety in the therapeutic relationship is essential to me. I believe everyone has the capacity for healing already within them, and I work to empower people to connect with themselves and their unique strengths. I believe we are relational beings, and our different experiences with attachment can have profound effects on us. I value flexibility and creativity in my therapeutic style, and I draw from and integrate diverse approaches to discover what resonates with each different person. It is important to me to be intentional and considerate when holding space for culture and how different forces of marginalization affect mental health, and I work to be culturally responsive and attuned. My approach is continuously curious and trauma-informed, and one of my many passions is affirmatively supporting people around intergenerational trauma and attachment wounds. As a therapist and a human being, I try to embody a tree. This means moving slow, breathing deep, and being grounded enough to nourish connection. My favorite place on earth is the old growth forest! I also love to surf and meditate, and I appreciate breathwork and somatic/body-based techniques along my own healing path. I’ve been working in mental health for about thirteen years. I received my bachelor’s degree in English from University of California, Santa Barbara, and I finished my master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at California State University, Long Beach, where I also started writing poems for people on an old typewriter. I view therapy as a poetic process where someone gets to tell their story and shape its continuation to best honor their soul. We all need to be heard, seen, and believed in, and as a therapist, I work to cultivate this heartfelt connection.

Living life as a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe you’ve been feeling depressed for a while and haven’t been able to find a way out of it. Maybe anxiety has been holding you back from really showing up in your life the way you want to for too long. Maybe you’re feeling stuck in life, have lost your sense of purpose, or can’t seem to find your path. Whatever it is that brings you here, we’re happy you found us. We are located in Riverside, CA for in person sessions and offer telehealth session throughout California and Colorado. We are passionate about helping you create a life worth living. We work with people on a diverse range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, lack of fulfillment, life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, career challenges, work/life balance, grief, personal growth and LGBTQ issues. We know how hard being a human can be. Whatever challenge you are facing, we’re here to help you navigate it authentically with presence, integrity, and intention.

I have witnessed and personally experienced the human ability to grow and adapt with the assistance of a caring professional. I believe we all have the innate capacity to heal ourselves, and often the journey begins with feeling heard and supported. An important part of the therapy journey begins with selecting a therapist who is the right fit for who you are and the goals you want to achieve. As a clinician and a person, I pride myself on my ability to connect with people through unconditional positive regard and authentic and meaningful dialogue. Trust in the therapeutic relationship is an essential ingredient toward a beneficial outcome for you, the client. My approach to building trust is collaborative and focused on your comfort level one session at a time. You are in the driver’s seat and we will work together to pace our weekly sessions and their content at a speed that feels right, and safe, for you.

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If you're looking for a kind and compassionate yet smart and straightforward counselor, give me a call. I specialize in teenagers and young adults with anxiety and depression, especially with estrangement issues such as conflict with parents, divorced and/or deployed parents, as well as career planning. I am a Christian and can offer help from a biblical perspective if desired. My other specialties are older adults and military/veterans. My previous career was as a diplomat for the U.S. Department of State.

Whether you’re facing a challenge or simply looking for growth, therapy can help. My hope is to accompany you as you move toward healing, wholeness, and flourishing. In therapy, I seek to embody a nonjudgmental, honest, and compassionate presence. You will find an environment where you can share freely and work on what’s most important to you. You will be equipped with tools and skills that will enable you to reach your goals. I have training in multiple modes of research-backed therapy, and I consistently pursue ongoing training. I tailor my approach to your specific needs. I use methods from CBT, DBT, ACT, family systems, and mindfulness. I believe in your capacity to heal, change, and grow. It can be hard, but we can do hard things–we've done it before. Call or email me today for a free consultation.

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I have experienced the stress of managing life and school first hand. I specialize in identifying coping skills that will help you manage any anxiety and difficulties so you can focus on school and your personal life and relationships. Book a consultation call free to see if I may be a good fit for you.

For over 30 years, we have worked with individuals to confront experiences of suffering and conflict through existential psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. Our mission is to help you uncover the meaning behind your struggles and rediscover the passion, love, and joy that may feel elusive. Whether you seek clarity, healing, or growth, we are here to walk with you every step of the way.

Overwhelmed with the stress and demands of trying to be successful? Spending too much time feeling anxious about close relationships and exams? Discussing the things that are getting you down, holding you back, with a therapist is often very helpful. I am a supportive listener who will guide you toward therapy goals without judgement or criticism. I support neurodivergent thinking, harnessing ADHD strengths, and encourage creative development.

My education, and both lived and serviced experiences have taught me the importance of being honest, open-minded, compassionate, patience, reliable, dependable, and helpful. The reactions, feedbacks, and rewards that I have received from my hard work have always made me want to continue to do what I have been doing. I want to be helpful to others and give a helping hand to others who need it. I care about other people’s feelings and like to help others to be safe, healthy and happy. With such characteristics, I realized that being a Marriage Family Therapist will give me the opportunity to contribute back to our community, assist those who may challenge with difficult challenges. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. I will use active and reflective listening, empathetic dialogue, and validation to allow my clients to feel heard, respected, and supported. The first session will be a rapport building and information gathering session where I will engage my clients in a conversation on their current concerns and needs for obtaining therapy. I will work with clients collaboratively to complete the assessment which will consist of gathering information on their background, current symptoms, strengths, and if needed, safety planning, and creating therapeutic goals in moving forward. Individuals will have the opportunity to discuss what they would like to be working on, how successful therapy will look like for them, and the fitness of working relationships. At the end of each session, I will use Session Rating Scale (SRS) to gather my client’s feedbacks in 1-10 rating: 1) Ensure they feel herd, understood, , and respected; 2) They worked on talked about what they wanted to work on and talk about; 3) The therapist’s approach is a good fit for them; and 4) Overall, the session was right for them.

I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I strongly believe that the best psychiatric care is centered on the whole person, not just on a diagnosis or a specific medication. I provide weekly therapy and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not believe that everyone needs a medication, but they can be useful in treating particular psychiatric symptoms; I will work with you in order to find the best treatment modality that meets your goals and needs. My training in psychotherapy includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Exposure/Response Prevention (Ex/RP) and Prolonged Exposure (PE). I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In order to offer comprehensive treatment, I do not accept insurance in my private practice. I am currently conducting sessions via telemedicine only. Please feel free to send me an email to set up a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation so I can answer any questions and see if I can be of help.

As a therapist, I find inspiration in helping individuals tap into resilience and strength as they navigate their mental health journeys. Witnessing their transformations and moments of clarity, hope, and healing fuels my passion for this field. I am motivated by the opportunity to create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions, knowing that every conversation and intervention holds the potential to spark meaningful change in their lives. Ultimately, it is the privilege of walking alongside others in their struggles and triumphs that drives my commitment to the mental health profession. As a therapist, I prioritize creating a safe and empathetic space where clients feel fully understood and validated. I actively listen, maintaining eye contact and using reflective statements to convey that I am engaged in their experiences. I encourage open dialogue and ask clarifying questions, ensuring clients feel comfortable expressing their emotions and thoughts. My goal is to foster a trusting relationship where clients know their voices are valued and their feelings matter. As a therapist, I prioritize building trust and rapport with my clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. I believe that establishing a genuine connection fosters open communication, allows for deeper exploration of personal challenges, and ultimately enhances the therapeutic process. By actively listening, validating their experiences, and demonstrating empathy, I aim to empower clients and help them feel valued and understood throughout their journey.

I enjoy working collaboratively to develop goals that are realistic, meaningful, and lead to positive change. I view therapy as a journey—one that helps you find steadier footing and supports you as you move along your unique path. Although much of my background has been in public service settings working with severe mental illness, acute crises, and trauma, I welcome concerns of any size. No problem is too small or too overwhelming to bring into therapy. I invite you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you! I have been in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years and have been licensed since 2012. I have a practical, down-to-Earth style with an open-minded, solution focused approach. There is likely no issue too complicated or difficult for me to work with. I like to establish a clear treatment path with attainable goals, making it easier for you. I encourage you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you. My goal is to offer steady support and thoughtful guidance as you discover a healing path that truly fits your life. While life can be challenging, you don’t have to navigate it alone—therapy can provide a safe space to find clarity, resilience, and hope.

Welcome to my practice! I'm Kristen Ackerman, LMFT. I understand that college can be a rollercoaster of experiences. Whether you're riding the highs of newfound freedom or managing the lows of homesickness and academic stress, I'm here to offer support every step of the way. I specialize in helping individuals like you adjust to the transition of moving away from home, finding your footing amidst academic demands, and striking a balance between your studies and social life. Whether you're seeking to develop meaningful friendships or intimate relationships, I'm here to lend a listening ear and provide guidance. Navigating peer pressure is also a common challenge in college life, and I'm here to help you tackle those situations with confidence. Additionally, I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, and identity exploration. No matter what you're facing, you don't have to go through it alone. I understand that finances can be tight for students, which is why I offer flexible rate options. My goal is to make therapy accessible and affordable for everyone who needs it. My therapy services are personalized to meet your unique needs. I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, while also integrating talk therapy for comprehensive support. I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable and empowered to explore and grow. If you're ready to take the first step towards personal growth and making lasting changes, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Whether you prefer to call, email, or text, I'm here to support you on your journey.

We are an online telehealth group therapy practice committed to promoting mental health and well-being for college students. Understanding the unique pressures and challenges faced in this pivotal stage of life, our team is skilled in addressing stress management, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and personal growth. Our expertise extends to trauma and age-specific therapy tailored to young adults navigating academics, social life, and career planning. We blend traditional therapeutic techniques with innovative practices, focusing on strategies that resonate with the dynamic and diverse needs of college students. Our online sessions are designed to fit seamlessly into the demanding and fast-paced college lifestyle, offering the flexibility and convenience necessary to prioritize mental health without compromising academics or social commitments. Our practice stands on a rich foundation of professional expertise, empathetic care, and a commitment to helping students navigate the complex terrain of college life. With personalized, high-quality care in a confidential and secure online setting, we make mental health services more accessible and relevant than ever. Join us in a collaborative journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a fulfilling college experience.

If you are considering therapy, I'd be glad to provide you with a free consultation over the phone. I believe that the relationship between the client and therapist plays a significant role in helping people overcome school stress, painful emotional experiences, destructive interpersonal patterns, and other obstacles that get in the way of us experiencing our lives from a place of openness and security. I work closely with student clients to explore the role that their unique circumstances play in how they see themselves and others. My approach to treatment relies on non-judgment, compassion, and respect for all of my clients. I utilize various therapeutic approaches and provide psychological testing, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic interventions. Your needs matter, and I will work to stay attuned to them throughout the treatment. I have fifteen years of experience treating college students, adults, children, and adolescents in various treatment settings. Through working in a collaborative and integrative manner, and treating the whole individual, I aim to help those I work with negotiate your unique place vis a vis your relationships and your greater environment. I believe that this approach can lead to lasting and meaningful changes in one's life.

My ideal client struggles with low self-esteem, self-doubt, and negative self-talk, often rooted in past experiences. These internal blocks keep them from reaching their potential in personal, professional, or creative areas. They deeply desire to feel empowered, build confidence, and take meaningful action toward their goals. They seek support to overcome limiting beliefs, develop resilience, and create a life they feel proud of—one where they trust themselves and feel in control.