Therapists for college students near Deer Creek Colony, CA

My therapeutic approach deals with stories, and I am interested in including modern ways of storytelling into the work we do through digital media, technology, and even video games. I believe that stories are created through a variety of mediums that include art, play, and experience. I encourage the people I work with to explore all of the ways they have to come to know the world around them to make our time together even more fun, engaging, and relevant to you. In my practice, my goal is to collaborate with my clients in better understanding how they’ve storied their lives, challenging dominant narratives and systems of oppression, and exploring more preferred ways of being. The theories that inform my work include: narrative therapy, collaborative therapy, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength-based therapy. Someone who might be interested in working with me is open and willing to explore the different ways that therapy can "be"! I invite collaboration and exploration in the work we do together, so feel free to bring the passions that drive you along with the obstacles you are facing into the room. Music, art, games, movies, even the people in your life are all resources to bring to therapy that can help to better understand the person you want to be and the story you want to tell. My experience as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American is what inspires me to support others in their identity development. Navigating the endless messages and oppressive narratives that make up the modern, cultural milieu can be overwhelming and limiting. My hope is to create a non-judgmental space where the people I work with can challenge these dominant social narratives that attempt to tell them who they are or who they should be and begin crafting their own unique, preferred sense of self. I believe in challenging the notion that therapy is apolitical. I believe that the work that we do in attempt to better ourselves as individuals undoubtedly impacts and is impacted by those arounds us whether it's friends, loved ones, neighbors, or strangers across the globe. This is why I use social justice framework in my practice as I hope to promote total wellbeing not just for the client but for the larger communities and systems we are a part of.

Hi there, I'm Alison. Are you finding that you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and in need of a lifejacket? Sometimes life can be very challenging, and I can offer guidance, compassion, and understanding without judgment. I work with others to help them discover their hidden strengths and resources, to truly create a life worth living. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relational issues, addiction, and stressors that make you feel overwhelmed, I am here to help! Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. I believe in creating a safe space that will allow you to heal and grow. Many of my clients are trauma survivors, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, and creative adults who seek deeper connection and meaning in their lives. Let's work together to help you find more balance and fulfillment! Our first session includes establishing a therapeutic alliance based on trust and safety and establishing some treatment goals that fit your needs. I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities that are tailored specifically to your symptoms to help you feel better and feel a sense of renewed hope. I specialize in helping people learn ways to cope more effectively with their emotions and find ways to better self-regulate when feeling life stressors. I also have over 10 years in the field of Addiction Medicine and can help those in need of support in becoming sober or maintaining sobriety.

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.

Do you struggle with feelings of not being enough, self-doubt and self-criticism? Do you have difficulty expressing your feelings, communicating your needs or setting boundaries? Do you stay in relationships that make you feel unloved, unseen and unheard? Are you constantly worried or overthinking, making it difficult for you to make decisions, take risks or try new things? You're feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward in life. Starting therapy is the first step. “Everything starts with and how you feel about yourself. Start feeling worthy, valuable and deserving of what life has to offer". -Unknown. Call today! I provide a safe space where you can be yourself, be vulnerable and share your struggles without being judged. Together we will work on helping you gain a better understanding of yourself by identifying triggers and behavior patterns that are impacting your life and relationships. I will provide you with tools to help you learn how to better manage symptoms. Call today to schedule your complimentary 15-minute consultation. During the call, I will answer any questions you may have to help you determine if I am a good fit for you. Virtual Only (Daytime and Evening Availability).

DURING THE COVID PANDEMIC I AM OFFERING VIDEO SESSIONS. I have worked collaboratively with UCSF medical students, doctors, interns, residents, nurses and dental students for over 20 years in both individual and couples therapy. I understand the milieu that you practice and study in. I am an active and collaborative therapist and strive to build developmentally appropriate interventions to meet the needs of clients throughout the lifecycle. About half my practice is dedicated to couples work and half to individuals assisting in all aspects of communication, sexuality, reproductive challenges, parenting and work/life balance. I have expertise in trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, grief and relational issues. Send an email or call for a free 15 minute consultation.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience treating adolescents and adults. My approach to psychotherapy is warm, empathic, and compassionate. I treat each individual professionally and with respect. I appreciate the uniqueness of each patient and emphasize listening closely and thoughtfully, as we all possess the ability to tell our story regarding our strengths and our challenges, even when we sometimes do not realize it. I strive to create a safe environment where you can feel open to express and explore your feelings and experiences, without judgment or emphasis on what is “right” or “wrong.” I believe that therapy is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and to express our feelings freely, in an effort to learn new methods of dealing with problems, being in relationships, and pursuing our dreams. My private practice is largely informed by modern psychoanalytic theory. I provide individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I integrate themes of social justice throughout my practice, and am particularly thoughtful about the role that various cultural identifications, and their intersection, play in mental health and treatment. I also provide education, consultation, and training to professionals and students. A central aspect of my clinical thinking focuses on the role of power, privilege, and cultural dominance. Knowledge, concepts, and meaning are not developed on a solely individual basis, but rather are created through coordination and communication with others. Language is fundamentally important – it is the most essential way in which we construct reality. Our psychological experiences, including emotions, thoughts, somatic/bodily sensations, are subsequently developed within this context. I view problems in living, therefore, as relational, contextual, interpretive, and situated within the dominant discourse, expression, response, and cultural norms.

I’m a first-generation South Asian American therapist who works with students navigating anxiety, academic pressure, identity exploration, perfectionism, and cultural or family expectations. College can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to meet high standards or carry the weight of multiple identities. I offer a compassionate, culturally aware space to slow down, be heard, and reconnect with your true self. My approach is holistic and mindfulness-based, blending evidence-based therapy with tools from yoga, meditation, and Eastern psychology. I offer virtual sessions in CA and IL, and in-person sessions in Ventura, CA.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed care for young adults and adults. I work with clients navigating PTSD, anxiety, and overwhelming life transitions. My approach is collaborative, grounded, and paced in a way that supports safety and sustainable change. I focus on helping clients build emotional regulation, clarity, and resilience in a supportive therapeutic relationship.

Escondido Family Counseling Center offers comprehensive mental health care for all ages. Our services include: Adult, Adolescent & Child Psychiatry, Case Management, Individual, Couples & Family Counseling, Mental Health Services, Psychological Testing for Children & Adults and Substance Use Disorder Services. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. To schedule an appointment for mental health services at Escondido Family Counseling Center, please call (760) 546-2838.

I became a therapist because I understand that everyone needs and deserves a safe and trusting space to process the human experience, be it the challenges and transitions, concerns and worries, relationships with self and others, or ever-changing emotions and thoughts that can make navigating life difficult, confusing, or overwhelming. I believe that each individual experience is unique, while also understanding that no one should feel alone or that what they feel or need is wrong, abnormal, or cannot be validated. I work with my clients to help them feel empowered and capable of making decisions to live a most fulfilling life, as well as able to handle stressors and meeting their needs. I have experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds and am well-versed in providing treatment for folx who are neurodiverse or within the BIPOC, gender diverse, and LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide services for people dealing with anxiety, depression, AD/HD, personality disorders, substance abuse/dependence, eating disorders and body image issues, attachment and adjustment disorders, relationship challenges, emotional disturbance and/or trauma, and behavioral challenges. I have additional training in sex therapy and provide treatment for couples and those in polyamorous relationships. I practice from a psychodynamic, client-centered, and holistic approach with an unbiased perspective. My treatment modalities have included solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally-focused therapy, ecopsychology, and existential psychotherapy. I strive to build honest, lasting relationships with my clients so that together we can consider and process the multiple factors that contribute to one’s mental health and life choices, as well as uncover the underlying fears that can impact our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. I further highlight the mind and body connection, exploring the relationship between our physical and emotional or mental selves and how they work together, as well as what role and impact our spirituality (however it is expressed or manifested) plays within our conceptualization of life.

I’m a first-generation Latina, with a BA in Psychology from San Diego State and a MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. I am a member of Growth and Change Counseling and passionate about helping people experience results quickly and meaningfully. At Growth and Change, all therapists implement the same foundational approach that has produced our reputation for effectiveness. I deal with every issue and I am fluent in English and Spanish.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Finding solace and stillness in the fast-paced post-covid world has been difficult for many of us. Finding time to reflect on where you are in your life and where you want to be can be difficult to find time for. I am here to listen and help you find intentional space. My areas of practice focus on adults experiencing grief, loss, relationship issues, identity issues, academic stress, or intimate partner violence. I am equipped to help unpack how you experience the weight of social injustice, systemic racism or intergenerational trauma. My practice includes a lens of relational psychotherapy and research-informed interventions for people who have Depression, Anxiety, or PTSD. I have postgraduate training in Brainspotting, Eye Movement Densistization (EMDR) and Safe & Sound Protocol which are designed to help people process stressful Life experiences in a different way than just talk therapy. Throughout each session, I incorporate best practices from both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy as a means to support you in maximizing your fullest potential. I am committed to your healing process, whatever that may look like and I believe that stepping into your authenticity will foster sustainable growth.

I am passionate about supporting individuals navigating grief and loss, anxiety, life transitions and work related stress/burnout. In addition to private practice, I have worked in school based mental health for many years and enjoy supporting students. I honor the mind-body-spirit connection through the use of talk therapy, EMDR, walk and talk therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality. My approach is warm, authentic and holistic. I see myself as a guide walking alongside you on your journey toward well being. Along the way, we will explore areas where you feel blocked and identify the tools you need to feel confident and empowered. My hope is that you leave sessions feeling supported and empowered.

From a young age, I've always loved and been curious about people. I've always felt connected to and interested in others and their experiences. It is a calling for me. After having both positive and negative experiences with therapists in high school, I was confident that this is what I wanted to do - what I was meant to do! I will actively listen to what they're sharing and ask clarifying questions as needed. I will be fully present with them in session, with the intention of understanding as much as possible their emotional experience, inner thoughts, etc. I may summarize and/or reflect back what I heard and ask if it feels accurate for them or if there are things I missed, misunderstood, etc. And lastly, I would simply ask them, "what makes you feel heard and understood? Is there anything that makes you feel misunderstood? How might I be able to tell if you're feeling misunderstood (outside of being told as much)? I see the therapy as a collaborative process, one where I walk alongside the client, not in front or above them. I may not have all the answers, but I am committed to helping in any way that I can. Building trust and a strong therapeutic alliance takes time, but I am patient. I will not rush the process or force you to share something you're not comfortable sharing (now or ever). Trust is build over time and the process will look different for each person, so it is important to consider individual differences, past experiences, interests, preferences, etc. when building the foundational trust and rapport. Lastly, it is imperative to me that I do what I say I will do, keep any promises I make, and if I make a mistake, I will apologize and do whatever I can to rectify it and facilitate repair.

We all face challenges in our lives and sometimes we need some extra support to help us overcome them. I moved to the Bay Area (from Toronto) in my early twenties without knowing a soul. It was the most exciting and also challenging time in my life. I navigated my career, dating, and relationships; all while facing the same pressures that most of us women face today. I understand feeling pulled in different directions, competing priorities, and anxieties about living up to high expectations (usually our own). Through my career and personal exploration, I came to discover the incredible benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation. I use a Mindfulness based approach in my work because I have seen it help so many people to be more present, intentional and content in their lives (myself included!). In working with me, you will find that I am compassionate, non-judgemental, direct and honest. I will help you recognize and build up your inherent strengths (yes you have them), give you coping strategies, and help you to make space for more adaptive ways of relating to the world. I am also a big believer in the healing power of humor so don't be surprised if we end up having a laugh every once in a while. I offer my services online so that busy people can still access excellent support. Please feel free to reach out for a free consultation and I look forward to learning more about you!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Dr. Francesca Balada has successfully assisted many individuals lead happier and more productive lives. As an independently practicing psychologist, Dr. Balada has been providing psychology services to individuals for over 15 years. She has been a licensed clinical psychologist since 2005. Dr. Balada specializes in providing Consultation, Clinical Supervision, Testing and Neuropsychological Assessments. A neuropsychologist provides specialized services from multiple perspectives: medical, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, educational, and rehabilitative. Evaluations incorporate extensive details about an individual’s medical history, developmental history, cognitive ability, academic history, and daily functioning. Dr. Balada evaluates individuals with: memory impairment, concussion, head injury, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Alzheimer’s Dementia, Frontal Temporal Dementia, Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Dr. Balada has dedicated her life to helping others reach their full potential and often lectures on the subject of neuropsychological assessment and intervention. Regarded as an expert in assessment and diagnosis, Dr. Balada has acted as a consultant for many academic institutions and hospitals, in addition to acting as a consultant and teaching expert. DR. BALADA IS CURRENTLY SERVING ANY INDIVIDUAL LIVING IN NEW YORK AND CALIFORNIA VIA TELEHEALTH

Welcome! I have worked with college students for the better part of 20 years. I spent almost a decade working in a university counseling center and continue to partner with several local colleges as both an off- campus referral source and consultant to their campus communities. Counseling is all about the right fit, so feel free to reach out if you’d like to talk more about my practice and whether I could be of help to your situation!

Life is difficult. Yet when we accept this reality, our lives change dramatically for the better. Our fear, sadness, and anger is often what is keeping us from facing the vital facts of our lives which need to be addressed. The more effective we are at soothing ourself, the more courageous we become. For it is often overwhelming pain that paralyzes us or leads us to mindlessly react in ways that sabotage our peace and happiness. I teach you how to calm yourself and effectively solve the problems you face. I collaborate with you as you learn how to influence your subconscious mind which is as much as 95 percent of thinking. We work together so you can realize your dreams in your relationships and career.