Therapists for college students near UCLA

Hi there, I'm Rajiv, a trusted marriage and family therapist proudly serving Orange County, CA, and currently affiliated with Uram Family Therapy. My journey in this field includes invaluable experience gained at the UCI Child Development School, where I taught social skills and emotional regulation through the UCI Department of Pediatrics. My passion lies in supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate through challenges such as depression, anxiety, and life changes. I bring a diverse set of skills to the table, incorporating proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help my clients achieve their goals. I firmly believe that no matter what life throws at you, with the right guidance, you can transform challenges into valuable learning opportunities. I'm dedicated to creating personalized therapy plans that reshape attitudes, empowering you to confidently navigate life's transitions. My commitment to community service knows no bounds. As a child at heart, I love delving into the emotions that define us. Outside of work, you'll catch me engaging in sports activities and playing video games, elements I seamlessly integrate into the therapeutic environment. I'm a family guy through and through, finding immense joy in exploring the world with my wife and son. On a lighter note, I'm a dog lover and proud owner of two adorable canines, Chewie and Charlie. Spending quality time outdoors with them is a regular part of my routine. If you're looking for someone to talk to or seeking guidance through life's difficulties, I'm here to lend a helping hand. My goal is to help you feel capable in adversity, embrace life's changes, discover your hidden strengths, and learn to bounce back from challenges with courage. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.

We are a team of highly specialized clinicians who offer in-depth, psychological services in a safe & comfortable setting. We accept many insurances, offer sliding fee scale, evening/weekend availability, & have both in-person sessions, as well as Telehealth appointments. Please visit our website for more information: DrSawires.com.

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.

I worked in the field as a mental health RN for 13 years before continuing my education to become a PMHNP. I believe that mental health plays a significant role in a person’s overall well-being including physical health, emotional health, and ability to navigate life’s often challenging hurdles that many silently face. I aspire to continue offering hope and support to anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being using the most up-to-date traditional and holistic practices tailored to meet my client’s needs. My core philosophy is based on a humanistic approach, which focuses on finding each person’s unique potential and ability to overcome their difficulties through positive personal growth. I use this patient-centered approach to help my clients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. I also encourage my clients to participate in therapy and lifestyle modifications in conjunction with medication management as this has proven to be the most effective method to long-term stability. I work closely with each client to ensure they can access any helpful resources that may benefit their treatment. I use a patient-centered care approach to help my patients meet their individual goals by empowering them to focus on their strengths rather than shortcomings. 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, benzodiazepine tapering, CBT-I, holistic approaches to psychiatry, trauma-informed care, eating disorders, first responders, women’s issues (PMDD, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, etc.)

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in California. My approach to therapy is client-centered; that is, I want to work on what you want to work on! You are the expert of your own life, and I am here to offer insight to help you meet your goals. My career has been focused on working with children, adolescents, and adults who have been mandated to therapy. At this time, I would like to work with and adults who are motivated to engage in the therapeutic process. My typical therapeutic modalities are the Psychodynamic approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Brief Problem Solving Therapy. In addition, I incorporate concepts of Trauma-Informed practices and Systems Theory to help meet the needs of the client. I have a professional, authentic style. I also have a dark sense of humor that helps some clients feel like our sessions are a judgment-free zone. I tend to follow the cues and needs of the clients to ensure I am not crossing any boundaries with which the client would not feel comfortable. Please contact me if you feel like this would we would be a good fit.

My main inspiration for becoming a therapist is to help people, from all walks of life. I have been working in the fields of substance abuse and mental health since 2006, and specialize in treating clients with Co-Occurring Disorders. Prior to entering the MSW program at San Jose State University, I studied Sociology at UC Santa Cruz, and received my BA degree in 2005. I have a solid background in social theory, and I apply social theory as part of my clinical approach, thus enhancing the therapeutic process. I am continuously working towards my ongoing professional development to help my clients using cutting-edge techniques. Therapy is more than a career, it is a passion and it is my life’s work. My empathetic approach, in which I actively listen to clients and reflect their goals, values, and struggles, fosters understanding and clarity. If I were to summarize what it is like to work with me, I would say “collaborative.” am committed to collaborative relationships with clients to maximize their capacity for growth and their ability to become resilient-to the many speed bumps and potholes along life’s path.”

Hello, I’m Jessica Martinez, a licensed mental health therapist providing evidence-based care since 2011. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, problem gambling, relationship and marriage issues, and a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns. My approach integrates leading therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gottman Method couples therapy, Narrative Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you feel understood and empowered. By tailoring treatment to your specific needs, I help individuals, couples, and families gain clarity, build resilience, and make meaningful, lasting change.

I have always wanted to make a positive impact and in my journey to figuring out what that was, I realized I enjoyed providing people with emotional support and that is when I decided to become a mental health therapist. This is a safe, nonjudgmental space. What is it that you need to feel heard and understood? I do not come from an expert stance. I believe you are the expert in your life and we are both coming together to work collaboratively on how to help you along your life journey.

Dr. Olga Novikov-King specializes in the intricate relationship between mental and chronic medical illnesses, particularly focusing on conditions like chronic pain, somatic disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and the lasting effects of trauma. Dr. Novikov is committed to guiding her patients toward achieving their life goals through a tailored blend of therapy and medication, always emphasizing a holistic approach to health. Her approach is driven by a deep understanding of how mental health is intrinsically linked with the overall health of a person.

My ideal client is someone that’s ready to delve deeper. This person may be struggling to get out of bed or may be overwhelmed by their thoughts. Perhaps these habits impact their motivation or energy levels. This person may notice that their self-doubt interferes with their goals and overall meaning in life. My specialties include depression, and anxiety. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space so that you can learn to cope with difficult feelings, and develop a sense of confidence in yourself. I have successfully worked with athletes and their performance anxiety. One of my favorite parts about working with clients is seeing their own resilience, their ability to witness their own capabilities. It's meaningful to work alongside my clients and to provide them with the skills to work through whatever challenges come their way. If you feel as though my approach fits with you, I'd love to chat over the phone. My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and relational, meaning that my focus is not on symptom-reduction. Instead, our work together is long-term, delving deeper into childhood wounds and how these present themselves today. This work might take two to three years. Of course, this may vary from individual to individual. Because psychotherapy is based on trust, meeting on a weekly-basis is key. I am excited that you are open to making this commitment to yourself and to the therapeutic process. Groups Offered: Setting Boundaries With Others, Mindfulness For Those Who Are Skeptical About Meditation, Identifying & Expressing Emotions.

Life is a series of changes and transitions that can create roadblocks in our lives. As a Licensed Psychologist, I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, perfectionism, procrastination, histories of trauma, grief and loss, AAPI issues, and other life hurdles. In addition, I work on supporting individuals with the unique challenges of juggling life as a student. My practice is grounded in creating a safe, supportive space where clients can feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. In session, I offer opportunities for introspection wherever one might be in their journey. With empathy and direct clear goals, we will work together on tailoring a plan specifically for you by breaking down larger goals into more manageable steps. Coming from a bicultural background, as an Asian American female, I understand the unique challenges that one faces when straddling two different worlds. I believe in providing therapy that honors multicultural perspectives and diversity. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or your relationship, I’m here to walk alongside you with care and intention.

I am a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, more resilient relationships. With a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in empowering individuals to achieve independence, confidence, and success in their daily lives. Through my education and work experience, I personalize and create interventions with the collaboration of the client.

Hi! My name is Mary and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Somatic Experiencing practitioner based in Southern California. Are you struggling with your emotions in a chaotic world? Unsure of how to support yourself through a life transition? Or just wanting support to find your full potential? Let me meet you where you are at in your journey to help you understand how to support yourself through difficult and complex times. I work with individuals of all ages in the therapy space. If you are searching for the best version of yourself, no matter your background, you are supported in this space to make that discovery. I have a special focus on women's issues and how mental health and physical health go hand in hand to find a balance. My journey to becoming a therapist started many years ago with an introduction to Jungian psychology and working with my own dreams to understand who I was becoming as a person. It has inspired me to be a more curious individual and to impart that knowledge to my clients in the therapy space.

Many of the people I work with describe feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure about what comes next. On the surface, they may seem to have it all together, yet inside they are struggling with anxiety, depression, or the pressure to keep going when they are running on empty. You might find yourself juggling work, relationships, and personal growth while quietly wondering why it all feels so heavy. Therapy with me is a space to slow down, make sense of what is happening beneath the surface, and reconnect with yourself in a way that feels honest and sustainable. I will meet you with curiosity and care, not judgment. Together we will explore patterns, emotions, and experiences that have shaped you while building practical tools to manage stress and create balance. You do not have to have everything figured out to start. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with what truly matters, at a pace that feels safe and supportive for where you are right now.

Hygieia Behavioral Health Foundation aims to minimize the effects of oppression and intergenerational trauma experienced by many members of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and marginalized communities. We’re committed to helping bridge the gap between culturally sensitive mental health resources and treatments, promoting mental health wellness, and removing the barriers that hinder people from accessing the quality help they require. Services are offered in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. By prioritizing affordability, inclusivity, and community collaboration, our organization seeks to reduce mental health disparities, combat stigma, and foster holistic wellness within underserved populations, ultimately promoting resilience, healing, and empowerment for individuals and communities alike. Our nonprofit organization targets marginalized communities that face significant barriers to accessing mental health care services, including but not limited to low-income individuals, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, refugees, undocumented individuals, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Our services are designed to be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and linguistically accessible, ensuring that all members of our target population have equitable access to the support they need to thrive. We provide a safe space, and all are welcome. Contact us today to inquire further.

Hi! I’m Dr. Ruth Rayikanti, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and the Founder of A Blank Canvas. My greatest passion is helping people find clarity, confidence, and deep inner peace so they can live life with intent, purpose and presence. I was raised in San Francisco and went to UC Davis for my undergraduate studies. After earning my medical degree at Ross University, I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, followed by a year of specialized training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente. But beyond credentials, what truly defines my approach is that I take the time to listen to your story, understand your goals, and provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored uniquely to you as a whole person. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with high-achieving individuals including students who are navigating life transitions, burnout, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Whether you’re managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, or simply seeking to connect with who you truly are, together we will explore solutions that create real, meaningful change in your life. Outside of my private practice, I founded A Blank Canvas, a wellness platform dedicated to mindfulness, inner peace, and peak performance. This space is designed to help individuals reconnect with themselves in a deeper way and realign with their purpose. I believe within each of us lies a blank canvas – a place of infinite potential waiting to be expressed. If you’re seeking a psychiatrist who sees you beyond your symptoms and will partner with you to create lasting transformation, I invite you to reach out. I look forward to connecting with you. Be well!

When people come to treatment with problems, it is important to remember that they are trying to cope with them in the best way they can. With that in mind, I offer a reflective and engaging partnership with my clients, working toward the goal of helping them to be autonomous, authentic and compassionate in a world that can be extremely stressful. Although my work is solidly grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive/learning, and systems theories, my approach is client-centered, practical and strengths-based. I bring honesty, warmth, and humor to the therapy relationship. I am LGBTQ affirmative and invested in doing cross-cultural therapy which is culturally sensitive. I have a dog, Bracket, who works with me, and I have been doing AAT since 2002. There is a growing body of research which suggests that AAT (Animal-Assisted Therapy) can be helpful with a range of diagnoses, including Depression, PTSD, and Autistic Spectrum. Many therapists know little about online games such as World of Warcraft and Second Life. They may dismiss it as unimportant, or assume it is a problem. I am a gamer-affirmative therapist, meaning I’m more interested in understanding your in-world experience and activity than pathologizing it.

If you are a student anywhere in California, who is having a hard time and you're open to working online, I could be a good fit for you. If there's something you're struggling with internally like adjusting to being in California, or you're having relationship issues with a partner, family or others, I aim to create a safe place for you to gain clarity and find a positive way forward. This could include developing more tools and better coping skills.

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.

As an active listener, I provide individualized treatment utilizing a nonjudgmental approach through medication management and supportive therapy. Let’s start!