Therapists for college students near UCLA

I’m really passionate about mental health and I genuinely enjoy helping people work through their challenges and find ways to improve their lives. I work to make a real difference by being someone who listens and supports clients in a way that helps them feel understood and empowered. I want to help them build the tools and confidence they need to handle whatever comes their way. My goal is to create a space where they feel comfortable exploring their feelings and making positive changes in their lives. I often use CBT which is highly effective in helping clients identify and alter dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. This approach is beneficial for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. I also incorporate aspects of DBT, especially the mindfulness and emotion regulation parts. These techniques provides clients with practical skills to manage their emotions and relationships more effectively. PCT and ACT are also central to my practice. t’s important to me that clients feel heard and valued in our sessions and help clients stay present and committed to making positive changes, even when things get tough. I enjoy working with diverse communities such as minority and marginalized communities, refugees and immigrants, individuals experiencing homelessness, people with substance use disorders, caregivers, incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, veterans, survivors of trauma and domestic violence, elderly populations, individuals with chronic illnesses, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. My aim is always to provide tailored, empathetic support that meets the specific needs of each client. Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to work with all sorts of people, from children in kindergarten, teens, adults and trauma survivors. These experiences have really shown me how strong and resilient people can be. Personally, dealing with my own challenges has taught me the power of empathy and creating a safe space for clients. I always aim to stay updated with the latest therapy techniques to give my clients the best support possible on their healing journeys.

Heather Ward, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, is a licensed therapist with deep roots in college campus mental health, having provided counseling and wellness support across multiple higher education settings in the Los Angeles area. Trained at the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education, Heather has worked at Pierce College, West LA College, and California State University, Northridge, where she managed large student caseloads, coordinated care with multidisciplinary campus teams, and developed workshops focused on building healthy relationships and emotional resilience. Heather brings a warm, collaborative style and a nonjudgmental presence to her work with students navigating depression, anxiety, identity shifts, and the pressures of academic life. She draws from attachment-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-oriented approaches to help clients build emotional regulation skills and strengthen their sense of self during pivotal life transitions. Earlier in her career, Heather also contributed to campus mental health from an administrative lens, developing and implementing strategic mental health and counseling initiatives at UCLA Extension — giving her a uniquely well-rounded perspective on how students are supported at an institutional level. Heather is committed to culturally sensitive, inclusive care and has experience supporting diverse student populations across community college and university settings.

From the very first meeting, I approach each client with a deep respect for their lived experience and an understanding that beginning therapy can feel both vulnerable and courageous. My intention in that initial session is to create a space that feels grounded, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, where clients can begin to share at their own pace. I focus on listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and gaining a holistic understanding of what brings them in, while also attending to their strengths, values, and hopes for change. Establishing a sense of safety and trust is central, as I view the therapeutic relationship itself as a meaningful foundation for growth. My path toward becoming a therapist was shaped by a longstanding curiosity about human behavior, emotional resilience, and the ways people make meaning of their experiences. Over time, this curiosity evolved into a commitment to supporting others through life’s challenges in a purposeful and compassionate way. I have been particularly inspired by witnessing how individuals can develop insight, shift patterns, and reconnect with their sense of agency when provided with the right support. This work continues to be deeply meaningful to me, as it allows me to walk alongside clients as they navigate change, cultivate self-understanding, and move toward greater well-being. I approach the development of trust and a strong therapeutic alliance as an intentional, ongoing process grounded in consistency, transparency, and genuine attunement. I prioritize active listening and strive to understand the client’s experience from their perspective, reflecting both content and emotion to communicate empathy and validation. I am mindful to move at a pace that feels comfortable for the client, recognizing that trust develops over time and cannot be rushed. Ultimately, I view the therapeutic alliance as the foundation of effective therapy, and I remain committed to fostering a relationship in which clients feel seen, heard, and empowered throughout their process. One personal detail I sometimes share is my appreciation for incorporating music into my daily routine as a way to feel grounded and centered. I find that music can be a simple yet meaningful way to regulate mood, create a sense of calm, and reconnect with the present moment.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in both California and Idaho. I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional or life difficulties. Evening and weekend appointments available. Free initial consultation. My approach to therapy is collaborative, personalized, and recovery-oriented. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and practical, and I strive to create a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel safe exploring challenges, developing coping skills, and working toward meaningful and lasting change. Through telehealth services, I work with people experiencing concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My goal is to help clients feel heard, understood, and empowered as they build resilience, gain insight, and move toward greater emotional well-being.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hello! We are so grateful that you've embarked on this journey of self-discovery, growth, & healing. We are a group practice based out of California and collectively, we have over a decade of experience in the helping profession, assisting children, teens, and adults. Our approach involves viewing situations through a multicultural lens, enabling us to comprehend your unique needs through active listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. We specialize in EMDR, CBT, Brainspotting, Solution-Focused Treatment, & Mindfulness. We bring extensive expertise in treating trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, mindfulness, and grief. Our EMDR-based approach focuses on desensitizing and reprocessing negative beliefs, allowing for deep healing without the need for unnecessary re-traumatization.This process involves sharing minimal details while still creating lasting, transformative change. We are a team of EMDR trauma therapists committed to reducing barriers to mental health care. To support this mission, our practice operates entirely online via a HIPAA-secure video platform, allowing us to create a strong therapeutic relationship while focusing on both your short-term and long-term goals in each session.

We are trauma therapists who provide trauma-focused therapy through EMDR therapy, relational trauma therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), AEDP, and IFS. We work with BIPOC & AAPI students and international students who have a history of trauma or PTSD. If you are a student who is struggling with past or ongoing difficult family dynamics, a history of eating disorders, substance use issues, sexual assaults or abuse in childhood, or struggling with intimate relationships, friendships, and social relationships, please reach out. We can help! We help you process what happened so you are no longer stuck in the past or in pain.

My professional and confidential counseling service offers an opportunity for you to reach your goals and the best version of yourself without leaving the comfort of your home with telemental health counseling. Individuals and Couples can participate in a counseling service that is tailored to meet your individualized needs. I am here to listen, support, encourage, guide and coach. I partner with you to create an effective plan that best fits your needs at a pace that is comfortable for you.

Weaving Clarity therapists specialize in trauma-focused care with a background in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). We help treat social anxiety and finding your authentic identity. We aid in facing relationship difficulties such as fear of commitment or being abandoned. We also assist in healing feelings of "I'm not enough and I'm too much." We help with finding a balance within the relationship dance of feeling the loss of autonomy and the fear of truly being seen.

Welcome! I often support young adults and adults who feel stressed and overwhelmed by demands in life, many of whom tend to be at least somewhat perfectionistic. I have specialized training and experience in supporting people with college and career issues, setting and holding boundaries, dating and relationships, managing anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, skin-picking/hair-pulling, depression and postpartum anxiety/depression/OCD and parenting difficulties and existential issues. I often support sensitively-wired empathic clients in need of a kind gentle approach that is still direct and clear. Many of my clients do identify as Highly Sensitive (HSP), Neurodivergent (ADHDers and/or Autistic) and/or Empaths/Empathic. Please visit my website to learn more, and you are welcome to email me to schedule a free consultation call where I will be happy to answer any questions that you have.

Becoming a therapist felt like a natural path for me, where my curiosity about the human experience and my desire to help others could come together. I value the opportunity to walk alongside my clients as they gain insight, work through challenges, and create meaningful change in their lives. I also believe that having a supportive, nonjudgmental space to reflect and be heard can be incredibly powerful, and it’s meaningful for me to be able to offer that to people. I value creating a supportive, collaborative and warm environment where clients can feel seen and safe to be themselves and open up. My goal is to help you develop insight, strengthen coping skills, work to build emotional resilience, reclaim calm and feel more confident in navigating life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My work is guided by compassion, curiosity, and respect for each client’s unique life experience. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth, and I am honored to be part of that process. By integrating evidence-based, trauma-informed care with practical tools, I help clients move from surviving to thriving. I invite you to reach out for a consultation to explore how we can work together to build a more empowered future. I strongly believe in practicing what I encourage in my clients-prioritizing intentional self-care in everyday life, whether that means attending my favorite Zumba class, enjoying a good book, or soaking up the sun while on a walk with my two chihuahuas.

Do you have endless energy for your hobbies, but find yourself putting off assignments? Do you write your best essays at the last minute, fueled by adrenaline? Do you get frustrated at yourself for doing these things and swear you’re gonna start that project early next time? Do you feel uncomfortable in social situations but you’re not sure why? I help people with neurodivergent brains understand themselves better and learn to be nicer to themselves. I most often work with Autistic and ADHD folks and welcome anyone questioning if they might be neurodivergent. My background is in educational psychology and psychotherapy because who can pick one career to do forever? (Hint: not me) I help folks with areas such as: executive functioning, emotional regulation, stress, anxiety, attention, sensory sensitivities, relationship issues, identity, sexuality, gender, and so much more! Check out my college late diagnosis group starting in March!

I am inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and the profound potential for growth and healing within everyone. Witnessing clients navigate challenges, uncover their strengths, and achieve breakthroughs is deeply fulfilling. The ability to make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals as they reclaim their lives and well-being drives my passion for this field. I’m also drawn to the ever-evolving nature of mental health care, where continuous learning and innovation allow me to grow alongside my clients. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly. Active listening is at the core of my practice—I strive to fully understand their experiences by reflecting, validating their emotions, and asking thoughtful questions. I also adapt my communication style to each client’s unique needs, ensuring they feel respected and seen. By fostering empathy and tailoring interventions to their individual stories, I make it clear that their voice and perspective are central to the therapeutic process. Trust is built through consistency, authenticity, and mutual respect. I show up as a genuine, compassionate presence, balancing professionalism with warmth and relatability. I also collaborate with clients, empowering them to take an active role in their therapy. By being transparent about the therapeutic process and celebrating their progress, I foster a sense of partnership. Over time, these elements come together to create a strong, trusting alliance that supports meaningful growth and healing.

The therapists at Blossom Wellness are licensed and trained to work with adult individuals struggling with college related anxiety, self-esteem, stress management, depression, burnout and more. Starting therapy takes courage, and finding the right therapist makes all the difference. Blossom Wellness makes is easier for clients to find a great therapist, without having to search endlessly online. Each therapist at Blossom Wellness is highly talented, takes great pride in the work they do, and are passionate about helping the clients they serve. I am confident that you will find the right fit for you!

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Washington. With years of experience in outpatient and residential mental health settings, I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan. I have a strong background in treating substance use disorders, implementing Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and leading innovative programs such as ketamine therapy. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based care, aiming to empower patients on their mental health journey. I am passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. My experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care has reinforced my belief in the power of comprehensive, patient-centered treatment. I am especially inspired by the resilience of my patients and the opportunity to provide them with support, tools, and interventions that improve their well-being. I take a holistic and individualized approach, considering each patient’s unique needs, background, and goals. I engage in shared decision-making, providing education about treatment options and working collaboratively to develop a plan that aligns with their values. I integrate medication management with supportive psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications to ensure well-rounded care.

Hi, I'm Jessica Taylor Vara, LMFT, a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. On paper, your life might look pretty good. You're responsible. Capable. The person everyone turns to when they need help. But underneath it all, you're exhausted. Maybe you're constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, second-guessing yourself, or feeling like you're never quite enough no matter how hard you try. Maybe you're stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, carrying the weight of childhood experiences you thought you should be over by now, or finding yourself overwhelmed by stress, perfectionism, and self-doubt. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. I help college students, graduate students, young professionals, and adults heal from anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, relationship difficulties, and the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving people who have spent years trying to understand themselves but still feel stuck repeating the same emotional patterns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply compassionate. I integrate EMDR therapy and traditional talk therapy to help clients move beyond insight and create real, lasting change. Together, we'll work to heal the root causes of your struggles, build healthier relationships, strengthen your confidence, and help you feel more grounded, resilient, and connected to yourself. You don't have to keep carrying everything on your own. I provide online therapy for residents of California and Florida.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I was inspired to become a therapist because I have always had a passion for helping people in whatever way that I can, without judgement and assumptions. I continue to be inspired on a daily basis by the work that I do with my clients, and helping guide them to the solutions that they are looking for in therapy. I believe in the idea of ensuring that clients feel heard, understood and validated in what they are feeling. I ensure this by providing a safe, nonjudgmental therapy space for clients to feel comfortable in opening up about what brought them into therapy and how we can work through those concerns. Clients are encouraged to additionally express any concerns that they have should those arise. I speak with my clients on the idea of collaboration throughout treatment, as well as building a strong therapeutic rapport from the start. I bring in a sense of humor, respect and honesty about things as well. In addition to all of this, I allow for my clients to speak their mind about what is impacting them, and to provide them that space in order to express those feelings. I am a big proponent of positive self-care, something that I encourage my client to utilize throughout each week. I share my enjoyment of listening to music, watching sports, reading, physical activities, and playing guitar. It helps open the door to discussion about self-care techniques that clients can utilize when they are experiencing difficulties in their lives.

Hi my name is Nekea (nuh-key-yah). As a woman of color, I understand how the different parts of “who we are”, our experiences, identities, and relationships, shape the way we see and move through the world. I strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and real, where you can show up fully without judgment. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and groups from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultural perspectives. My work is especially centered on supporting women, people of color, adolescents, and public figures as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re healing from grief, processing trauma, or learning to set boundaries and care for yourself in new ways, my goal is to help you reconnect with your voice and your sense of self. Therapy, to me, is both a place of reflection and empowerment, a space to better understand your story and to write new chapters with clarity and confidence.