Therapists for college students near UCLA
Kandy Mejia, LCSW
I believe that we can appear fine on the outside while feeling exhausted or unwell on the inside. Often, the ways we learned to survive can keep us stuck in unhealthy habits, painful relationships, or missed opportunities without us even realizing it. But healing is possible. I believe we can transform past pain into something meaningful. You can still reclaim a fuller version of yourself—one that brings strength to your relationships, your family, and your sense of self. Seeking support can be the hardest step, but with the right guidance, the mind and brain have a powerful capacity to heal and be restored. I often work with clients who frequently navigate the tension between family expectations, cultural values, and the demands of living in a different society. Together, we work to challenge internalized beliefs like "I'm not good enough" and build healthier ways of relating to oneself and others. A recurring focus in my practice is supporting individuals who feel stuck in unhealthy or unfulfilling relationships, helping them move toward greater clarity, empowerment, and self-worth. I began my career as a child therapist in schools, where I witnessed firsthand how deeply childhood experiences and trauma can shape a person’s sense of identity and self-worth. That foundation continues to guide my work today. I help clients gently recognize childhood wounds, process them with care, and foster meaningful growth toward a more grounded and authentic self. My approach is both gentle and direct. I meet you where you are, moving at a pace that feels right for you. In our work together, I offer a safe, honest space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported as we begin to untangle complex emotions and reshape the stories you tell yourself. We explore how early experiences—such as family dynamics, attachment patterns, or messages you received about who you were "supposed" to be—may still be influencing how you see yourself today.
Julie Michaelson
Hello and welcome. In practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years, I have placed great value in establishing meaningful and secure connections with my patients that have served in healing and being free from deeply held emotional, psychological, and relational wounds. I value the journey of exploring and understanding together so as to help patients reach and nurture a healthy and authentic sense of self; in developing a kinder relationship to and greater connectedness to ones emotional life and self worth; in developing healthier relationships to others; and ultimately securing a sense of overall satisfaction and well being, inside and out. Feeling seen, heard, understood, and known can be life-changing and transformative. Patients who come to seek treatment from me are often looking for a safe, confidential, empathic therapy relationship to share their feelings, understand themselves, to nurture emotional and psychological growth. One motivating factor for therapy is the desire for relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, relational difficulties, and self-esteem related struggles that have been either life long or situational. Treatment focus is often related to on-going issues related to depression, panic/anxiety, grief/loss, insecurities related to self and others, chronic medical conditions, physical/ sexual/ relational trauma, intimacy and relationship concerns, and issues related to self esteem/ self image/ body image. The type of psychotherapy I offer is informed by a developmental, relational/ intersubjective, and contemporary psychoanalytic frame of reference. This type of work offers a broad and meaningful exploration and working through of long held emotional and relational issues, gaining insight into the underlying root causes of symptoms and concerns, and the development of a healthy sense of self and authentic emotional life. Providing a safe, empathic environment are only a few of the many essential ingredients in establishing a secure working therapeutic relationship, and something that is seen as essential and greatly valued in this process of self discovery. The process of psychotherapy can offer meaningful emotional healing, in-depth understanding, and psychological working through of all that has had an impact on your relationship to your self, your physical and emotional wellbeing, and relationship to others. Through insight and a deeply felt authentic connection to ones emotional life, there is opportunity to develop new and more conscious/adaptive ways of living, coping, and relating so as to reduce suffering, and to improve overall quality of day to day living. In certain cases, mindfulness based meditation, visualization, and relaxation techniques are offered to assist with being more accepting, conscious, present and connected to your self, your body/mind, to others, and to your life in general. With conscious mindfulness based attention, and resulting integration of the body/ mind/ feeling, there can be an experience of emotional grounding, centeredness, and general enhancement in the quality of your life.
Cristal Guerrero
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
April Lamb
I'm so glad you're here and thinking about therapy! I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who want help with new symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc) or finding new ways of being in the world. Life transitions can be extremely stressful, but I'm here for you! Please reach out and let's set a time to see if we would be a good fit.
Alexes Ciardi
I became a therapist because I know what it is like to need extra support through life’s many curveballs. I became a therapist to give back, and am driven by the honor of getting to be a part of someone’s healing journey. I enjoy celebrating successes with my clients! I believe you are the most reliable narrator in your own story, and work with clients to promote empowerment in their own therapeutic experience. I work to create an authentic therapeutic space by utilizing humor, warmth, and collaboration. I empower clients to find answers within themselves and identify solutions that work to relieve their personal stressors. I guide clients to explore underlying thoughts and challenge themselves by emphasizing compassion and safety. I allow time for clients to ask any of their own questions they may have about myself or therapy in general and welcome feedback to ensure clients are receiving the best support possible. Outside of the therapy room, I’m a hobby ballerina! I also play Dungeons&Dragons. I am a firm believer in the importance of honoring our inner child through interests and play.
Anne Galbraith
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.”
Deborah Cook
With many years of experience in community and private practice, I am deeply inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and the courage it takes to seek growth and healing. My passion for mental health care stems from my understanding of how past experiences shape present relationships and behaviors. This perspective drives my commitment to helping individuals understand and transform the narratives that may leave them feeling overwhelmed. In our sessions, I create a warm, direct, and interactive environment where you feel truly heard and understood. By collaborating with you, I aim to normalize your experiences and empower you to lead the way in making the best decisions for your personal growth and self-development. Together, we’ll build a sustainable framework for mental health and coping skills to support a balanced and fulfilling life. Trust is the cornerstone of my approach. By honoring your unique story and meeting you with empathy and respect, I strive to foster a strong therapeutic alliance. Whether working with individuals, families, or communities facing challenges like trauma, substance abuse, or homelessness, my goal is to provide person centered care.
Armine Vardanyan - Insight Corner
Hi! Welcome to my small online practice, and congratulations on taking the step in looking into therapy - I know it can be challenging! My primary goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and comfortable space where you can be yourself and open up about things that you may be struggling with, or things that are causing you stress. Our sessions will not be a one-sided conversation, nor will they be mundane (trust me!), but rather there will be a lot of conversation and interaction, and together we can work on the things you want to change. I want you to find the peace and healing that you desire. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults with various diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, etc. I specialize in crisis intervention, grief, and play therapy. More importantly, I show up with authenticity and walk your journey with you. I will maintain a compassionate atmosphere where you will be heard and supported, while also challenging you when necessary so we can work together in creating a space for your personal growth and healing.
Jackie Ponce
I’m inspired by the desire to support every person I work with in feeling heard, seen, and validated in ways that are indispensable to exploring our individual growth and healing. While we cannot change any experiences or limitations in our history, I don’t believe it is ever too late to challenge erroneous or self-limiting beliefs that hinder us from evolving onto our best selves. I reassure that I trust my clients as the expert in their own personal experience. I seek to understand what familial, cultural, political, etc. circumstances influence their everyday experience. The alliance is built through curiosity and learning what an individual client values, what is most meaningful to them, and what they believe in. Additionally, trust is built through consistency and reliability from all parties. Trust should not be demanded or expected, but rather earned through time and a deeper understanding of what the client needs from the therapeutic relationship to feel safe.
Karen Aubrey
Becoming the parent of a child with autism was a catalyst that fundamentally reshaped my world. Initially, I attempted to navigate the complexities of raising a neurodivergent child in isolation, drowning in a sea of anxiety, grief, and anger. It wasn’t until I sought therapy and connected with a community of parents on the same emotional rollercoaster that the fog lifted. Therapy — and the support of others who understood — changed everything. That experience led me to this work. From the moment you log on for your telehealth appointment, the space belongs entirely to you. It is a place where you can cry, laugh, and share your highs and lows without fear of judgment. You don’t need to have a plan or know exactly where to start; just being here is the beginning of discovery. You will be seen, you will be heard, and we will take this first step together. I believe therapy works best when we walk the path together. My approach is built on your strengths and tailored to your unique needs. You will always be met with acceptance, empathy, and respect—never judgment. Rather than giving you answers, I am here to help you uncover your own truth and take the lead in your healing. I want you to leave our time together feeling deeply seen, supported, and ready to move forward with confidence. I’ve recently discovered a quiet peace in making soap and candles. There is something beautiful about the way we must melt down solid wax to reshape it, or how we must wait patiently for soap to cure before it is ready. It reminds me so much of therapy. We need time to soften, space to be molded, and patience to let our new insights settle. It has taught me that healing is a craft—one that simply cannot be rushed.
Magaly Granados
I was inspired to become a therapist because I’ve always believed in using your voice to strengthen what has been there underneath and to overcome challenges. Life can be very challenging and difficult to navigate, and you do not have to go through it alone-I am here for you. I entered this field because I am a true believer in being able to hold a safe space to talk about the difficulties that springs up in life. I always believed in being able to hear others, educate, and encourage resilience and being a therapist was a perfect way to offer these strengths. I enter each session with care, compassion and knowing that it can be very difficult to open up to another person and to be vulnerable. I want to reassure you that I am with you from the start to the end in our sessions and throughout this journey. I will actively listen, support, provide a non judgmental space and encourage advocacy and healing. I pay close attention to what is being shared, I will ask questions, clarify, and point out things “in the now” as they are happening, tuning in with your verbal and non verbal communication. I will meet you where you are with respect, attentiveness, being present and engaged. Together, we’ll create a space where your voice matters, your experiences are validated, and you can feel supported as you explore, heal, and grow. In our sessions you can trust I am fully present and no problem is too big to be talked about. I invite honest conversations knowing you are in a safe space that respects confidentiality at all times. Every journey is unique and it requires a unique approach and I am committed to using different evidence based treatment tailored to your needs. I take a holistic approach keeping in mind your culture, values, and life experiences. Our therapeutic alliance is important so I frequently check-in and encourage you to apply the skills learned to help you grow. I have seen through out my 11 years in the mental heath field the growth and healing that can come when someone is ready to take on this journey.
Marsaides Mercier
Early on, friends would often come to me for advice, and they told me I was a good listener. That made me curious about becoming a therapist. But once I started studying psychology, I realized therapy isn’t really about giving advice. It’s more about helping people explore their experiences, understand themselves better, and find their own solutions. Making sure you feel heard and understood is really important to me. One of the main ways I try to do that is by listening closely and reflecting back what I’m hearing, so we can check that I’m understanding you the way you intend. I’ll also ask questions to help clarify things and give you space to talk at your own pace. If at any point something I say doesn’t feel right or I misunderstand you, I really welcome you telling me so we can adjust together. My goal is for this to be a space where you feel comfortable sharing openly Building trust is really something that develops over time. My role is to create a space where you feel respected, not judged, and able to speak openly. I try to do that by listening carefully, being honest and consistent, and checking in with you about how our work together is feeling. If something isn’t working for you, we can talk about it and adjust. Therapy works best when it’s collaborative, so we’ll be figuring things out together. I really enjoy writing when I have the time and motivation for it. It’s something I’ve always found helps me think and reflect. Lately I’ve also been on a bit of a health kick—going on walks and taking some quiet time to myself. I’ve found it’s a really nice way to reset and clear my mind.
Monica Ashley O'Neal
Hi! I'm a therapist specializing in anxiety, childhood emotional neglect, trauma, and grief/loss. My clients often come to me feeling stuck, disconnected from themselves, or emotionally dysregulated. Our sessions will be a space where you can slow down and check in with yourself - whether that means getting curious about your past, processing the week, exploring practical tools/coping strategies, or simply allowing yourself to exhale and just be. As a biracial Black and Taiwanese American raised in Taiwan, I understand how culture can can shape our upbringing and sense of self. I use an approach that blends talk therapy with somatic (body-based) practices in order to address your symptoms from multiple angles. Our work together will be shaped by your background, values, needs, and goals. Please feel free to call or email so I can check your session cost with insurance, and/or use the link below to book a free phone consultation. I'm looking forward to connecting with you! https://calendly.com/monicaashley07/30min
Kat Stockly
Hi, I’m a California-licensed LCSW providing therapy exclusively via telehealth. I support college students navigating stress, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, helping you build resilience and practical coping skills. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounding. I see therapy as a partnership where we explore patterns, process past experiences, and reconnect with your authentic self. I am trained in EMDR and integrate trauma-informed approaches to guide our work together.
Connected Therapy of California
Hi my name is Zoe, I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist based in Los Angeles and provide tele-health services across the state of California. I specialize in working with college-age students who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety especially within academic achievement, perfectionism, people-pleasing and self-esteem as well as relationship issues. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and compassion-focused. My background is within attachment/psychodynamic and IFS. This means a lot of our focus will be around looking at the role your past has on your present to help inform you of how it may be holding you back from what you want and helping to heal these deeper core wounds.
Catlin McGee LCSW
Growing up and moving through life brings challenges that can sometimes feel overwhelming. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience, I provide individual therapy, parent coaching, and family support. My work is grounded in the belief that healing begins in safe, trusting relationships, where clients can explore experiences, gain perspective, and discover new ways of coping and connecting. Therapy is about connection, and I believe it works best when it feels genuine and collaborative. My style is warm, approachable, and flexible—I meet you where you are and tailor our work to what feels most helpful. My goal is to help you feel understood and empowered as you navigate your journey. In sessions, you’ll have the chance to explore what’s on your mind and make sense of challenges. Together, we may uncover patterns, develop coping strategies, or find new perspectives that bring clarity and ease. Over time, many clients leave feeling more grounded, confident, and connected—to themselves and others
Melanie Payne
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Celia Petersen
Have you ever wondered if life could feel less stressful or more fulfilling? Whether you’re in school, starting your career, or navigating life as a first-generation adult, I’m here to support you. Together we’ll find practical ways to handle challenges, build coping skills, and help you feel more confident and resilient, one step at a time. During our sessions, you’ll have a caring, judgment-free space where your story matters. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven approaches to help you shift negative patterns, tap into your strengths, and make meaningful progress toward your goals. Ready to find out if we’re the right fit? Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I accept insurance and sliding scale. I offer flexible telehealth so starting therapy is convenient and accessible. Let’s connect and take your next step forward together.
Synapse Therapy and Healing | Alexis Collins
Hi there, I’m Lexi. I’m really glad you’re here. Reaching out for support takes strength, especially when things feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship stress, family conflict, or just feeling like you're not okay but can’t explain why, you don’t have to face it alone. I support people who are navigating big emotions, identity struggles, past wounds, or patterns that feel hard to break. This can include experiences like self-harm, low self-worth, or traits of borderline personality. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I’m trained in evidence-based tools like CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and attachment-based therapy. More than anything, I believe in creating a space where you feel safe to be real, heard, and understood. You deserve support that meets you where you are. Together, we can work toward helping you feel more grounded, connected, and confident in yourself, even when life feels messy.
Wenonah Washington
Welcome! I believe the growth, healing and change that occurs through authentic connection is a special kind of magic. Whether it's your first time in therapy, or you are returning, I will meet you where you are at in your journey. As a clinician, my intention is to have your sessions be a time where you are truly heard. Together, we will identify tools, and build skills fostering your goals. I have extensive experience working with people experiencing life transitions, relationship problems, grief, high stress/ burnout, family conflict, school problems, anxiety, body image issues, loneliness, anxiety, addiction, and trauma. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, relational, warm and when appropriate, humorous. I draw upon evidence based and experiential therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment theory, and Narrative therapy. I am passionate about working with individuals with intersectional identities. I specialize in helping clients with developing self compassion. Every person has a unique story, identity and strengths, and therapy can provide the space for embodied exploration and soulful processing, deepening self awareness and empowerment. Feel free to reach out for a free 15 min consultation to see if we would be a good fit.