Therapists for college students near San Diego, CA

Early adulthood can be a confusing, tumultuous time. You may be forging an identity, dealing with instability in living situations, academics, career, or relationships, and perhaps caught up in the painful effects of complex trauma from childhood and adolescence. Financial and career stress in a confusing economy doesn't help. I resonate most with young adults struggling with family of origin issues, discrimination, and experiences of trauma and loss. These issues and experiences often lead to depression, anxiety, and worries about not being good enough or able to make healthy decisions. I am able to be present when you are hopeless and help you see the good within. My approach flexible and catered to your needs. What brings you to therapy is a focus, but I also acknowledge that the past informs the present. We may take that past on directly or keep it in mind as a minor theme. Insight combined with action are often the keys to change.

Dr. Padla was born in New Jersey and attended school there through college where he received his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University. After this, he received a Master’s Degree at Virginia Tech before attending medical school at Rutger’s Medical School, Newark, New Jersey. He then did his psychiatric residency training at the prestigious Institute of Living in Hartford Connecticut. During his years of private practice he has specialized in general psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, pain management and obesity medicine. He has trained physician’s assistants while being an adjunct professor in Psychiatry at Western Michigan University. He retired in 2017 after being Chief of Psychiatry at Doctor’s Hospitals of Indiana. After a brief retirement of six months, he was lured out of retirement and became the psychiatrist at the Sacramento Native American Health Center where he currently still works. Dennis Padla, MD Experience (background and professional journey) Time with APA (how long you’ve been part of the team) Personal note (2–3 lines about yourself outside of work) Certificates & licenses (list of credentials) Specialization (your focus areas in psychiatry/mental health) Title (your professional title as you’d like it to appear) Experience- BS with Honors 1981 School of Environmental and Biological Sciences- part of Rutgers University MS 1983 Virginia Tech- Full Tuition Scholarship through Graduate Research Assistantship MD- 1988 Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency 1992- Institute of Living Center for Psychiatry 1992-2018- CEO and Medical Director Neuropsychiatric Hospitals- Psychiatrist in Chief 2013-2016 Sacramento Native American Health Center 2018-2023- Psychiatrist-in-Charge Advanced Psychiatry Associates 2018-present - Psychiatrist Behavioral Care Solutions 2012-present - Assistant Psychiatry Director Current Active Licenses California, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. Title: MD Psychiatrist- focus Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry General, Forensic, Psychiatry, Pain Management and Obesity Medicine

Dr. Gaines was born in Chicago, IL and attended school there through college where he received his Bachelor’s from Augustana College. After graduating from Wright State University School of Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dr. Gaines first began training as a General Surgeon in Detroit, MI. After realizing his true passion was in the field of Psychiatry, Dr. Gaines attended The University of Chicago, where he completed in residency training in adult psychiatry. Upon completion of his residency program, Dr. Gaines spent 8 years working in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) where he helped to establish and run the first inpatient hospital for the individuals in custody. Dr. Gaines continues to provide consultant work for the Federal Bureau of Prison (BOP) where he assists with BOP first jail-based restoration forensic program at Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Chicago, IL. Dr. Gaines is a Diplomate of American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology since being Board Certified in 2018. Education: BS in 2003 from Augustana College MD: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Psychiatry Training: The University of Chicago Medical Center Board Certification for American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2018. Illinois Department of Corrections: 2018 – 2026 Federal Bureau of Prison (BOP): 2023- present Advance Psychiatry Associates: 2026 – current

Dr. Hayes attended college at Johns Hopkins University, and medical school at the University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine. He completed training in Adult psychiatry at George Washington University and the University of Maryland before relocating to California in the mid-1990s, for additional training in a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at UCLA. Dr. Hayes later received an MBA in 2002 at the University of California, Irvine where his classmates awarded him the Best Team Player award. In 2010, he became a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association at their annual meeting in New Orleans, La. Dr. Hayes is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology where he was certified in Adult Psychiatry in 1999, and re-certified in 2009 and 2019. He has previously held an academic position at UCLA as a Clinical Instructor. Dr. Hayes is a member of AAPL-The American Academy of Psychiatry & Law and The American Psychiatric Association-where he has presented at their annual meetings across the country and abroad. He has also been a frequent presenter at the annual Western Claims Conference in Palm Springs, California. He is a 4th generation Washingtonian (DC) but has lived in southern California since 1994. He is an advocate for the homeless and LGBTQ communities. His main hobby is travel, and he has visited over 40 countries on 6 continents. Experience- BS with Honors 1981 School of Environmental and Biological Sciences- part of Rutgers University MS 1983 Virginia Tech- Full Tuition Scholarship through Graduate Research Assistantship MD- 1988 Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency 1992- Institute of Living Center for Psychiatry 1992-2018- CEO and Medical Director Neuropsychiatric Hospitals- Psychiatrist in Chief 2013-2016 Sacramento Native American Health Center 2018-2023- Psychiatrist-in-Charge Advanced Psychiatry Associates 2018-present - Psychiatrist Behavioral Care Solutions 2012-present - Assistant Psychiatry Director Current Active Licenses California, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. Title: MD Psychiatrist- focus Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry General, and Forensic Psychiatry, Obesity Medicine and Pain Management

Lisa Taylor is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). She completed her undergrad degree in Nursing at Brigham Young University and Master’s degree in Nursing at Texas Tech University. Experience includes Medical-Surgical, Neuro, Renal, ICU, OR nursing, Clinical Transplant Coordinator (kidney, pancreas), with pre, post and living donor care and management, Clinical Manager of Signature Suites VIP hospital floor in Houston. As an FNP, working in Family Practice and Internal Medicine gives her an in depth understanding of the problems we can face. Currently in psychiatry, I provide treatment options and medication management for ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other common mental health conditions. Genetic testing and Spravato are also offered through our facility. I love working with my patients. I appreciate life’s challenges and I provide teaching, support, encouragement and treatment options for health and well-being.

I’m a certified family nurse practitioner by the American academy of nurse practitioners (AANP). I have completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio. I began my career as a mental health nurse in an inpatient setting. I also have an extensive background in urgent and primary care working with patients of all ages. I have a passion for mental health and enjoy getting to know people I treat. I believe in providing the best care possible to each patient. In my free time, I enjoy travel, reading and spend time with family and friends.

Kelli Gramlich, PMHNP, has been with APA since February 2025. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep interest in holistic health, she integrates traditional and alternative approaches into her treatment plans. She earned her Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts, and is currently pursuing an Integrative Psychiatry Certification through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute (IPI) to enhance her comprehensive care abilities. Originally from Kansas City, Kelli was inspired to enter mental health care by close friends and family struggling with mental health challenges. She believes mental health is closely connected to overall well-being, including quality sleep, exercise, sunlight, and nutrition, and is committed to helping her patients restructure habits to achieve optimal health. Her philosophy is simple: we all need a little help from time to time, and together, she works with patients to live their best, most balanced lives.

I support Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color through healing and meaningful life transitions. As a bicultural therapist and child of Eritrean immigrants, I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience, with a deep understanding of identity, ambition, and belonging. My work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in empathy. I create a nonjudgmental space for women navigating self-doubt, career transitions, creative blocks, or emotional wounds who are ready to move forward with clarity and confidence. Together, we break through internal and external barriers, strengthen relationships, and build lives aligned with your values and purpose. I listen deeply, validate your experiences, and stay attuned to your emotions, while also offering the gentle accountability needed to keep you grounded and moving toward your goals. I ask permission before offering advice, so you always feel safe to show up as your whole self. I specialize in supporting students managing anxiety, stress, and personal barriers. My ideal clients are curious about their identity and open to holistic practices like breathwork and meditation. We'll work toward meaningful goals at a pace that feels right for you.

Hi, I’m Debbie, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, now welcoming new clients for telehealth visits. I offer a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where we can work together to understand your needs and help you feel your best—all from the comfort of your home. During our sessions, I take time to explore areas such as mood, anxiety, sleep, focus, trauma, and substance use, so we can create a personalized plan that works for you. I provide brief psychotherapy using supportive therapy, CBT-informed techniques, and motivational interviewing.

Do you feel like something is wrong with you? Are you wishing you could just "stop"? Do you always feel like adults don't understand? My practice is based around what happened to us, not what is wrong with us. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative, interactive and fun space where you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to meet your goals. Together we will learn, build on your strengths, and celebrate your wins. I am here to support & guide you through this process, together.

I specialize in supporting adults, teens and children struggling with anxiety, trauma, and patterns of people-pleasing or overthinking. Using a compassionate, person-centered approach, I help you build healthy coping skills, process difficult experiences, and create healthier relationships with yourself and others. Together, we’ll work to help you find peace and confidence. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you're already showing strength by exploring your options. You deserve support, healing, and a space where you feel heard. I offer virtual individual therapy for clients in California, providing compassionate care tailored to your needs. If you're ready to take the next step toward healing, I’m here to help. Clark Family Counseling Center is a safe space for you to heal emotional patterns and behaviors so you become the best version of yourself. Book your therapy appointment today.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a passion for helping people grow into their most authentic selves while navigating the real challenges of everyday life. College can be an exciting yet difficult time. If you are needing support navigating new transitions at school, preparing for graduation or entering the job field I am ready to work alongside you. I work with clients who are managing big emotions, feeling stuck, or struggling in their relationships and sense of self. I use a blend of DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy to help you make sense of your past, understand your patterns, and build new ways of coping so you can feel more grounded, confident, and in control.

I specialize in working with young adults, teens, caregivers, and families navigating overwhelm, transitions, chronic stress, and challenging relationship dynamics. I provide therapy to help restore stability and trust for those who have experienced trauma or relational wounds such as loss, chronic invalidation, coercive control, neglect, and abuse. I also work with athletes and performance-driven individuals whose ambition, discipline, and high standards fuel their lives yet may conceal pain. I integrate a sports psychology lens when achievement pressure intersects with self-concept, trauma, or burnout. I support high-level performers facing intense demands, competitive dynamics, setbacks, identity shifts, and life beyond sport, drawing on my experience as a former Division I collegiate athlete. Seeking support is a meaningful step. From the start of our work together, we will create a space that feels grounded, intentional, and deeply human, with open and honest communication at its foundation. I invite you to reach out for a free consultation call to explore whether we are a good fit.

Hello there! In my approach to therapy, I emphasize empathy and active listening, creating a compassionate environment where my clients feel heard and validated, fostering a safe space for exploration and growth. I also incorporate positive self-talk and affirmations, encouraging clients to build resilience and self-esteem. My communication style is characterized by warmth, active listening, and empathy. I foster an open and non-judgmental atmosphere, encouraging clients to express themselves freely. My compassionate approach combines encouragement and positive reinforcement, helping clients feel supported as they explore their thoughts and feelings.

https://care.headway.co/providers/alejandra-arias?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=195190

I am a therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families, with a focus on creating a grounded, supportive space where people can feel safe exploring their inner world. My approach is rooted in mindfulness-based CBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and feminist therapy, with an emphasis on understanding how past experiences, relationships, and systems of power shape the way we move through life. I take a holistic and relational approach to therapy. We will focus on recognizing how past experiences, relationships, and larger social systems can shape the ways we think, feel, and move through life. Together, we can identify patterns, process past experiences, and build healthier, more adaptive ways of relating to yourself and others. My style is warm, relational, and thoughtful, with the goal of helping clients feel more connected to themselves, build resilience, and feel more confident in their ability to grow and heal.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

College and young adulthood can bring more change at once than any other time of life: new independence, shifting relationships, academic pressure, and big questions about who you are and where you're headed. If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in people-pleasing, or carrying experiences that still feel unresolved, you don't have to navigate it alone. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist working with college students and adults in California and Florida by secure video. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, relationships and life transitions, including preparing to study abroad and readjusting after coming home. Having studied, lived and worked abroad myself, I know how exciting and disorienting these transitions can be. My approach is warm, collaborative and trauma-focused. I use EMDR to help process painful or stuck experiences, and somatic, body-based tools to calm your nervous system so you feel more grounded day to day. Together we'll explore the family and relationship patterns shaping how you feel, and build practical skills for boundaries, self-worth and emotional balance. Therapy with me is a compassionate, judgement-free space where you can slow down and reconnect with yourself. I offer a free 15-minute Zoom consultation to see whether we're a good fit. Book through my website or send me an email.

College can be a lot. Between classes, work, relationships, family expectations, finances, and trying to figure out what you want to do with your life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or stuck. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself without feeling judged. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-confidence, past trauma, academic stress, or major life changes, I’m here to help you work through it. Together, we’ll focus on practical tools and strategies that can help you feel more confident, balanced, and in control of your life.You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Come as you are, and we’ll take it one step at a time.

I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 8 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals and families. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Counseling and Social Change from San Diego State University and my Master’s of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of La Verne. I have extensive experience working with clients across the lifespan, with a primary focus on supporting individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, often in conjunction with co-occurring mood disorders. My background is rooted in behavioral work, including providing social skills training and addressing social anxiety among children on the spectrum. Additionally, I have experience working with victims of crime of all ages, supporting them in processing and healing from trauma.