Therapists for college students near 94117

It is discouraging to navigate a world that doesn’t see you, that misunderstands you or makes you invisible based on your gender, race, sexuality, size, trauma history and a host of other factors. Systemic oppression impacts your mental health as much your history does. It can be intimidating to reach out to a therapist because you want to find someone who really understands you. Mental health has a history of victim-blaming and pathologizing. I am a queer therapist offering trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples. I utilize an intersectional feminist and social justice lens. I specialize in working with queer, gender-blessed and other non-mainstream individuals and relationships, including non-monogamous, age-gap, cross-cultural and queer relationships.

I work with individuals and couples using a strength-based approach that is interactive, collaborative and informed by the latest research on attachment theory, neuroscience, and mindfulness. I see each person as more than the problem they walk in with, emphasizing their unique strengths and resilience as the most important ingredients for healing. I specialize in working with men to help deepen their capacity to understand and manage complex emotional states so they can have more self-confidence and greater satisfaction in their relationships.

Great to meet you! As a board-certified licensed therapist, I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a variety of backgrounds. My primary goal is to create an authentic connection with each of my clients to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. I believe that our past influences our present, especially when faced with challenging life experiences. Together, within our built safe space, we will explore how your past experiences influence your current thoughts and behaviors - to improve your awareness and identify areas for positive change. I believe in balancing validation and empathy with a directive, solution-focused approach that offers specific strategies to enact change. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-harm/suicidal ideation, substance use, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, relationship and family issues, identity development, and life transitions. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches because it is important to me to adapt my style to honor the current needs of each of my clients. I always begin our work together with an introductory session, when you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and what you hope to achieve through therapy. We’ll work together, collaborate on your goals and create a plan that feels most comfortable to you. Building trust is important to our therapeutic relationship, and will take our time easing into processing your thoughts and experiences. I will remain committed to supporting and guiding as we work together to make your goals a reality.

Hello! I'm Liana Huang (she/her), and I’m a bilingual, bicultural (Cantonese and English speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #119082). Growing up as the eldest daughter of Chinese immigrants who left their world in the Pearl River Delta to pursue a more abundant life for their descendants in San Francisco, I can relate to and understand the specific struggles of children of immigrants. It’s not easy navigating the unspoken pressure of repaying our parents for the sacrifices they made, the inevitable miscommunication and misunderstandings that arise as families bridge cultures and languages, and the persistent feeling of falling short of expectations. With a deep understanding of intergenerational trauma and family of origin attachment wounds, I offer a unique perspective to my clients as a therapist who has personally experienced the challenges of growing up with Asian immigrant parents. You won't have to explain what it's like to navigate cultural differences and complex family dynamics because I get it. I became a therapist because I recognize that cultural humility, while important, does not compare to the insights and empathy gained through lived experience. Together, we can work through your struggles and heal from the wounds of the past to create a brighter future. You're not alone in this journey towards healing and self-discovery.

Many people begin therapy feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck, or unsure of where they belong. This can be especially true for those navigating multiple cultures, identities, and expectations at once. When family values, cultural norms, and personal needs don’t fully align, it’s common to feel pulled in different directions—or to quietly lose touch with yourself. Over time, this strain may show up as burnout, anxiety, relationship stress, or a lingering sense that something isn’t quite right, even if everything looks “fine” on the outside. I take a collaborative, culturally responsive approach to therapy that honors the complexity of your lived experience. I don’t believe there is one “right” way to feel, heal, or move forward—especially when identity, family dynamics, and cultural expectations play such a central role in your life. My work integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, family systems therapy, and person-centered approaches. Together, we will make sense of patterns shaped by your past experiences and relationships while building practical coping skills that support meaningful, sustainable change. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. During graduate training, I completed my internship at Gateway Public Schools, where I worked with adolescents ages 11–18. In this role, I supported students navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and a wide range of family-related and personal challenges, gaining hands-on experience working within complex systems that impact young people’s emotional well-being. Over time, clients often gain greater emotional clarity, self-trust, and a stronger sense of agency—feeling more empowered to live in ways that feel authentic rather than obligatory. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to choose between parts of yourself—you can bring all of you into the room. My goal is to create a supportive and affirming therapeutic space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. We will explore how family dynamics, identity development, and cultural influences have shaped your experiences, while also focusing on what matters most to you moving forward. Outside of therapy, I value humor, perspective, and taking meaningful chances in life. One quote that resonates with me is: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky — Michael Scott. This mindset reflects my belief in growth, courage, and the importance of showing up for yourself—even when the next step feels uncertain.

As a therapist, I consider my role to be a guide and witness to facilitate the development of your true self and your inner resources. I create a genuine and respectful space that allows us to explore where you're at, your goals, and your challenges. I love using expressive arts therapy and seeing people blossom when they experience the nourishment, wisdom, power, and insight of their creativity. I also use mindfulness, somatic awareness, and Jungian psychology. My focus is on working with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, childhood wounding, creative blocks, finding passion/direction in life, grief, and loss.

Do you ever feel as though life is even tougher than it should be, or that solutions always seem just out of reach? You're not alone, even though it can feel that way when stress builds up and you're not sure where to turn. Students today face a wide range of challenges on campus, such as demanding classes, financial pressures, and navigating new relationships with professors and peers, not to mention figuring out how you relate to your family, community, or even yourself as you enter adulthood. The uncertainty and decisions can be overwhelming. As a licensed psychologist with almost 8 years of private practice experience in San Francisco, I can help you think through overwhelming situations and develop strategies that will work for you. I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and many kinds of life transitions and stress. I believe therapy should provide a welcoming, supportive place to grow and practice relating to thoughts, feelings, and other people in healthier ways. A good therapy session should feel like a satisfying - if challenging, at times! - conversation with someone who really understands your needs and goals.

You're ambitious, kind, hardworking, and yet, something in life isn't working out. It feels like you're trying so hard, and yet, you're stuck, or somehow falling behind in a part of your life. Maybe because of stress, a past romantic relationship, or maybe because you're feeling overwhelmed. Talking with someone about worries and circumstances to heal emotional wounds takes courage. Counseling could be intimidating and stirring. Thankfully, we offer an attentive and supportive environment that is safe, private and professional for your emotional health. If you need support, reach out. We are here to help. Book an appointment to meet with us at our office in-person, or via TeleHealth.

*Serving clients in California, Pennsylvania & North Carolina via teletherapy* I imagine you're looking for help, maybe a kind and guiding mental health professional wherever you are on your healing journey. Perhaps you've felt confused, misunderstood, unseen, overwhelmed with the constant pressures and stresses of this current moment. You may be struggling with shame, self-hatred, a lack of belonging, imposter syndrome. You might feel nervous about asking for help. I welcome the chance to work together in personalized, culturally sensitive, and confidential virtual therapy. As a multicultural and multiethnic cisfemale therapist of color, I seek to understand who you are, your worldview, and your environment. Once you reach out to me, I'll invite you to set up a consultation to discuss your needs, what's going on and how we may work together. We'll get to know each other a little. I'll also invite your questions and perspectives on what you're looking for in a therapist. Together we can help you heal, create a space to honor and respect who you are, and support a life of meaningful connection and empowerment. Contact me or schedule an initial consultation via the secure client portal https://ashleyaclemft.clientsecure.me/!

Hey there! I understand that it’s probably taken a lot to get here: emotional pain, depression, anxiety, grief and maybe even existential crises. I want you to know that you are not alone and it does get better over time as corny as that may sound. I’m a board-certified psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and artist who specializes in helping college students struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ecological and spiritual distress find inner peace. I combine traditional modalities such as psychotherapy and medications with holistic approaches such as purpose, creativity, and spirituality. I’m proud of you for taking the first steps on your journey of healing and would be honored to humbly walk alongside you on the journey integrating the wisdom of your mind, body and soul for transformation. This is a big deal! It takes lots of courage and strength AND you are doing it! You are on your way to living a deeply meaningful and fulfilling life and I’m here to help. Finding a good fit is one the most important things for feeling better. Please check out my website to learn more about my unique approach and fill out the interest form on my website to request a Free Intro Call.

I have been a licensed Therapist for over 25 years. I have worked primarily with teens and young adults, but also with adults up through the age of 65. Much of my current practice is with young men, supporting them to overcome anxiety, depression, interpersonal and relationship challenges, life transitions, substance and alcohol use, and other related challenges. At this point I am only providing on-line therapy/telehealth. I offer free 15 minute consultations.

I specialize in women's mental health, postpartum and infertility treating trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. I provide individual, couple's and family therapy in my MIssion District office.

Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help, or your umpteenth time, I believe that everyone can recover. There are many reasons eating disorders are invited into your life. Just as there are many reasons why a person develops an eating disorder, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there was a one size fits all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues… Together we will discover what invites these problems into your life, and begin to find what recovery means for them. I have been in the battle with food and weight, caught in the war zone of an eating disorder, and come out the other side. Now recovered, I love working with individuals and their loved ones to find their own version of recovery, and find out what is keeping you stuck from living the life you desire. Through conversations, we will create space to discover your preferences, hopes and desires. Many of my clients have described me as the “anti-therapist,” which is a description I wear with pride. I bring enthusiasm, improvisation, imagination, and creativity into each session. My ability to think outside the nine dots and ask questions that others may not enables me to develop creative solutions with clients to help untangle what many would consider to be complicated problems. I believe in (and embrace) experimentation: the freedom to test things out and see how they fit, to explore the various facets of yourself, and to allow for complexities, and contradictions, and messiness… all the stuff the eating disorder hates and recovery needs. Eating disorders, are strong, they need something stronger to overpower them. I want to help discover what that is for you.

Hi, I'm Jodi Paris, a licensed marriage & family therapist specializing in providing mental health care to young adults. As a trusted and experienced therapist with over 25 years of expertise, I understand the unique challenges that college life brings. I am passionate about helping young adults like you navigate this transformative phase with confidence and resilience. College can be an exciting and challenging time, filled with academic pressures, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I am here to support you every step of the way. With a warm and understanding approach, I create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. My extensive experience working with young adults has equipped me with a deep understanding of the specific issues you may face. Whether it's managing anxiety, addressing relationship struggles, building self-esteem, finding motivation, or navigating career decisions, I am here to help you overcome these obstacles and thrive. In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and personalized approach. Together, we will set realistic goals, develop effective coping strategies, and explore techniques to manage stress and anxiety. I may also assign activities like journaling, reflection exercises, and practical worksheets to enhance your self-awareness and track your progress. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness Therapy. I believe in tailoring the treatment to your unique needs and preferences, ensuring a customized and effective therapeutic journey. Don't let the challenges of college life overwhelm you. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier life by scheduling a free consultation with me. Together, we will create a roadmap for your personal growth, well-being, and academic success. Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone – I am here to support you on your journey. Schedule your free consultation today and let's embark on this transformative journey together.

I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing culturally responsive and identity-affirming psychotherapy. The clients I work with often identify as first-gen students, artists, performers, educators, and professionals, as well as those who have experienced trauma in relationships or who have a history of family cycles of addiction and drug use. I use a relational-psychodynamic and liberatory approach to therapy; incorporating mindfulness techniques that support you to build awareness of what is happening between your mind and body. A strong therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to explore thoughts and feelings is essential and building trust to do so takes time. I will support you in the therapy to navigate communicating what is happening for you in the therapy so that you can then apply a deepened awareness of yourself to interactions and events in everyday life. Feelings and thoughts can be hard to identify, and having time set aside to delve into this process can be transformative. Your participation in the therapy by bringing in your lived experiences will help you to deepen your insights and understanding, which will inform your decisions and choices in life moving forward.

***Currently serving individuals in California and Oregon*** Hello! My name is Carlota, and I am a social justice advocate; a believer in science; a fierce and overly-obsessed dog mom to two wacky pups; an immigrant; and steadfast in my conviction that we have a fundamental obligation to help one another if we have the means and capacity to do so. I am a licensed clinical social worker, and have been in practice since 2013. I completed my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley in 2008, and received my Master of Social Work (MSW) in 2013 from the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. I embrace evidence-based and research-supported therapies, while also honoring the power of the therapeutic relationship and process. I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety and panic, grief and loss, interpersonal difficulties, and life transitions. I am a trained teacher of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD and Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depression (IPT-D). I also have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for Bipolar Disorder, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for the treatment of PTSD in children and teens. Why might I be a good fit for you? Because I get it, and I am whole-heartedly with you on this journey. I know that coming to therapy is a profound undertaking, and that what I will ask of you in this process is not easy. Introspection, change, and confronting avoidance are hard, and so I strive to provide a safe, authentic, and collaborative environment that honors your story, experience, and identity with compassion and without judgment; I strive to be worthy of bearing witness to your story. ***Sirviendo a personas ubicadas en California y Oregón*** ¡Hola! Mi nombre es Carlota, y soy amante de la justicia social; una creyente en la ciencia; una mamá de dos perritos excéntricos; una inmigrante; y firme en mi convicción de que tenemos la obligación de ayudarnos unos a otros si tenemos los medios y la capacidad para hacerlo. Soy una trabajadora social, y he estado en práctica desde 2013. Me gradué de UC Berkeley en el 2008, y recibí mi Maestría en Trabajo Social (MSW) en el 2013 de la Universidad de Washington en San Louis. Acepto las terapias basadas en la evidencia y respaldadas por la investigación, al mismo tiempo que honro el poder de la relación y el proceso terapéutico. Me especializo en trauma, depresión, el trastorno bipolar, ansiedad y pánico, duelo y pérdida, dificultades interpersonales, y transiciones de vida. Soy una maestra capacitada en Reducción del Estrés Basado en Mindfulness (MBSR), y estoy certificada en Terapia de Procesamiento Cognitivo (CPT) para el trastorno de estrés postraumático y Psicoterapia Interpersonal para la Depresión (IPT-D). También tengo una amplia entrenamiento en Terapia Dialéctica Conductual (DBT), Terapia Interpersonal y de Ritmo Social (IPSRT) para el trastorno bipolar, y Terapia Cognitiva Conductual Centrada en el Trauma (TF-CBT) para el tratamiento del trastorno de estrés postraumático en niños y adolescentes. ¿Por qué podría ser una buena opción para ti? Porque pongo todo mi corazón para estar contigo en este viaje. Sé que venir a terapia es una empresa profunda y que lo que te voy a pedir en este proceso no es fácil. La introspección, el cambio, y la confrontación de la evitación son difíciles, y espero proveer un entorno seguro, auténtico, y colaborativo que honre su historia, experiencia, e identidad con compasión y sin juzgar; me esfuerzo por ser digno de ser testigo de tu historia.

I am a double board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, and provide psychotherapy and personalized medication treatment. The core of my work is to provide a safe environment, where we build a strong and trusting relationship. I will help you explore your own story, current life challenges and open up possibilities for change in your life. Where medication can help, we can consider that option together. I consider ongoing therapy as an important part of optimizing any treatment with medication that can change your mood and behavior.

Welcome to my practice. I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with clients of various backgrounds. I specialize in working with clients with OCD, BPD, ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent individual, I strongly believe in being a neurodiversity affirming therapist, and constantly seek to educate myself on how to best support my clients who are neurodivergent. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients as we navigate the individual and collective challenges that they face in their lives. Reach out to me to schedule an initial consultation!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

People, life, and school are complex. It can be hard to figure out who you want to become while facing academic, family, or work pressure. As a recovering overachiever, I know how scary and foreign the world can be for a young adult just trying to become their own person. My role as a therapist is to provide you space (physical and emotional) to explore what you want for yourself and your life on your own terms. My approach emphasizes personal introspection, insight, and self-compassion in order to identify harmful thought patterns and behaviors. Together, we will find an approach that helps you heal from past experiences or cope with present challenges. I love working with young adults and being part of the lives they choose to pursue and the people they choose to become. This is your time to shine, so leave behind other people’s expectations, and step onto your own path. You’ve got this. Visit my website or give me a call to set up a free consultation; I would love to hear what’s happening for you.