Therapists for college students near UCLA

Brenda Valenzuela is a dedicated therapist who places building trust and engagement at the core of her practice. She takes a humanistic approach, focusing on understanding each individual's unique perspective and experiences. Brenda strives to create an environment rooted in empathy, respect, and authenticity, ensuring clients feel truly seen, heard, and understood. Her warm, inclusive style centers on meeting clients where they are, using thoughtful questions to tailor each session to their needs. Brenda is committed to fostering genuine connections, celebrating progress, and guiding clients through growth and healing. Outside of her professional life, Brenda is a mom, who enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, including her goldendoodle and fiancé, a firefighter in Southern California. She values family time, walks, farmers markets, and library visits, bringing the same warmth and authenticity to her personal life as she does to her work.

I strive to support students of color and first- and second-generation immigrants in exploring their identities, healing from family burdens, and building the confidence to succeed in life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, or cultural and family issues, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need to heal and grow.

Client's that work well with my collaborative style are often people who are struggling with life transitions. I often connect with people who are working to find different methods to manage anxiety and perfectionism. I also hold space in my practice for queer couples.

I work best with students who are feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of school, work, relationships, or major life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy because they're struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, burnout, or feeling stuck. Others are adjusting to college, navigating difficult family dynamics, substance and alcohol abuse, processing relationship challenges, or trying to balance everything life is throwing at them. You don't have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Whether you're looking for support through a difficult season or want to build healthier coping skills and greater confidence, I'll provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.

We are an online telehealth group therapy practice committed to promoting mental health and well-being for college students. Understanding the unique pressures and challenges faced in this pivotal stage of life, our team is skilled in addressing stress management, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and personal growth. Our expertise extends to trauma and age-specific therapy tailored to young adults navigating academics, social life, and career planning. We blend traditional therapeutic techniques with innovative practices, focusing on strategies that resonate with the dynamic and diverse needs of college students. Our online sessions are designed to fit seamlessly into the demanding and fast-paced college lifestyle, offering the flexibility and convenience necessary to prioritize mental health without compromising academics or social commitments. Our practice stands on a rich foundation of professional expertise, empathetic care, and a commitment to helping students navigate the complex terrain of college life. With personalized, high-quality care in a confidential and secure online setting, we make mental health services more accessible and relevant than ever. Join us in a collaborative journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a fulfilling college experience.

I specialize in working with college students and young adults who often face major life transitions that can bring up a great deal of anxiety, depression, stress, uncertainty and relationship/family challenges. I approach each client seeking to genuinely understand their life experiences and current struggles. I work from a place of compassion and support clients in building understanding of their emotions, habits, and relationships. I utilize mindfulness to support clients in reducing anxiety and stress and support clients by identifying internal strengths to walk through challenging periods. Together we will seek to bring more joy, understanding, and peace into your life! I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

As a mental health clinician, I find a great joy in working with young individuals in their early 20's and 30's who may struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Through active listening and communication, client's have found therapy to be a place to "think out loud" and allow themselves to feel or experience emotions that would otherwise be ignored and forgotten. Therapy is a place to being authentic, to grow in self awareness, and to be empowered by one's successes and shortcomings. I am passionate about supporting the Asian American community. As an Asian American therapist, I want to support Asian American individuals who may struggle with cultural identities, family relational issues and addressing culture specific topics that impact one's social and emotional wellness.

I specialize in the treatment of depression (including prenatal and postpartum), anxiety, trauma, addictions, interpersonal conflict, and life transitions. I strongly believe that you have what it takes to find the answers and solutions that work best for you. I am here to help guide you to find those answers and explore a different perspective. I take on an eclectic approach in my practice including Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Strengths-Based all while offering different skills that can help navigate relationships and day-to-day stressors. My goal is to provide you with skills that you can take and maintain even after you complete your therapy journey with me. Some of these skills can include, but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, communication, mindfulness, anxiety management, and relaxation skills. I have experience in working with all ages of life. My passion is working with young adults and adults, couples, and families. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

I love working with college students navigating this important chapter in their lives. I understand a lot of the challenges many students encounter during this time in their lives and have a variety of ways to offer support. Some of the ways I can offer support are by helping students understand the underlying issues fueling the challenges they are facing as well as learning coping tools and finding access to resources or practices that can benefit them and help them move through the places they feel stuck to obtain their bigger goals. I offer a variety of techniques and ways of working with students, including but not limited to, tools based, interventions, dream work and hypnotherapy which can be especially helpful in resolving ineffective habits that get in the way day-to-day.

My training exposed me to a wide range of therapeutic approaches, and I have worked with clients with major psychiatric diagnoses (7 years working in a subacute facility) and those with common anxiety and depression (decades of work life). I have long experience with university students dealing with the challenges of adjusting to overwhelming work demands and learning to navigate unfamiliar social environments. Many clients have felt that they don't make friends easily or fit in with groups. And some clients are generally insecure about whether they can succeed at a nationally rated academic institution (impostor syndrome). I work to understand what issues are most important to my clients and help them learn ways to be more comfortable with themselves and to succeed in their personal, romantic, family, socioeconomic, and academic or work circumstances. Every person has their own background and their own challenges, so everyone needs an individualized treatment. Clients with Asperger syndrome often benefit from help in dealing with social interactions and with sometimes overwhelming anxiety. Immigrants (and also people coming from remote parts of the US) may find local customs and styles unfamiliar and find help with meeting new friends and colleagues. As an immigrant myself (from Sweden), I know well what it feels like to be an outsider and have learned ways to help people adjust to new environments and different expectations. This experience has also allowed me to help many with an LGBTQ background in their family, romantic, and work interactions. Too many in our world are dealing with the after-effects of trauma in its varied forms, and finding ways to move forward and to enjoy normal relationships can be lifesaving. As a background for many clients, home experiences with one's family of origin can set the stage for ongoing unhappiness and failed romantic relationships, and this should not be a permanent obstacle to a satisfying and fulfilling life.

I have worked with many University Students struggling with the adjustment and stress of a Masters or PHD program. I work in Downtown Corvallis offering in person or online sessions. Most of my clients come in with stress anxiety, depression, diversity issues, and trauma

I have always been passionate about understanding others. I believe that most peoples’ actions and beliefs make sense once you understand the full context of their stories. However, we often judge others instead of taking the time to do this. Having a non-judgmental space to explore one’s emotions and experiences is a gift I believe everyone should have access to. Therapy is special because in addition to providing that non-judgmental space, I also can offer practical tools and support for mental health based on my education and experience as a therapist. During our first session, I will ask you to share about why you are seeking therapy and what goals feel important to you. Then, we’ll talk about the ways I can support you in reaching those goals. It’s important to know that I always assume the best in my clients, and my only goal for you is that you are able to live in a way that aligns with your own values and aspirations. Sometimes, I will point out when my clients actions don’t align with their values, as this enables us to truly reflect and grow. Every client has a different comfort level when it comes to how much and how soon they share things with me. I build trust with my clients by showing up consistently and honestly, and I trust that my clients will share things with me when they’re ready. In my past work, I have especially connected with young adults who are processing childhood trauma. I also have had many Asian American clients who are interested in further exploring their cultural identities in therapy. Whatever your background, it would be an honor to work with you and be part of your story.

I was trained at Yale and Columbia University, and I was a Clinical Associate Professor (affiliate) at Stanford University for 15 years. Recently, the American Psychology Association bestowed me the Fellow status, an honor for outstanding contributions to the field of psychology in Clinical Psychology (Division 12). I am also a full Professor at the California School of Professional Psychology. I am very experienced in working with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds and on extremely challenging issues. In addition, I have trained and supervised hundreds of psychologists and therapists, including Ph.D. students and post-doctoral trainees in many universities and clinical settings.

Gregory E. Koch, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in California providing safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic care to both individuals and couples. Dr. Koch is devoted to helping clients feel safe in their relationships after experiencing abuse and trauma. He believes deeply in the power of positive human connection and that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities. This is reflected in the honesty, respect, and trust that he provides for each person he serves. Dr. Koch provides in-office and teletherapy services for adults, couples, emerging adults, and adolescents. Areas of Specialization: -Undergraduate and Graduate Student concerns -Anxiety -Abuse & neglect -Generational trauma -Life transitions & change -Relationships -Trauma & post-traumatic stress My Philosophy and Approach: The ability to feel safe is one of the most important aspects of mental health. When we grow up with family dynamics that make us feel unsafe or invalidated, we can struggle to feel accepted and understood. I am committed to helping stop emotional wounds from being passed down through generations by teaching strategies to move from blame and reactivity to empathy and connection. My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued. My approach to therapy is caring, collaborative and action oriented in a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework. I utilize an integrative approach that includes Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which are both evidence-based practices that can help reduce trauma-related symptoms. An area that is very close to my heart is working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQ+/GSRD communities. Clients of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationships are warmly invited to explore these identities in my practice. I also have extensive background related to the developmental tasks of early adulthood. I am passionate about helping emerging adults and adolescents develop confidence and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. What You Will Experience Working With Me: When we experience any kind of trauma, we have both emotional and physical reactions. This can look like anxiety, trouble sleeping, feeling disconnected, having intrusive thoughts, or withdrawing from others. We will work together to develop practical tools and strategies to address these problem areas and help you navigate through even the most challenging life circumstances. Clients that I work with appreciate my integrative approach, which is a whole-person perspective that treats both the mind and body. For example, I emphasize practices that draw attention to your breath and body to promote relaxation and teach you techniques for quieting the mind and calming the body. Integrated therapy has been found to be particularly helpful for anyone who has experienced trauma, as well as anxiety, stress, and challenges with work-life balance. My Work With Couples: One of my strengths as a therapist is to guide people to improve their relationships. We can learn the most about ourselves in the context of meaningful relationships and I view conflict in romantic relationships as an opportunity for profound and powerful growth, learning, and healing. I provide couples therapy that is accessible for all partners in romantic relationships. This means that I welcome clients of all genders, sexualities, and relationship diversity. You might ask, “What is ‘relationship diversity’?” It can mean many things, such as polyamorous couples, non-monogamy, and different types of kink relationships. I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), an evidence-based, interactive, and action-oriented approach. In IRT, you will learn a new way of talking to your partner to improve your communication and help you understand them on a deeper, more empathetic level. I am also trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, which I integrate with IRT. Education & Training: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Gender and Human Sexualities, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, San Diego Professional Affiliations & Duties: -Member, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee for UCSD Student Health and Wellbeing Cluster -Member, UCSD’s Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Issues -Member, University of California-wide Transgender Care Team -Adjunct Professor, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University -Invited presenter to community and university-based groups and organizations on a variety of topics Professional Memberships: -California Psychological Association (CPA) -San Diego Psychological Association (SDPA) -Imago Relationships North America (IRNA)

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I enjoy working with adults and helping them to gain a deeper perspective and understanding of themselves and the problems they face in daily life including depression, anxiety, adjusting to changes in life circumstances, dealing with stressors, and processing unresolved grief or trauma. I use a client-centered approach that starts with a foundation of unconditional positive regard, honesty, and empathic understanding. I believe this foundation is important in order to develop trust with my clients in order to work together to achieve the growth, relief, and change they are looking for in their lives. I utilize and integrate a variety of theories to help me best understand individuals and how they can make changes in their lives. Some of the theories I use to achieve this include Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gestalt, and Psychodynamic Theory. Additionally, I use a variety of interventions from these theories as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to help individuals create meaningful change in their lives and experience relief from their symptoms. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

I'm a licensed clinical therapist in California with 5 years of professional work experience. My therapy style is mixed, although pleasant and educational. I believe in being truthful with my clients. I believe in treating them with respect and compassion. However, I’m able to tailor sessions and treatment plans to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life. Making a decision to take the first steps towards a change can be scary. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, an EMDR therapist, and a Psychotraumatologist. I also have served as a founder and advisor of mental/health & software companies. Further, I am a health and trauma consultant to international organizations. I specialize in psychoanalysis and psychotherapy for young adults, adults, couples & families; PTSD, trauma, burnout & secondary stress; consultation to clinicians, teachers, executives & institutions. I authored manuscripts in the areas of child psychoanalysis, psychosomatic conditions, trauma & secondary stress & co-authored & implemented a Brief Lacanian Treatment Model & a "Lacanian Approach" model to the organization and its individuals. I have completed a postdoc fellowship @ Stanford Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS); completed psychoanalytic formation at the Lacan School of Psychoanalysis (LSP); conducted extensive research @ PTSD Research Program, SFVA/UCSF; was a consultant to the Brief Lacanian Analysis Project @ MMH; served as Adjunct Clinical Faculty @ CIIS & as Faculty & VP @ Lacan School of Psychoanalysis (LSP), & as a founder in Tech.

In my private practice, my clients present with a wide array of clinical concerns, including life transitions, identity issues, and mental disorders. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens. I have been a resident of Los Angeles for five years, and in 2018 I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. Since graduating I have worked extensively in community mental health settings with adults diagnosed with substance use disorders and severe and persistent mental illnesses, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. I understand the role that one's identity plays into one's life experience. Whatever your identity may be, I will treat you with dignity and respect, and I maintain a non-judgmental attitude in my work with my clients. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. To learn more about my availability, please reach out to our Client Experience team by emailing or calling.

I am inspired to work in the field of mental health care because of my passion for fostering meaningful change in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. My dedication to helping individuals build on their strengths and navigate challenges allows me to empower them to heal, grow, and thrive. Guided by empathy, I aim to create a space where people can feel understood and supported in their journey toward better mental health. To ensure clients feel heard and understood in sessions, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves openly. I approach each session with empathy, active listening, and cultural humility, tailoring my support to honor the unique experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ2+ individuals, low-income families, children, adolescents, and trauma survivors. By validating their feelings, recognizing their strengths, and fostering trust, I help clients feel truly understood and supported throughout their journey. I build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance by creating a warm, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where clients feel safe to share their experiences. I honor each client’s unique strengths, values, and goals, fostering a sense of partnership and mutual respect. This approach helps establish a strong foundation for meaningful growth and healing, allowing clients to feel supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process.