Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

My name is Dr. Noah Lau Branson and I am a biracial licensed clinical psychologist providing therapy and counseling services in Pasadena, California. My practice is largely online and thus I provide services to people throughout California. I specialize in working with people and couples with mixed backgrounds (bi and multi-cultural/ethnic/racial) and other types of complex identity formation (religion/spirituality, LGBTQ+, SES). In addition, I have specialties in developmental and relational trauma, helping professionals (therapists, teachers, medical practitioners, pastors), and men’s issues. As a therapist, I believe reducing your symptoms is just the first step. I want to help you discover the roots of your pain, make meaning of your story, create healthy relationships with yourself and others, and take steps to live well.

Dan is a Psychological Associate in the State of California. As an intern, he worked in Hospice Care where he assisted clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life changes. He was also able to help clients work through anxiety, depression, and stress. Dan provided personalized help for each specific hurdle his clients faced, such as loss of job or relationship, life transitions, and end of life concerns for self or others. Dan received his Doctor of Psychology from California Southern University and his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University Maryland. His focus in therapy is based on both Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy. In Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dan is able to help the client understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option for clients, if they desire, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, Dan helps the client to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. While some of Dan’s interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns and members of the LGBT+ community, Dan is prepared to help each and every person that he can. His experience in working with people from all walks of life and diverse age groups aids Dan’s flexibility and aptitude for helping many different people seeking help.

Rui Dolen is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental trauma, and reactions to other stressful events in children and adults. Rui is a somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) and Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR), as well as parts work (ego states). Rui's approach is a holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based somatic approach, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice. Rui became passionate about parenting during her trauma work with children and families because she realized parenting is the prevention of trauma and we can all change the world through intentional parenting. After struggling with infertility, Rui now is a mother of a 28 weeks preemie baby who survived multiple surgeries and various feeding issues during the first year of her life. Embodying her own trauma practice, and with the support of her professional communities, she has been on her healing journey and grateful for her little miracle every day. Rui was born and raised in Beijing, China. With her eastern background, she is connected to mindfulness-based practice and life philosophies, personally and professionally. Growing up, Rui has seen her own family and the society in China suffering from different forms of trauma including generational trauma. Her innate curiosity and determination led her to study Psychology in the U.S. Rui holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University. Since then, along with founding her own private practice, The Wholistic Connection, Rui also is a part of the mental health team at AMDA College & Conservatory of the Performing Arts in Hollywood. Rui also has worked with Strength United, Pacific Clinics, Pacific Asian Counseling Services, and most recently the intensive outpatient program at Community West. In her free time, Rui is a yogi, major foodie, Airstreamer, and traveler. Her husband and she traveled around the world for a year in 2016. Her best getaway is to take her baby, four dogs, and drive their airstream to camp in nature.

Adjusting to life changes and managing stress can seem overwhelming at times. If you experience anxiety, depression, other mental health symptoms, or just life changes you're familiar with the desire to find stability and ways to cope. It could be a change in job, or managing stress from work, strain in a relationship with a partner or family members, recent grief and loss, feelings of worthlessness, feeling on edge, or looking for a tune up after life events. I believe therapy offers a space to explore the coping skills to address the issues that arise in our lives and identify healthier ways of thinking to become the best versions of ourselves. Are you looking for a safe space and support (as you address during your life transitions? My goal is to help client's who are looking to start a new chapter in their life. I am passionate about helping people find purpose, fulfillment and direction along with stability and healthy lifestyles individually, in relationships and in families. I use direct and approaches to help clients build the skills they need to fulfill their goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and approaches allow me help clients identify unhealthy thinking patterns and core beliefs that affect the ability to maintain healthy, balanced lifestyles. Using individualized planning I use a combination of therapeutic approaches to assist each client meet the goals that uniquely fit their needs. Each person is treated as the expert in their life as we work together to build the insight and understanding necessary to bring them from where they are to where they want to be.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I also recently earned my PhD in social work. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients better understand the relationship between thoughts and feelings. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.

I’m Ononuju “Uju” Nwachie, a compassionate and dedicated Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric and family health care. I understand that navigating mental health challenges can feel overwhelming, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re dealing with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, I’m here to support you with care that is evidence-based and deeply personal. I deeply understand the challenges of mental illness and I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. My goal is to collaborate with you, ensuring that the medications we consider are ones you feel comfortable with. Rather than simply directing your treatment, I aim to create a partnership where your preferences and concerns are at the forefront of our discussions. Your journey is important, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

My training is in both medical and clinical mental health settings where I have gained an expertise in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep concerns and insomnia, chronic pain and other chronic illness adjustment difficulties. I also have a passion for working with mothers and women who are pregnant or postpartum and are looking for support through these critical life stages.

You are feeling stuck and overwhelmed from the pain and trauma of your past. At times it feels like your body and mind are at odds, out of your own control, and you feel distant from yourself and others around you. You're unsure of how to move forward but you know it can't continue on like this. You're looking for a sense of peace and safety within yourself and your relationships. You want to finally leave the past in the past and show up as more wholly you. Whether you are just beginning to explore the ways your past has impacted you or you've been in therapy before, I believe lasting change and healing is possible.

Danielle Cooper, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of the Center of Behavioral Therapy and Consultation for OCD and Anxiety. Dr. Cooper has unique expertise in evidence-based cognitive-behavioral treatments for OCD, PTSD, and anxiety-related disorders, having trained and worked alongside internationally recognized leaders in the field as a former Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. She has extensive experience working with college students struggling with anxiety and perfectionism. Drawing upon her clinical expertise, research knowledge, and experience, Dr. Cooper provides the most potent and effective treatments available for OCD, PTSD, and anxiety. She also specializes in brief evidence-based cognitive behavioral interventions for insomnia and nightmares. Dr. Cooper currently offers telehealth appointments to patients in PA, NJ, and CA. Prior to founding CBTCOA, Dr. Cooper was an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at the world-renowned Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety (CTSA) in the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. Cooper also established and was the Director of the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for OCD. While at CTSA, she was involved in clinical work, administration, supervision, teaching, research and consultation. Dr. Cooper received her B.A. in Psychology from Bucknell University and M.A. in Psychology from Boston University working at the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CARD). She then worked as a clinical research coordinator at the Boston VA. Dr. Cooper obtained her M.S. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Ohio University. She completed her clinical internship at the Ann Arbor VA and her post-doctoral fellowship at CTSA. Dr. Cooper has worked in various clinical settings, such as in an academic medical center, a university counseling center, a community mental health center, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, multiple VA medical centers, and private practice. She has received extensive training from leading experts in the field on the assessment and treatment of OCD, PTSD, and anxiety-related disorders. She is a certified clinician, consultant, and supervisor in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) for PTSD and Exposure and Response Prevention (EXRP) for OCD.

Hi, I'm Rebecca and I'm so glad you're here. I love supporting students of all ages and young adults in graduate school, college, and high school, as you're navigating through life transitions, relationships, and mental health challenges. I have worked at many college counseling centers and know how important and intense these years are for students. I work to provide a safe, collaborative landing space for you to find your voice; learn new ways of being, with yourself and with others; process pain and loss; manage and understand your anxiety and feel empowered and grounded in your life. I approach therapy from a humanist and relational orientation that focuses on your individual strengths. I often help clients with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, family relationships, identity development, work/school-life balance, ADHD/ADD, self-esteem, sexual identity, relationships, and grief. I'm also passionate about helping clients who identify as motherless daughters as well as student-athletes.

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

Many of the students I work with feel overwhelmed by their thoughts, anxious about the future, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. Some deal with intrusive thoughts, constant worry, or panic that gets in the way of school, relationships, or sleep. Others are coping with past experiences, burnout, or the pressure to “keep it all together.” I offer a space where you don’t have to pretend you’re fine. Together, we slow things down, understand what’s happening in your mind and body, and build tools that help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control of your life.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I strongly believe in meeting a person where they are at and fostering a client-centered approach to recovery. I have worked with a wide variety of disorders. I have extensive experience with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, work stress, crisis, relationship problems, behavior problems, and school stress. I have assisted with Life Coaching, Solution-Focusing therapy, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and goal setting. I work with my client on identifying goals and breaking them down into achievable steps.

I'm Brooke Sundin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the owner of Light Minds Child and Family Therapy, a private practice based in Brentwood, Los Angeles. I work with college students and young adults adjusting to new responsibilities and the growing pressures of adulthood. The clients I work with are often dealing with anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem struggles, and the life transitions that come with this stage: starting or finishing college, moving to a new city, figuring out relationships, choosing a path, or grieving the version of life you thought you'd have by now. Some of what we work on is symptom-focused. A lot of it is bigger than that, like building a clearer sense of who you are and what you actually want. My approach is collaborative, interactive, and warm. Therapy can be a vulnerable space to step into, and I'm here to cheer you on along the way. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all model, so I adjust my approach based on what you actually need. I draw on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. I'm also certified in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) through the Yale Child Study Center, which I use when parents want to be part of the support system. I'm licensed in California, Florida, Utah, and Tennessee, and I see all clients via secure telehealth, which tends to work well for college students juggling class schedules, internships, and a life that doesn't sit still. Reaching out for support is one of the hardest steps, so thank you for considering me. If it seems like we could be a good fit, I'd be honored to learn more about your story and welcome you to the Light Minds family.

Healing and change begins with the therapeutic relationship. Through a caring and nonjudgmental space we can process difficult emotions, gain awareness of what keeps us in suffering, and integrate newfound insights to bring relief. I am sensitive to the ways our past experiences and future anxieties impact our present. Together we will explore and discover what unfolds moment-to-moment to gain new understanding and begin healing and moving toward wholeness. I am deeply honored to witness your journey. As a veteran I understand the needs of service members, veterans and their families. I also specialize in addiction and recovery and have advanced training and experience working with anxiety, depression, codependency and trauma. I've also worked with children experiencing significant emotional and behavioral difficulties related to traumatic events. Gestalt therapy has formed the basis of my practice with special emphasis on awareness, integration and the therapeutic relationship. I am also an EMDR therapist, and incorporate depth psychological practices, imaginal methods, mindfulness techniques, and dreamwork.

We are all human, and at one point or another, yearn to feel heard and understood. Our circumstances can be an amalgamation of multiple factors, external as well as internal. Carmit is interested in getting to know and hear your experiences and help make sense of the circumstances, feelings and challenges you are going through. Having a multicultural background and being multilingual, Carmit is interested about the balance between the universality of human experience and a person's individual circumstances. Carmit’s has over ten years’ experience in the field. Her multicultural background and professional experiences have provided with opportunities to work with people of diverse backgrounds as well varied life experiences and challenges. Being multi-cultural and multi-lingual, Carmit has special interest and sensitivity working with people of diverse cultural, religious, ethnic and racial backgrounds.

My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, I believe that mental health treatment needs to be personalized so that individuals in need of help are provided with unstigmatized care, to be heard, validated, and treated like human beings. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I diagnose and treat significant depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine.

My goal is to help you find the freedom to be yourself. Oftentimes, people and circumstances we experience can change the way we perceive ourselves and our life. We can feel like we’ve lost our place in the world or lost a sense of who we are or want to be. My goal is to help you to overcome those obstacles through mindset work, problem solving, and boundary setting. You are unique and deserve to be able to express your individuality and live the best life possible.

When we think of art, we typically think of paintings, films, and music. But what about living life? Ancient Greek philosophers believed that living life is an art. They also thought that, with practice, we can learn to be better artists. I believe that to live well, to navigate the challenges and struggles of life in a way that is authentic to who we are and who we want to be, would be nothing short of creating a masterpiece. Just like there is no one right way to create art, there is no one right way to live life. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that aims to create art through the life we live. I work with people of all ages and cultures who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, and self-esteem issues, among other concerns. I also have extensive experience working with teenagers and young adults, especially those struggling with difficult life transitions, anger issues, and problematic video game/internet usage. Remember, there is no one right way to create art, but there is a way that works best for you. That is what we are working toward. If you are struggling with any of these issues, or you are the parent of someone who is, it would be my honor to schedule a free consultation session with you, learn more about you and your goals, and see if we are a good fit.

I work with children, teens, and adults, using a specialized blend of behavior principles into my therapeutic practice. I started my career in special education as a behaviorist for children with autism and later worked as a school counselor for middle school students in East Los Angeles. I earned my BCBA in 2020 and my LCSW in 2021, allowing me to integrate behavior management techniques into my mental health practice. I love being able to work with clients from both a behavioral and mental health perspective, allowing space for big behaviors and big feelings to coexist and be processed together. I'm here to help! I am directive yet empathetic and allow clients to tailor their therapeutic plan to meet their needs and goals. Please don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation to see if we might be a good fit. Email for clinical supervision rates (individual, triadic, group).