Therapists for college students near University of Southern California

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve spent much of your life being strong for others. I specialize in working with members of the Latino community across generations, including immigrants, first- and second-generation individuals, and monolingual Spanish speakers. Many of my clients are navigating family expectations, identity exploration, acculturation stress, and the challenge of balancing multiple cultural worlds while managing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, parenting concerns, or major life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental space using a behavioral and systemic approach. As a bilingual Latina therapist, I help clients build coping skills, strengthen relationships, navigate immigration and adjustment stress, and explore how culture and family shape their experiences. Evening, Saturday, and limited sliding scale spots available. I understand the deep importance of culture, family, and identity, and I am passionate about helping clients feel seen, heard, and supported in ways that honor their lived experiences. You deserve a space where you can show up fully, heal at your own pace, and begin creating meaningful change.

You may appear to have everything together while quietly carrying stress, anxiety, burnout, academic pressure, or the weight of trying to meet everyone else’s expectations. College can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting at times, especially when you are balancing school, relationships, work, and your own well-being. I provide a supportive, judgment-free space where college students and young adults can feel heard, gain clarity, and develop practical tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and balance. As an LCSW, I take a client-centered and collaborative approach focused on empowerment, self-understanding, and creating meaningful, lasting change.

Professional Introduction for College Students Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to supporting students as they navigate the unique pressures of academic life. I earned my Master's degree in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing with honors from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, and I am passionate about providing a safe, transparent, non-judgmental space for the student community. College is a period of immense growth, but it can also bring significant challenges. Whether you are dealing with the weight of depression, the persistent pull of anxiety, the challenges of ADHD, the complexities of PTSD, or struggles with substance use (SUD), please know that you do not have to face these hurdles alone. My approach is centered on dignity, efficacy, and equity, ensuring that your individual identity, values, and cultural background are always honored. I offer comprehensive, evidence-based care that integrates both psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve optimal health and academic success. My goal is to empower you with the tools and support needed to recover and thrive during your college journey and beyond.

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

College life can be stressful, overwhelming, and emotionally exhausting at times. Myisha Parker provides supportive psychiatric care for students struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, mood changes, stress, and other mental health concerns. She offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management with a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental approach. Patients can typically be seen within 3–7 days through telehealth or in-person appointments across California. Advanced Psychiatry Associates accepts many insurance plans, including Anthem UC SHIP and multiple HMOs.

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.

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.

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Hi there! I'm glad you're here. Starting therapy takes a lot of vulnerability, and finding the right fit is vital. With over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, I have supported clients in a variety of settings with a wide range of mental health needs. With experience working in a college counseling center, I am particularly passionate about supporting college and graduate students. I have often worked with students around issues such as identity, life transitions/adjustment, academic stress, international student issues, trauma/PTSD, family/relationship issues, and anxiety. I also specialize in perinatal mental health and military/veterans. I use an eclectic approach, integrating a variety of therapeutic styles to customize the approach to best fit your individual needs. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well as pulling from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and I use an attachment-based approach to manage and understand relationship challenges. I tend to use a more open-ended, processing-based style to help build insight, while also suggesting worksheets or concrete exercises from time to time when they might be helpful. I take a warm, gentle, and non-judgmental approach to create a sense of safety and build trust as we get to know each other, and to encourage your autonomy and help you feel empowered in therapy. I greatly value a client-centered and collaborative approach and want you to be in the driver's seat, and will often ask for feedback about our goals together and what approaches and techniques may or may not resonate with you.

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.

College and young adulthood can bring a lot of change at once. I primarily work with female college students and young adult women who may be managing classes, work, relationships, family expectations, greater independence, or decisions about the future while privately feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or unsure of themselves. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, self-esteem, relationship concerns, or a major life transition. You don't have to be in crisis or have everything figured out to benefit from therapy. Sometimes you may simply recognize that you haven't felt like yourself lately or that the ways you've been managing stress aren't working as well as they used to. Therapy can give you space to slow things down, better understand yourself and what you're experiencing, and develop practical ways to feel more grounded and confident moving forward. My approach considers the whole person, not just symptoms. Together, we may explore your thoughts and emotions, how stress shows up in your body, your relationships, sleep, movement, nutrition, everyday habits, and other areas that may be affecting your well-being. For students who would like their faith to be part of therapy, Christian-informed care is also available. If you're looking for a therapist who will meet you where you are, help you look beneath the surface, and support you in making meaningful changes while still being yourself, we may be a good fit.

Courtney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who helps adults feel more like themselves again. She has worked across a wide range of settings, from supporting older adults living with serious mental illness to leading art based groups with younger clients, and she draws on all of it. Her style is integrative and rooted in person centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction. She connects most with people carrying the weight of trauma. Much of her work uses somatic and mindfulness based tools that help clients reconnect mind and body and rebuild a sense of control over their lives. Courtney treats you as the expert on your own story and sees her role as walking beside you rather than handing over answers. Most people who reach out are looking for steadiness, a little creativity, and a path back to peace and purpose. Courtney sees clients through WellQor, which offers online therapy across California. To get started, fill out the Get Started form on the WellQor website. A member of the front office team will then text you with next steps and help you find a time to meet, so the first step stays simple and there is no pressure to have everything figured out before you reach out.