Therapists for college students near San Francisco, CA
We often come to therapy because something in our life has emerged in a way we find challenging to navigate on our own. I approach our work together with this in mind, and as an honored participant in your journey toward growth and deepened insight. My therapeutic style is rooted in relational psychodynamic, IFS, and ACT interventions and centered in values of patience, humility, empathy, and humor. I strive to see you through the lens of your unique life experiences and to work collaboratively so we can effectively address your concerns. My hope is that, together, we can help you live a life that feels authentic and empowered. My experience working with young and emerging adults has allowed me to effectively support people in finding both a work-life balance and relief from stress. My areas of interest and specialization include working with anxiety, depression, interpersonal/relationship issues, grief, family-of-origin concerns, disordered eating, trauma, and self-acceptance. I'm committed to providing therapy to people of all races, gender, sexual orientation, ability, religion, and nationality. I work with adolescents and adults. I provide psychological assessments and individual or couples therapy in-person in San Francisco or online anywhere in California.
I currently have limited availability; please reach out to inquire of openings (as of 06/17/2026). Growing up Asian American in San Francisco, I had the privilege of feeling like “the majority” rather than feeling like “the minority.” When my mental health took a turn in my teen years, I was fortunate to have an Asian school-based therapist who reminded me of a “cool Asian aunt.” I remember feeling at ease seeing someone who looked like me in a space I thought was only meant for white people or people who were “that crazy.” This therapist showed me that therapy could be warm, kind, and even involve the humor I needed to say the hard stuff. She showed me that people like us could receive support and care through a listening ear. (I thought the only kind of care Asian elders gave was via cut fruit.) Years later, I hope to share this same safe experience as the person now sitting in the therapist’s chair. Whether you are living out your parents’ dreams or just trying to make it through the week, I can help you explore whether your path aligns with your values and supports your growth. I promise I won’t sass you the way my former Asian auntie-like therapist might, but I’ll make sure we keep it light where it needs to be, and hold space where it’s dark. We will discover who you are and what you need, with the utmost care (and a dash of humor, because therapy is hard enough as it is).
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
While I see people for many types of reasons, I usually see clients individually that are looking to work on a present centered issue. These typically include school issues, work stress, relationship problems, or difficulty coping with anxiety / depression symptoms. In graduate school I was part of the sports psychology department. During this time I assisted in two different research studies. The first examined flow states in athletes (getting in "the zone"). The second study examined the effects of concussions in athletes. I draw upon these experiences to help students focus and stay motivated. I also had a side job in graduate school where I helped coach college students that had difficulty adjusting to college life. These practical, real world skills are something I continue to teach to this day. When meeting with a client, I keep the atmosphere relaxed and inviting. I want people to feel comfortable, but also know they are receiving "evidence based" care. This means what I say in our meetings is supported by research. That is why I use treatments that incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques. These treatments are supported by current research and have a high rate of success.
I aim to provide a supportive environment that fosters reflection and growth. I am trained to provide evidence-based treatment in a flexible manner and often pull from CBT and DBT concepts and interventions. My approach emphasizes not only the building of skills to address your mental health symptoms but also skill development in the areas of communication and conflict management toward improving relationships. While I value maintaining a generalist practice, I have special interests in working with and supporting athletes and those who identify as a member of a marginalized group. I am also invested in helping people to access care that is right for them, and will make every effort to provide additional resources/providers if I am not the right fit.
My clinical approach is multi-disciplinary and rooted in psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, and humanistic psychology. I also have a background in integrative health and wellness, which can contribute to a more in-depth perspective on treatment. In addition, my work is relational and informed by the belief and the research that the essence of therapy is the relationship between the client and the therapist. It is this relationship that can encourage true and thorough transformation. My style is genuine, collaborative, interpersonal, direct, and non-judgemental, and I encourage clients to be true to themselves and transparent. Although treatment is based on an individual's needs and goals, primary objectives in treatment are to help clients (re)connect to their confidence and curiosity and to reinforce their capacity and resiliency.
My mission on earth is to help people live authentic, fulfilling lives. There are many things holding us back from this way of being: patterns of thoughts and behaviors that no longer serve us, fear, depression, anxiety, shame, loneliness. In the virtual world we are more connected than ever, and we are also in a time of profound disconnection - from our body, ourself, others. Therapy is a great way to get connected. To start living the life you dream of. Perhaps to begin dreaming that a better life is possible. I'm here to walk with you on your journey every step of the way. Together, we will discover who you are and make a plan to get you where you want to be. Self-knowledge, acceptance, compassion, forgiveness, and change are not easy. But the end result is more freedom, possibility, and love. I'm ready to walk your journey with you. Are you ready? "There is a difference between knowing the path and walking the path." ~Morpheus, "The Matrix"
As we move through life, we collect wounds that often never had the nourishment needed to heal properly. Our painful feelings hide deep inside, and we adapt in a variety of ways. Similar to how someone might go to a physical therapist for knee pain, only to find out that their knee pain exists because they hurt their hip years ago and compensated with misaligned posture, in life we experience psychological wounds that lead us to adapt our personality and behaviors in ways that are not aligned to who we actually are. In therapy, we listen to your thoughts and feelings and let them guide us toward the core parts of yourself that need healing. I provide a non-judgmental, grounded space where we can explore the ways you have adapted that are no longer working, welcome in the wounds that need healing, and allow you to become who you truly are.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers. As a generalist I enjoy working with a diverse range of people, ages, and issues. I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation. Through open and honest exploration and dialogue, I will help you identify the most pressing issues and make meaningful changes in your life. I'm good at providing practical solutions while also diving beneath the surface to discover underlying causes in order to affect deeper and longer lasting change.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Are you a person of color, LGBTQ, or woman-identified student in medicine or science? Have you been wearing that superhero cape for far too long? Ready to feel more peace in your life? You’ve come to the right place. I’m Dr. Lindsey Brooks and I work with underrepresented achievers. I’ll help you feel more grounded, balanced, and resilient. In my former position at UCSF Student Health, I worked with hundreds of students on these issues and I'd be thrilled to offer you support. I accept the Lyra Health Plan which now provides in-network benefits for all University of California students. You might be thinking to yourself: ”I need to keep it all together”, “If I just work harder and push myself more, then everything will be okay”, “I have to stay strong for my family” or “No one understands all this crap I deal with every day”. Everyone around you sees you as a success, yet something still feels like it’s missing. We will work together to help you feel more at ease, empowered, and maybe even allow yourself to be imperfect once in a while. When you begin to accept all the parts of yourself with compassion, things begin to change. You find your voice. I look forward to discovering your voice together. If you are seeking a therapist who is: social justice minded, an anti-racist ally, sex positive, feminist, bisexual+ affirming, and who has experience working with students in science and medicine, let’s talk. Schedule a FREE 20 minute phone consultation with me on my website: www.drlindseytherapy.com
My approach is relational, warm, and collaborative. I look forward to helping you make the changes in your life you'd like help with, including better relationships, improved mood, more effective parenting, increased self-esteem, career counseling, navigating divorce & co-parenting issues, feeling less stuck, navigating adolescent issues, and more.
Individual Work: Individual work is core to my practice. I work with adults and adolescents. Together we can explore whatever you feel to be disturbing your experience of life, particularly depression, anxiety, grief, loneliness, spiritual and creative blocks, illness, childhood abuse, trauma or issues related to sexuality, gender expression, and intimacy. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: I have extensive training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and am a Journey Clinical KAP provider. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I offer a therapeutic modality called KAP: the use of ketamine as a compliment to psychotherapy. I deliver KAP in my practice in partnership with an organization called Journey Clinical, which has a specialized medical team that determines eligibility for KAP, prescribes ketamine lozenges where appropriate, and supports me in monitoring outcomes. If you are interested in exploring KAP, please contact me to discuss eligibility and next steps. Areas of Specialty Depression, Sadness, Loneliness and Grief Anxiety Career and Life Transitions Men's Issues Business Partner Struggles Sexuality, Intimacy and Relationship Concerns LGBT, Kink and Queer Community Issues Spiritual Exploration Shame HIV and AIDS Compulsive Behaviors Adult Children of Alcoholics End of Life Issues Integration of psychedelic experiences
Hey- I'm glad you're here. Can I just name that looking for the right therapist for yourself can sometimes be a tad overwhelming? Give yourself some props for working through these profiles-- some of my clients have described it like 'dating' because it can take a while to find someone who you really vibe with- so I'll cut to the chase of who I am, what I do, and what you can expect from sessions with me! I'm a relational and person-centered therapist, meaning, I'm attuned to your needs and goals, act like a dynamic and engaged human in session, and really strongly believe you deserve a space where you can show up fully. I also prioritize the things you need in session to feel comfortable- if that's sitting on the floor, then I'll meet you there! If you need to fidget- I've got some for you. If you want to be burrito-wrapped up under a fuzzy blanket, that's just fine too! Ultimately, I want you to feel like you're getting something out of your time in therapy and we'll work together to create a space that allows for that. A lot of the students I work with are thoughtful, inquisitive, and just carrying a lot more than most people realize. They might look like they’re keeping up just fine, but inside they’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or questioning where life is headed. Some are navigating grief or the fallout of a breakup, others are dealing with anxiety, burnout, major academic stress, or trying to figure out who they are, where they're headed, and what matters to them. If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. In therapy with me, I aim for us to create a space where you can be completely yourself without having to downplay your struggles. I bring warmth, curiosity, and care, and some helpful perspectives and ways of coping that are 100% tailored to you and what you need. You show up, and we’ll take things step-by-step and explore what’s weighing on you and what may help you get through it, together. If anything here resonated with you- I welcome you to reach out and set up a 20 minute free phone call with me and we'll go from there! Best of luck finding the care you're seeking!
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!
Are you struggling with emotional pain from past trauma, relationship or family challenges, chronic anxiety or depression, self-doubt or wanting to quiet that inner critic? I would like to welcome you to my psychotherapy practice in the Hayes Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. For nearly 20 years, I have been providing counseling and therapy services to adult individuals, couples, families and children, helping them to successfully move through some of life's most challenging and confusing times. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and Mindfulness Educator, I provide integrative mind-body therapy. The guiding tenets of my work include authenticity, compassion, and the creation of a safe environment that is necessary for deep healing and lasting change.
Welcome to my practice! We all face challenges in our lives. With those challenges come opportunities to choose how we respond. Some of the difficulties we face include adapting to a new school, job, or relationship, making new friends, and finding meaning in one's life. Other challenges are unique to the individual like discrimination, identity concerns, or trauma. I create a safe space for clients where I am present, genuine, and empathetic. Central to my approach is learning about my clients in a nonjudgmental, affirming way. I help clients develop a deeper understanding of how their past and current experiences influence their thoughts and reactions. The therapeutic interventions I use help clients develop skills to meet their challenges. Therapy is a collaboration that leads to enhanced self-awareness and effective problem-solving. With increased understanding, skills, support, and resources, we have more freedom to effectively cope in ways that are consistent with our values. Freedom means we are not repeating previous maladaptive patterns, allowing us to live the life we want, experiencing greater fulfillment and happiness.
Most days you can pretend that everything is ok--that you don’t need therapy for anxiety—especially if you keep busy. Then there are these moments of panic where all of your emotions hit you and you can’t find a way to feel better. Maybe you drag yourself out of bed to go to work and have anxiety attacks where you cry in the bathroom stall. You try to keep pushing the thoughts or memories that overwhelm you away, to no avail. It doesn’t happen all the time so you can usually tell yourself and everyone else things are fine. But if you stopped for a minute and looked at reality you would notice how unhappy you are with yourself and who you are. Every move you make seems like a reminder of something you did wrong or could do better. It feels like these moments happen OUT OF NOWHERE and a part of you feels like you are going to have to live your life with these intense feelings and memories coming up unexpectedly and just having to grin and bear it until the feeling passes. Or maybe these overwhelming feelings of anxiety and dread only come up when you are dating or when you are close friends with someone. You are usually confident and happy in your life but anxiety eats away at you when you get close to someone. t doesn’t have to be this way. You can reclaim your life. Your body was MADE to feel and EXPRESS emotions. And, if you don't learn how to identify, respond to, and express those emotions regularly- they will come out- in ways that often feel out of control. My name is Lisa Manca and I specialize in working with anxiety/trauma, dating anxiety, and online therapy. My approach will help you learn how to deeply connect with your body, identify what is happening, and move through it with more ease and grace so your body has to send you those big signals less and less. We won't just TALK about what is happening or what has happened to you, we will create new routines, patterns, and strategies that feel GOOD in your body and that work in your life. Our sessions will get you moving through life with more ease (literally), dancing (sometimes), and getting really clear on creating a new way of moving through life and relationships. Through therapy with me, you will find a deep sense of safety and connection to yourself and your body. Your emotions will no longer be the enemy and you will accept who you are and be able to give compassion to yourself. You will connect with yourself, live in your body and FEEL the emotions you were once so afraid to face. Please call (415) 212-8780 to schedule your free therapy consultation now and learn how to live in your body in a way that life has more ease and less panic.