Therapists in Bakersfield, CA
You're feeling angry, hurt and thinking, 'Why do we fight about the same things over and over again? I am so tired of arguing! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're feeling alone and frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely and confused they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
You're feeling angry, hurt and thinking, 'Why do we fight about the same things over and over again? I am so tired of arguing! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're feeling alone and frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely and confused they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
Hello, I am Jonathan Fonseca, LCSW CA. License number 115200. As your licensed therapist, I am here to support you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal transformation. Together, we will explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and work towards fostering resilience, finding clarity, and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist.
Hello, I am Jonathan Fonseca, LCSW CA. License number 115200. As your licensed therapist, I am here to support you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal transformation. Together, we will explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and work towards fostering resilience, finding clarity, and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist.
This is my third decade providing mental health services and interventions. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations.
This is my third decade providing mental health services and interventions. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations.
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
Patrick Middleton Christian Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Welcome. I work with adults, teens and couples looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Being Christian doesn't make us immune to suffering and you're not alone in your struggles. We live in a fallen world. Family issues, trauma, suffering, depression, anxiety and extreme anger are very real challenges that any of us can face from time to time. I work with people who are tired of the way things have been going in their life, and are wanting to see change as quickly as possible.
Welcome. I work with adults, teens and couples looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Being Christian doesn't make us immune to suffering and you're not alone in your struggles. We live in a fallen world. Family issues, trauma, suffering, depression, anxiety and extreme anger are very real challenges that any of us can face from time to time. I work with people who are tired of the way things have been going in their life, and are wanting to see change as quickly as possible.
Laura M. Van Waardenburg, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. Depending on your needs I may support you with the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). I come from a humanistic, client-centered, and culturally sensitive approach to all my clients.
Laura M. Van Waardenburg, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. Depending on your needs I may support you with the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). I come from a humanistic, client-centered, and culturally sensitive approach to all my clients.
Kingdom Community Ministries
Pastoral Counselor, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
Tiffany Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for over 10 years.
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for over 10 years.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Online Only)
Hello there, my name is Jackie. I’d like to start by saying it brings me great joy that you are here making time for yourself! Allow me to ask, what brought you here today? Is it fears…traumas… distractions… hardships…loss… endless worries… striving for something meaningful? If you’re finding it hard to answer, “where do I go from here?,” then arriving at this thought is exactly where you need to be to make the decision to create your own path
Hello there, my name is Jackie. I’d like to start by saying it brings me great joy that you are here making time for yourself! Allow me to ask, what brought you here today? Is it fears…traumas… distractions… hardships…loss… endless worries… striving for something meaningful? If you’re finding it hard to answer, “where do I go from here?,” then arriving at this thought is exactly where you need to be to make the decision to create your own path
Dr. Gabriel Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93313 (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Gabriel Ruiz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I completed both my bachelor's in psychology and my Master of Social Work (MSW) at California State University, Bakersfield. I also recently completed my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at Simmons University. Our time together isn’t necessarily to rid ourselves of “bad” feelings but to gain the ability to experience a wider range of emotions. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have various mental health needs. My approach to therapy is focused on creating a safe, brave, and affirming space.
Hi there, my name is Gabriel Ruiz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I completed both my bachelor's in psychology and my Master of Social Work (MSW) at California State University, Bakersfield. I also recently completed my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at Simmons University. Our time together isn’t necessarily to rid ourselves of “bad” feelings but to gain the ability to experience a wider range of emotions. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have various mental health needs. My approach to therapy is focused on creating a safe, brave, and affirming space.
Considering Alan... Extensive experience, spanning over 40 years, providing effective counseling and psychotherapy with a personal touch, tailored to your needs and strengths, in a safe, professional, respectful, and confidential setting. At this time, I am only providing online professional teletherapy, utilizing a recognized, confidential HIPAA platform for adult patients residing in Bakersfield, California, and surrounding areas. Please feel free to contact our office to discuss your confidential needs and current scheduling availability.
Considering Alan... Extensive experience, spanning over 40 years, providing effective counseling and psychotherapy with a personal touch, tailored to your needs and strengths, in a safe, professional, respectful, and confidential setting. At this time, I am only providing online professional teletherapy, utilizing a recognized, confidential HIPAA platform for adult patients residing in Bakersfield, California, and surrounding areas. Please feel free to contact our office to discuss your confidential needs and current scheduling availability.
Howard Acosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93390 (Online Only)
HELLO! Feeling stuck? Managing moods better for relief can be faster! I've been there and I know what works. My job is to ensure you learn what works by teaching up-front, fast, coping methods and strategies that work to rapidly move you towards more relaxation, self-control and relief—usually in 5-10 sessions. In fact I've written a book about it titled "UCoping: Interactive Edition" available on Amazon. This all comes through an active faith, being state-licensed and through the academics of clinical psychotherapy. Book now at www.waysofcoping.clientsecure.me, or click “Website" or "MyWebsite" on this page.
HELLO! Feeling stuck? Managing moods better for relief can be faster! I've been there and I know what works. My job is to ensure you learn what works by teaching up-front, fast, coping methods and strategies that work to rapidly move you towards more relaxation, self-control and relief—usually in 5-10 sessions. In fact I've written a book about it titled "UCoping: Interactive Edition" available on Amazon. This all comes through an active faith, being state-licensed and through the academics of clinical psychotherapy. Book now at www.waysofcoping.clientsecure.me, or click “Website" or "MyWebsite" on this page.
Violet Alcantar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Violet, a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience helping individuals to find hope and healing to overcome all of life’s challenges. Whether it be grief, loss, life changes and transitions, anxiety or trauma, relationship concerns, parenting struggles or family conflict, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your healing journey. I specialize in working with anxiety/trauma, infertility, new parents, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. I also have experience and a heart for working with parents of special needs children.
Hello, I’m Violet, a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience helping individuals to find hope and healing to overcome all of life’s challenges. Whether it be grief, loss, life changes and transitions, anxiety or trauma, relationship concerns, parenting struggles or family conflict, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your healing journey. I specialize in working with anxiety/trauma, infertility, new parents, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. I also have experience and a heart for working with parents of special needs children.
Yessica Avancena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, CMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Waissman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked in many different settings over the last 20 years as a Clinician, both with individuals and couples. I have worked in various settings, with Individuals who have experienced a variety of personal issues such as Depression/Anxiety, Stress, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Workplace issues, coping with change, Relationship issues and Aging issues. My approach to therapy is a client centered approach, and solution focused therapy, in other words, we will start where you are, right now.
My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Waissman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked in many different settings over the last 20 years as a Clinician, both with individuals and couples. I have worked in various settings, with Individuals who have experienced a variety of personal issues such as Depression/Anxiety, Stress, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Workplace issues, coping with change, Relationship issues and Aging issues. My approach to therapy is a client centered approach, and solution focused therapy, in other words, we will start where you are, right now.
Hello! My name is Carrie Campbell. I am a Christian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist eager to help you reach your fullest potential. I am an inspirational speaker and have done annual conferences and workshops. I make evening and weekend appointments for your convenience. I will walk with you through your most difficult times and help you to conquer and overcome your greatest obstacles. You have the power inside of you. Allow me to help you release it and let it shine. Please call me. Working together we can heal your past and help you reach your goals.
Hello! My name is Carrie Campbell. I am a Christian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist eager to help you reach your fullest potential. I am an inspirational speaker and have done annual conferences and workshops. I make evening and weekend appointments for your convenience. I will walk with you through your most difficult times and help you to conquer and overcome your greatest obstacles. You have the power inside of you. Allow me to help you release it and let it shine. Please call me. Working together we can heal your past and help you reach your goals.
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Nearby Searches for Bakersfield
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Bakersfield, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Bakersfield, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
77% | Coping Skills |
72% | Self Esteem |
68% | Stress |
67% | Relationship Issues |
60% | Grief |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Bakersfield, CA see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Bakersfield?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.