Therapists in 93309

After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.
After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.

Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.
Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.

At MindDivers we strive to match clients and patients with their ideal clinician. We want to help you navigate your concerns with friendliness, empathy and creativity. Whatever the issue be it anxiety or depression, or just looking to change aspects of your life, our clinicians will be there every step of the way.
At MindDivers we strive to match clients and patients with their ideal clinician. We want to help you navigate your concerns with friendliness, empathy and creativity. Whatever the issue be it anxiety or depression, or just looking to change aspects of your life, our clinicians will be there every step of the way.

Life is full of challenges, and sometimes such challenges can become overwhelming and impede our daily lives. Are you feeling as though there is a constant cloud of self-doubt, frustration, hurt, anger, shame, etc., looming over you? Do you portray someone who ‘has it all together’, yet you are crumbling on the inside? Or maybe you are feeling completely debilitated by recent events in your life. You do not have to face this all on your own. I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to express your true feelings.
Life is full of challenges, and sometimes such challenges can become overwhelming and impede our daily lives. Are you feeling as though there is a constant cloud of self-doubt, frustration, hurt, anger, shame, etc., looming over you? Do you portray someone who ‘has it all together’, yet you are crumbling on the inside? Or maybe you are feeling completely debilitated by recent events in your life. You do not have to face this all on your own. I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to express your true feelings.

I work collaboratively with families, teens, children, couples and individuals to help build a healthier quality of life. With mutual goals identified and an array of evidence-based treatment practices to pull from, we can work together to create a deeper level of connection within your most valued relationships, enhance insight into your current challenging situations, increase understanding of oneself and aide in general emotional management. I hold a deep passion for my profession and the people I get to share this journey. I often find myself repeatedly in awe of the courage and strength displayed within the healing process.
I work collaboratively with families, teens, children, couples and individuals to help build a healthier quality of life. With mutual goals identified and an array of evidence-based treatment practices to pull from, we can work together to create a deeper level of connection within your most valued relationships, enhance insight into your current challenging situations, increase understanding of oneself and aide in general emotional management. I hold a deep passion for my profession and the people I get to share this journey. I often find myself repeatedly in awe of the courage and strength displayed within the healing process.

It takes courage to seek help during challenging times and the task of choosing the "right" therapist can be overwhelming! I have 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. Clients appreciate my humor and direct approach. From the initial phone call, my goal is to create a strong, healthy therapist/client relationship, which is a necessary foundation for change. I work with clients of ALL ages and backgrounds. I specialize in divorced families, couples, parenting issues, relationship concerns, mood disorders, addictions, adjustment issues, and life coaching. I can help...and if I can’t, I will find you someone who can!
It takes courage to seek help during challenging times and the task of choosing the "right" therapist can be overwhelming! I have 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. Clients appreciate my humor and direct approach. From the initial phone call, my goal is to create a strong, healthy therapist/client relationship, which is a necessary foundation for change. I work with clients of ALL ages and backgrounds. I specialize in divorced families, couples, parenting issues, relationship concerns, mood disorders, addictions, adjustment issues, and life coaching. I can help...and if I can’t, I will find you someone who can!

I’m so glad you found my page! Although difficult at times, therapy is a rewarding journey. I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources.
I’m so glad you found my page! Although difficult at times, therapy is a rewarding journey. I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources.

With 20 years in the Behavioral Health field, I bring a diversity of experience to pull from to assist and support the client who is ready, able, and willing to pursue and create a life of peace, satisfaction, passion, and the fulfillment of their big vision.
With 20 years in the Behavioral Health field, I bring a diversity of experience to pull from to assist and support the client who is ready, able, and willing to pursue and create a life of peace, satisfaction, passion, and the fulfillment of their big vision.

Kara Meeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
Take a moment. Breathe in. Exhale slowly. If you’re here, it may be because something in your life feels heavy, uncertain, or overwhelming. You might be carrying the invisible weight of trauma, struggling with addiction, feeling lost in the aftermath of a broken relationship, or navigating the stress of divorce and custody issues. Perhaps you're feeling stuck, lacking direction or motivation. You deserve a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported—without judgment. I honor each person’s unique story and believe healing begins when we feel seen and supported exactly where we are.
Take a moment. Breathe in. Exhale slowly. If you’re here, it may be because something in your life feels heavy, uncertain, or overwhelming. You might be carrying the invisible weight of trauma, struggling with addiction, feeling lost in the aftermath of a broken relationship, or navigating the stress of divorce and custody issues. Perhaps you're feeling stuck, lacking direction or motivation. You deserve a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported—without judgment. I honor each person’s unique story and believe healing begins when we feel seen and supported exactly where we are.

Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.

I work mainly with adults who are experiencing grief and loss, trauma from betrayal, and recurring issues from childhood trauma. Are you currently struggling in your life? Are there repeating patterns in your life that you just cannot seem to shake off regardless of how fast you attempt to run away from them? Do you find that when you engage in new relationships they always end up the same? Many times, we will try to change a relationship dynamic, or shift a situation in our lives, hoping for better results, but we seem to end up in the same place where we started, with essentially the same people with different faces.
I work mainly with adults who are experiencing grief and loss, trauma from betrayal, and recurring issues from childhood trauma. Are you currently struggling in your life? Are there repeating patterns in your life that you just cannot seem to shake off regardless of how fast you attempt to run away from them? Do you find that when you engage in new relationships they always end up the same? Many times, we will try to change a relationship dynamic, or shift a situation in our lives, hoping for better results, but we seem to end up in the same place where we started, with essentially the same people with different faces.
Meet Our Therapists

Ryan Briscoe, LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Welcome. I offer professional, biblically-based counseling for teens and adults facing life’s challenges. Stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions can disrupt your life and relationships, leaving you unsure how to move forward—whether at work, in relationships, or within yourself.
I am here to help. My counseling approach is collaborative, using research-based tools to tailor sessions to your needs and help you achieve your goals more effectively.
Welcome. I offer professional, biblically-based counseling for teens and adults facing life’s challenges. Stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions can disrupt your life and relationships, leaving you unsure how to move forward—whether at work, in relationships, or within yourself.
I am here to help. My counseling approach is collaborative, using research-based tools to tailor sessions to your needs and help you achieve your goals more effectively.

Coleen Keiser Najac
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
People are fabulously interesting and I believe your story matters. Together, using science-based theories & interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve & heal. I work with teens & adults navigating depression &/or anxiety, or phase of life issues. I am passionate about working with couples to improve meaningful communication, or reconnecting when promises have been broken. I also work with incarcerated youth & adults, planting seeds of hope & transformation when possible.
People are fabulously interesting and I believe your story matters. Together, using science-based theories & interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve & heal. I work with teens & adults navigating depression &/or anxiety, or phase of life issues. I am passionate about working with couples to improve meaningful communication, or reconnecting when promises have been broken. I also work with incarcerated youth & adults, planting seeds of hope & transformation when possible.

Accepting new clients now! Are you witnessing your child suffering and it’s tearing your heart apart? Feeling lost in your efforts to connect to your kid and have a good relationship again? As a parent, watching your child struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, bullying, self-harm, or overwhelming emotions can be harder than experiencing it yourself. You want them to feel better, and you need a change. You want to make the pain stop, and you want yourself, your child, and your family to find peace but you feel like you don’t have the right tools to do so. I know I can help you. I have 10 years experience helping kids.
Accepting new clients now! Are you witnessing your child suffering and it’s tearing your heart apart? Feeling lost in your efforts to connect to your kid and have a good relationship again? As a parent, watching your child struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, bullying, self-harm, or overwhelming emotions can be harder than experiencing it yourself. You want them to feel better, and you need a change. You want to make the pain stop, and you want yourself, your child, and your family to find peace but you feel like you don’t have the right tools to do so. I know I can help you. I have 10 years experience helping kids.

Hello! Hola! My name is Alejandrina (Aly). I ‘am the daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico. Connecting with my culture, roots and ancestral practices has been a core part of my development as a psychotherapist. It is important for me to create a space where people feel like they belong but most importantly that they know their story matters. I want my clients to believe they can find their own healing within themselves.
Hello! Hola! My name is Alejandrina (Aly). I ‘am the daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico. Connecting with my culture, roots and ancestral practices has been a core part of my development as a psychotherapist. It is important for me to create a space where people feel like they belong but most importantly that they know their story matters. I want my clients to believe they can find their own healing within themselves.

I have been counseling for 40+ years. I am a published author of the book Maturation Through Marriage and The Enticement of Divorce and am available for seminars in churches and group organizations. I have 34 years teaching experience with at risk high school students. Extensive internship training with alcohol and substance dependent patients equips me to work with clientele with these issues. I am an ordained minister with 3 years of full time Christian service which equips me for pastoral counseling. Having personally experienced the pain of divorce, I can empathize with spouses who are experiencing marital discord.
I have been counseling for 40+ years. I am a published author of the book Maturation Through Marriage and The Enticement of Divorce and am available for seminars in churches and group organizations. I have 34 years teaching experience with at risk high school students. Extensive internship training with alcohol and substance dependent patients equips me to work with clientele with these issues. I am an ordained minister with 3 years of full time Christian service which equips me for pastoral counseling. Having personally experienced the pain of divorce, I can empathize with spouses who are experiencing marital discord.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, addiction, or relationship problems? These challenges can be hard, but you don't have to navigate them alone. I’m passionate about providing the support you need to thrive during these difficult times. I've been espcially effective and trained in working with individuals who are in a crisis situation or clients whose symptoms are complicated by past trauma experiences including physical abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, loss, exploitation, or violence. Another very common and painful set of problems that I embrace helping clients to navigate are sex and love addiction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, addiction, or relationship problems? These challenges can be hard, but you don't have to navigate them alone. I’m passionate about providing the support you need to thrive during these difficult times. I've been espcially effective and trained in working with individuals who are in a crisis situation or clients whose symptoms are complicated by past trauma experiences including physical abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, loss, exploitation, or violence. Another very common and painful set of problems that I embrace helping clients to navigate are sex and love addiction.

Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.
Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.

The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.

I'm so glad you're here! Therapy can feel overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, or stressed? Are you a post-partum mama struggling in this new season? Are you a couple trying to find your way back to each other? When life gets busy it's so easy to cater to everyone else's needs, but what about yours? It's time to choose YOU.
I'm so glad you're here! Therapy can feel overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, or stressed? Are you a post-partum mama struggling in this new season? Are you a couple trying to find your way back to each other? When life gets busy it's so easy to cater to everyone else's needs, but what about yours? It's time to choose YOU.
See more therapy options for 93309
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 93309
300+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in 93309 who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
70% | Coping Skills |
67% | Self Esteem |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
54% | Grief |
51% | Family Conflict |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
70% | Aetna |
70% | Other |
59% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in 93309 see their clients
69% | Online Only | |
31% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 93309?
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.