Black and African American Therapists in Kern County, CA
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 the past 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 the past 10 years.
Milka Lara-Rincon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93386 (Online Only)
Therapy is a safe space that can bring about self-discovery and healing. I take an inclusive approach in my work, where I understand how intersections of culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, environment, and relationships shape our identity and how we experience the world. In therapy, you have a space to let your guard down and explore how various factors at play affect your mental health. You will learn skills necessary to embrace the full range of your thoughts and emotions, and also incorporate changes that align with your values.
Therapy is a safe space that can bring about self-discovery and healing. I take an inclusive approach in my work, where I understand how intersections of culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, environment, and relationships shape our identity and how we experience the world. In therapy, you have a space to let your guard down and explore how various factors at play affect your mental health. You will learn skills necessary to embrace the full range of your thoughts and emotions, and also incorporate changes that align with your values.
Hope Empowers Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93389
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Kern County. I have treated both adults, adolescents, and couples who have struggled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, bipolar, ODD, and relational stressors. I also enjoy working with transitional youth between the ages of 16-21yrs old assisting with goal setting and developing meaningful living. I further have experience working with clients on spiritual and faith matters.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Kern County. I have treated both adults, adolescents, and couples who have struggled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, bipolar, ODD, and relational stressors. I also enjoy working with transitional youth between the ages of 16-21yrs old assisting with goal setting and developing meaningful living. I further have experience working with clients on spiritual and faith matters.
LCSW Lauren Dean- Anxiety, Depression, & Stress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308 (Online Only)
I help single mothers who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout. If you are a single mother and you find yourself being overly critical of who you are, often fail to prioritize your needs, feel as if your cup is always empty, struggle with being overly irritated, feel like you've lost yourself, not happy with who you see in the mirror, I am here to help.
I help single mothers who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout. If you are a single mother and you find yourself being overly critical of who you are, often fail to prioritize your needs, feel as if your cup is always empty, struggle with being overly irritated, feel like you've lost yourself, not happy with who you see in the mirror, I am here to help.
Reshana Watson | Relationship And Individuals Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who understands Boundaries can be Terrifying to set & defend, Change can feel Debilitating but Necessary, & Conversations even the most well-intentioned ones can sometimes still turn into Conflict in no time? A therapist who can be frank with you when needs be? Or maybe you're just looking for a therapist who will finally understand your pop culture references & can find a tv show or movie to better convey pretty much any life occurrence.lol On a serious note, therapy can be hard but necessary maintenance of the mind, & though it’s it shouldn’t be taken lightly, it doesn’t have to be daunting either.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands Boundaries can be Terrifying to set & defend, Change can feel Debilitating but Necessary, & Conversations even the most well-intentioned ones can sometimes still turn into Conflict in no time? A therapist who can be frank with you when needs be? Or maybe you're just looking for a therapist who will finally understand your pop culture references & can find a tv show or movie to better convey pretty much any life occurrence.lol On a serious note, therapy can be hard but necessary maintenance of the mind, & though it’s it shouldn’t be taken lightly, it doesn’t have to be daunting either.
Shadaria Rene Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hello and Welcome! My name is Shadaria Prince, LCSW, and I'm here to foster Healing, Empowerment, and Resilience in your journey. Life's unpredictable twists and turns can often leave us disoriented, questioning our path and searching for solid ground. This uncertainty can manifest as heightened anxiety, persistent stress, and overthinking, making life's challenges seem insurmountable. In these moments, I come alongside you, offering a nurturing, non-judgmental space where you can rediscover your inner strength and find your voice.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Shadaria Prince, LCSW, and I'm here to foster Healing, Empowerment, and Resilience in your journey. Life's unpredictable twists and turns can often leave us disoriented, questioning our path and searching for solid ground. This uncertainty can manifest as heightened anxiety, persistent stress, and overthinking, making life's challenges seem insurmountable. In these moments, I come alongside you, offering a nurturing, non-judgmental space where you can rediscover your inner strength and find your voice.
Jetena McGhee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (Online Only)
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I have a total of 15 years of experience helping children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues. I got my start in the helping field as a therapist for children/adolescents with autism.
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I have a total of 15 years of experience helping children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues. I got my start in the helping field as a therapist for children/adolescents with autism.
Rosa Dixon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Rosa Dixon and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) 132489 with a passion for helping others develop a healthy way of functioning that provides them with satisfaction in their daily lives. My best work has been supporting those struggling with regulating their moods, organizing their thoughts, and activating their behaviors to function in life with a sense of satisfaction. The ideal person has symptoms presenting with anxiety, depression, and problems created by socio-economic conditions.
My name is Rosa Dixon and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) 132489 with a passion for helping others develop a healthy way of functioning that provides them with satisfaction in their daily lives. My best work has been supporting those struggling with regulating their moods, organizing their thoughts, and activating their behaviors to function in life with a sense of satisfaction. The ideal person has symptoms presenting with anxiety, depression, and problems created by socio-economic conditions.
Nicole Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
**Virtual sessions available** " Do you have a problem (or relationship) that you have spent countless hours thinking about, trying to solve, and maybe even seeking the advice of friends? Yet somehow you are still struggling to find a solution that works for you. Does your anxiety take over at the worst possible moment? Perhaps you wish life with your partner could be as fulfilling as it was when you first got together. Your current situation may leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope!
**Virtual sessions available** " Do you have a problem (or relationship) that you have spent countless hours thinking about, trying to solve, and maybe even seeking the advice of friends? Yet somehow you are still struggling to find a solution that works for you. Does your anxiety take over at the worst possible moment? Perhaps you wish life with your partner could be as fulfilling as it was when you first got together. Your current situation may leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope!
Rinee Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Life can be overwhelming at times. Balancing your needs and the needs of those around you can be challenging. Ever feel stuck? Wondering when things will get better? In today’s fast paced environment, it can be difficult to catch your breath and have a sense of peace that everything will work out. I invite you to take that first step. Let’s talk about it. If you are out there struggling and need a hand, you have found the right person who can help navigate your way. We all need encouragement and a non judgmental listening ear. Allow me to be that person for you.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Balancing your needs and the needs of those around you can be challenging. Ever feel stuck? Wondering when things will get better? In today’s fast paced environment, it can be difficult to catch your breath and have a sense of peace that everything will work out. I invite you to take that first step. Let’s talk about it. If you are out there struggling and need a hand, you have found the right person who can help navigate your way. We all need encouragement and a non judgmental listening ear. Allow me to be that person for you.
Kelisha LaGrone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
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Stephanie R Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Loss is experienced through various forms during our lifetime – whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, divorce, children leaving for college or adolescents transitioning into adulthood. Together, we will navigate this journey called life. I believe we were all created with purpose and now that you’ve taken the brave, bold step to seek direction on the next steps of your life, I would love to be considered as your listener and guide.
Loss is experienced through various forms during our lifetime – whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, divorce, children leaving for college or adolescents transitioning into adulthood. Together, we will navigate this journey called life. I believe we were all created with purpose and now that you’ve taken the brave, bold step to seek direction on the next steps of your life, I would love to be considered as your listener and guide.
Kimberly Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Hello, my name is Kimberly Evans and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to empower my clients to find true healing within themselves and in relationship with others by using an Integrative Therapy approach. My clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, acute stress or a difficult time in their life. I also work with clients who need assistance in overcoming unhealthy patterns, parenting struggles, and overall interpersonal relationship challenges. The most common theoretical approaches used in my work include: Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Solution focused Therapy.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Evans and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to empower my clients to find true healing within themselves and in relationship with others by using an Integrative Therapy approach. My clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, acute stress or a difficult time in their life. I also work with clients who need assistance in overcoming unhealthy patterns, parenting struggles, and overall interpersonal relationship challenges. The most common theoretical approaches used in my work include: Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Solution focused Therapy.
Truvette Hollinquest
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hi there, My name is Truvette Hollinquest, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I did not get to this field by accident. In fact, I have entered into this field because my hope of offering compassion, empathy, and hope to others has become one of my life's missions. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship therapy. My culturally responsive approach allows me to work with anyone.
Hi there, My name is Truvette Hollinquest, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I did not get to this field by accident. In fact, I have entered into this field because my hope of offering compassion, empathy, and hope to others has become one of my life's missions. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship therapy. My culturally responsive approach allows me to work with anyone.
Sandria Bland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hello, I'm Sandria Bland a LMFT 134278 located out of California. I provide a therapy based on the client including client centered, CBT, solution focused, or trauma informed. I usually work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family/relational issues, transitional life changes, and other mental health needs.
Hello, I'm Sandria Bland a LMFT 134278 located out of California. I provide a therapy based on the client including client centered, CBT, solution focused, or trauma informed. I usually work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family/relational issues, transitional life changes, and other mental health needs.
Tiffany Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
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.
Porsche Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
Mashallah Shakur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Mashallah "Marsha" Shakur. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular focus on seniors and younger adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief and loss, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address the concerns presented by my clients and assist them in progressing towards their goals.
My name is Mashallah "Marsha" Shakur. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular focus on seniors and younger adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief and loss, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address the concerns presented by my clients and assist them in progressing towards their goals.
Candice Omar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
Gary Snider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi, I'm Gary Snider, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I am a seasoned clinician with 13+ years of experience in the mental field. I work with individuals in a variety of areas (specializing in adolescents/teens) including anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, family conflict, peer relationships, and stress, amongst others. My approach to therapy includes utilization of methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Coaching, and EMDR.
Hi, I'm Gary Snider, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I am a seasoned clinician with 13+ years of experience in the mental field. I work with individuals in a variety of areas (specializing in adolescents/teens) including anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, family conflict, peer relationships, and stress, amongst others. My approach to therapy includes utilization of methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Coaching, and EMDR.
See more therapy options for Kern County
Black and African American Therapists
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
African American clients may seek out African American therapists for several reasons, foremost being a sense of cultural understanding and the possibility of shared experiences. Cultural sensitivity and context on the part of the therapist may make it easier to form a therapeutic alliance and to focus on the work of therapy without the need to explain or educate a therapist on cultural matters. It may also be empowering to work with a therapist who shares one’s racial or ethnic background. It is important to note that a therapist who demonstrates cultural sensitivity can be highly effective even if they do not share a client’s background or race.
Can clients benefit from working with a therapist who shares their race or ethnicity?
Yes, having a therapist who shares a client’s race or ethnicity is often valuable, especially if it fosters a strong therapeutic alliance between the two. While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic effectiveness. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who has an understanding of a client’s background and perhaps also shared life experiences. It should be noted that many clients form a strong bond with their therapist regardless of their race or ethnicity. This is a personal decision, and it depends on the therapist, the client, and the connection between the two.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with African American clients?
Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with African American individuals. You may wish to inquire whether a therapist has undertaken training in cultural competence broadly, and how specifically they would ensure that their approach is sensitive to the needs of African American clients. Therapy involves honesty and trust, so it’s best for clients to share concerns about their therapist’s cultural competence at the outset. And a good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals based on the concerns you articulate.
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
It’s important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive because everyone comes to therapy with a unique background and set of experiences. Being aware of culture and cultural differences between people is important for understanding clients, as is coming to therapy with an open mind, recognizing that the therapist doesn’t necessarily understand everything and that the client can help guide the way.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Black therapists?
The directory of Black therapists includes therapists who have self-identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profile, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. In situations where the number of therapists who have identified as Black is limited, the directory will also show therapists who have undergone specific multicultural training or have extensive experience working with clients from relevant cultural backgrounds.