Alzheimer's Therapists in Kern County, CA
Tina Healy
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
Jason Bryan Miller
Psychologist, PhD, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
My practice is focused on psychological testing, assessment, & evaluation. In these areas, I have extensive experience working with the entire lifespan, from infancy to older adulthood. I offer all things assessment: neuropsychological, (dementia, traumatic brain injury, etc.) psychoeducational (learning disability, giftedness, etc.), developmental (autism, intellectual disability, etc.), & more. PLEASE NOTE: I DO NOT OFFER THERAPY, COUNSELING, OR MEDICATION SERVICES. This is an assessment only practice.
My practice is focused on psychological testing, assessment, & evaluation. In these areas, I have extensive experience working with the entire lifespan, from infancy to older adulthood. I offer all things assessment: neuropsychological, (dementia, traumatic brain injury, etc.) psychoeducational (learning disability, giftedness, etc.), developmental (autism, intellectual disability, etc.), & more. PLEASE NOTE: I DO NOT OFFER THERAPY, COUNSELING, OR MEDICATION SERVICES. This is an assessment only practice.
Dr. Trisha Rich-Thurm
Psychologist, LMFT, LPsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Rosamond, CA 93560
My goal is to help you be the best you possible. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will begin to deal with long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I work with a variety of issues including autism, ADD/ADHD, Dementia and Alzheimer's, aging and mortality, grief and loss, gambling addiction, bariatric and eating disorders, trauma, anxiety issues, and OCD.
My goal is to help you be the best you possible. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will begin to deal with long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I work with a variety of issues including autism, ADD/ADHD, Dementia and Alzheimer's, aging and mortality, grief and loss, gambling addiction, bariatric and eating disorders, trauma, anxiety issues, and OCD.
Vanessa Souza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
My name is Vanessa Souza, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in working with older adults and the people who care for them, whether personally or professionally. I have a particular focus on people living with memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, or other dementia, and their families and friends. I’m based in Silicon Valley, but provide service via telehealth throughout California. I have nearly 15 years of experience working with older adults, family caregivers (especially caregivers ages 20-50), and professional caregivers, and this is my specialty.
My name is Vanessa Souza, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in working with older adults and the people who care for them, whether personally or professionally. I have a particular focus on people living with memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, or other dementia, and their families and friends. I’m based in Silicon Valley, but provide service via telehealth throughout California. I have nearly 15 years of experience working with older adults, family caregivers (especially caregivers ages 20-50), and professional caregivers, and this is my specialty.
Autumn Byers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Autumn Byers is a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Fresno, CA. With a wealth of knowledge and a heartfelt commitment to helping others, she has been a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) since 2008. Autumn's genuine empathy and understanding make her an invaluable ally for those seeking support and guidance. Autumn specializes in working with diverse populations, and she finds great fulfillment in assisting family caregivers, individuals navigating life transitions, and those grappling with grief.
Autumn Byers is a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Fresno, CA. With a wealth of knowledge and a heartfelt commitment to helping others, she has been a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) since 2008. Autumn's genuine empathy and understanding make her an invaluable ally for those seeking support and guidance. Autumn specializes in working with diverse populations, and she finds great fulfillment in assisting family caregivers, individuals navigating life transitions, and those grappling with grief.
Ming Pokey Mariscal
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD. from Biola University) with previous training as a Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT from Fuller Theological Seminary). I have a passion for providing professional Psychological services as well as Christian counseling to those who are suffering. I completed a total of six years of graduate training at two of the six American Psychological Association (APA) approved Christian clinical psychology programs. Both of these institutions are committed to the development of practitioners adept in the integration of Psychology and Christian theology in clinical practice and research.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD. from Biola University) with previous training as a Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT from Fuller Theological Seminary). I have a passion for providing professional Psychological services as well as Christian counseling to those who are suffering. I completed a total of six years of graduate training at two of the six American Psychological Association (APA) approved Christian clinical psychology programs. Both of these institutions are committed to the development of practitioners adept in the integration of Psychology and Christian theology in clinical practice and research.
Margaret Effinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
Steven Hopper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
Melissa Kadel
Counselor, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
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.
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
Annmarie Rotan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
My name is AnnMarie Rotan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 3 states working with clients via telehealth. I work with adults in all phases of life from college through retirement to identify how to manage barriers keeping them from achieving their best quality of life. My therapeutic approach is holistic based on the needs of every individual which can change as we move through the process together. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy due to its versatility but am comfortable using numerous other approaches as needed.
My name is AnnMarie Rotan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 3 states working with clients via telehealth. I work with adults in all phases of life from college through retirement to identify how to manage barriers keeping them from achieving their best quality of life. My therapeutic approach is holistic based on the needs of every individual which can change as we move through the process together. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy due to its versatility but am comfortable using numerous other approaches as needed.
Dragana Stijepovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Welcome! My name is Dragana Stijepovic. I have over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California. Glad to see you are taking steps toward emotional growth, healing, and self-care. It can be frightening and challenging. The clients I work with daily are those with serious health issues with anxiety, phobias, depression, stress, and family issues. We will walk your journey's path together until you are ready to walk it alone. "As you start to walk on the way, the way appears." -Rumi.
Welcome! My name is Dragana Stijepovic. I have over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California. Glad to see you are taking steps toward emotional growth, healing, and self-care. It can be frightening and challenging. The clients I work with daily are those with serious health issues with anxiety, phobias, depression, stress, and family issues. We will walk your journey's path together until you are ready to walk it alone. "As you start to walk on the way, the way appears." -Rumi.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
Sarah Medzyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
Cynthia Wolfrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93314
Hi, my name is Cindy Wolfrom. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. We all go through difficulties, and sometimes it's hard to reach out for help. I believe in taking a chance. And I believe in the process of therapy! I am well-versed in working with clients who struggle with substance abuse and behavioral addictions, mood and anxiety disorders, and those struggling with self-esteem or life transitional issues. I enjoy working with adult clients of all ages, from all cultures and all walks of life.
Hi, my name is Cindy Wolfrom. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. We all go through difficulties, and sometimes it's hard to reach out for help. I believe in taking a chance. And I believe in the process of therapy! I am well-versed in working with clients who struggle with substance abuse and behavioral addictions, mood and anxiety disorders, and those struggling with self-esteem or life transitional issues. I enjoy working with adult clients of all ages, from all cultures and all walks of life.
Julie Stefan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
My name is Julie Stefan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in individuals experiencing stress and anxiety/depression due to chronic illness or recovering from a traumatic injury or health condition. Using an eclectic, supportive approach I aim to help my clients feel cared for and to improve their current mood.
My name is Julie Stefan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in individuals experiencing stress and anxiety/depression due to chronic illness or recovering from a traumatic injury or health condition. Using an eclectic, supportive approach I aim to help my clients feel cared for and to improve their current mood.
Melizza Esperanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
Shawn O'Dell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I am a licensed Psychologist with my practice based in California providing counseling and psychotherapy services to our California senior community. I work with older adults with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment, grief and loss, aging and change, health and disability issues as well as men's issues just to name a few. If you have Medicare and secondary insurance you are likely to be fully covered and not pay anything out of pocket. There is no need to suffer in silence. Please call for more information. I look forward to speaking with you. Please call 408-956-6896 to connect with me.
I am a licensed Psychologist with my practice based in California providing counseling and psychotherapy services to our California senior community. I work with older adults with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment, grief and loss, aging and change, health and disability issues as well as men's issues just to name a few. If you have Medicare and secondary insurance you are likely to be fully covered and not pay anything out of pocket. There is no need to suffer in silence. Please call for more information. I look forward to speaking with you. Please call 408-956-6896 to connect with me.
Lunda Gill-Desbrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
Ran Ren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
See more therapy options for Kern County
Alzheimer's Therapists
What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?
The first-line treatment for Alzheimer’s disease is often medication, which may be prescribed based on the severity of the disease. These include cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, or a combination of the two. Behavioral treatments can help people cope with emotional distress, such as anxiety or anger, and explore lifestyle changes related to housing, caregiving, sleep, and finances.
When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?
It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of dementia. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with treatment and plan for the future in terms of housing, support, finances, and legality.
Are there specific medications to treat Alzheimer’s?
Medications approved by the FDA to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s include galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, and memantine, donepezil, and the rivastigmine patch for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. These drugs can help manage the disease, but no drug currently cures the disease. Medications recently approved by the FDA, such aducanumab and lecanemab may slow the disease course, but aspects of their effectiveness are still debated.
Are there natural treatments for Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease cannot be cured via natural remedies (nor via medication), but some lifestyle habits can help forestall it or slow its progression. Lifestyle activities that can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease include regular exercise, a healthy, well-rounded diet, stimulating cognitive activity, time spent socializing, adequate sleep, and stress management as needed.